APPENDIX III

LANDSCAPE VALUE APPRAISAL Landscape Value Considerations

Stated strategy of landscape conservation is a good indicator of value AONB, SLF Areas, Registered Historic Landscape, Conservation Area Special Landscape Chracteristics of the Mendip AONB Special Landscape Characteristics of the Cranbourne Chase AONB Note other than SLF Areas no new designations for many years and LPA's discouraged / under resourced for new designations

SAM’s Listed buildings / Structures

Land owned by Trusts – purchased or acquired due to some perceived value (often nature conservation but this may in turn relate to landscape interest as either semi natural or as setting for specific interest) or as simply accessible and welcoming.

The factors in Box 5.1 of GLVIA are: Proposed 8 Special Landscape Chracteristics of the Area

1. Valuable Collection of Distinct and Interesting Landscapes - as a collection there is a value in these Potential differential between well managed and maitained with wild characteristics. Areas where more intense agricultural management presents - Landscape quality (condition) landscapes as a sum greater than the sum of its parts. uniform and tidy but bland effect. Extent of farmland trees currently good in many areas but set to change with Ash dieback.

2. Geology and Geomorphology - the district landscapes encapsulate a complex geolggical history - Scenic quality Localised spesific views - varied nature of district results in ever changing views. Scale often means viewpoint is different LCA from area viewed.

Some parts of district are highly distinctive to point of unique with complex relationships of geomorphology, landuse etc. Rare landscapes may only sit as 3. Biodiversity Potential - the biodiversity interest provides spesific contributions to the appearance and - Rarity small spot within wider LCA interest of the landscape Some parts provide good examples of spesific landscape types - e.g. areas of the Moors, the plateau landscapes and Cotswold landscape type in NE 4. History - the district landcapes includes a rich historical story that links across the whole collection - Representativeness corner. 5. Continious Landscape - there is a continuity of landscapes across the district providing the sense of an - Conservation interests Distribution of nature conservation, ancient woodland and historic landscapes vary across LCA's. area dominated by rural undeveloped countryside 6. Tranquil, Isolated and Semi Natural Landscape Resource - the district landscapes include many different - Recreation value Varriations in accessibility for countryside recreation exist, potential for substantive opportunities in some areas. aspects of peaceful and strongly natural landscape. 7. Views and Landmarks - exploring most parts of the district presents constantly changing good quality Wilderness qualities exist in many parts, along with opportunities for remote experience, tranquility mapping for LCA's provides indicative overview but - Perceptual aspects views. Within these key features recurr as interest and orientation points. localised varriations should be noted.

8. Rich cultural Heritage and Recreational Resource - the district landscapes accomodates, inspires and Only minor historic associations for art and litertutre noted across whole area, signficant cultural activity and even aspects of extractive industry have - Associations attracts people for events, creative interest and as a cultural resource. The area includes a comprhensive direct connections to communities. network of recrational routes and the settings for adventure.

Value Judgements - Generally based on whole LCA areas for largest areas where a simple subdivision would capture signficant differences areas broken down along most obvious lines. Judgements made on basis of Low Medium High + Not Applicable or N/A Poor Low Medium High Exceptional None and Exceptional N/A P L M H Ex

Landscape Value Considerations 1. Contribution to District Collection & Status Interest Landscape Character & Quality Senses, Perceptions & Scenic Qualities 8. Cultural Heritage 8. Landscape Access Comments District Special Characteristics - Numbered 1 to 8 Distinctive Physical Characteristics Landscape Institute (GLIVA3) Landscape Value Factors - Rarity - Landscape quality (condition) - Perceptual aspects - Scenic quality - Associations - Representativeness - Conservation interests - Recreation value 6. Tranquil, Isolated & Semi Natural Landscapes 7. Views and Landmarks

n o hology rp o

o C eg logy & Geom o e & V

1. Contribution2. to Ge Collecti Ref Area Value Conclusion

6.1 Central Mendip Blackdown A1 Very High / Small LCA unique within collection, rare acid heath reflected in with limestone edges, substantial heritage interests, N/A H H M H Ex H H L L Ex M M M Ex Ex Ex Ex H H designations strongly semi natural but remotness reduced by o N/A AONB/SAM N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A popularity. Highest point 360 views. The Mendip Plateau A2 West Portion around Charterhouse & Harptree Forest. Unique area of Velvet Bottom reflects geology, Very High / ancient & mineral/industrial history, mix of H H M L AONB/SAM Ex Ex H H M L M H H N/A M M M H H N/A N/A N/A H H H reflected in extensivley managed grasslands and more wildscape designations of lead workings. Upland remote setting evident even in managed locations. Mid Portion around , North Hill, Minneries, Plantation Pen Hill. Central part of Mendip plateau, Extensive Geo SSSI, Industrial heritage & biodiversity interest around leadworks, Extensive Very High / AONB/SAM/S forest. Traffic reduces tranquility but large landscape H Ex M L Ex Ex H H M L M H M M M M M M H N/A N/A M N/A H M Ex reflected in SSI with remote feel in places. Major wildspace with designations Mineries, Forest & North Hill. Priddy village distinctive settlement intergrated into to landscape. Sheep fair long-standing cultural event. Substantial areas of open access land, caveing centre. East A39 to . Extensive area of open landscape but predominantly managed farmland with limited Moderate Value woodland cover or habitat. Geological, historic but extensive & M M M M N/A L L M M M M M L M L L M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A L L L interest more limited. Extensive plateau landscapes contigious with around strategic road links provides strong AONB. contribution to continuity of landscape. PROW network limited by main roads.

The Harpstree/Chewton Edge A3 High Value - Distinctly different area of landscape, extensive consistent with enfolded wooded landform creates hidden valleys AONB area to explore, sections of busy road pass through distinctive landscape. Strong natural & more mining interest, small nature reserve, small scale land use/management alignes with semi natural H H H M AONB/SSSI H H H H H M M H H M M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A H H M character, intimate landform & convoluted lanes.provide tranquil remote conditions, limited views but attractive lanes & woodlands, small villages with historic character subservient to landscape. Good PROW network & areas of accessible woodlands. The Mendip South Western Facing Slopes A4 - The Draycott - Westbury Slopes A4.1 Strongly distinctive section of scarp slope helps define Mendip ridge in distant view, underlying geology defines landscape, woodlands and important grasslands, positive nature conservation land use, Very High / extensive habitat and heritage interest with dramatic AONB/SSSI/S H H H H H H H H H H H Ex H N/A Ex M Ex H Ex N/A N/A N/A N/A Ex Ex L reflected in setting to SAM's, active managment to maitain AM designations landscape & habitat value, visibility in distant views contributes to continuity of landscape, strong semi natural character, remote and tranquil, exceptional views will used view points, accessible landscape with strong natural interest. - The Strawberry Belt A4.2 Unusual settled landscape pattern defined by natural landscape setting, aspects of landscape diminished High / Moderate. by aspects of busy road and development but some Upper edges link interest. Contributes to continuity as string of small M M M M Part AONB M M H M M M H M L M L L H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A L L L to AONB scale villages and long views out provide setting to boundary. busy through road. limited semi natural, unspoilt or tranquil conditions. Recreational access diminished by busy roadscape. - and The Upper Axe A4.3 Noted as important to Mendip collection although small extent area synomus with district as setting to gorge show cave. Karst and Axe resurgence unique with added interest of spectacular gorge. Ancient woodland and unimproved grasslands. Habitat & Very High / heritage high level & multiple intrests. Distinct reflected in landscape in good condition activley managed for AONB/SSSI/ Ex Ex H M H Ex H H H M M H H M H M H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H designations - also habitat & recreational landscape. Tranquil NNR exceptionally landscape in sense of unspoilt & minimal intrusions, popular locations. can be quite busy in spesific points, away from these opportunities for tranquil experience. Classic views from higher sections of scarp enjoyed by many visitors. Open access land with wider PROW network and long distance paths and hill climbs, occasional climbing and caving interests. - The Wells Bowl A4.4 High quality area of landcape may be overlooked due to seculded landform & other more well known Very High / areas neaby. Interesting landform, woodland, reflected in farmland. Habitat and historic parkland interest. AONB/ designations & role Isolated condition away from built up edge, positive H H H M Reg istered H H H H M M M H H M M L H M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H M as backdrop & backdrop to the historic city. Visually intresting every Parkland setting to historic changing views, long distance panoramas and views city & buildings. to land mark buildings. Pen Hill Mast on edge of LCA identified as landmark for whole district. Area forms important landscape backdrop to views towards Wells from the south. 6.2 East Mendip (Binegar to ) The Masbury – Cranmore Ridge and Slopes A5 Sizeable area of elevated landscape mid district, local heigh point on ridge defines separation between north & south, east & west so strong contribution to collection of landsape. Signficant geology interest. Limited but important woodland High value block. Signficant heritage intrests. Distinctive tract of H Ex H M SLF / SAM's H H H H M M H H M L M M H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A M H M landscape. unspoint landscape in view from several strategic routes. Background noise from roads diminishes tranquility. Distant views from various points - often roads - confirm position on ridge north and south. Cranmore Tower important district landmark. Recreational access to hill fort and woodland modest footpath network impacted by main roads. Sheppy Valley - , and Dinder A6 Valley area forms setting to Shepton & separation between villages, Shepton and Wels. Wooded combe landscape of lower valley strongly distinctive High / Moderate. as an area. Small areas of ancient woodland extend Forms setting to through lower area. Former railway heritage Shepton and interest. Area clearly distinct from landscapes Sheppy Valley H M M M SLF M M M M M M M M M M M M L L L M N/A N/A N/A M M L adjoining & interesting in own right. Contributes to Villages with some strong sense of generally unspoilt rural landscapes intrinsic interest & along strategic routes. Areas of semi natural interest. accessible close to Tranquility limited to localised spots away from town. roads. Limited views due to valley nature. Localised designed parklands. Accessible landscape particularly close to the built up area with natural and heritiage interest. The Leigh, Stoke and Northern Flank A7 Quiet background area contributes to collection of landscape as continuation of east Mendip Ridge. Moderate not Geology directly linked to presence & form of designated but quarries. Habitat & heritage limited defined intrest. M M M M L L L M M M M M M M M M M M L M N/A N/A N/A N/A M L L generally good Semi natural feel away from villages, remote even quality quiet within villages, settlements part of remote working countryside landscape, localised tranquility. Glimpsed views from Old Frome Rd inc close views to Cranmore Tower. Accessible network of paths. The North and East Mendip Farmlands A8 A8.1 - Plateau Big area of open landscape one of the larger areas of Mendip plateau. Topographic character part of Mendip collection, notable smaller topographic features. Minor tree cover, habitat interest. Heritage Moderate not interest with park and gardens. Distinctive character designated but as elevation & open character contrast with adjoining M M L M Reg. Parkland L M M M M M H L M M L M M M M M N/A N/A N/A M L L generally good areas. Open expanse in view from busy roads and quality quiet distance accross area provides strong contribution to countryside sense of continious landscape in view from strategic roads. Designed landscape of interest. Open views from main roads expericed by large numbers of viewers. Long path routes. A8.2 - to Vobster Complex area streaches across area of district between various villages - as road connections cut through area without connecting across whole area - whole character area not easily appreciated as one character area - may mean areas read as part of other LCA's; but areas do separate different zones. Geology inextricably linked to local history & Moderate not settlment development. Few designated habitat or designated but heritage features but many links between areas of M M M L L L M M L L L M H H M M M L L L N/A N/A N/A N/A M L L generally interest. Character is distinctive from adjoining interesting areas. Distance of undeveloped landscape between countryside settlments contributes to continuity of landscape. Tranquility varies but remote isolated character found within LCA. Limited distance views but general visual amenity good, as settled landscape areas in view to numbers of residents. Accessible areas of landscape (some gaps in network near Norton/Radstock) with features of interest & connections to adjoining contrasting landscapes. - Babbington, Newbury Hill to Hapsford A8.3 Area distinct from ajdoining landscapes, character connected to geology and history of mineral workings. Habitat / biodiversity interest not Moderate not designated but scale, interest and connections to designated but adjoining landscapes provides natural interest. M M M M L M M M M L L M H M M M M M M M M N/A N/A N/A M M L generally Heritage of parklands, railways and mineral interesting workings. Elements of semi natural character remote countryside qualities. Good visual amenity. Accessible landscape with connections to well used Sustrans route. Radstock Norton Valleys A9 - Chilcompton Village and Valley A91. Area extensivley developed & combe landscapes evident eleswhere. Geological RIG site (railway cutting) with minining and quarry interest. Habitat and heritage good for village but limited wider Low - L M L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L N/A N/A N/A M L L interest with developed setting. Main road with long undesignated development frontage inc commercial diminishes sense of continious landscape. Not tranquil or remote. Views from edge of area to landmarks on Mendip but generally low visual amenity. Extensive footpaths in and out from village. - Holcombe Wood Charlton Valley A9.2

Although small & secluded area sense of special place as setting to church & varied complex intimate landscape - adds to collection. Woodland cover predominantly ancient woodland & sense area is managed as special place. Habitat & heritage some intrinsic intrest but value enhanced by overall setting Very High / & accessibility. Distinctive place, managed in good reflected in SLF condition. Limited contribution to wider continuity of SLF Setting to H M H M H H H H H H M H H H H H L M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H designation part landscape as quite small & secluded setting. Strong

listed church setting to historic semi natural feel, remote and tranquil, presence of church church provides hint of settlement / human presence. Few views out, sensitive in respect of viewers - modest numbers but present to enjoy special place, strong scenic quality. Some sense of estate managment - may have previously shaped landscape / plantation on hill ridge to accentuate picturesque setting. Accessible landsape (although access to Holcombe ponds hevaily signed as private). Connecting paths out to wider area. - Valley A9.3

Small area of valley made more signficant due to route of main road through and village set within base of valley. Landform defines this as a differnerent place. Habitat & heritage provide some interest to wider landscape. Distinct area provides Landscape High/Moderate clear varriation from adjoining landscapes. With setting to value landscape as setting to main road running through valley and good views H H M M conservation M M H M M M H M L H L M L M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H conservation area from road area contributes to the continuity of area & listed & well used shared landscape along strategic route. Elements of semi buildings railway path. natural character provided by treecover on former railway. Area not remote or isolated. Village location / form defined by landscape setting as such contributes to landscape interest. Limite views out but with road and cycle route area heavily viewed, good condition unspoilt landscape. Accessible net work of PROW with heavily used shared path. East Mendip Valleys - Nettlebridge Mells Valley A10

Large area of complex landscapes including distinctive sections of valley - area contributes strongly to collection as various routes & settlments sit in / alongside in a way that means area is seen as High Value Area. part of many different areas. Strong natural - Gurney Slade, Nettlebridge, Edford, Lower Coleford to Vobster Ex H H M M H H H H M M H H H L H H L M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H Area not interests, older field patterns & ancient woodlands. designated. Areas positivley managed as nature reserves. Continuity point as above. Strong semi natural remote & areas of tranquility. Limited views but good visual amenity. Accessible landscape with A10.1 areas of semi natural greenspace function. Unique area within MDC collection quality landscape area with combination of Park and Village. Mix of natural and plantation woodlands part of estate design, within village other areas of tree and open grassland cover. Habitat within ancient & other woodlands. Heritiage interests in both park and village. Distinct character - very different from other High value area sections of the river valley & adjoining LCA's. designated Condition good as a managed parkland and - Mells Ex M H H H H H H H H M M L M H L M L M H H L M M L L L parkland and protected village. Makes some contribution to conservation area. continuity as provides vareity of landscape along local routes. Limited semi natural overall (some areas such as village green) remote isolation assumed within parkland. Settlement directly relates to landscape. Limited views but high visual amenity. Important designed landscape and village, hosts popular daffodil cultural event. Not very accesssible

A10.2 landscape for recreation.

Unique area combination of dramatic valley strong semi natural character, extensive industrial heritage. Important habitat and combination of heritage interests. Distinct character, continious intrestet so a Very High / complete area in good interesting condition. Strong - Wadbury Valley and Vallis Vale Ex Ex H H H Ex Ex Ex H H M M Ex H M L M L M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H Ex H reflected SLF semi natural character, remoteness diminished by designation numbers of visitors, tranquil (other than river noise & close to A362 or mineral line when opearating). No views out but visually sensitive due to numbers of recreational users. Accessible via PROW close to A10.3 Frome and connected by footpaths.

As part of the MDC collection this LCA provides a varriation on the Mells River areas - more remote / less settled & includes the area as major block of ancient woodland. Geological & topographic features & extensive woodland cover. Some descrete heritage elements at Chantry. Distinct landscape character - devides areas of plateau & Very High / quite dramatic. Condition compromised in places reflected SLF with proximity of quarries although these are often designation - Whatley Bottom (including Asham Woods) and H H H M M Ex M H M M L L H H L H L L L H M N/A N/A N/A H H H screened, large areas of abandonded quarry with (reduced in some intrusive fencing at Asham. Limited but some areas close to contribution to continuity of landscape point valley quarries) crossed by some busy minor roads. Strong semi natural, isolated & remote character. Tranquility broken in places by quarries but in other points high tranquility due to deep valley & running streams. Limited views but attractive scenary. Designed landscape at Chantry. Accessible landscape includes long sections of East and crossed by A10.4 Macmillian Way.

Further area of small deep river valley, similar other parts of the Mells valley group - not as complete or dramatic as others. Small scale historic mining interest areas of ancient woodland and heritiage with Castle & historic village. Distinctive area - different from sourroundings and strong sense of natural character weaker in downstream section. Condition thin in places where woodlands diminish High value area. - The Nunney Brook / Egford Valley. M M M M L H H H M M M L H H M M L L H H N/A N/A N/A N/A M H H to narrow strips and other planting features intrude, No designation more intensive farm managment in lower valley reducing landscape quality. Contribution to separation of Nunney from Frome. Limited areas of more remote tranquil character and areas of strong semi natural feelin short sections of valley. Limited views, well used paths and areas of good scenic interest. Area accessible on up stream area, reduces in lower valley. A10.5 Extensive area forms a transition between the Mells tributary valleys & higher areas & the upper Frome valley (LCA B1 ) & Downlands (LCA D1). Open area with busy road corridor along one side. Geological and topographic interest limited land uses relativley intense, limited habitat & heritage (Parkland not registered has declined from former glory). Land uses includ major rail head and some quarry land - Moderate value - contained but still have some presence. Not as mainly related to strongly distinctive or sense of place as some other continuity of M M M M L M M M M M M H L H L L L M H H L N/A N/A N/A L L L areas but still an extent of open coutryside with some landscape between dramatic elements. Managment of parkland and Frome and farmland more intensive opportunities for parkland Shepton. restoration. Strong contribution to continuity as main road although fast provides dramatic varriations & open views - continious other than lorry depot & remote roundabout/truck stop. Not strongly semi natural or tranquil but away from main road can feel remote. Designed landscape but in decline. Accessible not only limited attraction / connections for walking. Mendip South Eastern Farmlands - Whatley A11

6.3 Frome Valley Upper Frome Valley B1

Area represents the largest continious block of type of landscape. Geology & topography key in shaping of landform but quite subtle. Tree cover dominant element, mix of landuse including parkland, forest, farmland & villages. Large block of ancient woodland and natural character farmland. Heritage interest in large area of parkland. Distinctive strong Very High although sense of place. Extensive area compleate with no H M H M L H H H H H M M H H H H H M H H H N/A N/A N/A H H H not designated major areas of intrusion or degradged landscape. Positive managment around parkland tree scape. Degree of contribution to wider continuity area reads as extensive gap between Marston Ridge and Forested Ridge, road connections through area long routes between settlments. Strong elements of remote, unspoilt conditions and tranquility (with some disturbance of lanes and railways. Large designed landscape. Accessible landscape via long footpath - the South West Upper Valley B1.1 routes, long distance path across landscape.

Area forms important distant backdrop to many views from wider east Mendip area. Geology of Greensand ridge not exposed elsewhere in district. Dominant forest cover providing good habitat interest. Area distinctive in own right area compleate Very high reflects H M H M AONB H L H H M M H H H M H Ex M H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H within MDC area & managed as forest landscape. AONB status. Contribution to continiuity of landscape due to presence in distant views; also dramatic area to pass through & forms backdrop to larger remote area (LCA B1.1). Remote, semi natural & tranquil. Area provides open access woodlands, paths and Long - The Greensand Ridge B1.2 distance route within attractive landscape.

Area forms transitition from edge of Frome into Wiltshire, sense of slighlty forgotten overlooked location subdivided by roads extends beyound county High - potentially boundary. Low level geological interest topography overlooked but complex creates variety and subdivisions of forms background landscape. Low key land management allowing to Frome and retention of older field patterns & woodlands. Areas M M H M M M M H M M M H H H M M L M H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H buffer to Wiltshire. of distinctive interesting landscape alongside some Hidden gems - areas impacted by urban development infrastructure views valleys & roads, pylons, A36+Bypass, railway. Areas feel woodlands local very remote / isolated although background noise walks. from main roads prevelent. Varied views, proximity to town - sensitive viewers, good scenic quality in many spots. Accessible via network of paths and local apects of natural interest - valuable as or - The Selwood, Berkley and Rudge ridges B1.3 potential as accessible natural greenspace. Frome Fringes B2 Dramatic edge to built up area helps contain & High / Very High w define settlment. Not strong inherent landscape public access. interest but distinctly different from built up area & Value more in landscapes below. Connection out to more semi M M L L L M M H M M L H M L L L L Ex H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H function as urban natural / special landscape of Vallis Vale. Views key edge and views element of value - popular dogwalking spot & start out. of EMW. Accessible NGS on edge of town at the - Marston Gate - Egford Hill and the Leys B2.1 Leys other areas no access.

Area forms different softer edge to town. Topograpy Moderate as addes interest. Tree cover land use habitat & accessible natural heritage limited. Impact of flytipping & M L M M L L L M L L L H M M L L L M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A M M M green space on abandonment detract. Areas of low key input edge of built up provide elements of semi natural interest & although area close to town area feels separate from built up area. Good views from points and area provides some - The Watcombe Valley andCuckoo Lane B2.2 recreational paths connected to the town. Area forms strong defined urban edge apart from commercial development. Small area of limited Low (but has inherent interest, tree cover provides enhanced potential value as buffering to urban edge. Area in poor condition as connected access potential green space on edge of residential area. L L M L L L L M L L L M M H L L L L L L N/A N/A N/A N/A H L L out to natural Area feels remote even though right on urban edge - greenspace / wider could be positive if other aspects were changed. countryside) Accessible and provides linkage out to wider countryside but not overally inviting in current - Gipsy Lane to Whitechapple Farm B2.3 condition.

Road corridor contains bypass & other infrastruture. Treescape important to containment of route. Area

L L M L L L L L L L L H P P P P P L L L N/A N/A N/A N/A P P P N/A contributes to continuity of landscape around district. No inherent landscape value but provides wider - Frome Bypass and Infrastucture Corridor B2.4 landscape protection function Small area of coutryside sandwiched between bypass and town. Limited contribution to overall collection, provides some space to bypass as part of continuity L L L M L L L M L L L M L M L L L L L M N/A N/A N/A N/A M L L Low / moderate of rural landscapes through district. Accessible from urban area via lanes and National Cycleway Network route. Minor flytipping issues impact on - Little Keyford and Blatchbridge B2.5 attraction.

Extensive area of landscape froming transision Moderate overall between Mendip and Wiltshire. Areas of more open (some mixed farmland over varied interesting topography. River & higher and lower H H H M M H H H H H H H M M H M M H M H N/A N/A N/A N/A M M M woodlands add interest. Historic villages with shared areas) overall as character add to interest. Some opportunities for distinct accessible unspoilt remote tranquil experiences away from main landscape roads. Accessible landscape with some interest good Lower Frome Valley Spring Gardens, to Farleigh Hungerfor B3 path connections from villages. 6.4 Cotswold Edge Hidden gem small area on very edge of district off main roads dramatic landform leading down into High value as seculded valley. Small area so habitat & heritage dramatic, unspoilt H H M M M M M H M M M M H H H H H H M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H M points limited but some interest. Semi natural, secluded isolated tranquil locations. Views from upper slopes landscape. attractive unspoilt condition lower down. Accessible Foxcote Slopes C1 via minor lanes.

Area represents transistion from Coal Fields into Cotswold Landscape and contains two High value as extensive parklands. Topography & geology extensive area & distinctive from adjoining areas. Areas of ancient setting to historic woodland. Habitat and heritage value with wooded H H H M M H H H M M M H M M H M M H H H H N/A N/A N/A M M M landscapes & parklands. Distinct character from sourrounding continuity of lower landscapes. Signficant landscape as settings coutryside between to two strategic roads contributes strongly to cotinuity Frome & Radstock between settlements. Aspects of semi natural landscape within woodlands. Views, landmark & scenic qualities. Designed & accessible landscape (at Norton St Phillip, Buckland and Orchardleigh Ridge C2 Orchardleigh) other recreational routes. Dramatic & extensive area secluded landscape off the beaten track. Dramatic landform, woodlands. Distinctive landscape extends through connected Very high valleys. Remote / isloated with small hamlet H H H M M H M H M M M M H H H H H H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H interesting good settlments defined by landscape settings. Views & quality landscape. scenic quality ever changing view with lanes crossing topography. Accessible landscape with paths and lanes includes Long distance path. Wheel Brook/Buckland Valleys C3 6.5 Batcombe Downs and Valleys

Dramatic & distinctly different landscape separating lowland valley to west from Frome Valley to east. Topography dominates landuse. Modest habitat & Very high heritage. Areas managed with improved grasslands. H H M M M M M H H M M H M M L M M H H H L N/A N/A N/A H H H interesting good Area separates Nunney from Bruton & provides quality landscape. extensive area to explore. Strong sense of natural condtion dictating landuse / settlement pattern, exposed locations, remote & tranquil. Good views. The Downs, Slopes and Valley Heads D1 Accessible via lanes and paths. Attractive distinctive seculded unspoilt landscape with Very high historic villages & dramatic landform. Area intergral

H H M M M H H H H M M M H H H H H M H H L N/A N/A N/A H H H interesting good with D1 above settments contained within base of quality landscape. Upper Alham Valley D2 valley away from ridge tops. 6.6 Lias Lowlands and Ridges Generally a relativley bland landscape with intensley managed improved grassland, busy roads & M L L L M L L L M L L M L M L L M M M M N/A N/A H H L L L Moderate commercial developments. Ironically setting for Festival & Showground. PROW network Whitelake Valley - Setting E1.1 thinner than other areas.

Modest contribution to collection. Character defined by topography - relatively high topography above Whitelake valley unsettled managed farmland High / Moderate reentrant valley cut down into high ridge creates H M M M M M M M M M M H M H M H H M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A M M M with extensive High smaller area of more varied interest. Area becomes with SLF more intersting with Worminster Down. Areas of tree cover & unimproved grasslands add interst. Pockets of semi natural, areas of remote landscape away from main roads. Occasional long view. Accessible The Pilton - Worminster Ridge E1.2 via footpahts and lanes.

Pleasant area but not strongly distingushed from M M M M M M M M M M M H M M M M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A M M M Moderate Brue Valley E2.1 other nearby LCA's. Pleasant area but not strongly distingushed from M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A M M M Moderate Farmlands and Orchard E2.2 other nearby LCA's.

Varied landscape with changing character in places. Top of ridge provides dramatic notable change from High interesting sourrounding areas. Areas where less intensly H H H M M H H H M M M H M H H H H H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H good quality managed proving semi natural elements. Quiet landscape. rather than isolated main road quite busy. Small area of designed landscape. Good net work of PROW and National Trust open access land. Polden Ridge E3 Tor sits as iconic feature above the town, wider hill provides important setting to both town and Tor. While Tor is notable as the key feature the wider rural setting is a key part of the attraction. Wider hill also SLF areas Very stands important back drop and land mark in local High. Edges of views. Wearyall Hill also prominant feature that is built up area lower important to thesetting & containment of the build up H Ex H M H M H H M M M H M L M L L Ex Ex Ex N/A N/A L N/A Ex Ex Ex quality but also area. SLF areas reflect the extent of the most often add value to important areas that relate to these important condition of built elements. Wider landscapes around the town more up edge. heavily infulenced by the presence of the urban development. Areas on perferaey of town suffer from traffic intrusion/noise & commercial developements but at same time contribute

Isle of Avalon E4 signficantly to the quality of the town.

Dramatic landform suggests potential for an High / Moderate. interesting distinctive landscape. Areas of intensive Potentially agricultural mangament diminish what may have interesting been a strong landscape character area. Small M H H M M H M H M L M H M H M H H M M M N/A N/A Ex N/A M M M landscape winding lanes and lack of settlement on top of ridge diminished quality create isolated tranquil condtions. Nature reserve with intense woodlands in southern combe add interest. Festival management. site has impact but also represents signficant event setting. Western end of area more accessible - Pennard Ridge E5 eastern end paths thin out. 6.7 The Moors

High interesting Small pocket of Moor farmland low key H H H H M H H H H L M M H H L M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H good quality management as grazing - represents good example landscape. of quiet unspoilt / undisturbed Moors landscape. Stoke, Westhay and Knowle Moor Areas F1 Moors F2 High - previously disturbed but now Moderate sized area of Moor landscape - heavily in positive disturbed by past peat extraction; now activley managed as destintion nature reserve. Active large H H H H H Ex H H M L M H H L L M M M H M N/A N/A N/A N/A Ex Ex H management - with attractive cycle scale habitat management, extensive habiat with trail access - interest of bird life. Well connected cycle trail access out from Glastonbury. - Meare Heath F2.1a popular area Large area of farmed Moor good example of managed moor landscape areas of light High interesting management alongside more heavily managed. H H H H M H H H M L M H H M L M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H good quality Interest with droves & ditches. Area bisected by busy landscape. main raod A39 so tranquility reduced. Accessible landscape. Views to the Tor & Mendips - Queens F2.1b Area of more intensley settled land set above general level of adjoining moors. Extent of villages results in Moderate - most of the LCA having a settled character. Busy M M M M M M M M M M M H M M L M M M M M N/A N/A L L M M M interesting settled local main road also diminishes conditon. Area of busy landscape. former Meare Pool and Abbots Fish House strong heritage interest. Abbots Fish House used occasonally for arts/cultural events. - Westhay Meare Island F2.2 High interesting Interesting landscape settlement directly related to settlement within H H H H M M M H M M M M M M H M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H drainage and higher ground. Distinctive layout of dramatic village not tranquil but isolated condition. - Godney Island F2.3 landscape. High / Moderate - interesting settled Area of signficant historical interest, modern landscape; landscape open managed farmland with presence of H H H H H M H H M M M M M M L M M H M H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H subtaintial village close by. Accessible landsape with open landscape history views to the Tor & Mendip scarp. - Meare Pool F2.4 interest. More remote area of farmed moor mix of intensity High interesting farming. Area contained with attractive backdrop of good quality H H H H H Ex M H M M M M M M L M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H Yartley Ridge. Area of former peat workings restored landscape. Small to nature reserve. Extensive network of lanes area of SLF - Westhay - Meare Moors F2.5 attractive to walking & cycleing Modest area of Moor overlooked by Wearyall Hill development. Elements of tree cover & land Moderate - management that provide interest. Condition & interesting but H H M M M M M H M M M M M M L M M M M M N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H unspoilt tranquil nature impacted on by proximity of overlooked & towns & more intense management & presence of inruded on. caravans. Potentially good attractive access via cycle South moor and Kennard Moor F3 route.

High interesting Isolated intimate landscape with dramatic backdrop. F4 H H H H M H M H H H M M H H L H H M H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H good quality Habitat & isolated conditons create sense of landscape. wildnerness and tranquil due to landform to north. Butleigh Moor Accessible area via paths and quiet drove tracks 6.8 Islands

Character of area itself diminished by intensive farm management. Limited natural features but open High important landscape with long views and historic back drop. area as setting to Parkland and Parkwood important as historical M M L L H L H M M L M H L L H H L H H H M N/A N/A N/A H M M historic city & landscape & setting to city. Open landscape contains historic provides exposed experience & long views. landscape areas. Important area although currently diminished subtle changes in managment could reverse. Lower Sheppey Valley G1 Largest area of Wookey Islands with most dramatic hills. Areas of woodland & managed nature reseve. High interesting Small hilltop clusters of dwellings & hamlet villages

H H H M M M M H H H M H H H M H M H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H good quality along local main road. Semi natural character & landscape. remote isolated expereinces. Good views and Bleadney - Wookey Ridge G2 accessible landscape.

Smaller area of island hills but still includes attractive High interesting interesting landscape, Fenney Castle (SLF) green way

H H M M M M M H H H M H H H H H M H H H N/A N/A N/A N/A H H H good quality link between Wookey & Easton. Limited woodland landscape. some areas of lighter management. Attractive views Polsham - Lodge Hill Hillocks G3 & accessible landscape.