Landscape Management & Priority Sites 2019-2024 Landscape Management & Priority Sites 2019-2024

Management Zones Site designations Condition assessments allow the The landscape character areas identified SAC – Special Area of Conservation monitoring of site condition over time, in Section 1.5 form a convenient (International importance) as well as providing information for the Condition Indicators that measure the framework for considering specific SSSI – Site of Special Scientific overall health of the component features parts of the AONB in more detail. Interest (National importance) that make up the AONB’s Special Qualities. The Landscape Management sub- SINC – Site of Importance for Nature

sections deal with the issues in each Conservation (Regional importance) particular landscape character area. The Management Agreements LGS – Local Geological Site specific Priority Sites have been included ELS – Entry Level Stewardship (Regional importance) because each of them makes a particularly HLS – Higher Level Stewardship SM – Scheduled Monument important contribution to the conservation (National importance) MT – Mid Tier Environmental Stewardship and enhancement of the AONB’s Special HT – Higher Tier Environmental Stewardship Qualities. As such they are key sites for RPG – Registered Park and Reference numbers in this part of the management or restoration (as applicable). Garden (National importance) Plan refer to sites located on the large The management priorities and suggested map, which can be found on the AONB actions are not however intended to be Condition/Risk website. It should be noted that nearly prescriptive or exclusive. They should be An assessment of the Condition all these sites are on private land and Management Plan 2019-2024 viewed as strategic recommendations or Risk category of each site is access is only available via existing intended to guide the activities of farmers, given, where this is known: Public Rights of Way or by express landowners and the various agencies that SSSI – Natural information permission of the landowner. have an influence upon the management of SINC – Assessment criteria the Howardian Hills. It is hoped that they will to be developed help local communities, organisations and individuals to work together to improve their LGS – Assessment criteria own environment within an agreed framework. to be developed In combination with the Objectives, they SM & RPG – Historic England information will also be used to determine priorities for Other Historic Environment Priority Sites

Howardian Hills AONB Howardian local funding and to decide where additional – Assessment criteria to be developed financial incentives might be needed. 2 PLATEAU (Zone 1) • Encourage appropriate planting include calcareous ash woodland, and woodland design to integrate calcareous & neutral grasslands, Landscape Management the more prominent buildings and flushes, a sphagnum mire, veteran Retain and reinforce the ‘isolated almost structures into the landscape. Scots pines and coniferised potential upland’ character, resist unsympathetic • Encourage maintenance and, oak/birch woodland. Significant development and explore opportunities where appropriate, the rebuilding removal of rhododendron 2009- to diversify and soften the impact of traditional drystone walls where 2011. Veteran pine trees in Far Slack of ‘hard-edged’ woodlands: these form a characteristic feature. catalogued 2014. 3-year bracken • As opportunities arise, encourage control on calcareous grassland area completed 2017. Ensure retention and diversification and re-design of Natural Environment Priority Sites conifer plantations, to increase variety appropriate management of existing Encourage the creation of broadleaved and reflect local characteristics and semi-natural habitats and encourage riparian woodland corridors and topographical features. Give priority restoration of appropriate areas to restoration of heathland habitats to open space, natural regeneration or heathland and broadleaved woodland. within existing conifer plantations. broadleaved planting along woodland • Grimston Moor (1.1) – SINC. FC-owned edges and roadsides; also natural Historic Environment Priority Sites regeneration or broadleaved planting site. Extensive areas of heathland vegetation under pine plantations. Many prehistoric burial mounds, most of adjacent to existing fragments of semi- which are Scheduled Monuments, lie in this natural broadleaved woodland. Significant removal of rhododendron 2017. Encourage management as Zone. Evidence also of an extensive system • Encourage sensitive felling operations in more open heathland habitat mosaic. of hollow-ways, potentially associated terms of scale and phasing, especially with travel/transport or livestock grazing. • High Lions Wood (1.2) – SINC. A mature in visually prominent locations. Opportunities to encourage greater public secondary birch woodland with an • Discourage large-scale extensions appreciation of the historic landscape. acidic heath flora. Ensure retention to existing woods. as native broadleaved woodland. • Neolithic long barrow, Black Hill (2.1) – • Retain fragments of former SM. Low/Not at Risk. Monitor condition. • Yearsley Moor Woodlands (1.5) – SINC. heathland vegetation and encourage FC-leasehold site. An extensive site with • Round barrows, Yearsley (2.2) – SM. regeneration and extension wherever a patchwork of both semi-natural and Vulnerable & Low/Not at Risk. New water possible during future woodland heavily modified habitats, arising from supply installed 2017 to move cattle management operations. afforested open heathland/designed drinker off barrow. Install hardstanding

landscape (Gilling Castle). Habitats to enable removal of cattle feeder to reduce erosion. Monitor condition. www.howardianhills.org.uk 3 • Round barrows, Black Moor (2.3) – • Cropmarks of Iron Age/Roman field • Grimston Moor (3.4) – A private road SM. At Risk. 3-year bracken control systems and enclosures, Grimston accessing FC-owned woodland. Monitor started 2018. Complete bracken Howl (2.8) – Seek to improve condition entrance gate arrangement/signage to control and progress establishment within an agricultural regime. Detailed maintain appropriate public accessibility. of a benign vegetation cover. survey of woodland fringes required • Round barrows, Grimston Moor to identify whether cropmarks NORTHERN PLATEAU FRINGE survive as upstanding features. (2.4) – SM. FC-owned site. At Risk, (Zone 2A) Vulnerable & Low/Not at Risk. Scrub • Hollow-ways, Grimston Moor & Black growth and brash removed 2016. 3-year Moor (2.9) – Part FC-owned site. Landscape Management bracken control mostly completed by Community survey work completed 2012 This Zone is of high geomorphological 2018. Complete bracken control and (Lime & Ice Project). Maintain visibility and value, as it includes the edge of the progress establishment of a benign avoid damage during forestry operations. -Gilling Gap – a double- vegetation cover. Monitor condition. faulted rift valley formation that was • Round barrows, Coney Hills (2.5) – Recreation Priority Sites also a glacial meltwater channel SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. Reduce • Yearsley Moor (3.1) – FC-leasehold for the former Lake Pickering. impact of arable ploughing to improve site. A popular car parking area for Seek opportunities to diversify and condition within an agricultural regime. walkers. Parking area expanded and soften the impact of woodlands and Control tree and scrub growth. Reduce re-surfaced 2012. Information board restore key elements of the former impact of burrowing animals. installed 2013 (Lime & Ice Project). historic parkland character: • Field system, Swathgill (2.6) – Monitor usage and condition. • As opportunities arise, encourage Management Plan 2019-2024 Encourage sympathetic management • Grimston Grange (3.2) – A County diversification and re-design of of prehistoric field system and barrow Council chippings dump to the north- conifer plantations, to increase variety and seek to improve condition west of Grimston Grange crossroads. and reflect local characteristics and within an agricultural regime. A useful facility for horse riders as topographical features. Give priority • Limekiln, Blackdale Plantation (2.7) it provides room to park trailers. to open space, natural regeneration or – FC-owned site. Keep structure Monitor usage and condition. broadleaved planting along woodland clear of vegetation and protect • High Lions Lodge (3.3) – An area edges and roadsides; also natural from forestry operations. of Common Land formerly used as regeneration or broadleaved planting tipping area for soil and rubble. Explore adjacent to existing fragments of semi- opportunities for restoration to more natural broadleaved woodland. Howardian Hills AONB Howardian appropriate use/appearance. 4 • Encourage sympathetic felling • Yearsley Moor Woodlands (1.5) – SINC. Encourage preparation of site operations in terms of scale and phasing, FC-leasehold site. An extensive site with management plan to maximise especially where visually prominent. a patchwork of both semi-natural and conservation interest and define future • Encourage preparation/implementation heavily modified habitats, arising from management priorities. Ensure retention of long-term landscape management afforested open heathland/designed as native broadleaved woodland plans for the historic grounds of landscape (Gilling Castle). Habitats and complex of associated wetland Newburgh Priory and Gilling Castle. include calcareous ash woodland, habitats. Encourage repair of dam and • Where appropriate, maintain calcareous & neutral grasslands, re-instatement of top pond. Encourage and restore landscape features flushes, a sphagnum mire, veteran continuation of existing management associated with former parkland Scots pines and coniferised potential agreement (ELS + HLS) on part of site. e.g. estate walls, avenues, parkland oak/birch woodland. Significant • Disused quarry (1.82) – LGS. A copses/trees, lakes, etc. removal of rhododendron 2009- former stone quarry with an exposure 2011. Veteran pine trees in Far Slack • Discourage new woodland planting of limestone overlying sandstone. catalogued 2014. 3-year bracken proposals that would detract from the Possible hummocky cross-stratification control on calcareous grassland area character of the historic parkland. also visible. Manage vegetation to completed 2017. Ensure retention and improve visibility of exposure faces. • Work with the North York Moors appropriate management of existing National Park Authority to develop semi-natural habitats and encourage Historic Environment Priority Sites integrated cross-boundary restoration of appropriate areas to habitat/landscape corridors. heathland and broadleaved woodland. A variety of prehistoric and later earthwork features are present in this Zone. • Park Wood Fishponds and The Natural Environment Priority Sites Wilderness (1.6) – SINC. Part FC- • Round barrows, Four Acre Wood and • Colley Broach Road Pasture (1.3) – leasehold site. A complex of habitats adjacent (2.11) – SM. At Risk, Vulnerable SINC. A large field of mainly unimproved comprising open water, fen, wet & Low/Not at Risk. Scrub growth and neutral and marshy grassland. alder woodland and drier sessile brash removed 2016. 3-year bracken Encourage continuation of existing oak woodland. Conifer regeneration control completed 2018. Harvest management agreement (ELS + HLS). removed from oak woodland 2003. Christmas trees from barrows. Reduce • Boggs Plantation (1.4) – SINC. The best Significant removal of rhododendron impact of burrowing animals. Progress example of a semi-natural valley alder 2011-2013. Top pond drained 2015 establishment of a benign vegetation wood in the AONB. Ensure retention as when crumbling dam breached prior cover after felling of forestry crops. native broadleaved woodland. to (as yet uncompleted) repair works. www.howardianhills.org.uk 5 • Cross dyke, Roman Plantation • Mill, Yearsley Moor (2.110) – FC- Recreation Priority Sites (2.12) – SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. leasehold site. The remains of a corn mill • Newburgh Priory Lake (3.5) – A popular North side – Tree cover managed discovered during community survey surfaced roadside lay-by giving views and scrub growth controlled 2016. work (Lime & Ice Project). Significant over Newburgh Priory Lake. Monitor 3-year bracken control started 2018. excavation work carried out by Yearsley level of use at peak periods. Complete bracken control, trial re- Mill Research Project volunteers and • Yearsley Moor/Gilling Woods (3.6) – FC- vegetation techniques and progress then site re-buried. Safeguard site leasehold site. A large area of principally establishment of a benign vegetation and support off-site interpretation. conifer woodland, much of which cover. South side – FC-leasehold site. Encourage preparation and once formed the designed landscape 3-year bracken control completed implementation of management plans associated with Gilling Castle. Public 2018. Control scrub growth, monitor that identify opportunities for conserving, footpaths link Yearsley with the Park condition and progress establishment enhancing and restoring elements of Wood fishponds. Extensively used of a benign vegetation cover. the historic landscape, both within and off public paths by mountain bikers, • Round barrow, Yearsley Moor (2.13) beyond the registered parkland: walkers and horse riders. Sculpture – SM. FC-leasehold site. Vulnerable. • Newburgh Priory (2.15) – RPG seats installed 2013 (Lime & Ice Project). Reduce impact of burrowing animals. Grade II. Not at Risk. Liaise with Forestry Commission on • The Stripe, Mount Plantation, Roman issues/conflicts as appropriate. • Gilling Castle (2.16) – RPG Grade II. Plantation & Heron Lye Gill, Newburgh Not at Risk. Encourage repair of dam (2.14) – Improve understanding of and re-instatement of top pond. features in woodland, through a management plan for Newburgh In liaison with owners, encourage Management Plan 2019-2024 Priory park (see below). Reduce repair of Listed Buildings at Risk impact of forestry and encourage using grant resources available from more sympathetic management. local authorities and Government agencies. Where appropriate, explore • Hollow-ways, Yearsley Moor (2.109) – opportunities for suitable changes of use FC-leasehold site. Community survey to ensure their long-term contribution work completed 2012 (Lime & Ice to the cultural heritage of the area: Project). Maintain visibility and avoid damage during forestry operations. • Mill, Newburgh Park (2.17) • The Mount, Newburgh Park (2.105)

Howardian Hills AONB Howardian • Park House, Newburgh Park (2.106) 6 WESTERN PLATEAU FRINGE • Lynchets, ridge & furrow field system • In the valleys, maintain the more (Zone 2B) and other earthworks, (2.19) – diverse landscape by retaining the Manage the whole area of earthworks small-scale field pattern and areas Landscape Management under a stable grass sward. of semi-improved pasture along Strengthen the existing landscape streams and on steeper slopes. framework of hedges and hedgerow SOUTHERN PLATEAU FRINGE trees. Protect the open character of (Zone 2C) Natural Environment Priority Sites the higher ground and encourage • Hardy Bank (1.8) – SINC. A small area greater tree cover on steeper slopes: Landscape Management of Ancient woodland with an open • Encourage planting of small to medium- Strengthen the framework of hedges canopy, reputed to be a remnant of sized areas of broadleaved or mixed and encourage woodlands on steeper the Forest of Galtres. Ensure retention woodland on steeper slopes and valley slopes and valley shoulders: as native broadleaved woodland. shoulders. Discourage woodland • Encourage planting of trees and copses • Moorside (Black Fir) Plantation (1.9) – planting on higher flatter ground using native species, to strengthen SINC. FC-leasehold site. A mature and protect long-distance views. existing landscape pattern. oak woodland, probably on an • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees • Promote the retention, restoration Ancient site. Ensure retention as and copses using native species, to and sympathetic management of native broadleaved woodland. strengthen existing landscape pattern. hedges, particularly those in the • Oulston Reservoir (1.10) – SINC. • Promote the retention, restoration and most visible locations and those Two artificial lakes. The lower one is sympathetic management of hedges, associated with the remnant strip mesotrophic and has extensive areas particularly those in the most visible field system near Hardy Bank. of adjacent fen meadow. The upper locations and those associated with the • Conserve areas of Ancient Semi- lake is more eutrophic. Discourage remnant strip field system at Oulston. Natural Woodland and promote practices that would damage or appropriate forms of management. pollute aquatic habitats. Encourage Historic Environment Priority Sites • Encourage small-scale extensions of sympathetic management of adjacent A number of prehistoric and later earthwork existing valley woodlands and new semi-natural fen and grassland habitats. features are present in this Zone. woodlands on the steeper slopes of • Peel Wood and Grassland (1.11) – SINC. • Medieval village & field system, the scarp face and valley shoulders, An interesting complex of habitats Thornton-on-the-Hill (2.18) – Manage using native species or mixtures where including broadleaved woodland, plantations are already varied in character. scrub and grassland. Native woodland

the whole area of earthworks www.howardianhills.org.uk under a stable grass sward. area extended by new planting 2005. 7 Significant gorse management carried 3-year bracken control completed • Maintain the diverse character of the out 2009 & 2017. Ensure retention 2018. Control scrub growth, monitor landscape by retaining the small-scale of native broadleaved woodland and condition and progress establishment field pattern and areas of pasture. maintain balance between different of a benign vegetation cover. • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees habitat types. Encourage continuation • Round barrows, Oulston Moor (2.20) and copses using native species, to of existing management agreement – SM. FC-leasehold site. Vulnerable. strengthen existing landscape pattern. (ELS + HLS) on part of site. Scrub growth controlled 2016. • Promote the retention, restoration • Dale Wood (1.12) – SINC. One of the 3-year bracken control completed and sympathetic management of largest areas of semi-natural woodland in 2018. Progress establishment of hedges, particularly those associated the AONB, with a variety of different plant a benign vegetation cover. with the extensive remnant strip communities. Ensure retention of native • Limekiln, New Piece Moor (2.21) field systems near Ampleforth. broadleaved woodland and encourage – Trees and scrub removed • Promote sympathetic management restoration of replanted sections. 2000. Monitor condition. of watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife value. Historic Environment Priority Sites Recreation Priority Sites • Try to integrate modern developments Archaeological survey to identify features Oulston Moor (3.7) – A popular starting into the landscape through related to woodland management would point for circular walks around Pond Head appropriate forms of tree planting. be highly worthwhile in this Zone and and Oulston. Monitor usage and condition. • Encourage small-scale extensions would aid understanding of the origins of existing woods on the of the woods. Elsewhere, retain surviving SOUTHERN MOORS FRINGE steeper slopes of spurs.

Management Plan 2019-2024 earthworks under a stable grass sward. (Zone 2D) • Work with the North York Moors • Cross dyke, Roman Plantation Landscape Management National Park Authority to develop (2.12) – SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. integrated cross-boundary This Zone is of high geomorphological North side – Tree cover managed habitat/landscape corridors. and scrub growth controlled 2016. value, as it forms part of the Coxwold- 3-year bracken control started 2018. Gilling Gap – a double-faulted rift valley Natural Environment Priority Sites Complete bracken control, trial re- formation that was also a glacial meltwater vegetation techniques and progress channel for the former Lake Pickering. • Thorpe Spring Wood (1.13) – SINC. establishment of a benign vegetation Conserve the ‘traditional’ landscape A largely semi-natural ash and oak cover. South side – FC-leasehold site. character, reinforce the existing framework woodland. Ensure retention as Howardian Hills AONB Howardian of hedges, trees and woods and soften native broadleaved woodland. 8 the impact of discordant features: Historic Environment Priority Sites • Work with the North York Moors Historic Environment Priority Sites • Medieval field system, Oswaldkirk National Park Authority to develop • Cropmarks of field system, Newton Hall (2.22) – Manage the whole area of integrated cross-boundary Grange Farm (2.23) – Seek to improve earthworks under a stable grass sward. habitat/landscape corridors. condition within an agricultural regime.

Natural Environment Priority Sites SOUTHERN RIDGE (Zone 3A) EASTERN MOORS FRINGE • Robson’s Spring (1.14) – SINC. Landscape Management (Zone 2E) Woodland Trust-owned site. An area of calcareous ash woodland with a Conserve the landscape balance Landscape Management rich ground flora and forming part of between broadleaved woodland and Strengthen the existing framework of a larger woodland complex. Some farmland and restore those features hedges and hedgerow trees and promote parts have been replanted with which have declined or been lost: appropriate forms of woodland management: conifers. Adjacent conifer areas are • Retain broadleaved character of • Conserve areas of Ancient Semi-Natural being reverted to native broadleaved woodlands and encourage greater use of Woodland and promote appropriate woodland. Ensure retention of native native broadleaves wherever possible. forms of management. In Ancient broadleaved woodland and encourage • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees replanted woodland, encourage greater restoration of replanted sections. and copses using native species, use of native broadleaves. Elsewhere • East Plock Woods (1.15) – SINC. A to strengthen landscape pattern. retain mixture of woodland types. plantation of beech, sycamore and larch • Promote the retention, restoration and • Promote the retention, restoration and on an Ancient site. Encourage restoration sympathetic management of hedges, sympathetic management of hedges, to native broadleaved woodland. particularly those in the most visible particularly those in the most visible • River Rye, Bridge to West Ness locations and those associated with the locations and those associated with the (1.16) – SINC. A stretch of ‘natural’ river, remnant strip field system at Skewsby. remnant strip field system near Sproxton. the banks of which support a varied flora • Promote sympathetic management • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees, and fauna. Discourage management of watercourses to enhance their copses and small woods using native practices that would damage or pollute visual and wildlife value. species to reinforce existing landscape the river system and associated habitats. • Continue restoration of character of pattern, especially in association with Manage tree canopy to benefit river highway corridor along foot of scarp. streams and areas of pasture. ecosystem and manage invasive non- • Promote sympathetic management native species (mink, Himalayan balsam). of watercourses to enhance their www.howardianhills.org.uk visual and wildlife value. 9 Natural Environment Priority Sites • Limekiln, High Wood (2.26) – Keep SOUTH EAST RIDGE (Zone 3B) • Fairy Dell (1.17) – SINC. A species-rich structure clear of vegetation and Landscape Management unimproved pasture with a spring, stream prepare simple management plan. and pond. Himalayan balsam control • Cropmarks of prehistoric dyke and Try to restore a more strongly hedged started 2015. Continue management of triple bank, Cop Howe (2.28) – Seek to landscape framework with a higher invasive non-native species (Himalayan improve condition within an agricultural density of tree cover and promote more balsam). Encourage continuation regime. Survey adjacent woodland woodland planting to integrate the area of sympathetic management. fringes for upstanding remains and more closely with adjoining landscapes: • Stearsby Hag (1.18) – SINC. A large seek to manage sympathetically. • Encourage appropriate management plantation of beech and sycamore on • Ridge & furrow field system, of Ancient Woodland Sites, with an Ancient site. Encourage restoration (2.29) – Very good surviving remains greater use of native broadleaves. to native broadleaved woodland. of a medieval field system. Manage • Encourage planting of small to medium- • Stearsby Hag Grassland (1.19) – under a stable grass sward. sized areas of broadleaved or mixed A small fragment of semi-improved In liaison with owners, encourage woodland at locations which do not neutral grassland and scrub on a repair of Listed Buildings at Risk interrupt long-distance views, particularly steep bank. Maintain balance between using grant resources available from on the more open scarp slopes and different habitat types. Encourage local authorities and Government valley sides towards the south of the sympathetic management. agencies. Where appropriate, explore area and in association with farmsteads. opportunities for suitable changes of use • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees Historic Environment Priority Sites to ensure their long-term contribution and copses using native species,

Management Plan 2019-2024 • Round barrow, Stearsby Hag (2.24) – to the cultural heritage of the area: to reinforce landscape pattern. SM. At Risk. Scrub growth controlled • Witherholme Hall, Whenby (2.107) • Promote the retention, restoration and 2016. 3-year bracken control completed sympathetic management of hedges, 2018. Progress establishment of particularly those in the most visible a benign vegetation cover. locations and those associated with • City of Troy Maze, Stearsby Hag (2.25) – the remnant strip field systems at Re-cut and re-gravelled 2016. Continue Ganthorpe, Bulmer and Crambe. summer grass cutting and regular re- • On scarp slopes, tributary valleys and cutting/gravelling. Continue existing around villages, maintain the more management regime (AONB). diverse character by retaining the small- Howardian Hills AONB Howardian scale field pattern and areas of pasture. 10 • Conserve and enhance areas of parkland. • Bulmer Mire (1.22) – SINC. An area of Historic Environment Priority Sites • Ensure any upgrading of the A64 marshy grassland at the foot of a small • Round barrow, Terrington (2.30) – trunk road respects the character valley. Encourage continuation of existing SM. Vulnerable. Monitor condition. management agreement (ELS + HLS). and high quality of the landscape and • Earthworks of ridge & furrow and maximises opportunities for native • Bulmer Hag (1.23) – SINC. An area of settlement shrinkage, High Stittenham grassland creation and new woodland oak woodland on an Ancient site, much (2.31) – Manage the whole area of planting in the highway corridor. of which has a semi-natural appearance. earthworks under a stable grass sward. Sections have been replanted with Encourage continuation of existing Natural Environment Priority Sites conifers. Ensure retention of native management agreement (ELS). broadleaved woodland and encourage This Zone is of high geodiversity value, • Field system, Mill Fields (2.32) – restoration of replanted sections. as it contains many former quarries with Encourage restoration of damaged both nationally and regionally significant • Cross Hill Pit (1.83) – LGS. A former sand sections via removal of tipped infill exposures of Jurassic rock formations. quarry with a rare inland exposure of material. Manage the whole area of the Sycarham Member of the Cloughton • Little Dale, Mowthorpe (1.20) – SINC. An earthworks under a stable grass sward. Formation. Possible herringbone cross- area of fen, unimproved grassland and • Earthworks of medieval field system, bedding also visible. Manage vegetation scrub with a varied flora. Scrub control lynchets and possible enclosure, to improve visibility of exposure faces. and fen cutting 2007. Scrub control and Whitwell-on-the-Hill (2.33) – Manage site fenced 2008, and grazing by Exmoor • Rough Hills Farm Quarry (1.84) – LGS. the whole area of earthworks under ponies introduced. Regular cutting of A former stone quarry with a rare inland a stable grass sward. Encourage scrub and bramble. Continue scrub exposure of a calcareous grit in the continuation of existing management and habitat management to maintain Dogger Formation. Good educational agreement (ELS + HLS). potential. Manage vegetation to balance between different habitat types. Encourage continuation of existing improve visibility of exposure faces. management agreement (AONB). • Mowthorpe Dale (1.85) – LGS. Natural • Bulmer Beck Mire (1.21) – SINC. An area faces/possible former stone quarries of rank fen grassland, scrub and marshy on both sides of a small dale, with rare flushes. Re-fenced 2002 and grazed exposures of the Dogger Formation by Exmoor ponies until 2012. Maintain overlying Lower Lias shales. Excellent balance between different habitat types. geomorphology with landslips and a Encourage new management agreement. springline also visible. Good educational potential. Manage vegetation to www.howardianhills.org.uk improve visibility of exposure faces. 11 NORTH RIDGE (Zone 3C) • Discourage extension of limestone • Grange Farm, Gilling (1.26) – quarries beyond existing permitted areas SINC. A small area of unimproved Landscape Management and mitigate impact through appropriate calcareous grassland, including the Maintain the contrast between the wooded planting and restoration works. site of a former quarry. Encourage scarp slope and open dip slope, reinforce sympathetic management. the framework of hedges and encourage Natural Environment Priority Sites • Mill Wood (1.27) – SINC. An area of semi- sensitive woodland management: This Zone is of high geodiversity value, natural oak/birch woodland with ash • Discourage isolated woodland planting as it contains many former quarries with on the upper slopes. Ensure retention proposals on northern dip slope, to both nationally and regionally significant as native broadleaved woodland. retain open landscape character. exposures of Jurassic rock formations. • Calf Close Wood (1.28) – SINC. • Encourage sensitive felling operations • Wath Quarry (1.24) – SSSI. Condition An area of oak/ash woodland on in terms of scale and phasing, – Favourable. A quarry face of an Ancient site, much of which especially where visually prominent. geodiversity interest. Support continued has a semi-natural appearance • Conserve areas of Ancient Semi-Natural sympathetic management through although some areas originate from Woodland and promote appropriate agreement with Natural England. planting. Ensure retention of native broadleaved woodland and encourage forms of management. In Ancient • Scar Wood (1.25) – SINC. One of the restoration of replanted sections. replanted woodland, encourage three best ash woodlands in the AONB, greater use of native broadleaves, with a rich flora. Sections have been • Horse Coppice (1.29) – SINC. An area especially towards prominent skylines replanted with non-native species. Two of mainly mature oak woodland on and in association with parklands. areas of young sycamore plantation an Ancient site, although probably Management Plan 2019-2024 • Promote the retention, restoration restored to native broadleaves 2007 originating from plantation. Hazel partially and sympathetic management of & 2008. Ensure retention of native re-coppiced 2000. Ensure retention hedges, particularly those in the most broadleaved woodland and encourage as native broadleaved woodland. visible locations and those associated restoration of replanted sections. • Wath Wood Boundary (1.31) – with the remnant strip field systems Discourage extension of quarrying SINC. A small area of unimproved near Swinton, Easthorpe, Barton-le- activity within the woodland boundary. calcareous grassland on the northern Street, Slingsby and Hovingham. edge of Wath Wood. Invading • Conserve historic linear field pattern scrub removed 2000. Sward largely and network of ancient trackways. maintained by rabbit grazing. Encourage continuation of existing Howardian Hills AONB Howardian management agreement (ELS + HLS). 12 • Wath Wood & Hollin Hill Plantation • Slingsby Disused Quarry (1.36) • Broughton Lane (1.40) – SINC. (1.32) – SINC. A large area of Ancient – SINC. Unimproved and semi- Species-rich verges along a green lane, woodland, sections of which retain a improved calcareous grassland on historically containing a significant semi-natural character with a notable an old quarry site. Invading scrub population of knapweed broomrape. flora. Other sections have been replanted cleared 2007. Encourage continuation Encourage sympathetic management with conifers. Ensure retention of native of sympathetic management. to safeguard/restore interest. broadleaved woodland and encourage • Coneysthorpe Banks Wood (1.37) – • Cawton Bank (1.41) – An area of restoration of replanted sections. SINC. A large plantation of mainly larch, semi-improved neutral grassland • Hollin Hill Bogs (1.33) – SINC. A relatively sycamore and Norway spruce on an on a steep bank. Fenced 2003 and large area of spring-fed semi-natural Ancient site. Gradually being restored grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. alder carr of high conservation interest. to native broadleaved woodland. Encourage continuation of existing Limited Himalayan balsam control Ensure retention of native broadleaved management agreement (ELS + HLS). carried out adjacent to Wath Beck woodland and encourage continuing • Thief Stile Hole Quarry (1.86) – LGS. A since 2008. Continue management restoration of replanted sections. recently re-opened stone quarry with a of invasive non-native species • Amotherby Lane (1.38) – SINC. A significant stratigraphic exposure of the (Himalayan balsam). Ensure retention small patch of calcareous grassland Corallian limestone. Monitor condition. as native broadleaved woodland. within an area of scrub, historically Associated limekilns (Site 2.50). • Slingsby Banks Wood (1.34) – SINC. containing knapweed broomrape. • Hovingham Park Quarry 1 (1.87) – An area of oak woodland on an Ancient Rabbit fenced 1998 and cut annually. LGS. A former stone quarry/mine site, although originating from replanting. Greater knapweed planted 2012 to with a rare c.200m exposure of Coral Contains several recent plantings of augment natural population. Encourage Rag overlying Malton Oolite. Good conifers. Ensure retention of native continuation of existing management educational potential. Manage vegetation broadleaved woodland and encourage to safeguard/restore interest. to improve visibility of exposure faces. restoration of replanted sections. • Hildenley Top Reservoir (1.39) – • Slingsby Quarry (1.88) – LGS. A former • Slingsby Bank Verges (1.35) – SINC. SINC. Water-owned site. stone quarry with a good fossiliferous A length of species-rich calcareous Species-rich calcareous grassland exposure of Coral Rag overlying Malton grassland on a roadside verge. on a covered reservoir. Generally Oolite. Good educational potential. Encourage continuation of managed sympathetically. Encourage Manage vegetation to improve visibility basic management. continuation of existing management. of exposure faces.

www.howardianhills.org.uk 13 • Slingsby East Quarry (1.89) – LGS. Initiate a programme of work to characterise clearance of young plantation 2017. A former stone quarry with a good the type and extent of remains as well as Control scrub regrowth and control/ exposure of Coral Rag. Good educational degree of preservation. Use as the basis for monitor bracken. Progress establishment potential. Manage vegetation to advising on programmes of management to of a benign vegetation cover. improve visibility of exposure faces. fully protect important features. • Linear dyke, Fryton & Slingsby • Hildenley Home Quarry (1.90) – • Linear dyke, Coneysthorpe Banks Banks Wood (2.38) – SM. Vulnerable. LGS. A former stone quarry with Wood (2.34) – SM. Vulnerable. 3-year Control scrub growth and bracken. a good exposure of Hambleton bracken control started on one Progress establishment of a Oolite overlying Birdsall Calcareous section 2018. Control scrub growth benign vegetation cover. Grit. Monitor vegetation growth. and bracken. Progress establishment • Round barrows, Fryton East & West • Hildenley Heights Quarry (1.91) – LGS. of a benign vegetation cover. Woods (2.39) – SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. A former stone quarry with perhaps the • Round barrow, Hovingham (2.35) – SM. Scrub growth controlled 2016. 3-year best remaining exposure of Hildenley Vulnerable. Brambles strimmed and top bracken control completed 2018. Limestone in the UK. Good educational re-seeded with grass 2018. Progress Control scrub regrowth. Control bracken potential. Manage vegetation to improve establishment of a benign vegetation if needed. Progress establishment of visibility of exposure faces. Associated cover. Encourage continuation of existing a benign vegetation cover after felling limekiln and bridge (Site 2.49). management agreement (ELS + HLS). of forestry crops. Monitor condition. • Hildenley Wood Quarry (1.92) – LGS. • Round barrows, Hovingham High Wood • Round barrow & cross dyke, Scarrish A former stone quarry with a good (2.36) – SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. Wood (2.40) – SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. exposure of the Coral Rag/Hildenley Scrub growth and brash removed 2016. Tree cover managed and tree & scrub

Management Plan 2019-2024 Limestone unconformity. Good 3-year bracken control completed growth controlled 2016. 3-year bracken educational potential. Manage vegetation 2018. Remove tree & scrub growth control started 2018. Complete bracken to improve visibility of exposure faces. from remaining untreated barrow. control and progress establishment Continue to reduce impact of forestry. of a benign vegetation cover. Historic Environment Priority Sites Progress establishment of a benign • Cross dyke, Coneysthorpe Banks Wood High priority area within the arable land vegetation cover. Monitor condition. (2.41) – SM. At Risk. Survey to assess of the scarp slope, with many nationally • Round barrows, Hovingham South condition. Reduce impact of tree important cropmarks of prehistoric land use, Wood (2.37) – SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. & scrub growth. both scheduled and unscheduled, needing 3-year bracken control completed further investigation and conservation. 2018. Impact of forestry reduced via Howardian Hills AONB Howardian 14 • Round barrows, Easthorpe (2.42) – SM. • Limekilns, Scar Wood (2.50) – Trees CAULKLEYS BANK (Zone 3D) At Risk & Low/Not at Risk. Reduce removed 2006. Front wall consolidated impact of arable ploughing to improve and re-built 2011. Monitor condition. Landscape Management condition within an agricultural regime. • Cropmark complex of square barrows, Strengthen the framework of hedges and • Cropmarks of ancient trackways and double-ditched trackway and enclosures, seek opportunities to extend woodland and settlements, Barton and Slingsby Heights Cawton (2.51) – Seek to improve tree cover while retaining the essentially (2.43) – Seek to improve condition condition within an agricultural regime. open character of the dip slope: within an agricultural regime. • Orchard, Slingsby (2.52) – Historic • In existing woodlands, encourage • Probable Roman camp, Diana Hill orchard, containing many old sympathetic felling operations in (2.44) – Seek to improve condition species of apple tree. Encourage terms of scale and phasing, especially within an agricultural regime. implementation of management plan. where visually prominent. • Moated site, Wath (2.45) – Carry • Limekiln, Hovingham Spa (2.53) • Promote the retention, restoration and out further investigation to – Control scrub growth and clear sympathetic management of hedges, assess historic value. tipped debris to establish how much particularly those in the most visible • Field systems, Easthorpe Hall (2.46) – of original structure remains. locations and those associated with Manage the whole area of earthworks Encourage the preparation and the remnant strip field systems at under a stable grass sward. implementation of management Nunnington and near West Ness. • Field systems, Hildenley Hall Estate plans that identify opportunities for • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees (2.47) – Manage the whole area of conserving, enhancing and restoring and copses using native species, earthworks under a stable grass sward. elements of the historic landscape: to reinforce landscape pattern. Encourage continuation of existing • Hovingham Park (2.54) • Conserve and reinforce linear tree belts, management agreement (ELS). • Swinton Grange (2.55) – Encourage avenues and other parkland features. • Limekiln, Kitscrew Wood (2.48) – conservation of parkland copses. • Encourage planting of small areas of Encourage control of scrub and broadleaved or mixed woodland towards consolidation works as necessary. the foot of the dip slope, in locations that • Limekiln and bridge, Hildenley do not interrupt long-distance views. Wood (2.49) – Scrub and trees removed from limekiln 2010. Keep structures clear of vegetation and prepare simple management plan. www.howardianhills.org.uk 15 Natural Environment Priority Sites • Caulkleys Wood (1.44) – SINC. A • Earthworks, Stonegrave Church & This Zone is of high geodiversity value, calcareous ash woodland, parts of adjacent (2.56) – SM. Vulnerable. as it contains many former quarries with which have been replanted with non- Reduce impact of tree & scrub growth. both nationally and regionally significant native species. Ensure retention of native • Earthworks, East Newton Hall (2.57) – exposures of Jurassic rock formations. broadleaved woodland and encourage Manage the whole area of earthworks restoration of replanted sections. • Nunnington Cutting & Quarries (1.42) under a stable grass sward. – SSSI. Condition – Unfavourable • Nunnington Cutting (1.93) – LGS. A • Cropmarks of prehistoric/Roman (Recovering). Two disused quarries and disused railway cutting with a good enclosures and trackways, Caulkleys an adjacent disused railway cutting of exposure of Upper Calcareous Grit Bank (2.58) – Seek to improve condition geodiversity interest. Scrub cleared overlying Coral Rag overlying Malton within an agricultural regime. from some of the railway cutting Oolite. A good sedimentary series, • 2/3 limekilns, Limekiln Plantation (2.59) exposures 2015. Support continued exhibiting coral reef eroded and buried – Keep structures clear of vegetation sympathetic management through under sand shoals. Rare exposure of in- and prepare simple management plan. situ corals also visible. Good educational agreement with Natural England. • Limekiln, Quarry Plantation (2.60) – potential. Manage vegetation to improve • River Rye, Helmsley Bridge to West Ness Trees removed 2004 & 2006. Encourage visibility of exposure faces. Designated as (1.16) – SINC. A stretch of ‘natural’ river, continued control of scrub and a SSSI for its scientific value (Site 1.42). the banks of which support a varied consolidation works as necessary. • Quarry Plantation (1.94) – LGS. A former flora and fauna. Encourage management • Cropmarks of probable Iron Age square stone quarry with a lengthy exposure practices that would improve the quality barrow cemetery, Caulkleys Bank of Malton Oolite. Good educational of the river system and associated (2.61) – Seek to improve condition potential. Manage vegetation to Management Plan 2019-2024 habitats. Manage tree canopy to benefit within an agricultural regime. river ecosystem. Manage invasive non- improve visibility of exposure faces. native species (mink, Himalayan balsam). Associated limekiln (Site 2.60). Encourage the implementation of the management plan to conserve, • Caulkleys Bank (1.43) – SINC. Species- enhance and restore elements rich unimproved calcareous grassland Historic Environment Priority Sites of the historic landscape: on a steep bank. Encourage new This area has many similarities with management agreement. Zone 3C, having many cropmarks • Nunnington Hall (2.62) – RPG of prehistoric landscape features, Grade II. Not at Risk. although none are scheduled.

Howardian Hills AONB Howardian 16 Recreation Priority Sites VALE OF YORK (Zone 4A) • Promote sympathetic management • Caulkleys Bank (3.8) – A popular of watercourses to enhance their Landscape Management gravelled roadside lay-by, giving visual and wildlife value. Encourage panoramic views over the Vale of This Zone is of high geomorphological retention of semi-natural vegetation on Pickering. Provides access to well-used value, as it forms part of the Coxwold- remaining sections of disused railway. Public Rights of Way to east and west. Gilling Gap – a double-faulted rift valley • Conserve and re-create wetland Encourage appropriate maintenance formation that was also a glacial meltwater habitats at appropriate locations, to to provide a level surface suitable for channel for the former Lake Pickering. restore a more traditional landscape a wide range of users. Consider re- Strengthen the landscape framework by and enhance biodiversity. instating informal provision of information restoration of hedges, hedgerow trees • Work with the North York Moors and landscape interpretation. and copses (except where these would National Park Authority to develop • Nunnington Hall (3.9) – National Trust- conflict with the conservation of wading integrated cross-boundary owned site. A 17th century manor house birds). Retain the contrast with more heavily habitat/landscape corridors. attracting around 65,000 visitors annually. wooded areas to the north and south: The Hall is served by a large landscaped • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees Natural Environment Priority Sites car park and an additional overflow car and copses using native species • Foxfoot Hay (1.45) – SINC. A wide ditch park. Monitor ability of overflow car to reinforce landscape pattern with semi-natural marginal vegetation. park to cope with peak demands. (except where these would conflict Encourage continuation of existing with wading bird conservation). • Nunnington (3.10) – A large informal management agreement (ELS + HLS). parking area on the site of former • Promote the retention, restoration • Thorpe Grange (1.46) – SINC. An area sawmill. Monitor current ad hoc usage. and sympathetic management of neutral grassland with patches of hedges, particularly those in of scrub on a disused railway. the most visible locations. Fenced 2004 to allow introduction • Encourage planting of small areas of conservation grazing. Maintain of broadleaved or mixed woodland, balance between different habitat except where these would conflict types. Encourage continuation with wading bird conservation. of sympathetic management.

www.howardianhills.org.uk 17 Historic Environment Priority Sites • Promote the retention, restoration and managed 2017. Maintain balance Where pockets of ridge & furrow sympathetic management of hedges, between different habitat types. survive, retain the whole area under a particularly those in the most visible Encourage continuation of existing stable grass sward. Where cropmark locations and those associated with management agreement (ELS + HLS). features of prehistoric date have the remnant strip field systems at been identified, explore options to Ampleforth, Stonegrave and Hovingham. Historic Environment Priority Sites remove them from cultivation, reduce • Encourage planting of small areas of Two areas of cropmarks of prehistoric plough depth or similar options. broadleaved or mixed woodland. enclosures at Hovingham Carrs and • Monastic precinct and water • Promote sympathetic management north of Mill Holm Plantation would management earthworks, Byland of watercourses to enhance their be suitable for exploring options to Abbey (2.108) – SM. Vulnerable. visual and wildlife value. remove them from cultivation, reduce Reduce erosion by livestock. • Conserve and re-create wetland plough depth or similar options. habitats in appropriate locations, to • Cross in Churchyard, Gilling VALE OF PICKERING (Zone 4B) restore a more traditional landscape (2.64) – SM. Vulnerable. Monitor and enhance biodiversity. condition to prevent collapse. Landscape Management This Zone is of high geomorphological Natural Environment Priority Sites CRAYKE (ZONE 4C) value, as it forms part of the Coxwold- • Thorpe Grange (1.46) – SINC. An area Gilling Gap – a double-faulted rift valley of neutral grassland with patches Landscape Management formation that was also a glacial meltwater of scrub on a disused railway. Retain and enhance the strong hedge and Management Plan 2019-2024 channel for the former Lake Pickering. Fenced 2004 to allow introduction hedgerow tree pattern and encourage Strengthen the landscape framework of conservation grazing. Maintain new areas of small-scale woodland: by restoration of hedges, hedgerow balance between different habitat • Promote the retention, restoration trees and copses while retaining the types. Encourage continuation and sympathetic management of contrast with more heavily wooded of sympathetic management. hedges, particularly those in the slopes to the north and south: • Cawton Fens (1.47) – SINC. Two most visible locations and those • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees areas of calcareous fen and scrub, associated with the extensive remnant and copses using native species, to abandoned as arable land 1985. strip field system at Crayke. reinforce existing landscape pattern. Eastern area fenced 2003 and grazing • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees by Exmoor ponies introduced. Scrub Howardian Hills AONB Howardian and copses using native species, to reinforce existing pattern. 18 • Encourage planting of small areas of • Discourage new woodland planting • Castle Howard Great Lake (1.49) – broadleaved or mixed woodland. proposals that would detract SINC. A water body and wetland of • Promote sympathetic management from the landscape character of ornithological interest, particularly for of watercourses to enhance their the historic parkland. Encourage wintering wildfowl and passage birds. visual and wildlife value. retention of strong broadleaved Encourage preparation of management woodland character through long-term plan, to maximise conservation Historic Environment Priority Sites conversion of conifer plantations. interest and define future priorities. Discourage practices that would Where pockets of ridge & furrow survive, • In the outer basin, promote the damage or pollute aquatic habitats. particularly around Crayke Manor retention, restoration and sympathetic and Crayke Castle, retain the whole management of existing hedges, • Brandrith Wood (1.50) – SINC. An oak area under a stable grass sward. particularly those associated with woodland, mostly on an Ancient site the remnant strip field systems near but probably originating from plantation. Where cropmark features of prehistoric Coneysthorpe and Easthorpe, and Areas have been replanted with non- date have been identified, explore options encourage planting of hedgerow trees. native species. Ensure retention of native to remove them from cultivation, reduce broadleaved woodland and encourage plough depth or similar options. restoration of replanted sections. • Crayke Castle (2.66) – SM. Vulnerable. Natural Environment Priority Sites • Gillylees and Pretty Woods (1.52) – Reduce impact of burrowing animals. • Castle Howard Avenue and Park (1.48) – SINC. The older parts of the Avenue SINC. A large woodland complex with a mosaic of habitat types including CASTLE HOWARD BASIN (Zone 5) and the car park contain many trees that are now of a considerable age. areas of Ancient woodland, although much replanted with non-native Landscape Management Survey work 2003 confirmed that these supported invertebrate populations species. Ensure retention of native Conserve and enhance the integrity of County importance. Relatively broadleaved woodland and encourage of the historic designed landscape: significant felling, replanting and tree restoration of replanted sections. • Continue to update and implement surgery on The Avenue 2016. Encourage • Nova Scotia (1.53) – SINC. A large mainly the landscape restoration and retention and appropriate management semi-natural secondary woodland of management plan, to safeguard the of veteran trees wherever possible. ash and birch with an interesting flora. integrity of the historic landscape. Encourage continuation of existing Some sections have been replanted • Where appropriate, maintain and management agreement (ELS + HLS). with conifers. Ensure retention of native restore landscape features associated broadleaved woodland and encourage

with former parkland, e.g. parkland restoration of replanted sections. www.howardianhills.org.uk trees, walls and avenues. 19 • Park Quarry (1.95) – LGS. A former • Round barrow, Welburn (2.68) – SM. Encourage the continued implementation stone quarry with excellent exposures Vulnerable. 3-year bracken control of the management plan to conserve, of Lower Calcareous Grit. Good completed 2018. Reduce impact of enhance and restore elements educational potential. Manage vegetation arable clipping. Monitor condition. of the historic landscape: to improve visibility of exposure faces. • Round barrow, Pretty Wood (2.69) – • Castle Howard (2.74) – RPG Grade I. SM. At Risk. 3-year bracken control Not at Risk. Encourage continuation of Historic Environment Priority Sites started 2017. Complete bracken existing management agreement Although this Zone already has control and progress establishment (ELS + HLS). considerable protection due to the inclusion of a benign vegetation cover. In liaison with owners, encourage of Castle Howard and its grounds in • Ice House, Castle Howard repair of Listed Buildings at Risk the Register of Parks and Gardens, this (2.70) – Monitor condition. using grant resources available from should not hinder greater understanding • Medieval ridge & furrow field systems, local authorities and Government of the complexity of the landscape, Coneysthorpe (2.71) – There are agencies. Where appropriate, explore which includes much earlier and pre- indications that these may have been opportunities for suitable changes of use parkland features such as the round deliberately incorporated into the park. to ensure their long-term contribution barrow in The Avenue. Conservation of Manage the whole area of earthworks to the cultural heritage of the area: such complementary features is needed. under a stable grass sward. • The Mausoleum, Castle Initiate further survey of historic structures • Parish boundary, Brick Kiln Howard (2.77) – Grade I. and landscape features, including veteran Wood (2.72) – This survives as • Walls to walled garden, Castle trees, to explore the detailed chronology an upstanding earthwork. Seek Howard (2.78) – Grade I.

Management Plan 2019-2024 of the landscape. Encourage enhanced to maintain visibility and prevent • Former bone grinding mill, stables, or continued high-quality management damage during forestry operations. hayloft and smithy, Low Gaterley (2.79) measures, and encourage greater public • Mill, Todd Wood (2.73) – Trees and scrub appreciation of the historic landscape. removed 2000 & 2005. Remains of Recreation Priority Sites • Round barrow, Castle Howard buildings consolidated 2002. A number • Castle Howard Lake (3.11) – This was Avenue (2.67) – SM. Low/Not at of associated structures and the mill race one of the most popular car parks in Risk. Monitor condition. Encourage also identified and suitable for survey. the AONB, serving as a base for walks continuation of existing management Encourage continued scrub control, around the lake and providing one of agreement (ELS + HLS). building restoration where appropriate, the ‘classic’ views of Castle Howard. management of ruined features and

Howardian Hills AONB Howardian Planning consent granted 2001 to appropriate public interpretation. 20 create a new car park on eastern area subsequently developed at the • Encourage planting of small to medium- side of road but never implemented. foot of the hill. Encourage provision of sized areas of broadleaved or mixed Closed by the owners 2016 due to sensitively designed but hard-surfaced woodland as extensions of existing anti-social behaviour. Encourage parking area for 3-4 cars, to maximise woods, in valley bottoms, on lower slopes sensitive restoration of former car park parking opportunity and prevent verge and in association with farmsteads. site and appropriate management of damage/blocking of access tracks. • Promote the retention, restoration trees to ensure continued views of and sympathetic management of house/lake. Monitor use of adjacent CENTRAL HILLS AND VALLEYS hedges, particularly those in the most verge parking areas and seek to (Zone 6) visible locations and those associated address any subsequent issues. with the remnant strip field systems • Castle Howard (3.12) – The historic house Landscape Management at Hildenley and High Hutton. and parkland of Castle Howard attracts Maintain the balance between woodland • Encourage planting of hedgerow trees around 245,000 visitors a year and is and farmland, strengthen the existing and copses using native species, to easily the most popular site within the framework of hedges and hedgerow strengthen landscape pattern. AONB. Served by a large car park with trees and promote appropriate forms • Conserve and enhance areas of parkland. capacity for several hundred vehicles. of woodland management: • Ensure any upgrading of the A64 As the principal focal point for visitors • Conserve areas of Ancient Semi-Natural trunk road respects the character within the AONB, there is considerable Woodland and promote appropriate and high quality of the landscape and scope for the provision of information. forms of management. In Ancient maximises opportunities for native Consider providing interpretation replanted woodland, encourage grassland creation and new woodland material that helps to raise awareness greater use of native broadleaves. planting in the highway corridor. of the AONB and management issues affecting it, as well as encouraging • Try to diversify pure conifer plantations exploration of the wider estate area. with broadleaved planting, natural Natural Environment Priority Sites regeneration and open space on • Sheep Walk (3.13) – Parking facilities at • Horse Field, Gilling (1.55) – SSSI. woodland edges, rides, stream sides and the crest of the hill were closed 1999 Condition – Unfavourable (No Change). in positions overlooked by higher ground. due to highway danger and vehicles A formerly unimproved hay-meadow, blocking access tracks. These were • In more extensive woodland blocks, now much degraded. Support used as a base for popular walks along encourage sympathetic felling operations restoration management through current the ridge top, and an informal parking in terms of scale and phasing, management agreement (HLS). especially where visually prominent. www.howardianhills.org.uk 21 • Dalby Bush Fen (1.56) – SSSI. Condition fen and pasture. Ensure retention of • Howthorpe (1.65) – SINC. Two areas – Favourable. A diverse complex of fen native broadleaved marshy woodland. of unimproved calcareous and marshy and wet woodland. Scrub controlled • Bull Ings (1.60) – SINC. A complex of grassland. Himalayan balsam controlled 2009, 2011, 2015 & 2017. Support fen, wet grassland and unimproved since 2008. Continue management of continued sympathetic management pasture. New fencing installed on invasive non-native species (Himalayan through agreement with Natural England. western part of site 2003 and grazing balsam). Encourage continuation of • Toft Wood (1.57) – SINC. An Ancient by Exmoor ponies introduced. existing management agreement woodland containing semi-natural Encourage continuation of sympathetic (ELS + HLS). sections with a rich flora, but the conservation grazing of fen and pasture. • Terrington Moor (1.66) – SINC. A majority had been replanted with • Coulton Fen (1.61) – SINC. A narrow small area of acid fen, abandoned as conifers. Conifer area reverted to native strip of valley bog mire and wet arable land 1985. Fenced 2001 and broadleaves 2016. Ensure retention woodland. New fencing installed 2003 grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. of native broadleaved woodland. and site grazed by Exmoor ponies until Scrub control carried out 2006. Rush • Mugdale and Barker Woods (1.58) – 2014. Encourage re-introduction of control carried out 2009 & 2018. SINC. A complex of Ancient woodland sympathetic conservation management. Encourage continuation of existing habitats with an interesting flora. Some management agreement (ELS + HLS). • Rose Cottage Farm Meadow (1.62) hazel coppicing carried out 2001. – SINC. A small area of unimproved • Terrington Carr (1.67) – SINC. A small Native woodland area extended by calcareous grassland. Encourage area of acid peat bog, the remnant of new planting on Mugdale Hill 2002. negotiation of management agreement. a much larger site (afforested in the Himalayan balsam control carried out 1800s). Water levels raised on southern 2009, then 2015 onwards. Continue • Swinsey Carr (1.63) – SINC. An Ancient Management Plan 2019-2024 part of site 2000 and shallow pools woodland, predominantly of ash, control of invasive non-native species created 2001. Water levels raised on with a good flora. Ensure retention (Himalayan balsam). Ensure retention northern part of site 2002. Continue birch as native broadleaved woodland. as native broadleaved woodland. coppicing cycle to maintain open habitat. • Grange Bogs (1.59) – SINC. A • The Hag, Wiganthorpe Wood (1.64) – Adjacent woodland areas gradually complex of fen, unimproved pasture SINC. An Ancient semi-natural alder being reverted to native broadleaves. and marshy woodland. New fencing wood with a rich flora. Ensure retention Encourage continuation of existing installed on northern part of site as native broadleaved woodland. management agreement (ELS + HLS). 2003 and grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. Encourage continuation of

Howardian Hills AONB Howardian sympathetic conservation grazing of 22 • Grassland adjacent to Swinsey Carr • Round barrows, Fryton & Hall Moors • Field system, Swathgill (2.6) – SINC (1.68) – SINC. An area of semi- (2.82) – SM. At Risk, Vulnerable & Low/ Encourage sympathetic management improved neutral, acid and marshy Not at Risk. Young plantation trees of prehistoric field system and barrow grassland on a steep bank. Encourage removed 2016. Reduce impact of arable and seek to improve condition introduction of grassland management. ploughing to improve condition within within an agricultural regime. • Fens below Coulton Mill (1.69) – SINC. an agricultural regime. Reduce impact • Field systems, Hildenley Hall Estate Areas of fen and semi-improved neutral of arable clipping. Monitor condition (2.47) – Manage the whole area of and marshy grassland along a beck. to prevent gradual deterioration. earthworks under a stable grass sward. Encourage continuation of existing Encourage continuation of existing Encourage continuation of existing management agreement (ELS + HLS). management agreement (ELS + HLS). management agreement (ELS). • Valley Farm Quarry (1.96) – LGS. • Moated site and ridge & furrow, • Park or parish boundary banks, Cum A recently re-opened stone quarry Scackleton (2.83) – SM. At Risk. Hag Wood (2.86) – These survive with a rare and extensive exposure Reduce erosion by livestock and as upstanding earthworks. Seek to of the Lebberston and Gristhorpe damage by burrowing animals. maintain visibility and prevent damage Members of the Cloughton Formation. Encourage continuation of existing during forestry operations. Research Good educational potential. management agreement (ELS + HLS). and survey would aid understanding. • Round barrow, Wiganthorpe (2.84) • Ridge & furrow field system, High Hutton Historic Environment Priority Sites – SM. Vulnerable. Scrub growth and (2.87) – Manage the whole area of An important and almost continuous brash removed 2017. Monitor condition earthworks under a stable grass sward. prehistoric and Roman landscape under and damage by burrowing animals. • Limekiln, Maidensworth Farm (2.88) arable cultivation on the high ground from Encourage continuation of existing – Trees removed 2005. Encourage Scackleton westwards, which would benefit management agreement (MT). continued control of scrub and from improvements within an agricultural • Round barrows, Moor House Farm, consolidation works as necessary. regime. Initiate further archaeological Hovingham (2.85) – SM. At Risk & • Limekiln, Toft Hill (2.89) – Scrub survey and encourage greater public Low/Not at Risk. Reduce impact removed 2001 & 2005. Encourage appreciation of the historic landscape. of arable ploughing to improve continued control of scrub and condition within an agricultural regime. • Enclosures/field system, Potter Hill consolidation works as necessary. Encourage continuation of existing (2.81) – SM. Low/Not at Risk. Reverted • Limekiln, Stone Flint Wood (2.90) – Scrub management agreement (ELS + HLS). to pasture 2001. Monitor condition. removed 2001. Monitor condition. www.howardianhills.org.uk 23 • Enclosures and field system, Scackleton Recreation Priority Sites • Conserve and re-create riverside (2.91) – An extensive complex of • Bell Bottom Wood (3.14) – A small wetland habitats and flood plain prehistoric enclosures and field informal gravelled lay-by used as a grassland at appropriate locations. systems. Seek to improve condition base for forest walks. Maintain capacity • Conserve and enhance areas of parkland. within an agricultural regime. of parking area, to reduce parking on • Ensure any upgrading of the A64 trunk road Encourage the preparation and adjacent verges. respects the character and high quality of implementation of management the landscape and maximises opportunities plans which identify opportunities for DERWENT GORGE (Zone 7) for native grassland creation and new conserving, enhancing and restoring woodland planting in the highway corridor. elements of the historic landscape: Landscape Management • Wiganthorpe Hall (2.92) This Zone is of high geomorphological value, Natural Environment Priority Sites as it comprises the main glacial meltwater In liaison with owners, encourage The most significant site in the AONB for channel for the former Lake Pickering. repair of Listed Buildings at Risk biodiversity (the River Derwent SAC) lies using grant resources available from Conserve and restore the ‘traditional’ n this Zone. The Zone is also of high local authorities and Government landscape character of broadleaved geodiversity value, as it contains many agencies. Where appropriate, explore woodland, small-scale fields former quarries with both nationally opportunities for suitable changes of use and waterside habitats: and regionally significant exposures to ensure their long-term contribution • In existing woodlands encourage of Jurassic rock formations. to the cultural heritage of the area: sympathetic felling operations in • Jeffry Bog (1.70) – SSSI. Part Yorkshire • Mill, Coulton (2.111) – Grade II* terms of scale and phasing, especially Wildlife Trust site. Condition – 38% Management Plan 2019-2024 where visually prominent. • Ice house, Wiganthorpe Hall (2.93) Favourable; 62% Unfavourable • Conserve areas of Ancient Semi-Natural (Recovering). A complex of neutral • Cow byre, stables, granary & cart Woodland and promote appropriate grassland, marsh and wet woodland shed, Moor House, Hovingham (2.94) forms of management. In Ancient adjacent to the River Derwent SSSI. – Granary re-roofed 2008. The other replanted woodland, encourage Himalayan balsam control started in buildings require some attention. greater use of native broadleaves. woodland section 2013. Continue • Promote the retention, restoration management of invasive non-native and sympathetic management of species (Himalayan balsam). Support hedges, particularly those associated continued sympathetic management with the extensive remnant strip through existing management Howardian Hills AONB Howardian field system at Crambe. agreement (ELS + HLS). 24 • Kirkham Park and Riverside (1.71) – grazing and management of scrub. • Sandlands Meadow (1.78) – SINC. A SSSI. Condition – 65% Favourable; Encourage continuation of existing species-rich unimproved hay meadow 35% Unfavourable (Recovering). A management agreement (ELS + HLS). adjacent to the River Derwent SSSI. site noted for its geodiversity interest • Ox Carr and Ben Woods (1.75) – Encourage continuation of existing as well as its complex of riverside SINC. An Ancient woodland much management agreement (ELS + HLS). communities including woodland, of which has been replanted, • Adjacent to Sandlands Meadow SINC grassland, fen and marsh. Manage although some semi-natural sections (1.79) – SINC. An area of marshy invasive non-native species (Himalayan remain. Ensure retention of native grassland and mire, restored from balsam). Support continued sympathetic broadleaved woodland and encourage conifer plantation 2003 onwards. management through existing restoration of replanted sections. Willow cut 2006 & 2007; Himalayan management agreement (ELS + HLS). • Oak Cliff Wood (Pt) (1.76) – SINC. balsam controlled 2006. Control • Mount Pleasant Quarry (1.72) – SSSI. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust site. The area willow regrowth and invasive non- Condition – Favourable. A disused quarry between the railway and the river is a native species (Himalayan balsam). face of geodiversity interest. Support small Ancient semi-natural ash wood Encourage continuation of existing continued sympathetic management with a rich flora. Ensure retention management agreement (HLS). through agreement with Natural England. as native broadleaved woodland. • Far Wood Close (1.80) – SINC. An • River Derwent (1.73) – SSSI & SAC. Encourage continuation of existing area of mainly unimproved neutral Condition – 2% Favourable; 98% management agreement (HLS). grassland adjacent to the River Derwent Unfavourable (Recovering). Part of an • Howsham Wood (1.77) – SINC. A large SSSI and Howsham Wood SINC. extensive river system, considered to woodland of very high conservation Encourage sympathetic management. be one of the best British examples interest, containing the largest area • Grassland between Jeffry Bog SINC of an unpolluted lowland river with a of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland and Kirkham Park SSSI (1.81) – SINC. ‘classic’ river profile, and supporting in the AONB. Other sections have An area of semi-improved neutral diverse communities of aquatic flora been replanted with non-native grassland next to the River Derwent and fauna. Address diffuse pollution species. Encourage the preparation SSSI. Manage invasive non-native issues within the catchment through and adoption of a comprehensive species (Himalayan balsam). Encourage partnership work with Natural England. management plan. Ensure retention continuation of existing management • Jeffry Bog (Pt) (1.74) – SINC. An area of native broadleaved woodland and agreement (ELS + HLS) on part of site. of neutral and marshy grassland and encourage restoration of replanted scrub adjoining the Jeffry Bog and sections. Encourage continuation of

River Derwent SSSIs. Encourage existing management agreement (HT). www.howardianhills.org.uk 25 • Crambeck Quarries (1.97) – LGS. • Roman pottery kilns, Crambeck agencies. Where appropriate, explore A series of former stone quarries (2.97) – SM. Low/Not at Risk. Reduce opportunities for suitable changes of use with rare inland exposures of the impact of bracken and forestry. to ensure their long-term contribution Middle Jurassic sequence of shale/ • Kirkham Bridge (2.98) – SM. to the cultural heritage of the area: limestone/sandstone. Good educational Vulnerable. Weight Limit introduced • Gate Lodges, Howsham Hall (2.102) potential. Manage vegetation to 2016. Monitor condition. • Folly, Howsham Hall (2.103) improve visibility of exposure faces. • Earthworks of medieval village, Crambe • Pond Farm, Crambe (2.104) – Temporary (2.99) – A nationally important but Historic Environment Priority Sites roof consolidated 2005. Trees removed unscheduled site that occupies a wide 2010. Southern gable consolidated 2012. A number of nationally important sites area around the village and includes such as the Crambeck Roman potteries house platforms, fields, trackways and Kirkham Priory lie in this Zone. and ridge & furrow. Manage the Recreation Priority Sites Encourage enhanced or continued high- whole area of earthworks under a • Kirkham Priory (3.15) – English Heritage quality management of monuments stable grass sward. Consider further site. The scenic remains of the Priory and monitor their condition. survey and encourage greater public attract around 6,000 visitors a year. Served by an informal gravelled parking • Moated site, Low Hutton (2.95) – appreciation of the village history. area that is generally adequate except SM. Low/Not at Risk. Remove scrub Encourage the preparation and at peak times. Parking area restored to and monitor erosion by livestock. implementation of management original full extent and re-gravelled 2010. Encourage continuation of existing plans which identify opportunities for Monitor usage and ensure maintenance management agreement (ELS + HLS). conserving, enhancing and restoring so as to retain capacity and reduce Management Plan 2019-2024 elements of the historic landscape: • Kirkham Priory & Medieval village, overspill parking on adjacent road. Kirkham (2.96) – Part-SM. Part English • Howsham Hall (2.100) – RPG • Kirkham Bridge (3.16) – The public Heritage site. Low/Not at Risk. Grade II. Not at Risk. Encourage footpath beside the river at Kirkham The Priory is managed by English reversion of ploughed parkland is very popular. The first field through Heritage but features on north side back to grass and new tree planting which it passes is frequently used for of road and elsewhere around the appropriate to original design. picnicking and the river for swimming. hamlet need to remain in sympathetic In liaison with owners, encourage The landowner has experienced management. Manage the whole area of repair of Listed Buildings at Risk problems caused by litter, trespass and earthworks under a stable grass sward. using grant resources available from conflict with livestock. Monitor situation. Encourage continuation of existing local authorities and Government Howardian Hills AONB Howardian management agreement (ELS + HLS). 26 • Badger Bank (3.17) – A small but • Howsham Bridge (3.19) – Two informal popular informal gravelled lay-by used gravelled lay-bys at either end of the as a base for walks in Howsham Wood. bridge, used by fishermen, visitors to Local consultations 1999 showed that Howsham Mill and as a base for riverside proposed minor upgrading works were walks. Area at eastern end fenced 2006 not supported. Area currently managed to create parking area for Howsham Mill. by low-key grass cutting operations. Monitor use of site at peak periods, to Consider alternative options, to define evaluate the need for future action. parking area better and prevent • Huttons Ambo (3.20) – A small informal obstruction of adjacent access. tarmacked parking area used by • Howsham Wood (3.18) – A large fishermen and as a base for riverside riverside wood with a network of well- walks. An adjacent ‘storage area’ used used tracks. Previously owned by the to have an unsightly sheet metal fence Forestry Commission, the wood was but this was removed 2013 and planted sold to a private consortium 1996 and willow saplings have now also grown up. a management agreement concluded to safeguard public access rights. Consider opportunities for interpretation material and extending access through agreement with adjacent landowners. www.howardianhills.org.uk 27 Photographs © AONB Unit

Produced on behalf of County Council, Ryedale District Council and Council by: HOWARDIAN HILLS AONB JOINT ADVISORY COMMITTEE The Old Vicarage, Bondgate, Helmsley, York. YO62 5BP

You can request this information in another language or format at www.northyorks.gov.uk/accessibility