Swarland Brickworks, Thrunton Landscape and Visual Appraisal

PUBLICATION TITLE: Swarland Brickworks, Thrunton Landscape and Visual Appraisal

JOB NUMBER: 1248 (PJ2728)

VERSION: Final Issue – March 2021

CLIENT: Mr C Blythe

Prepared by:

Sharon Lumb

Checked by:

Ros Southern

This report has been prepared by Southern Green Ltd with reasonable skill, care and diligence, within the terms of the contract with the client National Trust. No part of this document may be reproduced without the prior written approval of the above parties.

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CONTENTS FIG REF PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background 3 1.2 Site Location and Study Area Fig 1 3 1.3 Site Description and Context Fig 2 4 1.4 The Development Proposal Fig 3 4

2.0 METHODOLOGY 2.1 Methodology for Landscape and Visual Appraisal 5 2.2 Terminology 5

3.0 BASELINE CONDITION 3.1 Landscape and Planning Designations Fig 4-6 6 3.2 Landscape Character Fig 7-9 9 3.3 Visual Context Fig10-28 14

4.0 APPRAISAL OF PREDICTED EFFECTS 4.1 Landscape Character Appraisal Fig 7-9 16 4.2 Representative Viewpoint Appraisal Fig 10-28 17

5.0 MITIGATION and RECOMMENDATIONS Fig 29 23

6.0 SUMMARY and CONCLUSIONS 24

APPENDICES Appendix A – References Appendix B – Figures

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

1.1.1 This Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) has been prepared by Southern Green Ltd Chartered Landscape Architects, commissioned by Mr C Blythe (“the client”), to support the planning application for the development of the former Swarland Brickworks site for residential and tourism uses.

1.1.2 The LVA seeks to provide an understanding of the baseline landscape and visual conditions of the site and surrounding area, in order to determine likely effects that may arise as a result of the development. This LVA provides a combined approach that considers landscape and visual issues in order to gain a holistic understanding of the impact of the proposed development on landscape and visual receptors.

1.1.3 Due to the type of development proposed, and presence of existing buildings on the site, the appraisal has concentrated on a 3.5km radius study area, centred on the middle of the site, with particular focus paid to receptors and features within a 1km radius of the centre of the site.

1.1.4 The LVA appraisal is intended to provide a factual account of the predicted landscape and visual effects of the proposed development.

1.2 Site Location and Study Area Refer to Figure 1: Site Location Plan

1.2.1 Figure 1 indicates the study area we have reviewed when undertaking the appraisal of the development site, as it is important to understand the context of the surrounding area to be fully aware of the setting of the proposed development, and the current character of the site, including its built form, in relation to this.

1.2.2 The area is served by the A697 road which is the main route linking the larger villages within the study area, namely Thrunton, Edlingham and Whittingham via minor roads. This route provides the main link for settlements in this area to Longhorsley, Longframlington and Morpeth to the south and Wooler to the north.

1.2.3 The topography of the study area is defined by valleys and ridges, with the proposed site located in a bowl in one of the valley floors. The levels rise to the north east south and west of the study area at Titlington Pike, Corby’s Crag, Rimside Moor and Hard Nab respectively and vary from 233 – 271mAOD. The higher areas are characterised by craggy landscapes often covered with plantation woodland or moorland, with isolated farmsteads evident such as Overthwarts and Hillhead to the east. The site is located at a level of approximately 100mAOD.

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1.2.4 The area to the south and south west of the site contains features associated with Thrunton Long Crag Fishery, such as the lakes and woodland compartments. Residential properties are located to the east, between the site and the A697 and are generally set within a wooded landscape. The wider site is surrounded by undulating farmland with hedgerow and fence field boundaries which run up to and beyond the A697 to the east, the road along Thrunton Wood to the west, up to Thrunton to the north and the B6341 to the south.

1.3 Site Description and Context Refer to Figure 2: Existing Site Context

1.3.1 The aerial plan shown in Figure 2 illustrates the current content of the overall site. The existing dis-used buildings associated with the former Swarland Brickworks operation are easily visible due to their scale, and are generally surrounded by areas of hardstanding which would have been the storage and loading areas for the facility.

1.3.2 Scrub and grassland is evident on the west facing slope which extends from the existing buildings to the fishing lakes and a large establishing woodland compartment is evident to the north west of the site.

1.3.3 The main building associated with Thrunton Long Crag Fishery and its infrastructure is located to the south of the brickworks with associated car parking area. This building is a relatively new addition and sits well with the surrounding landscape in terms of scale and appearance. The two lakes utilised by the fishery are located to the south west of the site and are set within fields bounded by scrub and hedge planting.

1.4 The Development Proposal Refer to Figure 3: Proposed Development

1.4.1 This LVA has been undertaken to inform a planning application for a proposed residential development of 17 units on the site, with associated infrastructure and landscaping. The site layout plan is shown on Figure 3: Proposed Development and shows 9 two-storey properties along the north boundary of the site and an additional 5 two-storey units positioned more centrally around a green. 3 one-storey properties are positioned to the south west of the site area, close to the fishery lake, and these are accessed from a road which extends west from the fishery car park. Further information on the design of the building is illustrated in a suite of drawings and documents provided by Elliot Architects Ltd.

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1.4.2 From information provided the main effects of the development on landscape and visual amenity are anticipated to include:

• Removal of the existing buildings associated with Swarland Brickworks and surrounding infrastructure; • Creation of a new access road into the development; • Minor earthworks during construction; • Construction of 17 no. properties with associated garden areas; • Construction of utilities infrastructure; • Establishment of landscaping (hard and softworks) in the surrounding area.

2.0 METHODOLOGY

2.0 Methodology for Landscape and Visual Appraisal 2.0.1 This study has been undertaken and reviewed with due diligence by chartered landscape architects.

2.0.2 This document is intended to discuss the broad landscape and visual issues that are likely to arise as a result of the development of housing units on the site - it is not a full Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. The extent of the proposed development, as described in Section 1.4 is carefully considered in the context of the visibility of the site, the landscape of the site and the surrounding area.

2.0.3 The study area and viewpoints included in this report were determined using a combination of map analysis, digital ZTV mapping and field work. Panoramic photography was taken at 1.5m above ground level with a digital SLR camera.

2.0.4 Desktop research has been carried out in order to understand the context of the proposed development. This was based on a range of reference documents and online resources (see Appendix A).

2.0.5 The findings of the desktop and field studies are presented in the following text and represented on a sequence of figures (see Appendix B).

2.1 Terminology 2.1.1 Terms to describe landscape and visual matters in this report have been used in accordance with the Glossary of Terms pages 155 to 159 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, (Third Edition, 2013), Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.

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3.0 BASELINE CONDITION

Introduction 3.0.1 This section provides an overview of the baseline study undertaken and provides information on the following features within the study area:

• Landscape and Planning designations; • Designated Sites and Features; • Landscape Character; • Visual Context.

3.1 Landscape and Planning Designations Refer to Figure 4: Access and Circulation Figure 5: Heritage Designations Figure 6: Landscape Designations

Access and Circulation 3.1.1 The main vehicular networks within the Study Area are discussed in section 1.0. This section focusses on the designated Public Rights of Way and other routes evident, as illustrated on Figure 4;

Public Rights of Way 3.1.2 The main concentration of footpath routes within is found to the north west and east of the study area. There closest footpath to the site extends from Thrunton Wood through Thrunton Red House before crossing the Thrunton Long Crag fishery, running parallel to the southern boundary of the site, before following the track to this facility towards the A697 to the east.

3.1.3 Other footpaths are generally beyond 1km of the site and generally provide links between villages, farmsteads and minor roads. The longest routes extend from Whittingham to the north west and Edlingham to the south east.

3.1.4 Bridleways are present to the east of the study area with a section following the Devils Causeway near Birsley Woodside approx. 1.5km to the south east of the site, and another following the same historic feature evident to the south of Edlingham.

3.1.5 There are also other routes with public access evident providing additional links between the public rights of way network and farmsteads. For example a route is shown from the A697 via High Learchild and Hill Head to Lemmington Hall.

Open Access Land 3.1.6 Thrunton Woods to the west of the site is used for recreational uses as permitted by the Forestry Commission but only the southern section of the wood, associated with the area

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around Coe Crags Wood is defined as open access land, and begins approx. 1.2km to the south of the site.

3.1.7 The largest open access area is evident to the east of the B6341 and comprises part of the valley side which encompasses Edlingham Woods, Caller Crag and Corby’s Crag. Birsley Wood, 1.6km to the east of the site is also noted as having open access.

Heritage Designations 3.1.8 This section provides a summary of any heritage designations within the site and study area to advise the setting and context of it, and choice of landscape and visual receptors for the appraisal. Designated features are illustrated on Figure 5;

Scheduled Monuments 3.1.9 There are no Scheduled Monuments within the site boundary. The closest Scheduled Monument is to the south of the site, approximately 1.7km from its boundary, and is described as a Defended Settlement, 800m NNW of Rough Castles. Another similar Scheduled Monument is located approximately 400m to the south of this, within the same field complex. The only other Scheduled Monument within 2km of the site is Learchild Roman Fort to the north east at a distance of approx. 1.8km from the site.

3.1.10 Additional Scheduled Monuments are evident throughout the wider Study Area with concentrations to the west, along the western edge of Thrunton Wood, two close to Edlingham, and the deserted village of Barton 3km to the north east.

Listed Buildings 3.1.11 There are no listed buildings/ features evident within the site. The closest Listed Building is a Grade II Milepost 60m south of entrance to High Learchild, just off the A697 approx. 600m to the north east of the site boundary.

3.1.12 There are numerous listed buildings within the wider study area. There are clusters within Whittingham to the north east, Station Cottages to the north, Edlingham and the B6341 to the south east and Lemmington Hall to the west. Examples of these features are as follows:

• Bridge of Aln Hotel, Grade II; • Cottage and Attached Farmbuildings 5 Yards North of Bridge of Aln Hotel, Grade II; • Whittingham Station, Grade II; • Lanehead and Attached Stables, Grade II; • Column 410 metres south east of Lemmington Hall, Grade II*.

Conservation Areas 3.1.13 There is one Conservation Area located north west of the site which covers most of Whittingham Village, 3-3.5km from the site. Clusters of Listed Buildings are found within this Conservation Area.

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Planning and Landscape Designations 3.1.14 This section provides a summary of any landscape designations within the site and study area, as illustrated on Figure 6, to advise the determined value, and choice of, landscape and visual receptors for the appraisal;

Local Wildlife and Geological Sites 3.1.15 There are three designated Local Wildlife and Geological Sites within the study area, the closest being west of the site boundary within Thrunton Wood. There is also a second area within Thrunton Wood approx. 2km south of the first which covers Coe Crags Wood. The third area is east of Birsley Wood and extends over Corby’s Letch.

Forestry Commission Legal Boundary (England) 3.1.16 These boundaries identify sustainably manage woodlands. Thrunton Wood to the west of the study area is the closest to the site at a distance of 550 from its boundary. Whittingham Wood lies to the north west on the edges of the study area, and Wide Hope and Edlingham Crag are located to the south west, with boundaries adjacent to the B6341.

Ancient Woodlands 3.1.17 Three types of Ancient Woodland are fond within the Study Area - Ancient and Semi-natural Woodland, Ancient Replanted Woodland and Ancient Woodland. Ancient and Semi-natural Woodland can be found within the north west area of Birsley Wood, and along parts of Corby’s Letch to the east of this. The remainder of Birsley Wood is an Ancient Replanted Woodland, as is Whittingham Wood to the north west of the study area. Ancient Woodlands are found south of the village of Edlingham, along sections of Edlingham Burn.

Other designations 3.1.18 Whittingham village lies approximately 3-3.5km to the north west of the site, on the edges of the study area. The village contains designated areas for Public Open Space (POS) within its settlement boundary.

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3.2 Landscape Character

3.2.1 Landscape character is the recognisable pattern of elements that occurs in a particular landscape, resulting from a combination of factors such as land cover, geology, soils, topography and settlement and field patterns. Natural England carried out an assessment of character areas throughout the UK to identify distinct areas with similar characteristics and to better understand how the areas within them relate to one another, and their adjacencies. Local authorities and other bodies have then sought to gain a more detailed awareness of the character areas within their locality and many of these Landscape Character Area Assessments are now utilised as part of the planning process, often as SPDs, to safeguard the areas and guide and provide advice on appropriate development within them.

3.2.2 This section looks into both the wider and local character areas relevant to the site and study area.

National Character Areas Refer to Figure 7: National Character Areas

3.2.3 National Character Area mapping is carried out by Natural England. The study area contains two different character areas – NCA 2: Northumberland Sandstone Hills covers the entire site, and majority of the study area. NCA 3: Cheviot Fringe covers the north west area towards Whittingham village.

3.2.4 The key characteristics of NCA 2: Northumberland Sandstone Hills are listed below:

• Arc of sandstone hills forming distinctive skyline features including the iconic monolith of Simonside, characterised by generally level tops, north-west facing scarp slopes and craggy outcrops. • Exceptional panoramic views of the coast and across the lowland Cheviot Fringe to the Cheviots and Scotland. • Heather and grass moorland provides rough grazing on the upper slopes and broad tops of the ridges, interrupted by large geometric conifer plantations, giving way to improved pasture and cropping on lower slopes and valley bottoms. • A mixture of piecemeal and regular enclosure, bounded by drystone walls but often broken up by coniferous shelterbelts and blocks, especially in areas of regular enclosure. • Wide valleys of the Coquet and Aln rivers pierce the arc of hills, containing remnant native woodland and a patchwork of wet pastures and arable fields, often with steep- sided bluffs and fed by incised tributaries. • Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs, lakes and small reservoirs occur throughout the area. • Broadleaved woodland is associated with rivers, burns, loughs, scarp slopes and country house estates.

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• Nationally and internationally important species including Atlantic salmon, brook and river lamprey, otter, water crowfoot, hen harrier, peregrine, merlin, ring ouzel, black grouse, whinchat, golden plover, dunlin, curlew, nightjar and red squirrel. • A number of large country houses set in extensive gardens and parklands with associated broadleaved woodland fringe the lower slopes. • Important and complex archaeological landscape, with prehistoric ‘cup and ring’ marked rocks, bronze-age burial cists, earthwork remains of later iron-age hill fort systems, standing stones, enclosures and cairns, extensive medieval remains, bastles and castles such as Alnwick Castle, and evidence of quarrying. • Scattered pattern of individual isolated farmsteads and small hamlets, served by the main market town of Alnwick and smaller service centre of Rothbury. Buildings constructed from locally quarried dressed or rubble sandstone, with slate roofs. • Tranquil, rural landscape with low population and a few strategic major roads but with increasing numbers of vertical structures such as communications masts and wind turbines prominent on the skyline. • Moorlands, forests and sandstone outcrops provide important recreational opportunities for activities such as walking, biking, climbing and wildlife watching.

Local Character Areas Refer to Figure 8 – Local Landscape Character Types Figure 9 – Local Landscape Character Areas

Local Landscape Character Context (Northumberland) 3.2.5 Considering the size and scale of the proposed development, the baseline landscape character and sensitivity will also cross refer to information relating to Landscape Type and Area defined in the Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment (Aug 2010).

3.2.6 The study area and land around the site lies within Northumberland County and the relevant Local Landscape Character Area classification is found in the Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment. The study area covers a wide range of Landscape Character Types (LCT) and Landscape Character Areas (LCA). These are illustrated in Figure 8: Local Landscape Character Areas, and listed in the table overleaf:

Landscape Character Type (LCT) Landscape Character Area (LCA)

6 - Broad Sandstone Valley 6a - Whittingham Vale

8 - Outcrop Hills and Escarpments 8e - Rothbury Forest

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3.2.7 The Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment indicates that the proposed development site is located within Landscape Character Type (LC) 6 ‘Broad Sandstone Valley’ which is described as having the following key characteristics:

• Broad undulating valley. • Significant influence of glacial deposition. • Strong enclosure pattern, albeit in decline in parts.

3.2.8 And key qualities are:

• Strong enclosure pattern. • Extensive historic features such as ridge and furrow. • Enclosed, bowl-like western valley. • Small, steep-sided valleys of tributaries, such as the Edlingham Burn.

3.2.9 The guiding principle for this character type is ‘manage’ with the vision statement noting ‘The underlying aim here should be to conserve the existing diversity of land use and at the same time reverse the current decline in landscape quality. There is scope for improved management and new planting of native woodlands. This area is well placed to accommodate visitors to the popular tourist destinations of Alnwick and the Northumberland National Park.’

3.2.10 Development guidelines for this area are as follows:

 Encourage appropriate expansion of tourist infrastructure, including accommodation, including conversions or well-designed new build developments which respect local character.  Development within or beside traditional villages should respect local vernacular forms and materials. Other development should be carefully sited with regard to the valley landform.  Seek to protect significant areas of ridge and furrow, and promote awareness of the value of such features.

3.2.11 The Broad Sandstone Valley Landscape Character Type contains one Landscape Character Area (LCA) within the Study Area as shown on Figure 8: Local Landscape Character Areas and this is 6a - Whittingham Vale, whose key characteristics are as per the Landscape Character Type it is located within.

3.2.12 Landscape Character Type 8 ‘Outcrop Hills and Escarpments’ lies immediately adjacent to the sites western boundary, and largely covers the southern part of the study area, The key characteristics of LCT 8 are:

• Flat-topped elongated ridges and rounded sandstone hills. • Distinctive steep scarp faces forming stepped, often dark, skyline silhouettes.

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• Open plateau and gentle dip slopes clothed in heather moorland, acidic grassland mosaic, coniferous forestry and peat bog/mires. • Steeper slopes and craggy outcrops with bracken, heather and broadleaved woodland. • Wet pastures and semi-improved pastures on lower slopes. • Rich muted colours and textures. • Little or no habitation but significant archaeological remains. • Water bodies including natural loughs and reservoirs.

3.2.13 The guiding principle for this character type is ‘manage’ with the vision statement noting ‘The hills are a distinctive feature of the Northumberland landscape, and have valuable landscape features which remain in good condition. The approach for this landscape should be to manage development, while maintaining the distinctive landform and moorland areas’.

3.2.14 Development guidelines for this area are as follows:

3.2.15 The only LCA evident within this LCT in the study area is 8e – Rothbury Forest, which is described as follows:

‘This character area forms a broad upland ridge north of Rothbury and the Coquet valley. Like other areas within this type, craggy cliffs (e.g. Corby’s Crags and crags on Callaly Moor) form occasional prominent landmarks, and the land cover is extensive grass and heather moorland with substantial conifer plantations, the largest being Thrunton Forest. The moorland is extensively grazed, with infrequent wire fences, and the landscape scale is large, with long distance views. There is a wealth of prehistoric remains including cairn fields, cup and ring marks and remains of Northumberland County Council Land Use Consultants Landscape Character Assessment: Part A August 2010 62 settlements. Later historic interest includes evidence of small-scale coal mining at Alnwick Moor, as well as large country estates at Callaly Castle and Cragside, now managed by the National Trust. A prominent feature is the ‘golf ball’ radome of the Brizlee Wood Remote Radar Head, now a recognisable modern historical element.’

3.2.16 The vision for this character area is:

Landscape Management Guidelines (3): Enhancement of existing character should be applied to this character area. The quality of this landscape has been compromised by a number of

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influences, the principal factors being the unsympathetic planting of conifers and a decline in the management of moorland that has led to encroachment of gorse and bracken. Landscape policies and initiatives should seek to enhance existing character either through the introduction of appropriate new elements/features and/or different management of the existing landscape features.

3.2.17 The Alnwick Landscape Character SPD also notes that the site is within the Character Area 13 – Rothbury Forest. This document highlights that the key characteristics of this are:

 Broad open upland ridge complex  Craggy cliffs form occasional prominent landmarks  Landcover is extensive semi improved grassland and heather moorland with substantial conifer plantations

Site Landscape Character 3.2.18 The character of the site itself is brownfield form the most part, particularly the central and northern sections which contain the existing Swarland Brickworks buildings, which are in a redundant state, and surrounding hardstanding.

3.2.19 Existing woodland cover is evident along the northern boundary and links to a larger establishing woodland compartment to the west of the site. Scrub planting is also evident to the west of the Swarland Brickworks buildings as levels fall from the plateau which these are located on. The levels continue to fall towards the fishing lakes and on the lower areas rough grassland is present. Paths associated with the fishing activities are located to the east of the site boundary and separate the site from the lakes.

3.2.20 Existing buildings and residential properties are located to the east of the site and are generally contained within substantial tree cover, giving the appearance of a settlement within woodland. The existing car park and building associated with Thrunton Long Crag Fishery is located to the south of the site. The building is timber clad and is of a scale which sits well within the landscape of the wider site.

3.2.21 Two large lakes are present within the wider site with associated marginal and emergent planting. Hedge planting and scrub planting is evident around these and on boundaries of the fishery.

3.2.22 There are no public or informal footpaths within the site, but there is one close to the southern boundary within Thrunton Long Crags Fishery which extends east to west between the two lakes and links Thrunton Woods/ Thrunton Red House in the west to the A697 to the east. A network of surfaced paths is present within the fishery site to provide access to the different banks of the lakes.

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3.3 Visual Context

3.3.1 In order to explore the potential visibility of the proposed site and select likely viable viewpoints to represent potential receptors, a 2.5km diameter Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) map has been generated using digital topographic mapping.

Visual Envelope Refer to Figure 10a: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (bare land) Figure 10b: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (visual barriers) with Viewpoints Figure 10c: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (visual barriers) comparison between existing and proposed built form

3.3.2 The visual envelope is the extent to which the proposed development could be seen from areas in the surrounding landscape. The visual envelope is shown as a coloured area on the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plans. Figure 10a illustrates the ZTV with only the ‘bare land’ topography within the study area taken into consideration. The ZTV illustrated in Figure 10b refines the theoretical visual envelope further by broadly allowing for existing visual barriers, which might include both natural and man-made elements. These are treated as broad blocks, with existing buildings and areas of woodland/trees assigned an average height of 8m. It is important to note that the ZTV mapping is not fully accurate but can help to build up an understanding of the overall visibility of the development when supported by inspections on site. Desk study also informed the viewpoint selection, with particular consideration given to designated or sensitive locations such as open spaces, Public Rights of Way, listed buildings and adjacent residential areas.

3.3.3 From the findings of the ZTV exercise, as shown on Figure 10b, the general visibility of the site from each aspect of the study area is as follows:

North The visibility of the site to the north is generally restricted to just over 1km from its north boundary and is constrained by topography as lower levels extend towards the site to the south east of Thrunton and High Learchild. Views also appear to become available in a narrow are approximately 1.5km to the north which gradually widens towards the edges of the study area.

East The ridge to the east of the site which includes the north to south road travelling past Hill Head, and the road up to Newtown limits views further east within the study area. Views from higher land outwith the study area, to the east of Overthwarts, are illustrated as being visible.

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South The views toward the site are constrained by both topography and woodland compartments from this aspect. Sections of the A697 and road to the east of Thrunton Woods are shown to have views, as is the farmland between these two routes, and some field parcels below Thrunton Woods. Views are then restricted by the woodland on the valley slopes to the south although some visibility towards the site is shown from Coe Crags and Long Crag where woodland is replaced by outcrops of stone and moorland.

West Views from this aspect are contained by the woodland associated with Thrunton Wood, and the existing woodland compartment directly to the west of the site within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery. They are therefore limited to the east edges of Thrunton Wood and the road which runs alongside it with woodland compartments in adjacent farmland further filtering views.

3.3.4 For the purposes of this study we also reviewed the likely current visibility of the existing Swarland Brickworks in relation to the proposals and this is illustrated on Figure 10c for information. This illustrates that the visibility of the proposed development is much the same as the existing brickworks buildings, albeit there is a small area of potential additional visibility to the north, approximately 1.5 – 3km from the site. It is important to note that the ZTV’s do not take account of the filtering effects of proposed landscaping proposed as part of the development.

Visual Receptors 3.3.5 Key views of the site from within the defined ZTV were selected to demonstrate and test the visibility of the proposals from different directions, distances and receptor types, and provide an understanding of the baseline conditions and context of them. The viewpoints are listed in the table below and illustrated in Figures 11 -28.

Distance from Viewpoint Description Receptor Type Site 1 Sequential views from public footpath 50-150m PROW/ (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery recreational users 2 View from path network within Thrunton Long 300m Recreational users Crag Fishery 3 750m Road/ recreational View east from Thrunton Wood car park users 4 View south east from road to east of Thrunton 800m Road/ recreational Wood users 5 View south west from public footpath (111/011) 850m PROW/ residents at Learchild Farm Cottage 6 View north from public footpath (111/027) by 2.3km PROW Rough Castles 7 View west from public bridleway (111/009) at 1.3km PROW/ residents Birsley Woodside

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4.0 APPRAISAL OF PREDICTED EFFECTS

The findings are advised by desk top study and field work undertaken to ascertain the baseline character and visibility of the site in relation to its surrounding context, combined with a review of the outline proposals to predict potential effects on landscape and visual receptors.

The following paragraphs provide an appraisal of the predicted effects on the landscape character of the site and study area.

4.0 Landscape Character Appraisal 4.0.1 The study area reflects key characteristics of the NCA2: Northumberland Sandstone Hill. The proposals will form a compatible use within this area as they will not introduce any new characteristics or features, or be of such a scale which would affect the wider zones which the character areas cover.

4.0.2 It is predicted that proposal will have limited effects on the local landscape character types – Broad Sandstone Valley and Outcrop Hills and Escarpments – and character areas associated with these as it is not at odds with the characteristics found within these in the baseline situation, and is compatible with the proposed vision and development guidelines for the character area the site is located within - particularly in reference to the encouragement of ‘appropriate expansion of tourist infrastructure, including accommodation, including conversions or well-designed new build developments which respect local character’.

4.0.3 In relation to the site character, the development responds to the plateaus and levels which had been formed for the previous use of the site, allowing existing vegetation to be retained and enhanced where practicable and existing infrastructure is to be utilised for access points. The scale of the proposed buildings is in keeping with existing properties to the east, and within the study area, and will replace large scale industrial buildings which have a derelict character.

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4.1 Representative Viewpoint Appraisal Refer to: Figure 10b: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (visual barriers) with Potential Visual Receptor Locations Figures 11 - 28: Photographic Viewpoints

4.1.1 These views demonstrate how features within the surrounding landscape help to contain and minimise views to the site - which are not always evident or obvious from the ZTV plan. The photographs also demonstrate the topography of the site, surrounding area and the scale and nature of the vegetation adjacent to it, which restricts views to the development within the Study Area.

4.1.2 The ZTV was referenced in preparation for field work. Through this fieldwork, it was found that there are limited available views from some receptors due to existing vegetation and landforms, both natural and man-made. Photographs were still taken from these points in some instances to illustrate this and are included with the other panoramas in viewpoint Figures 11 – 28.

4.1.3 Descriptions of both the existing view of the site and the predicted view of the development or lack of, for each of the representative viewpoints are provided below.

Viewpoint 1a-1c: Sequential views from footpath (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery Refer to Figure 11: Photographic Viewpoint 1a Figure 12: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 1a Figure 13: Photographic Viewpoint 1b Figure 14: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 1b Figure 15: Photographic Viewpoint 1c Figure 16: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 1c

Existing Views 4.1.4 The panoramas for Viewpoint 1a – 1c represent views available towards the site from the route of the public footpath as it follows the path infrastructure within the Thrunton Long Crag fishery east to west. All the views illustrate that views from this footpath are generally contained by the site and wider topography, with distant views limited to areas of Thrunton Wood to the west. Viewpoint 1a illustrates the level change within the site and the vegetation types evident on the undulating contours. Small woodland groups are evident in the foreground with paths meandering up to the fishery building and then onto a higher area which contains the Swarland Brickworks buildings – the chimney associated with these being evident above the fishery building. Generally only the existing buildings to the west are in view here and are limited to the upper sections and roof, which demonstrate the dilapidated state of this built form. Levels are seen to fall to the west towards the lakes as a series of grass slopes and the larger woodland compartment to the west of the site is visible in the midground. Farmland rises with pylons extending over it before Thrunton Wood forms the skyline feature in the distance. A similar view is experienced from 1b, albeit much more contained by the topography to the west

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of the site with the vegetation on the slopes forming the skyline feature, along with the upper sections of the westerly brickworks buildings. As viewpoint 1c is from slightly further to the west of the site, the majority of the buildings associated with the brickworks are visible and form the skyline feature with the chimney easily recognizable amongst these. The foreground view consists of the grassed slopes with occasional scrub which fall to the west and the fishing lakes.

Predicted View 4.1.5 Due to the levels at which the proposals will sit , and the intervening topography between the proposed properties and the footpath it is unlikely that any of the units to the north of the site will be visible, particularly in views 1a and 1b. The 5 more centrally located units may be visible in part from these views, upper elements and roofs, but will be filtered by garden boundary treatments and any intervening landscape proposed on the slopes to the west of these. The one storey properties to the west will also be generally hidden from view by the intervening topography. From viewpoint 1c a clearer view may be obtained to the properties located centrally within the site, but the appearance in scale and massing of them in relation to the existing buildings evident in the baseline will be greatly reduced. Any landscape introduced to the slopes to the west of these will also help to filter views. One of the one –storey units may be visible from this area but will generally sit within the topography and be seen against the wider development and landscaping. The materiality of this building will also help to assimilate it with the surrounding tones and textures of the existing landscape.

Viewpoint 2: View south east from roadside path to east of A183 Refer to Figure 17: Photographic Viewpoint 2 Figure 18: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 2

Existing View 4.1.6 This view represents that available from the network of paths utilised by recreational users of the Thrunton Long Crag Fishery site. The view is similar to that experienced from Viewpoint 1a, but from a more distant location. The south fishing lake can be seen in the foreground with the fishery building located on a higher plateau above this to the east, with associated woodland groups on the surrounding slopes. The upper elements of buildings to the west of the former Swarland Brickworks site are visible to the west of this, and the shape of the roofs of the buildings to the east are just visible through the woodland to the right of the panorama. The grass slopes to the west of the brickworks and between the two lakes are visible in the midground with the existing woodland compartments to the west of the site beyond these. A small section of farmland is just visible with pylons towering above this, and Thrunton wood forming the background and skyline feature.

Predicted View 4.1.7 As with viewpoints 1a and 1b, due to the intervening topography between the proposed properties and the paths in this location it is unlikely that any of the units to the north of the site will be visible. The more centrally located units may be visible in part, but only upper

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elements and roofs. These would be further filtered by landscape proposed on the slopes to the west and south of these. The one storey properties to the west will also be generally hidden from view by the intervening topography, particularly the shoulder of land which extends to the west of the fishery building

Viewpoint 3: View south east from roadside path to east of A183 Refer to Figure 19: Photographic Viewpoint 3 Figure 20: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 3

Existing View 4.1.8 This view illustrates that available on exit from the Thrunton Wood car park, and oblique views from the road which runs along its eastern boundary. Due to the elevated nature of the view much of the site and wider fishery site is visible from this point. Farmland is seen falling away from the road towards the site, with large pylons evident, and the existing woodland copse to the west of the site forming a natural boundary to the fishery site. This and mature field trees filter some views of the west of the site. Due to the scale of the existing Swarland Brickworks buildings these are easily visible in the midground, and appear significantly larger than the fishery building located to the south of them. The site is relatively open to the north of the brickworks buildings but they are seen against the woodland to the east of them which encompasses re3sidential properties, most of which are obscured from view by the built form and vegetation. Learchild Moor house is just perceptible to the north east of the site with the adjacent A697 visible as a linear feature to both sides of the view. Beyond this the land rises to the first ridge which includes large woodland plantations and farmsteads such as Hillhead and Overthwarts. The land drops away again before rising to form the higher landscape associated with Corby’s Crags and the open access land around these.

Predicted View 4.1.9 As the area to the north of the site is relatively open, and as the views are looking down into the site from this point, it is anticipated that properties along the majority of the northern boundary and central area of the development will be visible from this location. The one-storey properties to the west will generally be filtered by the existing woodland, although the one furthest south will be more visible, although seen against the topography beyond it. The scale and massing of the buildings will be very different to those evident in the baseline situation, and more akin to the fishery building to the south. As the buildings are separate units there will be more opportunity for proposed landscaping within garden areas and surrounding open spaces to filter views towards them, therefore the entire development is unlikely to be visible. If woodland belts and groups are provided along the north boundary, and on slopes to the west of the development to link with existing woodland compartments, this will further assist in filtering views of the development and provide a setting to the residential properties which is similar to that already evident to the east of the site.

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Viewpoint 4: View south east from roadside path to east of A183 Refer to Figure 21: Photographic Viewpoint 4 Figure 22: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 4

Existing View 4.1.10 This view is similar to that available from viewpoint 3, but as it is further north, more of the north boundary of the site is visible, including the more open boundary evident to the north of the existing brickworks buildings. The foreground consists of rolling farmland fields with intermittent hedge boundaries and mature boundary trees. The existing establishing woodland to the west of the site is visible and filters views to the west of the development site, including some lower sections of the brickworks buildings and the fishery building. Due to the more open nature of part of the northern boundary, and adjacent farmland, some existing residential properties within the woodland to the east of the site are visible. The linear form of the A697 is identifiable in the midground before the land rises towards Corby’s Crags and Edlingham Woods to the west.

Predicted View 4.1.11 The woodland compartment to the west of the site will filter views of some of the proposed properties along the northern boundary of the site, although in areas where this is not present, and a more open aspect to the north boundary is evident, properties are likely to be visible. These will be of a similar scale to the residential properties evident in the baseline through and as they are separate units will have a much reduced appearance of massing and scale in relation to the existing brickworks buildings in the baseline. The proposed units within the centre of the site will be seen beyond and in front of existing woodland groups, and the woodland to the west will filter the one-storey buildings to the west of the development from view. If a woodland belt is introduced along the north boundary to link existing woodland compartments this will further filter views of the site and create a character to the development similar in nature to that evident to the west. The built form proposed will be of a scale and character which is more easily assimilated with the surrounding and proposed landscape features that the existing brickworks buildings.

Viewpoint 5: View south east from roadside path to east of A183 Refer to Figure 23: Photographic Viewpoint 5 Figure 24: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 5

Existing View 4.1.12 This view represents that available from the public footpath close to Learchild Moor House to the north east of the site. The foreground view includes a track leading to the A697, and separated from pastoral fields by hedgerows and fences. Intermittent hedgerows are visible along either side of the A697 and help to identify this route as it extends through the view. Learchild Moor

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House is visible in the midground with a woodland group forming its backdrop. Beyond this the woodland to the east of the site is present, but none of the residential properties within it are visible. Hedgerows can also be seen dividing rolling fields to the north of the site. Sections of the woodland plantation to the west of the site can be seen as levels rise towards Thrunton Wood to the right of the panorama but the majority of the site is obscured from view by topography. The only element of the brickworks visible is the top section of the chimney above the hedgeline. In the distance the A697 can be seen travelling along the valley side to the east, Thrunton wood is visible on the skyline to the west and Coe Crags Wood to the south, with the gap in woodland where the overhead cables cross the landscape evident close to the skyline.

Predicted View 4.1.13 Due to the limited views of the existing buildings in the baseline it is predicted that there will be no view of the development from this receptor. If a woodland belt is established along the north boundary of the site to link existing woodland areas to the east and west a slight increase in vegetation may be perceived in association with the existing hedgeline.

Viewpoint 6: View south east from roadside path to east of A183 Refer to Figure 25: Photographic Viewpoint 6 Figure 26: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 6

Existing View 4.1.14 This view is from a public footpath close to Rough Castles. It occupies an elevated location and as such has views over the site and along the valley towards Titlington Pike in the far distance. The higher wooded valley sides to the east and west are seen to change to farmland on the lower slopes. Thrunton wood is evident as a relatively geometric plantation to the west whilst more natural forms of woodland are evident alongside the A697 to the east, and along field boundaries and watercourses within farmland in the valley bottom. The site is evident in the centre of the midground with the lakes associated with the fishery enveloped by woodland compartments on either site. As no woodland is present to the south of the site relatively open and clear views are available towards the existing brickworks buildings which occupy a higher plateau within the site. The woodland area to the east of the site is evident but the properties within it are not easily perceptible at this distance. The rolling landform associated with the farmland to the north of the site is evident before the land rises to the north with large woodland blocks, moors and crags visible on the upper valley sides.

Predicted View 4.1.15 It envisaged that some properties within the development will be visible from this footpath, albeit less perceptible in views than the existing brickworks building due to the reduced scale and massing which will be evident. If woodland belts are established to the north and west of the site these will further filter views of proposed built form and provide an appearance overtime which will be similar in character to the residential area within woodland to the east of the site.

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Viewpoint 7: View south east from roadside path to east of A183 Refer to Figure 27: Photographic Viewpoint 7 Figure 28: Photographic Context - Viewpoint 7

Existing View 4.1.16 This view is from a bridleway on elevated land associated with the east valley side within the study area. Views from here are available over the site towards Thrunton Wood and Coe Craggs which form the skyline feature in the distance. The existing brickworks buildings are evident in the midground of the view on the lower valley floor. The buildings appear to be enveloped by woodland to the east and west with only the upper elements of the buildings visible. The woodland compartment to the west of the site and farmland rising up towards Thrunton Woods form the back drop to these, helping to reduce the appearance of their scale, along with the large pylons crossing the farmland beyond them. The chimney is recessive in the view due to this. Residential buildings along the A697 can be seen in front of the site from this aspect and the rolling form of the surrounding farmland is evident with its network of hedgerows, mature tree boundaries and woodland compartments.

Predicted View 4.1.17 Due to the reduced scale of the buildings proposed within the development in comparison to the existing buildings evident in the baseline, it is anticipated that the majority of units will not be easily perceptible in the view, with those along sections of the north boundary being most evident. The single storey properties proposed to the west of the development will not be visible due to topography and proposed buildings/ landscape to the north east of these. If a woodland belt is established along the north boundary this will further filter views of the proposals and overtime achieve the appearance of a properties within a woodland setting, as evident to the east of the site in the baseline.

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5.0 MITIGATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Refer to Figure 29: Mitigation and Recommendations Plan

5.0.1 The following measures or landscape works have either been embedded into the proposals, or are recommended to help to sensitively integrate the building into the landscape character and visual context of the site and surrounding area:

• Existing vegetation within the site should be retained and enhanced to continue to provide a natural filter to views from adjacent visual receptors, and be protected during construction works; • Sensitive design of the scale and shape of the building so it is seen against the adjacent landforms and vegetation; • Consideration of materials for the building elevations to help the buildings be recessive in relation to the surrounding existing and proposed landscape; • Ensure materials and species utilised within the landscape scheme respond sensitively to the character of the surrounding context and landscape character. Materials, house types and streetscapes utilised will also play an important factor in limiting the visual effects of the development. Where practicable influences should be taken from existing materials and colour tones within the surrounding area. Materials with warm grey or dark brown earth tones would be recommended for the roofscape. • A strong landscape buffer should be provided to north of the site, linking existing woodland areas to the east and west; • Forest scale trees should be provided within the open space provision for the site; • Woodland groups should be located on the west slopes of the development between the 2 and 1 storey units. This will visually tie in with existing woodland compartments and filter views of the development from receptors to the south , and within the Long Crag fishery site; • Consideration should be given to utilising the open spaces for potential SuDS provision, and the design of this should contribute to the functions and biodiversity of the site; • The layout of built form and infrastructure should work with the existing contours, enabling the existing vegetation to the west to filter views of it, and allowing existing residential properties to the east to retain some visibility over the properties towards Thrunton Wood and surrounding areas; • Properties should front onto open spaces where practicable. It will be beneficial if front gardens and boundary treatments could contain natural elements such as native hedge rows and tree planting as this will assist with integrating them with the existing landscape and further filter views of the built form.

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6.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

6.0.1 It is anticipated that the proposed development would not have any effect on the landscape of National Character Area 2: Northumberland Sandstone Hills as the change will affect a very localised area, be limited in scale, particularly when considering the built form in existence on site, and will not be uncharacteristic of features found within it. It is also predicted that proposal will have limited to no effects on the local landscape character areas as it is not at odds with the characteristics found within these in the baseline situation,

6.0.2 The Landscape and Visual Appraisal, through site and ZTV analysis, has found that there are limited short and mid-distance views towards the proposed development, and limited long distance views from the north in which the development will be largely imperceptible, similar to the visibility of the existing buildings on site. Existing vegetation and landforms within the valley which the site sits within often means that views of the development will be glimpsed, or seen against these the valley sides which form the skyline in the majority of views. The receptors most affected are those in close proximity to the south of the proposed development, within the Thrunton Long Crag fishery site, and those with an elevated view from the west, although infrastructure and built form associated with Swarland Brickworks, the fishery and houses to the east of the site are already evident within the baseline situation.

6.0.3 Where the buildings will be present within views, impacts will be reduced through the sensitive design of their layout, form and scale, and the materials used in their elevations. This along with landscaping associated with open spaces and gardens will help the development to merge and sit well with the tones and textures of the adjacent grassland and woodland adjacent to it in views from most receptors. Although more buildings will be evident on site the overall appearance of them will be smaller in scale and massing than the existing Swarland Brickworks buildings which are located centrally in the site, and the placement of them will ensure that intervening existing and proposed landscape features will prevent all the units being seen from any one viewpoint – there will be always be instances where some are filtered in views.

6.0.4 Provision of further mitigation in the landscape areas within the site, influenced by its existing character and uses will assist with integrating the new properties with its environment and reduce any impacts evident from receptors in close proximity to them. They will also help in relation to the mid distance views, such as those from the path and road network to the west, where landscape features will be seen threading between the properties and linking with existing woodland areas within the site as they become established.

6.0.5 It is anticipated that through the sensitive design of the proposed buildings, and incorporation of mitigation measures including the integration of an appropriate landscape scheme for surrounding open spaces and boundaries, the scheme could be successfully integrated into the site with limited effects on the surrounding landscape character and visual receptors. These effects may be generally deemed to be an improvement in relation to the baseline situation.

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Appendix A - References

1. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment (Third Edition 2013, prepared by the Landscape Institute and IEMA)

2. Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment (2010)

3. Alnwick Landscape Character SPD (Adopted May 2010)

4. Natural England Character of England Map – Natural England Website

5. The National Heritage List for England Website (www.HistoricEngland.org.uk)

6. The Magic Website

7. The Planning Portal

8. Northumberland County Council website

9. Streetmap.co.uk

10. Google Street View Mapping

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Appendix B - Figures

Figure 1: Site Location Plan

Figure 2: Existing Site Context

Figure 3: Development Proposals

Figure 4: Access and Circulation

Figure 5: Heritage Designations

Figure 6: Landscape and Planning Designations

Figure 7: National Landscape Character Areas

Figure 8: Local Landscape Character Types

Figure 9: Local Landscape Character Areas

Figure 10a: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (Bare Land)

Figure 10b: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (Visual Barriers) with Viewpoints

Figure 10c: Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) Plan (Visual Barriers) comparison between existing

and proposed built form

Figure 11: Photographic Viewpoint 1a

Figure 12: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 1a

Figure 13: Photographic Viewpoint 1b

Figure 14: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 1b

Figure 15: Photographic Viewpoint 1c

Figure 16: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 1c

Figure 17: Photographic Viewpoint 2

Figure 18: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 2

Figure 19: Photographic Viewpoint 3

Figure 20: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 3

Figure 21: Photographic Viewpoint 4

Figure 22: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 4

Figure 23: Photographic Viewpoint 5

Figure 24: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 5

Figure 25: Photographic Viewpoint 6

Figure 26: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 6

Figure 27: Photographic Viewpoint 7

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Figure 28: Panoramic Context – Viewpoint 7

Figure 29: Mitigation and Recommendations Plan

Page 27 of 27 LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km

1km

2km

Site Aerial 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 1 3.5km Site Location Plan 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] Site OS Base

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 2 Existing Site Context

17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] Site Aerial

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 3 Development Proposals

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km Footpath

Bridleway

Other Routes with Public Access

National Primary Route (A697)

Open Access Land

1km

2km

Site Aerial 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 4 3.5km Access and Circulation 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km Scheduled Monuments 01

Listed Buildings 01

13 Conservation Areas

03 SCHEDULED MONUMENTS 04 1. LEARCHILD ROMAN FORT 10 02 2. EDLINGHAM CASTLE FORTIFIED MANOR AND SOLAR TOWER 13 11 3. EDLINGHAM DESERTED VILLAGE 09 4. DEFENDED SETTLEMENT, 800M NNW OF ROUGH CASTLES 12 08 07 06 5. DEFENDED SETTLEMENT, 400M NORTH WEST OF ROUGH CASTLES 6. MEDIEVAL BOUNDARY STONE, 1.1KM SOUTH-EAST OF CALLALY CRAG 7. MEDIEVAL BOUNDARY STONE, 900M SOUTH-EAST OF CALLALY CRAG 8. MEDIEVAL BOUNDARY STONE, 420M SSE OF CALLALY CRAG 9. MEDIEVAL BOUNDARY STONE, 220M SSE OF CALLALY CRAG 10. ROUND CAIRN, 140M SSW OF MACARTNEY’S CAVE 05 11. GROUP OF TWO SCHEDULED MONUMENT: ROUND CAIRN, 260M SSW OF MACARTNEY’S CAVE; GROUP OF ROUND CAIRNS, 40M EAST OF HOB’S NICK 01 14 12. UNIVALLATE HILLFORT AND MEDIEVAL TOWER, 750M EAST OF CALLALY CASTLE 13. DESERTED VILLAGE OF BARTON

LISTED BUILDINGS 15 1. MILEPOST 60 METRES SOUTH OF ENTRANCE TO HIGH LEARCHILD, GRADE II 2. BRIDGE OF ALN HOTEL, GRADE II 3. COTTAGE AND ATTACHED FARMBUILDINGS 5 YARDS NORTH OF BRIDGE OF ALN HOTEL, GRADE II 4. WHITTINGHAM STATION, GRADE II 5. LANEHEAD AND ATTACHED STABLES, GRADE II 6. GROUP OF TWO LISTED BUILDINGS: CASTLE FARMHOUSE, GRADE II; THE CASTLE INN, GRADE II 7. GROUP OF FIVE LISTED BUILDINGS: WARK COTTAGE, GRADE II; 01 RAVENSWORTH STATUE AND FOUNTAIN, GRADE II; NORTHUMBRIA POLICE EXPEDITION CENTRE, GRADE II; VILLAGE PANT OR WELL, GRADE II; THE OLD BUTCHER’S SHOP AND ATTACHED OUTBUILINGS, GRADE II 8. WHITTINGHAM TOWER AND ATTACHED COTTAGE, GRADE II* 9. BRIDGE OVER RIVER ALN, GRADE II 10. HOLE IN THE WALL, GRADE II 16 11. CLUSTER OF 18 GRADE I AND GRADE II LISTED BUILDINGS INCLUDING: CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE I; SWANSON AND ARCHBOLD 12 17 HEADSTONE CIRCA 12 YARDS NORTH EAST OF CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW GRADE II; GIBSON HEADSTONE CIRCA 8 YARDS NORTH EAST OF CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE II; TODD HEADSTONE CIRCA 3 YARDS EAST OF CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE II; 18 HEADSTONE CIRCA 15 YARDS EAST OF CHURCH OF ST. BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE II; COLLINGWOOD HEADSTONE CIRCA 2 YARDS SOUTH OF CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE II; MOODY HEADSTONE CIRCA 3 YARDS 20 19 10 02 SOUTH OF CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE II; 21 12. GROUP OF FOUR LISTED BUILDINGS: FOUNTAIN CIRCA 30 YARDS SOUT OF 22 CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW, GRADE II; GARAGE AND SHED IN GARDEN 11 09 03 OF LEASIDE, GRADE II; WEST END COTTAGE, GRADE II; VILLAGE FARM HOUSE, GRADE II 13. THE OLD VICARAGE, GRADE II 08 14. GROUP OF SEVEN GRADE II AND GRADE II* LISTED BUILDINGS: WALLED GARDEN, GARDEN BUILDINGS AND ST PAULS COTTAGE TO NORTH EAST OF 07 1km LEMMINGTON HALL, GRADE II; STABLE BLOCK INCLUDING ST THERESA’S 06 23 COTTAGE TO NORTH EAST OF LEMMINGTON HALL, GRADE II; WALL NORTH EAST OF LEMMINGTON HALL WITH RANGE OF OUTBUILDINGS ATTACHED TO REAR, GRADE II; FORGE COTTAGE NORTH EAST OF LEMMINGTON HALL, GRADE II; MILL COTTAGE WITH ATTACHED OUTBUILDINGS NORTH OF LEMMINGTON HALL, GRADE II; GARDEN HOUSE AND ATTACHED GARDEN WALLS TO NORTH WEST OF LEMMINGTON HALL, GRADE II; LEMMINGTON HALL SACRED HEART CONVENT, GRADE II* 04 15. COLUMN 410 METRES SOUTH EAST OF LEMMINGTON HALL, GRADE II* 16. MARKER STONE 100 METRES NORTH OF CORBY’S BRIDGE, GRADE II 17. MARKER STONE 100 METRES SOUTH OF CORBY’S BRIDGE, GRADE II 18. MARKER STONE 100 METRES NORTH OF SWINHOPE BRIDGE, GRADE II 19. MARKER STONE 100 METRES SOUTH OF SWINHOPE BRIDGE, GRADE II 20. DISUSED RAILWAY VIADUCT 200 METRES NORTH EAST OF 05 EDLINGHAMCASTLE, GRADE II 2km 24 21. EDLINGHAM CASTLE RUINS, GRADE I 22. GROUP OF THREE GRADE I AND GRADE II LISTED BUILDINGS: CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST, GRADE I; HAWE HEADSTONE 5 METRES SOUTH OF TOWER OF CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST, GRADE II; PAIR OF CROSS BASES 9 METRES SOUTH OF CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST, GRADE II 23. MARKER STONE 100 METRES NORTH OF WIDEHOPE BRIDGE, GRADE II 24. MILESTONE 700 METRES NORTH OF MIDRIG BRIDGE, GRADE II 25 25. MARKER STONE 100 METRES NORTH OF MIDRIG BRIDGE, GRADE II 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 5 3.5km Heritage Designations 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km Forestry Commission Legal Boundary (England)

Local Wildlife and Geological Sites

Ancient and Semi-natural Woodland

Ancient Replanted Woodland

Ancient Woodland

Public Open Space (POS)

1km

2km

Site Aerial 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 6 3.5km Landscape and Planning Designations 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km NCA2 Northumberland Sandstone Hills

NCA3 Cheviot Fringe

1km

2km

Site Aerial 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 7 3.5km National Character Areas 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km Broad Sandstone Valley

Outcrop Hills and Escarpments

1km

2km

Site Aerial 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 8 3.5km Local Landscape Character Types 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km 6a Whittingham Vale

8e Rothbury Forest

1km

2km

Site Aerial 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 9 3.5km Local Landscape Character Areas 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km Areas from where the proposed development site may be visible (bare land - topographical information only)

1km

Site Aerial 2km This figure has been based on the following parameters: 1. ZTV Resolution: 20.0m 2. Viewer’s eyes height: 2.0m 3. An average height of 8m (assumed) for proposed housing within the development site 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 10a 3.5km Zone of Theoretical Visibility Plan (Bare Land) 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Study Area - 3.5km Radius 3.5km Areas from where the proposed development site may be visible (bare land - topographical information only) Areas from where the proposed development site may be visible (barriers) Viewpoint Location 1 1. Sequential views from public footpath (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery 2. View from path network within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery 3. View east from Thrunton Wood car park 4. View south east from road to east of Thrunton Wood 5. View south west from public footpath (111/011) at Learchild Farm Cottage 6. View north from public footpath (111/027) by Rough Castles 7. View west from public bridleway (111/009) by Birsley Woodside

4 7

3 1a 1c 1b

1km

Site Aerial 2km This figure has been based on the following parameters : 1. ZTV Resolution: 20.0m 6 2. Viewer’s eyes height: 2.0m 3. The ZTV was generated based on development height of 8.5m (assumed) and an average height of 8m (assumed) for settlements and woodland cover in the surrounding landscape. 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 10b Zone of Theoretical Visibility Plan (Visual Barriers) with 3.5km Viewpoints 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] LEGEND Site Boundary

Areas from where the existing buildings within the development site may be visible (barriers)

Viewpoint Location 1

4 7

1a 3 1c 1b

1km

Site Aerial 2km This figure has been based on the following parameters : 1. ZTV Resolution: 20.0m 6 2. Viewer’s eyes height: 2.0m 3. The ZTV was generated based on development height of 8.5m (assumed), an average height of 8m (assumed) for settlements and woodland cover in the surrounding landscape, and an average height of 10m for the existing buildings 0km 0.5km 1km 2km 3km N Scale Bar - 3.5km

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 10c Zone of Theoretical Visibility Plan (Visual Barriers) - 3.5km comparison between existing and proposed built form 17.03.21 0191 440 0034 © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2020 Licence number 0100031673 www.southerngreen.co.uk © Copyright and all intellectual property rights remain vested in Southern Green Ltd [email protected] Viewpoint 1a - View from public footpath (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 11 Photographic Viewpoint 1a

Thrunton Wood Former Brickworks Thrunton Long Crag Fishery Centre

Viewpoint 1a - View from public footpath (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 12 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 1a

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 13 Photographic Viewpoint 1b

Swarland Brickworks

Viewpoint 1b - View from public footpath (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 14 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 1b

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 15 Photographic Viewpoint 1c

Swarland Brickworks

Viewpoint 1c - View from public footpath (138/016) within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 16 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 1c

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 17 Photographic Viewpoint 2

Thrunton Woods Swarland Brickworks Thrunton Long Crag Fishery Centre

Viewpoint 1d - View from path network within Thrunton Long Crag Fishery

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 18 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 2

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 19 Photographic Viewpoint 3

Hillhead A697 Overthwarts Learchild Moor House Corby’s Crags Swarland Brickworks Thrunton Long Crag A697 Radio Station Fishery Centre

Viewpoint 3 - View east from Thrunton Wood car park

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 20 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 3

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 21 Photographic Viewpoint 4

Woodland on Corby’s Learchild Moor House Properties adjacent to A697 Swarland Brickworks Thrunton Long Crag Edlingham Woods A697 Crags Fishery Centre

Viewpoint 4 - View south east from road to east of Thrunton Wood

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 22 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 4

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 23 Photographic Viewpoint 5

Roughly Wood A697 Learchild Moor House Swarland Brickworks Coe Crags Wood A697 Thrunton Wood Chimney

Viewpoint 5 - View south west from public footpath (111/011) at Learchild Farm Cottage

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 24 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 5

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 25 Photographic Viewpoint 6

Thrunton Wood Thrunton Red House Thrunton Swarland Brickworks Residential properties High Learchild and Roughly Wood A697 to east of Brickworks Learchild Farm Cottage Titlington Pike A697

Viewpoint 6 - View north from public footpath (111/027) by Rough Castles

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 26 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 6

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 27 Photographic Viewpoint 7

Coe Craggs Coeburn Thrunton Red House Swarland Brickworks Learchild Moor A697 Thrunton Wood House

Viewpoint 6 - View west from public bridleway (111/009) by Birsley Woodside

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 28 Panoramic Context - Viewpoint 7

Existing/ Proposed Green Corridors

Existing Public Right of Way - Footpath Incorporate tree planting within open spaces and front gardens associated with the development. Proposed Development Entrance / Gateway Where levels and space allow SuDS features could also be included within the open spaces Indicative Development Cell

Retain existing woodland within the back gardens Potential Internal Roads of properties to the north of the development and extend this woodland buffer eastwards to visually tie in with existing trees around existing Potential Swale properties. These will help to filter views of the proposed properties from the north Potential SuDS Areas

Proposed Grass Areas (Species Rich/ Wildflower/Amenity)

Proposed Landscaping

Landscaping to be sensitively integrated around the single storey properties proposed to the west of the development site to visually filter these and provide links to the adjacent woodland edge, whilst also providing views Existing trees and woodland to be retained out from these over the lakes where practicable in relation to new access points for development. Retained trees to be protected in accordance with BS5837:2012 during construction works

Tree and woodland planting within the open space to the south and central parts of the development would help to filter views of built form from users of the public right of way and fishing lakes within the site

1248_SWARLAND BRICKWORKS Figure 29 Mitigation and Recommendations Plan