Gib Lane, Blackburn
Baseline Landscape and Visual Appraisal
Report
January 2014
Prepared for: Rule 5 Land Ltd
UNITED KINGDOM & IRELAND
Gib Lane, Blackburn
REVISION SCHEDULE
Rev Date Details Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by
01 8th January Draft Report Jane Ash CMLI 2014 Senior Landscape Architect
02 10th January Draft Report Jane Ash CMLI 2014 Minor Senior amendments Landscape following client Architect comment
03 31st January Final Report Jane Ash CMLI Adam King 2014 Senior Associate Landscape Landscape Architect Architect
04 24th Final Report Jane Ash CMLI Adam King Samantha Leathers February Amendments Senior Associate Principal 2014 following Landscape Landscape Architect Blackburn with Architect Darwen Council comment
URS Mayflower House 178 Armada Way Plymouth Devon PL1 1LD
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Limitations
URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited (“URS”) has prepared this Report for the sole use of Rule 5 Land Ltd (“Client”) in accordance with the Agreement under which our services were performed 47068789. No other warranty, expressed or implied, is made as to the professional advice included in this Report or any other services provided by URS. This Report is confidential and may not be disclosed by the Client nor relied upon by any other party without the prior and express written agreement of URS. The conclusions and recommendations contained in this Report are based upon information provided by others and upon the assumption that all relevant information has been provided by those parties from whom it has been requested and that such information is accurate. Information obtained by URS has not been independently verified by URS, unless otherwise stated in the Report. The methodology adopted and the sources of information used by URS in providing its services are outlined in this Report. The work described in this Report was undertaken in December 2013 and January 2014 and is based on the conditions encountered and the information available during the said period of time. The scope of this Report and the services are accordingly factually limited by these circumstances. Where assessments of works or costs identified in this Report are made, such assessments are based upon the information available at the time and where appropriate are subject to further investigations or information which may become available. URS disclaim any undertaking or obligation to advise any person of any change in any matter affecting the Report, which may come or be brought to URS’ attention after the date of the Report. Certain statements made in the Report that are not historical facts may constitute estimates, projections or other forward- looking statements and even though they are based on reasonable assumptions as of the date of the Report, such forward-looking statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results predicted. URS specifically does not guarantee or warrant any estimate or projections contained in this Report. Unless otherwise stated in this Report, the assessments made assume that the sites and facilities will continue to be used for their current purpose without significant changes. Copyright © This Report is the copyright of URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited. Any unauthorised reproduction or usage by any person other than the addressee is strictly prohibited.
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1 INTRODUCTION ...... 6 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.1 Purpose of Report ...... 7 2 PLANNING POLICY ...... 8 2.1 Landscape Context ...... 8 2.2 Landscape Character...... 8 2.3 Landscape and Visual Designations ...... 9 2.4 Summary of Relevant Landscape and Visual Policy ...... 10 2.5 National Planning Policy Framework ...... 10 2.6 Blackburn With Darwen Core Strategy (January 2011) ...... 11 2.7 Summary and Conclusion ...... 12 3 APPRAISAL METHODOLOGY ...... 13 3.1 General Approach ...... 13 3.2 Terminology ...... 13 3.3 Assumptions and Limitations ...... 14 3.4 Baseline Conditions ...... 15 3.5 Landscape Appraisal Methodology ...... 16 3.6 Visual Appraisal Methodology ...... 16 1. Zone of Visual Influence ...... 16 2. Photography ...... 17 4 LANDSCAPE BASELINE...... 18 4.1 Topography and Drainage...... 18 4.2 Vegetation and Land Use ...... 18 4.3 Settlement ...... 19 4.4 Landscape Character...... 20 1. National Countryside Character Assessment ...... 20 2. County Countryside Character Assessment...... 22 3. Study Area Character ...... 23 4. Character of the Site and Landscape Sensitivity ...... 25 5 VISUAL APPRAISAL ...... 26 5.1 Primary Zone of Visual Influence ...... 26 5.2 Secondary Zones of Visual Influence ...... 26 5.3 Potential Sensitive Visual Receptors ...... 26 6 LANDSCAPE STRATEGY ...... 30 6.1 Design Principles ...... 30 6.2 Mitigation ...... 31
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7 SUMMARY ...... 33 8 REFERENCES ...... 35 9 FIGURES ...... 36
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1 INTRODUCTION
URS has been commissioned by Rule 5 Land Ltd to undertake a Baseline Landscape and Visual Appraisal of an area adjacent to the town of Blackburn, at Gib Lane. Currently, this area is utilised for a number of uses of which the main function is farmland (open grazing and rough grassland), with some woodland. An existing residential property, Horden Farm, is located to the south of the site adjacent to Broken Stone Road, but is not within the site boundary.
The site location is shown in Figure 1: Site Location, situated south-west of Blackburn. Ordnance Survey grid reference: 650250. The site covers approximately 50 hectares.
The appraisal process has involved a desk study and a field survey review of the site, study area and its principal landscape features, and a visual appraisal.
The appraisal identifies particular areas of sensitivity, which would need to be addressed by means of appropriate siting and landscape framework planting / earthworks to inform any future design decisions.
The field and photographic survey was carried out in cold and dry weather conditions on the 11th and 17th of December 2013, however cloud and fog meant visibility was poor at times. Further photographs were taken on 22nd and 23rd February 2014.
The study area has been taken to be at a radius of approximately 4km from the site as this includes the visible distant features of Billinge Hill to the north, and Jubilee Tower/Darwen Hill to the south-east.
The site under consideration for potential future development has the following characteristics:
. The Primary Zone of Visual Influence is constrained in the main by topography and the built up residential areas of Blackburn to the sites north and east. Mature vegetation within and surrounding the site, including Cockridge and Green Hills Woods, and to the boundary with Broken Stone Road to the south, also reduces available views;
. The existence of areas of strong enclosing vegetative structure within the site that has the potential to integrate developments with the local landscape;
. The site abuts the urban edge and its potential use for residential development would be compatible with adjacent housing to the north and also rising up the flanks of Bunker’s Hill ridge on the south side of Blackburn;
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. The presence of distant elevated ridgelines and features surrounding the site results in a Secondary Zone of Visual Influence that is mainly at a far distance from the site, and viewed against the backdrop of built up Blackburn; and
. No local or statutory landscape designations applied to the site.
1.1 Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to provide further landscape guidance on the development of the site and a clear landscape rationale for the allocation of the site by Blackburn with Darwen Council. It outlines an indicative landscape strategy and mitigation for the site, to inform possible development.
Although beyond the scope of this study, it is necessary to understand the importance of ensuring that flood risk is minimised and to ensure that no unacceptable loss results to the Flood Risk Zones, with consideration being given to the drainage network in combination with wildlife habitat.
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2 PLANNING POLICY
2.1 Landscape Context
The site is bordered to the north, north-west and north-east by existing residential development that forms part of Feniscowles, which constitutes the western extent of the built up area of Blackburn. The southern boundary of the site follows Broken Stone Road, whilst Gib Lane forms the eastern extremity of the site.
Cockridge Wood borders Gib Lane and creates a peninsula of woodland that extends into the site. It forms an attractive feature in the landscape and is an important visual element of the environment in which the site is located.
The site is rural in character, with rolling topography comprising varied levels. The land is a mix of open grazing and rough grassland. Field boundaries comprise gritstone walls, mature and semi-mature trees and hedges. There are a number of wooded areas and tree belts across the site.
The villages of Tockholes and Abbey Village are located to the south of the site beyond the M65 (Junctions 4 and 5). To the south of the site the land rises to the West Pennine Moors, a recreational landscape accessible to the local population, characterised by open moorland, beyond which lies Bolton and Bury.
The Leeds-Liverpool Canal extends to the north of the site, the canal and its towpath is an important strategic tourism and recreational asset. Further north is Witton Country Park, a strategic open space asset which provides a range of recreational facilities for the borough.
There are a number of rights of way which extend through and beyond the site linking into key destinations and areas, including The Witton Weavers Way, a strategic recreational route, which extends north to south through the site.
2.2 Landscape Character
In accordance with the Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) set out by Natural England (formerly The Countryside Agency) (Volume 2: North West) the site lies within ‘National Character Area’ (NCA), No. 35 ‘Lancashire Valleys’, which is discussed further in Chapter 3 below, and illustrated in Figure 2: National Character Areas.
The site is also included under ‘A Landscape Strategy for Lancashire’ (2000), published by Lancashire County Council, which summarises the landscape character within the administrative county of Lancashire into 21 Landscape
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Character Types (LCTs) (excluding urban areas). The site (and the wider study area) falls within the wider Lancashire LCT 6 “Industrial Foothills and Valleys”. This, and the LCAs that exist within the study area, is discussed further in Chapter 3 below, and illustrated in Figure 3: Local Landscape Character.
2.3 Landscape and Visual Designations
The site is located on the south-western outskirts of Blackburn and is not subject to any formal landscape designations, as shown in Figure 5: Landscape Designations.
The site and surrounding study area does not lie within a national landscape designation such as a National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Broken Stone Road forms the northern boundary of the West Pennine Moors.
The study area contains four Registered Parks and Gardens:
Corporation Park (Grade II*), lies 4km north-east of the site; Woodfold Park (Grade II), lies 3km north-west of the site; Sunnyhurst Woods (Grade II), lies 3km south-east of the site; and Hoghton Tower (Grade II), lies 4km to the west of the site.
There are no Sites of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) with direct influence of the study area. The nearest SSSI, which is situated 5.5km NW of the site, is named as the “Darwen River Section”
There are two Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) within the study area: Part of Witton Old Hall Medieval Lordly Residence, which lies 2.07 km north from the site; and Pleasington Alum Works, which lies 3.7km north west from the site.
There are four Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) that lie within the study area:
Withnell Nature Reserve (3km south-west of site); Sunnyhurst Woods (3km south-east of site); River Darwen Parkway (2km east of site); and Pleasington Old Hall Woods (2km north-west of site).
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Although not directly within the site boundary the study area contains a vast stretch of green belt which bounds the site extending approximately 10km out towards the west.
The Blackburn with Darwen Borough contains approximately 350 listed buildings, none of which are on the site but a number are within the study area, and has 14 conservation areas, again none of which are on the site but a number exist within the study area.
2.4 Summary of Relevant Landscape and Visual Policy
Crucial to understanding the planning context of a site and its surroundings in landscape and visual terms, is a thorough review of relevant planning policy. Most importantly, information on whether or not any landscape planning designations cover the site and / or the surrounding areas needs to be ascertained. If such designations exist, an appraisal can then be undertaken to determine whether or not the proposed development would have an effect on such designated landscapes. More general planning policies also exist, which apply to the landscape at large, and these are to ensure that good design minimises landscape and visual intrusion.
2.5 National Planning Policy Framework
National Planning Policy Framework was published on 27 March 2012. It is a key part of current planning reforms to make the planning system less complex and more accessible, to protect the environment and to promote sustainable growth.
The Core Planning Principles state that decisions should be made in recognition of the “intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside and supporting thriving rural communities within it” while development should “contribute to conserving and enhancing the natural environment” (paragraph 17). Local authorities should seek through developments to deliver “a wide choice of high quality homes”, that “promote sustainable development in rural areas” (paragraph 55). High quality and inclusive design should be sought for all development including public and private spaces (paragraph 55). With regard to good design, local authorities in determining planning applications should seek: – the potential of development sites to provide an appropriate mix of uses, to include the incorporation of green and other public space; – for developments to “respond to local character and history, and reflect the identity of local surroundings and materials, while not preventing or discouraging appropriate innovation”; and
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– developments that are “visually attractive as a result of good architecture and appropriate landscaping” (paragraph 58). In conserving and enhancing the natural environment, the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: “protecting and enhancing valued landscapes…” (paragraph 109); in addition to new developments “making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness” (paragraph 131).
2.6 Blackburn With Darwen Core Strategy (January 2011)
“The Core Strategy is the Borough’s overarching planning document setting out priorities for the future planning and development of the Borough for the next 15 years such as how much and what types of development there should be, where it should be focused, when it is likely to take place, and how it will be delivered. Core Strategy policies are used by the Council as the Local Planning Authority in making decisions on planning applications”
4.1_Vision “The unique landscape setting will have been preserved and its upland areas managed in ways which promote biodiversity and protect important habitats. This will have been complemented by projects enhancing environmental quality within the built-up areas.” Chapter 10. Spatial intervention_Protecting and enhancing the environment, “The Core Strategy aims to secure a “step change” in the approach to protection, enhancement and management of environmental assets. In particular it promotes a more “joined up” approach, viewing the range of assets – habitats, landscapes and so on – as a collective whole, rather than as isolated sites or features” Policy CS14_ Green Belt “The general extent of the Borough’s Green Belt will be maintained. Consideration will be given to identifying an additional area of Green Belt between the urban area of western Blackburn and the M65 around Gib Lane”. Policy CS15_ Protection and enhancement of ecological assets “The Borough’s ecological assets will be protected, enhanced and managed with the aim of establishing and preserving functional networks which facilitate the movement of species and populations”. Policy CS18_The Borough’s Landscapes “The key features of landscapes throughout the Borough will be protected. Development likely to affect landscapes or their key features will only be permitted where there is no unacceptable adverse impact on them. The level
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of protection afforded will depend on the quality, importance and uniqueness of the landscape in question”. Land at Broken Stone Road is designated as Countryside Area within the current Local Plan, and to the south is classified as West Pennine Moors (Broken Stone Road currently forming the boundary).
2.7 Summary and Conclusion
The site is therefore adjacent to, but does not contain any protective designations. The site is within a broad location for housing growth in the Blackburn with Darwen Core Strategy (adopted in 2011). As a result the sensitive development of the site would appear to be in accordance with the existing planning policies.
It is clear from the Regional Planning Guidance (revoked) and Blackburn with Darwen Core Strategy that any proposed development must be of good design, both in terms of the built form and landscaping.
The more detailed landscape character and visual appraisal described in the following sections is intended to appraise in more detail the capacity of the site to accommodate development.
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3 APPRAISAL METHODOLOGY
3.1 General Approach
The methodology used for this baseline landscape and visual appraisal is based upon the guidance contained within The Landscape Institute (LI) and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ Third Edition (2013). The methodology has been refined using professional judgement to address the specific issues raised by a development of this scale and nature. Further guidance has also been drawn from the Natural England (formerly The Countryside Agency) (2002) ‘Landscape Character Assessment - Guidance for England and Scotland’ and ‘‘A Landscape Strategy for Lancashire’ (2000), published by Lancashire County Council.
The assessment has then been used to inform the acceptable extent and form of new development and proposed landscape treatment, to assist in developing masterplans for the site, which would relate appropriately to their surrounding landscape and townscape context.
3.2 Terminology
The following terminology has been used throughout the appraisal:
. Landscape: those physical components that together form the appearance of land, including its shapes, colours and textures. Landscape also reflects the way in which these various components combine to create distinctive landscape character particular to specific localities;
. Landscape Character Type (LCT): distinctive types of landscape which are relatively homogenous in character and may occur in more than one area;
. Landscape Character Area (LCA): an area of homogenous landscape character specific to a local area. Typical landscape components defining character include landform, land cover, vegetation, settlement pattern, remoteness and degree of tranquillity;
. Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI): the area within which the proposed development would have a visual influence. Many factors influence the ZVI including landform, intervening vegetation and buildings which can obscure views. The Primary ZVI (PZVI) is defined as the area of land in the immediate horizon from which there is a potential view of any part of the site. The Secondary ZVI (SZVI) indicates areas which form the secondary horizon
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from the site, where receptors outside of the site gain glimpses of the site from across the PZVI, usually from greater distance. It is worth noting that not all areas within the PZVI and SZVI will have a view of the site, either in its entirety or glimpses of parts of the site, as localised topography, built form and vegetation within the ZVI will have an influence;
. Visual Receptors: people or groups of people such as residents, pedestrians and motorists who would experience an effect on views resulting from the proposed development; and
. Key Viewpoints: locations within the ZVI from which people would be able to see the proposed development, including residences, workplaces, passing vehicles, roads, footpaths and publicly accessible open spaces.
The methodology makes a clear distinction between the effects of impacts of the proposed development site upon landscape and views, as follows:
. Landscape impacts relate to the impacts of the proposed development upon the characteristics or components of the landscape, for example, topography, vegetation and buildings, which together form the local character; and
. Visual impacts relate to the changes arising from the proposed development to views from key viewpoints identified within the ZVI.
3.3 Assumptions and Limitations
The appraisal makes the following assumptions:
. It is assumed that the existing vegetation remains intact as at the time of desktop and field study;
. It is assumed that the existing urban conurbations are neither further developed to any great extent, nor demolished to any great extent from the time of desktop and field study; and
. No potential future baseline has been taken into consideration for the purposes of this appraisal.
The appraisal is subject to the following limitations:
. The field study was carried out during winter months, with no deciduous leaf cover on trees and vegetation; and
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. A key viewpoint has been identified from the M65 junction, due to safety reasons it was not possible to take a photograph and instead a professional judgement has been made as to ‘normal’ visibility from this location.
3.4 Baseline Conditions
The extent of the study area for this appraisal is that shown in Figure 1: Site Location. The study area has been taken to be an approximate 4km radius from the centre of the site. This size has been selected to include the more distant features of Billinge Hill to the north, and Jubilee Tower/Darwen Hill to the south- east. The landscape and visual conditions have been assessed through both desk study and field work during December 2013 in terms of:
. Site location;
. Landscape context;
. Topography;
. Vegetation;
. Roads and access;
. Settlement and land-use;
. Recreation;
. Lighting;
. Landscape character; and
. Views.
The landscape planning context in Section 2 has been assessed, taking into account relevant national, regional and local planning policies.
A review of relevant existing landscape character assessments has been carried out in order to inform the baseline and to assist in the appraisal of local LCAs appropriate to the scale of the study.
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3.5 Landscape Appraisal Methodology
Landscape impacts relate to changes arising from the proposed development upon landscape elements and features (the components) and general impact upon landscape character.
Predictions are based primarily on the change to baseline conditions prevalent throughout 2013. This prediction follows a systematic and structured appraisal process.
The appraisal of landscape impacts is structured in line with the LCAs identified. Within the study area there might be LCAs within which development will occur or where there is a degree of intervisibility between the development site and the surrounding landscape, or where no change will be perceptible.
3.6 Visual Appraisal Methodology
A visual appraisal of the area was undertaken using plan base review and field surveys to establish existing environmental conditions. The appraisal was undertaken on the basis of a baseline review and so does not constitute an exhaustive Landscape and Visual Assessment. The appraisal identifies Primary and Secondary ZVI and potential sensitive visual receptors and viewpoints in the area and a photographic survey. It also proposes recommendations to inform any future landscape framework plan.
A number of viewpoint locations are shown on Figure 6: Viewpoint Locations and Zone of Visual Influence, and cross-referenced to annotated photographs in Figures 7.1-7.13: Viewpoint Photographs.
Visual impacts result from change to the appearance of the landscape due to development proposals either intruding into or obstructing existing views, or by their overall impact on visual amenity.
1. Zone of Visual Influence
The first stage of the visual impact appraisal process was to define the ZVI of the proposed development site. The ZVI is then used to determine visual receptors that would be likely to be affected by the proposed development site.
The ZVI was determined through various means, including analysis of topographic maps, aerial photographs and field survey to determine the locations from which the proposed development site may be visible.
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Field surveys were carried out to confirm the ZVI. The ZVI taken from the field survey was determined from various points on ground level ranging between approximately 140m to 200m AOD from within the site, as well as off-site locations from which the site was visible. The primary and secondary ZVI can be seen in Figure 6: Viewpoint Locations and Zone of Visual Influence.
2. Photography
The photographs were taken on 11th/17th December 2013 and 22nd/23rd February 2014. They are intended to show a clear line of sight towards the site, as well as illustrating the local context. All photographs were taken in accordance with the ‘Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment’, Advice Note 01/11, March 2011 by the Landscape Institute.
The camera used was a high resolution digital Nikon D40. The camera was held at heights of between 170cm and 173cm above the ground. These heights were chosen at the designated viewpoints to represent eye-level and gain the best possible full view, free of immediate obstructions.
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4 LANDSCAPE BASELINE
4.1 Topography and Drainage
The site is located within a landscape of industrialised foothills and valleys. The site is rural in character with rolling topography comprising varied levels. It lies on the south-western fringes of the town of Blackburn, on the flanks of a low ridge, Bunker’s Hill, that forms the southern side of the river Darwen valley. A further higher ridge rises to the south of Bunker’s Hill, reaching 372m AOD on Darwen Hill. Urban and industrial development within Blackburn is centred on the flat floor of the river Darwen valley with predominantly residential development on rising land to the north and south that slopes up the valley sides.
The site with undulating sloping landform that rises from 140m AOD at the north- western boundary with Livesey Road generally towards the south-east forming a ridgeline before land drops away slightly down to Broken Stone Road. It reaches the highest point of 200m AOD at the south-eastern corner of the site (junction of Gib Lane and Broken Stone Road).
The site’s topography provides opportunities for broad panoramic views across the valley northward across Blackburn to wooded hills beyond (Billinge Hill 246m AOD) and south to the more elevated areas of the West Pennine Moors (<300m AOD), particularly from more elevated (southern) parts of the site.
There are no water courses on site with the nearest river, the aforementioned River Darwen, running to the north of the site, 1km from the eastern corner of the site at its closest. The Leeds-Liverpool Canal extends to the north of the site, between the site and the River Darwen.
4.2 Vegetation and Land Use
The site contains a mixed woodland, Cockridge Wood, parts of which are characterised by over-mature birch trees with an extensive understorey of Rhododendron sps. There is also a stand of mature trees at Horden Farm, a belt of trees established along Broken Stone Road, and various trees within the site, including a grown-on hedgerow, a single mature specimen oak tree, and various trees established adjacent to the urban edge boundaries.
The land was originally enclosed into broadly rectangular fields by a combination of stone walls and hedges, many of which are now either absent, in disrepair or have been replaced by agricultural fencing. It is undeveloped, apart from a cluster of properties at Horden Farm (outside of the site) that sits on a ridgeline and includes original farmhouse and cottages.
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The site lies immediately adjacent to housing on the south-west fringes of Blackburn where the urban edge is relatively abrupt. It is a triangle of sloping land, principally agricultural grazing land, except for the above mentioned woodland. The urban edge is often abrupt and generally defined by former patterns of field enclosure. Green ‘corridors’ of open space, woodland and trees extend at intervals through south Blackburn’s residential areas, linking the town with its wider countryside setting.
The river valley to the north east contains significant vegetation cover, and there are substantial woodland areas on higher ground extending to the north, encompassing Witton Country Park and Billinge Wood. There is a significant tree belt in the immediate vicinity of the site on a ridgeline, 0.25km to the south beyond Broken Stone Road. Vegetation belts run along watercourses further south from the site, extending to Abbey Village and beyond forming woodland associated with Roddlesworth Reservoirs at the base of the moors. Sunnyhurst Woods is located to the south-eastern extent of the study area, beyond Winter Hill.
4.3 Settlement
The site lies adjacent to the town of Blackburn, the centre of which is located approximately 2km to the north-east. The site is bordered to the north, north-west and north-east by existing residential development that forms part of Feniscowles, which constitutes the western extent of the built up area of Blackburn.
Within the study area a number of key settlements are located including:
Darwen approximately 4km to the south east
Abbey Village and Withnell approximately 3 and 4km, respectively to the south-west.
In addition to these larger towns and villages, further settlement around the site is characterised by small dispersed hamlets, small farms and farmsteads linked by narrow lanes. The farmstead of Yew Tree Farm is typical of these located approximately 0.25km to the south of the site.
The study area retains some local vernacular styles and characteristics such as old farm buildings of gritstone. Within the villages and towns more recent housing developments have been constructed of contrasting and varying styles which have generally diluted the local vernacular style to a large degree.
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4.4 Landscape Character
1. National Countryside Character Assessment
In accordance with the LCAs set out by Natural England (formerly The Countryside Agency) (Volume 2: North West) the site lies within NCA No. 35 ‘Lancashire Valleys’. The key characteristics are set out in Table 1 below.
Table 1: NCA 35 Key Characteristics – Lancashire Valleys
A visually contained landscape with a strong urban character with areas of contemporary industrial development replacing the traditional textile industries
The character area is adjacent to the north west by the “Bowland Fells Fringe” and to the south by the “Southern Pennines”
Main urban settlement to identify with the area include: Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley, Nelson and Colne.
Visually the urban forms are dominated by mills and Victorian-stone terraced housing, evidence of a strong industrial heritage is present.
Agriculture which was once the areas major industry is now fragmented by the built environment, housing, industry and scattered developments to leave intensively grazed livestock pockets of land.
There are areas of acid grassland and neutral grassland, flushes and mires with upland heath and rough pasture towards higher ground to the south. Wet grasslands and wet woodlands dominated by alder are common on the floodplains and on the river banks of the Ribble and Calder.
Small ancient, broadleaf woodlands occur containing oak, alder and sycamore which extend in narrow formations along the steep sided cloughs of the valley sides.
The northern boundary formed by Pendle Hill and to the south by the Southern Pennines create a backdrop and a sense of enclosure for the urban settlement within the valley bottom. They also provide vantage points for exclusive views across the lower valleys.
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Field boundaries are regular to the west and increasingly irregular to the east formed by hedges and minimal hedgerow trees and stone walls.
Main access routes occur along the valley floor and include the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, the Preston-Colne railway and M65 motorway.
The location of the site is to the southern fringes of this character area meaning although it exhibits some of the key characterises explained it is not always an appropriate description.
The nationalcharacter area Southern Pennines (NCA 36), lies adjacent to the south of the site and within the study area. Part of this character area is the West Pennine Moors which extends to the immediate southern boundary of the site (Broken Stone Road). This NCA is described as a landscape of large-scale sweeping moorlands, pastures enclosed by drystone walls, and gritstone settlements contained within narrow valleys. Its proximity means a cross over with the study area does exist and its main characteristics are described in Table 2 below.
Table 2: NCA 36 Key Characteristics – Southern Pennines
Key features include irregular field patterns, degraded stone walls, narrow valleys, wooded cloughs and distant wind turbines.
Intrusive features, including windfarm developments, numerous transmission masts, overhead power lines and sandstone, gritstone and clay quarries, mainly on the fringe of the area.
Open moorlands contain valuable wildlife habitats including semi-natural boggy mires, acid flashes and wooded cloughs.
The valley bottoms are densely populated with stone buildings extending along the valley sides with the moorland tops forming a rural backdrop.
Extensive views in all directions are possible from a number of elevated vantages
The area forms a valuable water catchment with reservoirs a common feature to defining the locations character.
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2. County Countryside Character Assessment
‘A Landscape Strategy for Lancashire’ (2000), published by Lancashire County Council, summarises the landscape character within the administrative county of Lancashire into 21 Landscape Character Types (LCTs) (excluding urban areas).
The site (and the wider study area) falls within the wider Lancashire Landscape Character Type 6 “Industrial Foothills and Valleys”. The main characteristics of this LCT are described in Table 3.
Table 3. Landscape Character Type 6: ‘Industrial Foothills and Valleys – Key Characteristics
The industrial foothills and valleys are a complex transitional landscape of relatively small scale
with intensive settlement. The area has a gentle landform and varied vegetation cover than that of the nearby higher ground. Trees thrive around farmsteads, along stone wall boundaries and in small-medium size woodlands. Fields are enclosed by Gritstone walls or hedgerows. There is a dense network of narrow winding lanes in the rural areas and major road link settlements along the valley floor. Settlement is heavily influenced by a history of industrial development in the
villages themselves and neighbouring urban areas. Thus the landscape character shows a mixture of rural agriculture and industrial land uses. Gritstone is the characteristic material of farm houses, laithe houses, mills and cottages. The frequent mill terraces, industrial buildings and more modern housing developments reflect the proximity to large industrial and commercial centres and lowland claylands.
The Landscape character areas that exist within the study area include 6b: ‘West Pennine foothills’ . Other immediate character areas within influence include area 5d: ‘Samlesbury-Withnell Fold” and 4J “West Pennine fringes”.
The LCAs that exist within the study area include 6b: ‘West Pennine foothills’. Other immediate character areas within influence include area 5d: ‘Samlesbury- Withnell Fold” and 4J “West Pennine fringes”.
A summary of these LCAs is provided in Table 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 as described by ‘A Landscape Strategy for Lancashire’ (2000), published by Lancashire County Council.
Table 3.1 Landscape Character Area 6b: ‘West Pennine Foothills’ – Key Characteristics
A rural area which forms the rolling foothills to the West Pennine Moors. It is more rural in character than the Calder valley yet has the same undulating landform, underlying geology and industrial influences. It is dominated by sheep grazed pastures and includes a number of designated landscapes with associated country houses. The villages reflect their industrial basis with rows of terraced and sandstone quarries present. Urban influences include allotments, horse paddocks, street lighting and kerbs, electricity pylons, communication masts, golf courses, suburban housing and road signs. Evidence of past quarrying can be seen in the numerous remnant spoil heaps which are common landscape features. The many public footpaths are an
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important recreational resource from which walkers may experience distant views of the urban conurbations stretching out from below
Table 3.2 Landscape Character Area 5d: ‘Samlesbury-Withnell Fold’ – Key Characteristics
An area between the Ribble valley to the north and the industrial foothills to the south. It is underlain by millstone grit and sandstone, but the landscape is influenced by the mantle of glacial till which covers the surface, producing a gently undulating landscape of large green pastures divided by low cut hedgerows and hedgerow trees. Dramatic steep sided wooded valleys wind their way through the landscape carrying the River Darwen and its tributaries. Designed landscapes and parkland associated with Samlesbury Hall, Woodfold hall, Pleasington Old Hall and Hoghton tower add to the overall woodland cover in this lowland landscape and Witton Country Park provides a countryside resource on the edge of Blackburn.
Table 3.3 Landscape Character Area 4J: ‘West Pennine Fringes’ – Key Characteristics
A transitional landscape between the unenclosed land of the West Pennines Moors and the enclosed landscape of the industrial foothills below on the west fringes of the West Pennine Moors. The underlying millstone grit is close to the surface on the moorland fringe and the landscape is characterised by the marginal pastures with scattered farmsteads. As is typical of the West Pennine Moor fringes, the character is influenced by industrial activity with reservoirs, mires and quarries scattered across the upper hillsides. A high density of public footpaths provides good public access and wooded gardens on the hillside above Rivington reservoir provide an unusual feature in the moorland fringe.
3. Study Area Character
The landscape character of the study area comprises the River Darwen valley, with the urban and industrial development of Blackburn centred on this valley with residential development on rising land to the north and south. The built up area of Blackburn town centre and its arterial transport infrastructure is concentrated to the east of the study area with the residential urban fringe extending along the river valley to the west. This is a transitional landscape and the urban edge is often abrupt and generally defined by former patterns of field enclosure. Mixed farming and woodland areas make up the remaining study area, with a gently undulating landform, with localised ridgelines, giving a generally open, rural, character. The M65 runs east-west centrally across the study area to the south of the site, yet the majority of this motorway within the study area is in cutting and therefore only visible in glimpses. Traffic noise from the motorway is noticeable but not prominent.
In terms of settlement pattern the urban core and residential urban fringe of Blackburn to the east of the study area contrasts with the number of smaller
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villages, hamlets and individual properties to the west and south. There is a dense network of narrow winding lanes in the rural areas and major roads link settlements along the valley floor. These break up the landscape along with the vegetation belts associated with these roads and watercourses. Woodland is interspersed within the study area landscape, with prominent woodland blocks.
A summary of the study area’s LCAs is shown in Figure 4: Study Area Landscape Character Areas and this has been interpreted and appraised to form the study area LCAs for the purposes of this report. These are summarised below:
Farmland: this comprises mainly agricultural grazing land and individual farm properties, including a cluster of properties at Horden Farm which sits on a ridgeline extending north into the site (but is not included within the site boundary). The landscape includes mature woodland blocks and stands of mature trees associated with farmsteads. The character area encompasses the site which is a mix of open grazing and rough grassland.
Heavy Industry: large industrial buildings associated with the Leeds- Liverpool Canal, including a chimney (with plumes) which is prominent in the views and a distinctive feature of the landscape.
Moorland foothills: A transitional landscape between the unenclosed land of the West Pennines Moors to the south and the enclosed landscape of the industrial foothills on the western fringes of Blackburn. The underlying millstone grit is close to the surface on the moorland fringe and the landscape is characterised by the marginal pastures with scattered farmsteads. The character is influenced by industrial activity with reservoirs, mires and reclaimed quarries scattered across the upper hillsides. A high density of public footpaths provides good public access and wooded gardens on the hillside above Roddlesworth reservoir, and at Sunnyhurst Woods, provide unusual features in the moorland fringe.
Town Centre: the urban core of Blackburn is densely built up (including high-rise element) with an arterial road network.
Transport Corridor: This comprises the M65 which traverses the study area (east-west) and provides a key landscape element.
Urban Fringe: This character area is predominantly residential development that forms part of Feniscowles, which constitutes the western extent of the built up area of Blackburn, extending southwards into the northern fringes of the neighbouring smaller town of Darwen, along the A666.
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Wooded lowlands: a gently undulating landscape of large green pastures divided by low cut hedgerows and hedgerow trees. A wooded valley landscape carrying the River Darwen and its tributaries. Designed landscapes and parkland associated with Woodfold Hall, Pleasington Old Hall and Hoghton Tower add to the overall woodland cover in this lowland landscape and Witton Country Park provides a countryside resource on the edge of Blackburn.
4. Character of the Site and Landscape Sensitivity
The character of the site contains elements of the Farmland LCA and is a mix of open grazing and rough grassland. Immediately to the north of the site is the Urban Fringe LCA, and the existing urban edge is generally abrupt and undistinguished, with a mixture of boundary treatments.
Overlooked by residential properties from the south-eastern fringe of Blackburn, the site in the majority has been assessed as having medium levels of tranquillity. Nearer the road, noise from vehicles can detract from this general feeling although the impacts generated from the road are mitigated through the screening and noise mitigation offered by the existing woodlands and tree belts which surround some of the site.
The southern and upper part of the site still retains a relatively high degree of tranquillity and has far reaching views of a rural landscape to the south.
This more open character of the upper part of the site means tranquillity is occasionally broken by farm vehicles and occasional road noise but is not unduly affected.
Based on appraisal criteria, the landscape is not designated of local importance and contains relatively common components and characteristics. Due to these factors the site is therefore considered to be a landscape of medium value and thus is reasonably tolerant of change.
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5 VISUAL APPRAISAL
5.1 Primary Zone of Visual Influence
The PZVI describes the area of land from which there is a potential view of any part of the development. It has been established by desktop studies and site analysis and is shown on Figure 6. It should be noted, however, that not all the areas within the PZVI will in reality be able to see the site as the intervening effects of landform, vegetation and buildings have screening effects.
The PZVI for the site is contained to within 1.0 km. The major form of containment to the PZVI is the existing mature vegetation and residential development around the site boundaries and its immediate visual envelope combined with the topography of the sites immediate environs (refer to Figure 6).
The PZVI to the north is contained by the existing residential area of Feniscowles and by the topography which falls away to the River Darwen valley to the north.
The PZVI to the west is again contained by residential development and the industrial buildings associated with the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, along with landform.
The PZVI to the east is contained by the local ridgeline of Bunker’s Hill.
The PZVI to the south extends further from the site to incorporate residents within farm properties within 0.5km of broken Stone Road, but again the distance is contained by landform.
5.2 Secondary Zones of Visual Influence
While the PZVI of the site is tightly constrained by built up areas and landform, there are, however, distant views possible from the more elevated areas to the south of the study area.
The SZVI generally extends to higher ground in the south, including the villages of Abbey Village, Withnell and Tockholes and to higher features in the landscape to the south, north and west, including Jubilee Tower, Billinge Hill and Hoghton Tower.
5.3 Potential Sensitive Visual Receptors
Refer to Figure 6: Viewpoint Locations and Zone of Visual Influence, and Figures 7.1-7.11: Viewpoint Photographs, for sensitive residential and recreational receptors contained within the ZVI.
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The following sensitive residential receptors exist on the immediate boundaries of the site:
A number of residential properties along the northern boundary of the site, on Livesey Branch Road (Viewpoint 3), experience views of the site from rear, upper (and some lower) storey widows. They would have open views across the site from the north, looking up slope including woodland areas and Horden Farm plantation, up to stone walls and trees on the ridgeline forming the skyline;
The residential properties on Gib Lane (Viewpoint 2), to the east of the site, experience views of the north-east corner of the site from rear and front upper, and some lower, storey windows. Cockridge Wood is prominent in the view, preventing further views across the whole site;
Residents of Horden View (Viewpoint 12), adjacent to the western corner of the site, experience views from rear windows of this corner of the site with the topography rising north and eastwards up to the ridgeline and include views of Horden Farm and plantation. In the left of view are the rear of properties on Livesey Branch Road and Blackburn’s urban fringe, and wooded hills beyond to the north; and
The residential property of Horden Farm (Viewpoint 1), which extends in to the site off Broken Stone Road, has extensive views of the site in all directions; however these are screened to the north and west by mature trees.
Still within the PZVI but to the south of Broken Stone Road, residents of a number of individual properties and farms experience views of the site (Viewpoints 4, 5, 7, 10 and 11) however localised screening features such as spoil heaps , tree belts (including mature trees and hedgerows to Broken Stone Road), and local topography do minimise views. Where views of the site do exist they are limited to the southern edge of the site by the ridgeline approximately 100m beyond this site boundary.
Further to the south, within the SZVI, there are further sensitive residential receptors that experience more restricted views of elements of the site;
The view from the car park of The Rock Inn Public House (PH) (Viewpoint 8) is seen as representative of residential properties on higher ground in the village of Tockholes. They overlook the wooded stream valley, and the M65 which is noticeable both visually and due to road noise, with views of
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the site very much set against the backdrop of Blackburn’s urban fringe, with long distance views of wooded hills beyond to the north;
There are views north-east from the rear of residential properties on the A675 through Abbey Village (Viewpoint 9), across the undulating landscape to the site. Horden Farm and woodland is a key feature of the middle ground horizon with Blackburn (and Billinge Hill) expanding beyond to the north; and
There are views of the site from a few residential properties on the north eastern fringes of Withnell Village (Viewpoints 13 and 14), yet these are often glimpsed due to vegetation in the foreground. The views that are open are of a wide panorama with the site in the centre, including Horden Farm and associated woodland, and Blackburn beyond. The views contain detracting features such as pylons and the M65.
Users of public rights of way (PRoW) are sensitive recreational receptors and these exist within the site, and in its immediate vicinity. The following are within the PZVI:
The Witton Weavers Way (Viewpoint 18) offers extensive, panoramic, long- distance views over the site in all directions. To the east the topography of the site rises up with views of Cockridge Wood and Bunkers Hill Wood on the horizon. To the west views are across the site to the residential area of Feniscowles, with higher wooded ground beyond. However, the mature trees at Horden Farm restrict these views in some places on the footpath’s route. Further views are available from along Witton Weavers Way as it extends southwards; and
To the immediate eastern boundary of the site there are views from PRoW on Bunkers Hill (Viewpoint 21) and at the junction of Gib Lane and Broken Stone Road (Viewpoint 20). The view from this junction is clear towards the north-west down into the valley with the site in the foreground. The views from Bunkers Hill are more restricted due to landform and vegetation.
The SZVI includes further recreational receptors on higher ground in the landscape to the south, north and west, including Jubilee Tower (Viewpoint 15), Pleasington Cemetery (Viewpoint 25), Billinge Hill (Viewpoint 17) and Hoghton Tower (Viewpoint 19). These are, however, long-distance views with the site forming only part of the wider view, from the south set against the backdrop of Blackburn or from the north beyond the developed valley. These views, particularly from Billinge Hill, are also greatly restricted by mature vegetation in the foreground. Billinge Hill forms part of Witton Country Park, a strategic open space
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asset; however there are no views experienced from the remainder of the Country Park which is on lower ground.
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6 LANDSCAPE STRATEGY
6.1 Design Principles
It would be expected that any development on the site would take account of any local and national planning policies. It would also be expected to be consistent with a landscape design which includes elements that are characteristic of the area. In addition, there should be consideration given to integrate any scheme into the wider landscape and reducing its visual impact, especially in relation to the identified sensitive visual receptors.
The public realm and masterplanning should, where possible, reflect the urban design patterns of Blackburn in order to integrate the design into the built fabric and for the existing landscape character to be reinforced.
The building materials in this area of Blackburn are not traditional and are highly varied. Development on this site could provide an opportunity to improve the traditional vernacular in the local style.
The site is gently rising to the south-east, as a consequence of intervisiblity with sensitive local receptors to the south we would recommend that the existing buffer of vegetation is retained and enhanced along Broken Stone Road. This would enable low density development to be incorporated below the ridge line which runs adjacent with Broken Stone Road. This would emulate the existing character along this boundary of low density development within a well vegetated setting. We advise that development is precluded from the upper areas of the southern ridge line but would advocate the use of lower level development on the more elevated developable areas of the site to prevent the skyline being affected.
The entire site is not clearly visible in its entirety from any of the dwellings within the study area, apart from those immediately bordering the site. This is due to the mature existing vegetation, in particular Cockridge and Green Hills Woods and the site’s topography. If this characteristic is retained then development will appear smaller in scale and have less impact. This would additionally create a more intimate higher quality setting for users of the development.
Witton Weavers Way is an important recreational resource and a key element of the site around which the design should be developed. It offers long ranging views and connectivity with the West Pennine Moors to the south. New public open space, including a village green, should correspond with this strategic footpath and it should fundamentally affect the layout and alignment of streets and development blocks.
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The site has been subject to a tree survey (URS, November 2013), and the findings would be fed into the landscape strategy and masterplanning process. The existing areas of woodland offer opportunities to create a variety of outdoor experiences for recreation, along with enhancing biodiversity and wildlife corridors within the site with numerous opportunities for regeneration. Historic maps should be used to reflect previous location of woodland and woodland pasture within the landscape strategy:
Cockridge Wood falls into two sections. The eastern section is generally a good quality space with open understorey/deadwood habitats and ancient woodland characteristics. Access path(s) should be maintained or formalised in order that access is slightly discouraged from the adjacent spaces – to allow safe dead wood retention in public space etc. Some light thinning/coppice management would be incorporated. The western section is of poor quality having been invaded by Rhododendron with limited species range/quality. The Rhododendron should be removed and allow natural regeneration of woodland trees/woody veg from the adjacent seed sources (since this area was historically a wood), with some modest initial planting and creation of paths.
Green Hills Wood is generally a good quality space with mature trees and opportunities for creation of new public space with some modest maintenance and new tree planting.
6.2 Mitigation
Although vegetation to the southern and eastern boundaries does constrain the ZVI to a degree, efforts should be made to retain and enhance these where possible. Should their removal be required, replacement or alternative structural vegetation should be proposed to reinforce this boundary with the surrounding countryside.
The more sensitive receptors will be those in adjacent residential properties and users of the PRoW network. Perceived visual impacts from these locations will be the most important to mitigate. This can be achieved with additional planting and strategic masterplanning to ensure that any landscape and visual impacts can be addressed. This should be undertaken in consultation with local residents to ensure any concerns are dealt with appropriately.
Native planting including evergreen species should be used wherever possible to integrate with the surrounding landscape and enhance biodiversity. Existing wildlife corridors should also be taken into consideration and reinforced or replaced where possible to contribute not only to the landscape character but also
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the ecology of the site. The landscape strategy principles have been shown on Figure 8 the landscape strategy plan.
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7 SUMMARY
The results of the appraisal suggest that the area proposed for potential development would not result in a significant landscape or visual effect when viewed from the majority of the surroundings, as a consequence of:
A landscape character of medium sensitivity which is able to accommodate some degree of change;
A relatively contained location due to site and study area topography, and existing mature vegetation around and within the site;
The distant views gained from the surrounding countryside to the south, are seen within the context of the built setting of Blackburn either as a backdrop or an immediate adjacency;
The tightly restricted Primary Zone of Visual Influence, constrained by landform and vegetation;
The limited number of sensitive receptors within the Zone of Visual Influence and potential use of mitigation to reduce impacts;
The existence of a strong enclosing framework of hedgerows and trees that has the potential to integrate development with the local landscape;
The fact that no local or statutory landscape designations apply to the site;
The fact that there is a strong urban presence of Blackburn being dominant in the landscape when viewed from the more sensitive receptors.
Having analysed the various component parts that form the landscape and visual aspects of the site and reviewed relevant planning policy, it is concluded that the site could successfully accommodate development. Consideration would however need to be given to the extensive retention of the existing site boundaries, and opportunities for public open space creation and regeneration within existing woodlands, combined with a programme of mitigation to address any negative visual and landscape impacts.
Any development could also provide an opportunity to create more of a ‘focus’ for social gathering and community interaction within the south-eastern sector of Blackburn’s urban fringe. The strategic footpath, Witton Weavers Way, is a key element of the site around which development could be designed. The development also offers an ability to re-establish the use of local vernacular building styles and materials to redevelop the sense of place which so many past
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developments lack. Existing development has introduced a high number of ‘cul- de-sac’ and ‘close’ roads with little permeability for pedestrians as well as vehicles, further development could reverse this trend and increase permeability and create active communal spaces to benefit the local community.
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8 REFERENCES
Natural England (formerly The Countryside Agency) ‘Countryside Character Volume 2: North West’, 1999. Natural England (formerly The Countryside Agency) ‘Landscape Character Assessment - Guidance for England and Scotland’, 2002. Lancashire County Council ‘A Landscape Strategy for Lancashire’, 2000. Natural England ‘Magic’ website, May 2013 http://magic.defra.gov.uk/ Landscape Institute (LI) and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ Third Edition, 2013. Landscape Institute, ‘Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment’, Advice Note 01/11’, March 2011.
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9 FIGURES
Figure 1 Site Location Figure 2 National Character areas Figure 3 Local Landscape Character Figure 4 Study Area Landscape Character Areas Figure 5 Landscape Designations Figure 6 Viewpoint Locations and Zone of Visual Influence Figure 7.1-7.13 Viewpoint Photographs Figure 8 Landscape Strategy Plan
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K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 1 - SITE LOCATION PLAN REV A 0 SCALE 1:30,000 0.5 1 1.5 2.0 2.5km N 1:30,000 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue Updated to 'Final' status. NOTES KEY: URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (0)870 2386023 +44 (0)1752 676700 Plymouth, PL1 1LD 178 Armada Way Mayflower House copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown LB Drawn (APPROXIMATE 4km FROM CENTRE OF SITE) STUDY AREA BOUNDARY SITE BOUNDARY RULE 5 LAND LTD Revision Details SITE LOCATION BLACKBURN GIB LANE, AK Checked FINAL NOT TO SCALE Zone / Mileage Suitability N JA Approved By LB / JA Check LOCATION SITE 90.04A 19.02.2014 Rev 08.01.2014 Date Date Suffix K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 2 - NCAS REV A 0 SCALE 1:30,000 0.5 1 1.5 2.0 2.5km N 1:30,000 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue Updated to 'Final' status. NOTES NATIONAL CHARACTER AREAS (NCA) KEY: URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (0)870 2386023 +44 (0)1752 676700 Plymouth, PL1 1LD 178 Armada Way Mayflower House AS DEFINED BY NATURAL ENGLAND copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673. NATIONAL CHARACTER AREAS Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown LB Drawn NCA 36: LANCASHIRE VALLEYS NCA 35: SOUTHERN PENNINES (APPROXIMATE 4km FROM CENTRE OF SITE) STUDY AREA BOUNDARY SITE BOUNDARY RULE 5 LAND LTD Revision Details BLACKBURN GIB LANE, AK Checked FINAL Zone / Mileage Suitability JA Approved By LB / JA Check 90.04A 19.02.2014 Rev 08.01.2014 Date Date Suffix K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 3 - LOCAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER PLAN REV A Approximate Site Location 1:30,000 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue Updated to 'Final' status. NOTES URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (207) 798 5001 +44 (207) 798 5000 London, SW1P 1PL Victoria 6-8 Greencoat Place Lancashire - Landscape Character Assessment' by Figure extracted from 8 of 'A Landscape Strategy for CC Drawn LOCAL LANDSCAPE RULE 5 LAND LTD Revision Details County Council (December 2000) CHARACTER BLACKBURN GIB LANE, AK Checked FINAL Zone / Mileage Suitability JA Approved By LB / JA Check 90.04A 19.02.2014 Rev 08.01.2014 Date Date Suffix K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 4 - STUDY AREA LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS REV A 0 SCALE 1:30,000 0.5 1 1.5 2.0 2.5km N 1:30,000 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue Updated to 'Final' status. NOTES KEY: URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (0)870 2386023 +44 (0)1752 676700 Plymouth, PL1 1LD 178 Armada Way Mayflower House LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown LB Drawn FARMLAND URBAN FRINGE MOORLAND FOOTHILLS HEAVY INDUSTRY (APPROXIMATE 4km FROM CENTRE OF SITE) STUDY AREA BOUNDARY SITE BOUNDARY RULE 5 LAND LTD WOODED LOWLANDS TRANSPORT CORRIDOR TOWN CENTRE Revision Details STUDY AREA BLACKBURN GIB LANE, JA Checked FINAL Zone / Mileage Suitability JA Approved By LB / JA Check 90.04A 19.02.2014 Rev 08.01.2014 Date Date Suffix K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 5 - DESIGNATIONS REV A 0 SCALE 1:30,000 0.5 HOGHTON TOWER (GRADE II) 1 1.5 2.0 PLEASINGTON ALUM WORKS WITHNELL NATURE RESERVE (LNR) 2.5km WOODFOLD PARK (GRADE II) HALL WOODS (LNR) PLEASINGTON OLD PART OF WITTON OLD HALL MEDIEVAL LORDLY RESIDENCE 340m NORTH EAST OF FENISCLIFFE BRIDGE PARK (GRADE II*) CORPORATION SUNNYHURST WOODS (LNR) (GRADE II) PARKWAY (LNR) RIVER DARWEN N 1:30,000 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue 'West Pennine Moors' added. Updated to 'Final' status. NOTES KEY: URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (0)870 2386023 +44 (0)1752 676700 Plymouth, PL1 1LD 178 Armada Way Mayflower House copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673. Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown LANDSCAPE DESIGNATIONS LB Drawn PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY REGISTERED PARKS AND GARDENS LOCAL NATURE RESERVE (LNR) SCHEDULED ANCIENT MONUMENT (SAM) GREEN BELT SITE BOUNDARY (APPROXIMATE LOCATION) (APPROXIMATE 4km FROM CENTRE OF SITE) STUDY AREA BOUNDARY RULE 5 LAND LTD WEST PENNINE MOORS BOUNDARY Revision Details BLACKBURN GIB LANE, JA Checked FINAL Zone / Mileage Suitability JA Approved By LB / JA Check 70.04A 17.02.2014 Rev 07.01.2014 Date Date Suffix K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 6 - VIEWPOINT LOCATION PLAN REV A 0 SCALE 1:30,000 0.5 1 1.5 2.0 2.5km N 1:30,000 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue Updated to 'Final' status. NOTES KEY: URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (207) 798 5001 +44 (207) 798 5000 London, SW1P 1PL Victoria 6-8 Greencoat Place copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Licence number 0100031673. & ZONE OF VISUAL INFLUENCE Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data © Crown VIEWPOINT LOCATIONS CC Drawn (APPROXIMATE 4km FROM CENTRE OF SITE) STUDY AREA BOUNDARY SITE BOUNDARY RULE 5 LAND LTD SECONDARY ZVI VIEWPOINT LOCATION PRIMARY ZVI Revision Details BLACKBURN GIB LANE, TA Checked FINAL Zone / Mileage Suitability JA Approved By LB / JA Check 90.04A 19.02.2014 Rev 07.01.2014 Date Date Suffix Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 1 - Horden Farm FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Viewpoint 2 - East of Site / Gib Lane Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 1 & 2) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.1 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Viewpoint 3 - Livesey Branch Road A6062 and PROW into site Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 4 - Stockclough Lane FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 3 & 4) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.2 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Viewpoint 6 - PROW and individual property to South of M65 Viewpoint 5 - Little Acorn Nursery, Stockclough Lane Revision Details Drawing Status FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN (BEYOND FIELD BOUNDARY) SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE (BEYOND FIELD BOUNDARY) Drawing Title SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 5 & 6) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.3 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Viewpoint 7 - Fowler Fold Revision Details Drawing Status FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title Viewpoint 8 - Tockholes GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE (VIEWPOINTS 7 & 8) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.4 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 10 - Potters Farm FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Viewpoint 9 - Abbey Village Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Drawing Title (BEYOND FIELD BOUNDARY) VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 9 & 10) SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.5 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 11 - Yew Tree Farm Viewpoint 12 - Western Corner of Site (Horden View) FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 11 & 12) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.6 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status FINAL Viewpoint 13 - Woodsfold By Check aeSuffix Date Viewpoint 14 - Withnell Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawing Title SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 13 & 14) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.7 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Viewpoint 16 - PROW West Pennine Moors Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 15 - Jubilee Tower FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 15 & 16) (BEYONG RIDGELINE) SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.8 L AD24/02/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Viewpoint 18a - View to East on Witton Weavers Way (On Site) Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 17 - Billinge Hill (Witton Country Park) FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN (BEYOND VEGETATION) Drawing Title SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 17 & 18a) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.9 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 18b - View to West on Witton Weavers Way (On Site) FINAL Viewpoint 19 - Hoghton Tower By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 18b & 19) SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.10 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Viewpoint 21 - Bunkers Hill Revision Details Drawing Status FINAL Viewpoint 20 - PROW off Broken Stone Road / Gib Lane Junction By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 20 & 21) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.11 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 22 - PROW off A675 FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN Note: 'Viewpoint 23 - M65 Junction 3' not taken due to Health and Safety Drawing Title SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 22 & 23) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.12 L AD07/01/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, Plot Date : AutoCAD File Name : DB3 Revision Details Drawing Status Viewpoint 24 - Broken Stone Road Viewpoint 25 - Pleasington Cemetery FINAL By Check aeSuffix Date Job Title GIB LANE, BLACKBURN SITE LOCATION APPROXIMATE Drawing Title VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS (VIEWPOINTS 24 & 25) Drawn Scale at A3 TA CCC tg hc tg hc rgntdDate Originated Stage 2 check Stage 1 check NTS Drawing Number FIGURE 7.13 L AD24/02/14 PLY LAND Approved JA Rev URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited F +44 (0)870 238 6023 Devon, PL1 1LD Plymouth, Mayflower House, T +44 (0)1752 676700 www.ursglobal.com Armada Way, K:\PROJECTS\47 SERIES NUMBERS\47068000 - 47069999\47068789 - GIB LANE WEST\6 CAD\LVIA\FIGURES\FIGURE 8 - LANDSCAPE STRATEGY Horden Farm, this area could accommodate sensitive low sensitive accommodate could area this Farm, Horden tree and buffer additional with Road Branch Livesey Boundaries: Existing Trees: Notes rsrain f itn evr Wys pn character open Way's Weavers Witton of Preservation tree dispersed but woodland, as this show maps Historic 1 lnig n wtr teuto faue wti informal within linear open space. features attenuation water and planting located at the intersection of the regenerated / enhanced / regenerated the of intersection the at located ranging long offers and resource recreational important boundary yet maintain open character. however is It Blackburn. to setting rural semi a providing new development; belt. proposed and Way Weavers Witton to corridor Green banks with modest initial planting and creation of paths. of regeneration natural and Rhododendron by invaded been having quality poor of is (G35) coppice section Western b) / thinning Light management. formalised. and maintained 5 Cockridge Wood open space. 7 6 as in such developments important existing to is due that and considered M65 the wider of the to south visually links countryside ridgeline the of south area hrce t suhr budr o bit om ihn tree within form built of boundary southern to character existing Provides opportunities. habitat wildlife and cover tree existing enhancing Farm, Horden existing to buffer a 3 for opportunities new / maintenance Modest and space. public new of trees creation mature with space quality good a is This pasture. wood resembles character / cover and open space provision. planting further with woodland historic of line to Extend c) be to path(s) Access characteristics. woodland quality ancient good a generally is (G20) section Eastern a) zone. buffer enhanced and wider a within development density The ridgeline. a of south the to parallel runs road The gateway and new 'Village Green'. This is proposed to be to proposed is This Green'. 'Village new and gateway south). an is It developed. be can design the the of which around element site key a is footpath strategic existing This soften to hedgerows of retention with development 2 and habitats deadwood / understorey open within space regeneration hedgerow and woodland opportunities. Existing - and corridors green new both with integration Allows - within value amenity and habitat screening, for Retained - o eeo cnetvt wt Ws Pnie or (to Moors Pennine West with connectivity develop to ways, cycle / foot other with along used, be can It views. 4 footpath links and additional woodland planting to provide to planting woodland additional and links footpath tree planting recommended. ih e nw re sae pooe a northern at proposed spaces green new key with wider landscape setting; odad re / od vgtto fo ajcn seed adjacent from vegetation woody / trees woodland . Cockridge Wood Boe Soe od s ie wt tes n hedges. and trees with lined is Road Stone Broken . . Witton Weavers Way. into links access pedestrian and Vehicular - Lane Gib . . Horden Farm Sf Eg t budr wt rsdnil rpris to properties residential with boundary to Edge Soft . . Green Hills Wood (G79 - G82) Key: 1
HORDEN RAKE N 7 Reference to strategic landscape features (see notes) Existing ridgeline. Public open space and water attenuation Existing trees and vegetation provision. (refer to URS Tree Survey). Soft, planted edge. Woodland planting or as open space features. DEVELOPMENT LOW DENSITY 3 4
LIVESEY BRANCH ROAD 5 DEVELOPMENT LOW DENSITY Pedestrian access. Primary access. Primary route. Gateway / node focal point. Secondary access. Witton Weavers Way. 7 DEVELOPMENT LOW DENSITY 2
Footpath connection. Existing residential. Potential sensitive design (low density) Development blocks. SUDS features. development blocks. GIB LANE GIB 1 6 NOT TO SCALE JA 47068789 Scale @ A3 Designed URS Internal Project No. Drawing Number Drawing Title Project Title Client Purpose of issue NOTES URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited www.ursglobal.com +44 (0)870 2386023 +44 (0)1752 676700 Plymouth, PL1 1LD 178 Armada Way Mayflower House LANDSCAPE STRATEGY LB Drawn RULE 5 LAND LTD Revision Details BLACKBURN GIB LANE, AK Checked FINAL Zone / Mileage Suitability AK Approved By Check Rev 21.02.2014 Date Date Suffix