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Part 4 - Page 94 of 199 Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study E - River Carrlands Landscape Character Type Landscape Character Type - River Carrlands The River Carrlands character type is located along the flat alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Don, Dun and Torne and is typically 1 to 2 kilometres wide following the course of the rivers. The surface geology varies from peat deposits near the River Torne to sand and gravel alongside the River Don and Dun Navigation. They are mostly medium scale agricultural landscapes with arable farmland with drainage on field boundaries and pockets of pasture. There are a limited number of scattered deciduous woodlands and the amount of tree cover present as mature trees in hedgerows or alongside rivers is variable. There are only a few scattered farmsteads and very few settlements, but the river floodplains are interrupted by urban development around Doncaster, Thorpe Marsh power station and Stainforth. The degree of urban intrusion and diversity in the landscape varies and this is described in more detail within each landscape character area. Former deep coal mining with spoil heaps are found within or adjacent to some areas and have a strong influence on landscape character. Major transport corridors are present both as motorways and railway lines which are slightly elevated above the surrounding land, but direct road access to these areas is fairly limited. The River Carrlands landscape character areas are defined by the different river floodplains and the diversity of urban influences. They are as follows: E1 – Torne River Carrlands E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands

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Page 1: E - River Carrlands Landscape Character Type...Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study Part 4 - Page 97 of 199 E1 - Torne River Carrlands Landscape Value and Quality Most of

Part 4 - Page 94 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E - River Carrlands Landscape Character Type

Landscape Character Type - River CarrlandsThe River Carrlands character type is located along the fl at alluvial fl oodplains of the Rivers Don, Dun and Torne and is typically 1 to 2 kilometres wide following the course of the rivers. The surface geology varies from peat deposits near the River Torne to sand and gravel alongside the River Don and Dun Navigation. They are mostly medium scale agricultural landscapes with arable farmland with drainage on fi eld boundaries and pockets of pasture. There are a limited number of scattered deciduous woodlands and the amount of tree cover present as mature trees in hedgerows or alongside rivers is variable. There are only a few scattered farmsteads and very few settlements, but the river fl oodplains are interrupted by urban development around Doncaster, Thorpe Marsh power station and Stainforth. The degree of urban intrusion and diversity in the landscape varies and this is described in more detail within each landscape character area. Former deep coal mining with spoil heaps are found within or adjacent to some areas and have a strong infl uence on landscape character. Major transport corridors are present both as motorways and railway lines which are slightly elevated above the surrounding land, but direct road access to these areas is fairly limited.

The River Carrlands landscape character areas are defi ned by the diff erent river fl oodplains and the diversity of urban infl uences. They are as follows:

E1 – Torne River Carrlands

E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands

E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands

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Part 4 - Page 95 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrland

Key CharacteristicsFlat valley fl oodplain of the River Torne with alluvial peat deposits.

Large to medium scale geometric arable fi elds with missing or fragmented hawthorn hedges.

Network of ditches and drains forming sometimes forming fi eld boundaries alongside or instead of hedges.

Smaller fi elds and pasture particularly horse grazing around settlements.

Small patches of scattered woodland and some mature trees on former hedge boundary lines.

A rural area with settlements limited to a few scattered farmsteads and historic Tickhill.

Crossed by major transport corridors including a railway and motorways but few other roads.

Access mainly on farm tracks and public rights of way.

More diverse in the far north with strategic employment, recreational facilities and associated areas of deciduous trees.

River Torne in the east fed by a series of drains and streams that cross the area.

Views generally open but locally enclosed by hedgerows with mature trees and outside the LCA restricted by the valley sides and woodland blocks.

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Part 4 - Page 96 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Landscape DescriptionThis LCA covers the fl at valley fl oodplain and alluvial peat deposits of the River Torne which is an undeveloped rural corridor running from the southern boundary of the Borough up to the edge of Doncaster town. Arable farmland covers much of the LCA and consists of medium to large geometric fi elds in an irregular pattern with fragmented or missing hedge boundaries. Many fi elds are also bordered by ditches which are a subtle feature of the character area. There are some smaller fi elds used for horse grazing bounded by timber post and wire fences. Mature trees are present along the former hedge lines and occasional small blocks of deciduous woodland are scattered across the area. The River Torne along the eastern boundary of the LCA is fed by a series of drains and streams that cross the LCA from the west. This simple undeveloped landscape is more diverse in the far north of the LCA adjacent to the urban edge of Doncaster. This varied land uses include a dismantled railway line, the ongoing employment development at First Point, a golf course with deciduous trees and the publicly accessible Potteric Carr nature reserve with mining subsidence fl ashes which have since been added to with new areas of marsh and open water. Two motorways cross the LCA, but do not currently give direct access and there are few other roads present. Access to the LCA is restricted mainly to public rights of way and farm tracks. Settlements in the area are limited to scattered isolated farms and the historic settlement of Tickhill. Views generally open but locally enclosed by hedgerows with mature trees. There are long distance views to collieries and associated spoil heaps outside the LCA including Harworth in the south and New Rossington to the north east. Large woodlands are visible on the skyline on the slightly raised ground to either side of the LCA.

Recent Landscape ImpactsFly tipping in fi eld entrances, lay-bys and on verges obstructs access and creates a degraded appearance.

The presence of the motorways reduces tranquillity and creates development pressure in their vicinity.

Loss of hedges and trees creating more open views and loss of character.

Use of electric, wire and timber post and rail fencing as fi eld boundaries, creating a change in views , enclosure and landscape character.

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Part 4 - Page 97 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Landscape Value and QualityMost of the LCA is a distinctive intact, rural area with few manmade intrusions. In the far north of the LCA near the M18, the landscape is less open and more diverse and disturbed by urban intrusions. Overall the landscape is rated as a high quality landscape. There is a Scheduled Ancient Monument at Stancil, Tickhill is designated as a Conservation Area and also has a Registered Park within the settlement. Potteric Carr nature reserve is designated as a Site of Special Scientifi c Interest. The landscape is dominated by planted elements and has few built elements. However the two motorways crossing the LCA detract from its tranquil character and there are views to the collieries and spoil heaps outside the LCA. Overall this LCA is considered to be of moderate landscape value.

The landscape strategy for E1 – Torne River Carrlands is to Conserve and Strengthen.

ViewersThere are a several sensitive viewers including residents of the farms and the edges of Tickhill and the public rights of way users. Residents of the urban edges of Doncaster including the Woodfi eld Plantation housing development and Bessacarr are potential viewers but their views are likely to be screened by the existing trees. There are many less sensitive viewers travelling through the area on the slightly raised A1M and M18 motorways and railway with good views across the area.

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Part 4 - Page 98 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Housing DevelopmentBuilt elements and housing in particular are not a feature of this landscape with the only settlements being a few scattered farmsteads and the historic settlement of Tickhill. Most of the LCA is an intact rural landscape. It is considered that further built development in the LCA as a whole would have a major impact on the landscape character. Visual impacts for the few local residents and moderate numbers of public rights of way users are considered moderate due to the existing trees and hedgerows breaking up long views on the valley fl oor. Such development is likely to be more visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly higher areas such as the transport corridors passing through the LCA the valley sides outside of the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate the development adjacent to existing built up areas to prevent fragmentation of currently intact landscapes.

Build on a smaller scale to fi t with the sizes of the woodlands and scale of the existing settlements and farms to avoid disrupting the existing pattern of the landscape.

Use materials in keeping with local built character elements including stone and brick.

Reduce visual impacts by locating with respect to existing screening.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts on the more sensitive viewers but this should not signifi cantly reduce the open character of the landscape and should be of a similar scale and pattern to the existing tree cover in the LCA.

The landscape capacity for housing in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Part 4 - Page 99 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Detailed Housing Survey for Woodfi eld PlantationWoodfi eld Plantation is an area on the south eastern edge of Balby bounded by the Balby Carr industrial estate to the north, a recently built superstore to the south west, the dismantled railway to the south and the A6182 link road to the motorway to the east.

This area is not so representative of the rest of this LCA due to the diversity of the area, the lack of management and the presence of the new development which is taking place nearby. Urban infl uences include noise from the M18 motorway and views to the urban edges of Doncaster. The residential areas to the west consist of two or three storeys houses in yellow and red brick with red and brown roofs, including several high density newly built estates. They form an abrupt urban edge with a panel fence defi ning the present boundary. Unfi nished roads lead into the area suggesting that there are plans to extend this housing development further into it and that the present housing edge is temporary. The land adjacent to this new housing development appears to be unmanaged with rough grassland, some remaining partially tree lined ditches and a few fragmented hedgerows indicating a former fi eld pattern. In the area as a whole, there are several small blocks of woodland and some small manmade water bodies which are designated as local nature sites. Between the new housing edge and the Balby Carr industrial estate on the edge of the suburbs is a recreational playing fi eld which is partially screened by mature trees. There are no public rights of way marked but desire lines show regular use for dog walking and pedestrian route access across the site to other local places.

This small pocket is isolated from the rest of the rural part of the LCA and there are a few sensitive viewers. Changes in the view would not be major due existing new development which is underway and the visual impacts of housing development are considered to be low. Landscape impacts are likely to be low due to the due to the indistinct character and degraded nature of much of the area. The development would fi t well with the existing character of the urban edge. Development with associated good quality landscape could enhance the area as a whole.

The potential for mitigation is high and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Incorporate the existing nature sites into the development to conserve biodiversity and enhance the development with existing mature natural elements.

Retain the existing recreation fi eld with its existing screening and create a buff er zone of additional tree and hedge planting around it.

Incorporate open green areas and areas of tree planting along with a natural buff er zone to break up the housing development, prevent merging with the strategic employment area and reduce the eff ect increasing urban sprawl.

Retain the ditches and incorporate them into a sustainable urban drainage scheme.

The landscape capacity for housing development for Woodfi eld Plantation is judged to be high.

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Part 4 - Page 100 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Strategic EmploymentThis type of development is not generally characteristic of this LCA and is only currently found in the diverse northern part of the LCA adjacent to the existing urban edges of Doncaster. New access roads would disturb the existing distinctive pattern of lanes and track ways and reduce the tranquil and isolated nature in much of the LCA. It would fi t with the scale of many of the fi elds but would cause a fragmentation of the existing pattern and increase diversity in a simple and intact rural landscape. Visual impacts would be moderate due to the few local residents and several public rights of way users, and the presence of existing trees and hedgerows breaking up long views on the valley fl oor. Such development is likely to be more visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly higher areas such as the transport corridors passing through the LCA and the valley sides outside the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is considered limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Build on a much smaller scale to fi t with the existing landscape elements such as woodlands.

Locate where existing trees, woodlands and hedgerows can screen from the most sensitive viewers

Use natural colours to integrate into the longer distance views of wooded skylines.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts on the more sensitive viewers but this should not signifi cantly reduce the open character of the landscape and should be of a similar scale and pattern to the existing tree cover in the LCA.

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

Use a sustainable urban drainage scheme with wetland vegetation characteristic of the existing watercourse.

The landscape capacity for strategic employment in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Detailed Strategic Employment Surveys for FARRRS CorridorThe FARRRS (Finningley and Rossington Regeneration Route Scheme) is a proposed major strategic route linking the M18 to Robin Hood Airport. The proposals have been developed in consultation with stake holders over several years and are supported by the Regional Development Agencies. For the purposes of this assessment, it is assumed that this route is already in place and impacts of the route on the landscape do not form part of this landscape capacity assessment for strategic employment. The capacity assessments cover the immediately adjacent landscape on either side of the route. The eastern section of the FARRRS runs through LCA H1 and is assessed separately in that part of the report.

FARRRS Corridor from M18 Junction 3 to Western Edge of Bankwood Lane Industrial EstateThe landscape adjacent to this part of the FARRRS corridor to the south of the M18 consists of undisturbed, isolated and intact farmland with a strong fi eld pattern and mature hedgerow boundaries with mature deciduous trees. The landscape feels open with long distance views. The diverse part of the LCA is currently contained to the area north of the M18 motorway. Large scale employment schemes are not characteristic of this LCA although this type of development is found in the area to the north west of junction 3 of the M18 which is currently under construction. There is also an existing employment site at Bankwood Lane and the former Rossington Colliery both to the south east just outside the LCA in H1.

Large scale employment in this area to the south of the motorway would fi t with the scale of many of the fi elds, but it would cause a fragmentation of the existing landscape pattern and increase diversity in a simple and intact rural landscape. There would be major changes in views in this open landscape but visual impacts would be moderate due to the few sensitive viewers who are mainly public rights of way users. Such development would also be highly visible and change the sense of enclosure for less sensitive viewers on the motorway and would also change the views from slightly higher areas, such as, the valley sides just outside the LCA.

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Part 4 - Page 101 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

The potential for mitigation is considered limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate development between FARRRS corridor and the M18 to limit fragmentation of currently intact landscape.

Use green or earthy colours to integrate into the longer distance views of wooded skylines.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts on the more sensitive viewers but this should not signifi cantly reduce the open character of the landscape and should be of a similar scale and pattern to the existing tree cover in the LCA.

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

Use a sustainable urban drainage scheme with wetland vegetation characteristic of the existing watercourses in the area.

In view of the above the landscape capacity for strategic employment in the vicinity of FARRRS Corridor from M18 junction 3 to the western edge of Bankwood Lane Industrial Estate is judged to be low to none.

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FARRRS Corridor from the Western Edge of Bankwood Lane Industrial Estate to the Intersection with the Railway Line adjacent to RossingtonThis is a narrow area of farmland with an irregular fi eld pattern. It is an isolated pocket of farmland cut off by the M18 motorway. It includes the River Torne which is enclosed by embankments. To the south is a small area of allotments, Bankwood Lane Industrial Estate, a line of pylons and Park Wood which is adjacent to the railway line to the east. Park Wood and the area west of it to the south of the River Torne are designated local nature sites. The water courses are well vegetated and act as a valuable habitat and green corridor for wild life. There are no public rights of way in this area.

This is a small area with limited space for development. The impact of further strategic employment in this area is likely to be limited as it is already surrounded by man-made infl uences; the area is small and isolated from other farmland; and has lost its pattern. However, the remaining landscape does form a setting and green corridor for the River Torne. Visual impacts would be limited as there are likely to be few viewers.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Retain existing mature trees and hedgerows particularly those screening the area from the M18 motorway and along the River Torne.

Avoid designated nature sites to conserve nature and wildlife habitat

Retain existing watercourse and use a sustainable urban drainage scheme with locally characteristic wetland vegetation.

Maintain an undeveloped buff er zone to the River Torne.

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

In view of the above the landscape capacity for strategic employment in the vicinity of FARRRS Corridor from just north of Bankwood Lane to the intersection with the railway line is judged to be moderate.

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Part 4 - Page 102 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

FARRRS Corridor from the Intersection with the Railway Line to Parrot’s CornerThis area of land consists of a mixture of rough pasture grazed by horses. To the north is the Warren Golf Course which is well screened by mature and beyond that the M18. To the west is Park Wood and beyond that the railway line. To the south is the well screened housing edge of Rossington. The River Torne and the Mother Drain run through this area and the FARRRS corridor crosses them in two places. The sides of the valley slope gently down to the water courses containing views to the middle distance and giving a moderate sense of enclosure. The landform appears much fl atter when viewed from the east. Park Wood and Warren Golf Course are designated nature sites of local interest. The watercourses are well vegetated and are also a valuable habitat and green corridor for wildlife. There is also the scheduled monument of the Roman Fort, adjacent to Sheep Bridge Lane, and other historic features indicated on the map, such as Castle Hills Mound and Draw Dikes. The remaining small scale fi elds to the north of Rossington are still intact and in good condition, with the large pylons and power lines stretching along its length. Overall landscape value is considered to be high and landscape quality is moderate.

Strategic employment development would disrupt the pattern and erase the remaining rural and naturalistic character of the area. This type of development would engulf the subtle valley landform and would not fi t with the medium or small scale fi elds. However, this is a relatively isolated area of farmland, as it is cut off from adjacent farmland by major transport corridors and the distinctiveness of the area is already reduced by some diverse land uses in the vicinity. There are only moderate numbers of sensitive viewers including some residents of the settlement edges of Rossington and New Rossington, residents of Torne Valley Farm and users of the public rights of way. Such a development would result in major changes in views but these eff ects would be limited to the immediate surroundings and it is considered that visual impacts would be moderate.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Maintain the landscape setting for Torne Valley farm and The Roman Fort and locate away from historic features and designated nature sites.

Retain the public right of way and incorporate a buff er zone between the development and the footpath.

Colours to integrate into the background of the valley sides and woodland.

Screen from existing settlements, where possible use existing landform, trees, hedges and woodland.

Use additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands to screen.

Retain existing watercourses and use a sustainable urban drainage scheme with locally characteristic wetland vegetation.

Maintain an undeveloped buff er zone to the River Torne and Mother Drain.

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

In view of the above the landscape capacity for strategic employment in the vicinity of FARRRS Corridor from the intersection with the railway line to Parrot’s Corner is judged to be low to none.

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Part 4 - Page 103 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Mineral WorkingsThis is not a traditional or existing land use, but spoil heaps are visible in several locations outside of the LCA. The fl at landform of the valley fl oor would not accommodate changes in landform without signifi cant impacts on its character particularly any soil bunds designed to screen the workings. Although such a development would fi t with the existing scale of the fi elds it would disrupt, fragment and increase diversity in an intact and simple landscape. It would fragment a currently undeveloped river corridor. Visual impacts would be moderate due to the few local residents and moderate numbers of public rights of way users, and due to the existing trees and hedgerows breaking up long views on the valley fl oor. Such development is likely to be more visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly higher areas, such as the transport corridors passing through the LCA and the valley sides.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Make use of existing screening elements such as trees to reduce or eliminate some visual impacts.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts on the more sensitive viewers but this should not signifi cantly reduce the open character of the landscape and should be of a similar scale and pattern to the existing tree cover in the LCA.

Restoration to wetland on completion which would be in keeping with the river valley location and could enhance the landscape by increasing recreational value and introducing more habitat for wildlife.

Retain or divert existing public rights of way.

Retain existing roadside ditches, woodland and hedgerows and trees.

Do not locate on or near designated nature of historic sites.

Maintain an undeveloped corridor alongside the river.

The landscape capacity for mineral workings in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be low.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Compost FacilitiesThe landscape capacity for compost facilities is largely driven by location relative to major roads and the character of the individual farm rather than by landscape character area. In this LCA there is poor existing road access to most of the farm settlements, which are away from the public road network. Most of the present access to farms is via the small lanes and track ways which are a key feature of the landscape. Upgrading these would be detrimental to the landscape character of the area. Changes in road access would be visible to the few local residents and also several public rights of way users. Changes would be partially screened by existing trees and hedgerows which break up long views on the valley fl oor. Landscape capacity is likely to be higher where the landscape is already disturbed, diverse, larger scale and modern in character; where the farm is adjacent to an existing main road; where the agricultural barns and associated farm buildings are medium to large scale and modern not historic in character; and where the farm yard and access roads are well screened.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Screen any roads with obviously increased levels of traffi c

Screen yards to visual movement and some noise

Use existing roads for access to reduce loss of character area

Replace any hedges trees and ditches removed for road widening

Locate facilities on modern large scale farms.

The landscape capacity for compost facilities in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be dependant on the factors described above. Each proposed facility should be judged individually against these criteria.

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E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for WindpowerWindpower is a new type of development in the LCA which may disrupt a highly valued and high quality, relatively undeveloped landscape. There are relatively few manmade infl uences or built elements, and wind turbines would add to the diversity of a simple landscape but may not have the eff ect of cluttering the landscape too much. It would however introduce movement into a relatively still LCA. Visual impacts would be moderate due to the few local residents and moderate numbers of public rights of way users nearby; and to less sensitive viewers from slightly higher areas, such as, the valley sides outside the LCA and the transport corridors. The valley sides outside of the LCA may serve to restrict long views to the east and west. The existing hedgerows and trees could help to screen the lower parts of the wind turbines. Any new access road would change the nature and character of the existing lanes and track ways but after installation should remain relatively quiet and tranquil.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Smaller scale turbines to reduce visual impacts.

Avoid locating near settlements including the urban edges to the north of the LCA.

Locate where views are already disrupted by manmade elements. For example, they could be erected as a landmark alongside existing motorway

Locate in areas with a larger scale of fi eld and pattern.

Use existing woodland to screen lower parts of the wind turbines

The landscape capacity for windpower in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for BiomassBiomass is not a traditional crop of this area but is ecologically suited to a river valley fl oodplain. Its use would not aff ect long distance viewers, but it may aff ect closer viewers by increasing enclosure on public rights of way and reducing the pattern of fi elds by hiding hedges. Introduction of incinerators and chimneys would not be appropriate in this undeveloped intact rural landscape but may be more appropriate in areas with more urban infl uences to the northern edges of the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Plant behind existing tall hedgerows to reduce loss of views.

Plant away from public rights of way and lanes to reduce the eff ects of enclosure where views presently exist.

Avoid erasing the existing pattern of crop and land use by not planting in adjacent fi elds or in a greater proportion than other crops or pasture.

Retain the ditches and watercourses to retain the existing character.

The landscape capacity for biomass in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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Part 4 - Page 105 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E1 - Torne River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Large scale ForestryThe LCA contains only occasional mixed or deciduous woodland blocks which are mostly small scale. Large scale forestry would signifi cantly increase enclosure, resulting in loss of views particularly along the lanes track ways and public rights of way. It would also be highly visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly higher areas, such as, the valley sides and the transport corridors passing through the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is low and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Planting a mix of species especially around the edges to blend with existing tree and hedge cover.

Avoid enclosing existing lanes track ways and public rights of way.

Plant on a scale and pattern to fi t with the existing woodland.

The landscape capacity for large scale forestry in E1 – Torne River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Part 4 - Page 106 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E2 - West Don & Dun River Carrlands

Key Characteristics

Flat fl oodplain of the Rivers Don and Dun Navigation which are contained by closely mown embankments.

Dominated by the presence of the disused power station at Thorpe Marsh with large cooling towers and pylons converging on it.

Medium to small fi elds of both pasture and arable farmland with some tall mature boundary hedges.

Network of ditches and drains on fi eld boundaries.

Many small water bodies scattered throughout.

Road access is limited but there is some access through green lanes and public rights of way.

Several railways run along and cross through sections of the LCA.

Absence of settlements and farmsteads.

A few small areas woodland but trees found in hedgerows and as belts of Lombardy poplars.

Views generally enclosed by hedgerows, and river embankments.

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Part 4 - Page 107 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E2 - West Don & Dun River Carrlands

Landscape DescriptionThis LCA consists of the fl at fl oodplain of the Rivers Don and Dun Navigation which run along the length of the LCA. Flood embankments which have mown grass contain and separate the watercourses. The surface geology consists of sand and gravel deposits and the landscape is dominated by the cooling towers of the now disused Thorpe Marsh power station and the pylons and power lines converging on it. The manmade nature of the water courses and visual references to past industrial uses of the watercourse such as the disused loading platforms on the canal; and also to power generation and distribution, give this landscape a unique and distinctive character. Pasture and arable farmland is present as small to medium fi elds in an irregular pattern with some tall mature hedges. A network of ditches and drains is found on fi eld boundaries and there are many small water bodies throughout. Road access is very limited with only two busy B roads crossing the northern section of this LCA near the former power station but there is good access to the area on tracks and public rights of way. Two railways run along and across parts of the LCA. There are no settlements or farmsteads found within the LCA. There are only a few small areas of woodland but there are plenty of trees including hedgerow trees and belts of Lombardy poplars. The slow moving watercourses, the limited road access and the enclosure by hedgerows and watercourse embankments gives the area an isolated and tranquil feel. There are views to spoil heaps outside the LCA and also to the attractive village of Barnby Dun to the east with its church spire.

Recent Landscape ImpactsFly tipping in green lane entrances, lay-bys and on verges obstructs access and creates a degraded appearance.

Noise from the busy B roads results in a reduction in tranquillity

Loss of boundary hedges and trees are a sign of changing farming practices resulting in a loss of enclosure, creating more open views and change in character.

Disused power station with cooling towers and associated pylons and power lines.

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E2 - West Don & Dun River Carrlands

Landscape Value and QualityThis is a distinctive and intact manmade landscape. It appears used and well-maintained particularly alongside the rivers. However there are some areas of fl y-tipping in lay-bys and track and there is a general appearance of decay around the disused power station. In view of this the landscape quality is considered to be moderate.

There is a high concentration of local designated nature sites, the area is popular for recreation and away from the few roads it feels tranquil. In view of this the landscape value is considered to be high.

The landscape strategy for E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is to Conserve and Strengthen.

ViewersThere are many potentially sensitive leisure users on the waterways and in their immediate surroundings including the users of the public rights of ways and tracks across the LCA. Views from the rivers may be restricted by the embankments in many places. There are many less sensitive viewers travelling through the LCA on the railways and B roads which cross it.

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Part 4 - Page 109 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

E2 - West Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Housing DevelopmentThis landscape has many man-made elements but does not include any settlements. Housing development would dilute the unique character and increase the diversity of the landscape. Visual impacts would be moderate due to the enclosure by embankments which restricts the numbers of viewers. Such development is likely to be more visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly higher areas, such as the railways passing through the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate near an already disturbed area such as the disused power station.

Make use of the existing screening aff orded by the embankments and mature trees and hedgerows.

Maintain an undeveloped green corridor alongside the rivers.

The landscape capacity for housing in E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Strategic EmploymentWith the exception of the power station, large built elements are not a feature of this LCA. Employment sites are visible in the adjacent LCA immediately to the east. Such a development would not fi t with scale of fi elds, it would cause a fragmentation of the existing pattern and increase diversity in a simple and intact landscape. Road access would have to be increased and altered in association with this type of development, which would impact upon the character of this distinctive landscape. It would reduce the tranquil and isolated nature in much of the LCA. Visual impacts would be high and enclosure by embankments would not be suffi cient to screen large buildings, which may be visible to the residents of Barnby Dun and Kirk Sandall do we think they would see it?. It would also be visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly raised areas, such as the railways passing through the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is considered limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Maintain an undeveloped green corridor alongside the rivers.

Avoid designated nature sites to conserve nature and wildlife habitat

Build on a much smaller scale to fi t with landscape elements such as fi eld sizes.

Locate where existing trees, and hedgerows can screen from the most sensitive viewers

Use natural colours to integrate the development into the background.

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

Use a sustainable urban drainage scheme with wetland vegetation characteristic of the existing watercourses to integrate into a wetland landscape..

The landscape capacity for strategic employment in E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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E2 - West Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Mineral WorkingThis is not a traditional or existing land use in this LCA, but a spoil heap is visible in outside of the LCA. The landform could accommodate some changes such as bunding designed to screen the extraction site as embankments are already frequent within the LCA. The creation of access routes by upgrading or creating new roads are likely to cause loss of landscape character and an increase in movement, noise and diversity. The scale of the development would be too large for the scale of the fi eld pattern and would fragment this relatively narrow LCA. Visual impacts would be moderate due to the enclosure by embankments, which restricts the numbers of viewers. Such development is likely to be more visible to less sensitive viewers from slightly raised areas, such as the railways passing through the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is considered limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be partially achieved by the following:

Use existing roads for access.

Careful choice of location using existing screening and bunding to reduce or eliminate visual impacts.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts on sensitive viewers.

Restoration to wetland could enhance the landscape by increasing recreational value and introducing more habitat for wildlife.

Retain or divert existing public rights of way.

Retain existing ditches, small woodlands, hedgerows and trees.

Do not site on or near designated or scheduled sites.

The landscape capacity for mineral workings in E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Compost facilitiesThere are no farm settlements in this area.

Broad Landscape Capacity for WindpowerEnergy generation is a characteristic of the recent past in this manmade landscape which is apparent by the converging rows of pylons and the disused cooling towers at Thorpe Marsh power station. A wind farm could complement or replace these existing features, and continue a narration and repeated rhythm with reference to energy production. The scale of such a development would not fi t with the scale of the pattern of fi elds but would fi t with the scale of the cooling towers. Their simple sculptural form may sit well in an obviously manmade but simple landscape. Visual impacts would be high, with the wind turbines causing a major change in view that would be highly visible for long distances outside of the LCA, as are the cooling towers at present. The presence of wind turbines would also introduce movement into the landscape which is relatively still at present. The creation of new roads or upgrading of existing lanes and tracks of access roads for access would alter the landscape character but after installation they should remain relatively quiet and tranquil.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Smaller scale turbines would fi t better in this relatively narrow LCA and with the fi eld scale and pattern.

Turbine layout to fi t with the curvilinear form of the watercourses.

Avoid locating in nature sites to avoid disruption of wildlife and their habitats.

Use existing roads for installation and management access.

Consider visual impacts from sensitive locations.

Locate away from settlements.

The landscape capacity for windpower in E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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E2 - West Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for BiomassWillow biomass crops were not observed in this area, but would be ecologically suited to a river fl oodplain. Its use would not aff ect long distance viewers but it may aff ect closer viewers by increasing enclosure on public rights of way and reducing the pattern of fi elds by hiding fi eld boundaries. However these impacts are though to be less due to the already existing enclosure by embankments, trees and hedgerows. The purpose of the crop could link into the continuing theme of energy production and be part of the energy production narrative of the landscape. Introduction of incinerators and chimneys may be appropriate where existing manmade infl uences are strongest such as the disused power station.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Plant behind existing tall hedgerows to reduce loss of views.

Plant away from public rights of way and lanes to reduce the eff ects of enclosure where views presently exist.

Avoid designated nature sites

Plant on a scale which fi t the existing fi eld pattern, that is not in adjacent fi elds

Take care not to lose the existing pattern of crop and land use by not planting in adjacent fi elds or in a greater proportion than other crops or pasture.

Retain the ditches to keep existing character.

The landscape capacity for biomass in E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Large scale ForestryThere is currently very little woodland found in this LCA and trees are either found in hedgerows or rows of Lombardy poplars. Large scale forestry would not be in keeping with the character of the existing trees found within the LCA. Coniferous trees in particular are not ecologically suited to a river valley. Large scale forestry would be visible to sensitive viewers from further away due to the height of the trees and would not be totally screened by the embankments. Users of the tracks and public rights of way would experience increased enclosure and changes in views as would those less sensitive viewers travelling through the LCA using road and rail.

The potential for mitigation is limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Planting a mix of species especially around the edges to blend with existing tree and hedge cover.

Avoid enclosing existing lanes track ways and public rights of way.

Plant on a scale and pattern to fi t with the existing small woodlands to reduce loss of landscape character.

The landscape capacity for large scale forestry in E2 – West Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Key Characteristics

Flat fl oodplain with sand and gravel deposits associated with the Rivers Don and Dun Navigation.

Medium scale mainly arable geometric fi elds in an irregular pattern with pockets of pasture.

Fragmented fi eld boundary hedges, interspersed with mature trees

Network of water-fi lled drains forming geometric fi eld boundaries.

Infrequent small deciduous woodlands, trees alongside rivers and within golf courses.

Bordered by several settlements just outside the LCA.

A diverse range of land uses including recreational uses, landfi ll, motorway services and strategic employment sites.

Major transport corridors including the confl uence of two motorways, railways, a limited number of minor roads and River Dun Navigation.

Good access via many public rights of way.

Former collieries and spoil heaps.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Landscape DescriptionThis landscape is defi ned by the sand and gravel deposits and fl at fl oodplain landform associated with the Rivers Don and Dun Navigation. It is a medium scale, agricultural landscape characterised by arable farmland and pockets of unimproved pasture, in geometric fi elds with an irregular pattern. There are fragmented hedges interspersed with mature trees and a network of drains on fi eld boundaries. Trees are also found in places alongside the watercourses and as infrequent small blocks of deciduous woodland. The LCA has a diverse land use which encompasses some areas of housing, strategic employment, a motorway service station, a landfi ll site and a scattering of leisure sites such as the water park, a riverside path, a golf course with areas of trees and fi shing ponds. There is a good network of public rights of way. With the exception of a few scattered farmsteads, there is little settlement within the LCA. However, the LCA is bordered by urban edges to the east, west and south-west and there are more urban infl uences on the edge of Stainforth where there are degraded areas. Deep coal mining is a highly evident historic activity, with the views of the former collieries and spoil heaps. The area is physically divided by many elevated transport routes including railway lines and two motorways which enclose the landscape and cut off views.

Recent Landscape Impacts

Spoil heaps and disused collieries have been redeveloped or restored, resulting in changes in views and landscape character.

Fly tipping in green lane entrances, lay-bys and on verges, obstructing access to paths and fi elds and creating a degraded appearance.

Noise from the busy roads reducing levels of tranquillity

Loss of road hedges and trees, resulting in loss of enclosure and more open views.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Landscape Value and QualityThis landscape is not highly distinctive due to the diverse range of land uses and intrusive elements mentioned above. The arable areas are fairly intact and in good condition and overall the LCA is considered to be of moderate quality. There are a few large local designated of nature sites mainly associated with water courses and water bodies but the landscape value is considered to be moderate due to the lack of tranquillity and remoteness.

The landscape strategy for E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is to Create and Strengthen.

ViewersThere are a few sensitive viewers at the farmsteads within the LCA and on the edges of the settlements of Thorne and Hatfi eld. Sensitive viewers on the urban fringes to the west and south have restricted views within the LCA due to existing screening in the form of landform, trees and embankments associated with railway, road or river corridors. There are a few sensitive viewers on the northern edges of Hatfi eld, the edges of Thorne and from occasional farmsteads. In addition to these, there are many sensitive viewers using the leisure sites, watercourse, and network of public rights of way. The many travellers on the busy transport corridors will be less sensitive viewers.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Housing DevelopmentHousing is currently located on the boundaries of the LCA. This type of development would incur a loss of intact arable farmland that is found in much of the LCA. However, this would not be the case in the more degraded areas. The development would fi t with the scale of the large fi elds and spoil heaps. Diversity would be increased in the farmed areas if housing development were to take place, but less so in more developed areas adjacent to some existing settlement edges. Visual impacts are considered to be moderate due to the presence of existing screening elements including spoil heaps, embankments, trees and mature hedgerows which restrict views as well as the urban infl uences which are already visible. The views of less sensitive viewers travelling through the LCA on slightly raised transport routes may be less restricted.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate so that the existing screening elements described above reduce the visual impacts.

Replace missing trees and hedgerows to help screen and soften the development both within and on the edges.

Locate the development in areas which are already more disturbed and isolated from the existing intact surrounding rural areas.

Locate away from existing public rights of way to prevent enclosure and loss of existing views.

Retain ditches and incorporate sustainable urban drainage scheme into development.

Retain a green corridor along the river and canal margins to maintain an amenity and wildlife corridor.

Avoid merging settlements which would disproportionately increase visual impacts and aff ect wildlife corridors.

The landscape capacity for housing in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Housing Survey for the Western Edge of ThorneThis housing edge is well contained by the River Dun Navigation with an attractive undeveloped area of countryside with scattered deciduous woodland beyond, and many recreational uses associated with the waterway.

In view of this the landscape capacity for housing development on the western edge of Thorne is judged to be low to none.

The remaining edges of Thorne are assessed in G3.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Detailed Housing Survey for Northern Edge of StainforthThis area is a small pocket of intact arable land sandwiched between the well screened and contained northern housing edge of Stainforth to the south and the Trans Pennine Trail and the River Dun Navigation to the north. The houses on the settlement edge are a mixture of two storey terraced and semi-detached houses of brick construction with red and grey roofs. Fences, hedges, trees and a large vegetated ditch contain the edge very neatly and also provide screening. To the west of the area is a small industrial development which is also well separated and screened by mature trees and hedgerows. To the east is a small area of woodland. This area of landscape is small and fairly representative of the LCA as a whole consisting of similar scale arable fi elds with fragmented hedgerows and ditches, but it is more tranquil and less diverse with only the distant sound of the M18 motorway. Glimpses of slow moving boats along the waterway add to the tranquillity of this site. Existing visual intrusions are limited, with the colliery spoil heap to the south of Stainforth visible only above the roofs of the houses on an otherwise well integrated housing edge. There is a woodland which is a locally designated nature site to the north east. Overall the it is considered to be a high value and high quality landscape.

Landscape impacts of further housing development would result in fragmentation and loss of a small but high value and quality rural remnant. It would fi t with the scale and colour of the existing settlement but would erase the pattern in such a small area. It would also adversely aff ect the recreational setting for the waterway. Visual impacts of such a development would be moderate due to high levels of existing screening but would be a major change in views for recreational users of the Trans Pennine Trail and River Dun Navigation.

The potential for mitigation is limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Avoid designated nature sites to protect wildlife and maintain softened edge to the area.

Use additional screen in a similar manner to the screening on the existing edge.

Retain an undeveloped area adjacent to the watercourse to reduce visual impacts and to maintain an amenity and wildlife corridor.

Retain the ditches and incorporate them into a sustainable urban drainage scheme which will incorporate some of the remaining rural character into the urban edges.

Retain existing rights of way to maintain pedestrian links with the Trans Pennine Trail and recreational waterside.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the northern edge of Stainforth is judged to be low to none.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Detailed Housing Survey for South Eastern Edge of StainforthStainforth developed from an agricultural village into a mining settlement and here on the south eastern edge is the former colliery site, with pit head winding gear, spoil heaps and derelict buildings. This is a small degraded brown fi eld site with some elements that are characteristic features of the LCA, such as the spoil heap. The entrance has a very run down appearance with piles of rubble, degraded fencing and fl y-tipping. Surrounding the site is unmanaged scrubby land and large areas of uneven spoil mounds including some wetland vegetated hollows. The southern section of this housing edge is contained by a road and consists of a row of houses constructed of red brick with red roofs, some have rendered and painted walls. These overlook and are screened by the spoil heap from the landscape beyond. The northern section is an angular and contained edge which abuts directly onto the abandoned colliery site. Houses here are mainly constructed of red brick with grey roofs and are well screened by a mix of trees which soften this section of the edge.

This area has a distinctive local character but due to the neglected and abandoned nature of the site it is considered to be of moderate landscape quality. Built elements dominate planted element at this location and it cannot be considered remote or tranquil, with noise from site activity and off -road motorcyclists. Although this not a designated site it might be perceived as having a strong local cultural interest, the existence of Stainforth being inextricably linked with its industrial past in the form of deep coal mining. For these reasons it is considered to be of moderate landscape value.

Appropriate development in this area could enhance the landscape character and is an opportunity to incorporate elements of the past use into the character of the new development. Housing development would fi t with the character of the urban edge and the scale of the site whilst complementing existing historic features. Visual impacts are considered to be limited. There are a few sensitive viewers on the edges of the existing residential edges, and they already overlook a degraded urban site with more distant views to landscape beyond being screened by the spoil heap. Although there are no marked public rights of way, the area is used by dog walkers and children for recreation whose views may be aff ected by housing development.

The potential for mitigation is high and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Avoid the upper slopes of the spoil heaps where the development would be more visible.

Use a mix of red bricks and rendering to match and complement materials on the existing housing edge.

The area on the northern section of the housing edge has more space and matches with the scale of housing development which would sit better here with the spoil heaps providing some screening.

Where possible, retain and restore mine buildings and structures for cultural interest.

Break up the development with trees and copses using groups of species that are characteristic of the area.

Restore spoil heaps with reference to local ecology and incorporate into the development as a green space for recreational use.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the south eastern edge of Stainforth is judged to be high.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Detailed Housing Survey for the Hatfi eld – Stainforth Triangle and Northern Edge of Hatfi eldThis is a large triangle of land extending from Hatfi eld & Stainforth Station in the south west and is bounded by the railway line, Hatfi eld’s well screened northern housing edge and the M18 motorway. The surroundings providing a diverse backdrop to the area of landscape which also contains a varied mix of elements. There are a few sensitive viewers on the well screened south eastern edge of Stainforth, and the northern housing edge of Hatfi eld. There are some less sensitive viewers using the industrial area and also the M18 motorway and motorway service area. There are several more sensitive viewers using the public rights of way network in the more intact rural areas and the leisure users of Hatfi eld Water Park.

The central and eastern parts of the triangle are distinctive areas of landscape which are fairly rural and intact with a pattern of public rights of way and mature hedgerows punctuated by characteristic mature trees. Much of this area is not visible from the M18, which is on a well screened embankment on the eastern edge of the triangle. It contains a nature site of local importance and is considered to be of high landscape quality and moderate landscape value. An area of rough pasture in the centre of the triangle separates this area from the more degraded area to the west described below. There is a potential for the loss and fragmentation of a high quality intact, landscape if development were to occur here. There would be moderate changes in views set against an essentially rural backdrop for several sensitive viewers on the existing northern Hatfi eld housing edge, the public footpaths and possibly from the Hatfi eld Water Park.

A much more diverse and degraded character exists to the west of the area between the north west edge of Hatfi eld and the south east edge of Stainforth. Here there is a diverse mix of land uses including arable crops, large spoil heaps, strategic employment, retail warehouses, and waste disposal and recycling. The landscape here is of a low landscape quality. It is degraded by the presence of rubbish, security fences, untidy barbed wire fences and poor quality bridge on the access lane. Landscape value is also low for this degraded, fragmented, noisy and disturbed area with built elements dominating planted elements. Landscape impacts of such a development in the degraded area are thought to be low due to existing diversity and loss of intactness and character. There is potential to enhance such an area with sensitive high quality development. Visual impacts would also be low due to the existing degradation and limited numbers of sensitive viewers.

The potential for mitigation is moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Avoid merging of settlements of Hatfi eld and Stainforth

Potential to create a new landscape character in the area to the west.

Keep housing and industrial development in separate areas to give legibility and distinct character to any new development.

Avoid extending the eastern part of Hatfi eld housing edge beyond the power lines to the north of the edge and incorporate a buff er zone to the remaining area of landscape. This will avoid fragmentation of the remaining high quality rural landscape.

The landscape capacity for housing development in the degraded south western corner of Stainforth-Hatfi eld Triangle is considered high and the landscape capacity on the northern housing edge of Hatfi eld is judged to be moderate.

The landscape capacity of this area for strategic employment development was assessed separately and is detailed later in this section.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Strategic EmploymentThis LCA already has a diverse landscape with pockets of intact rural arable land and areas of degradation due to development and industrial uses such as deep pit mining and the associated spoil heaps. The many manmade elements are part of this diverse character. It is considered that such a development would have moderate visual and landscape impacts depending upon its location within the LCA. Such a development could fi t with the scale of the spoil heaps and some of the larger fi elds, but could erase remaining intact fi eld patterns in the more rural areas. Visual impacts are broadly considered to be moderate due to the M18 and river embankments and spoil heaps which provide a degree of screening. Visual impacts may be higher where there is less enclosure and screening.

There is some potential for mitigation and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate on or near the most disturbed and degraded areas.

Retain an open green corridor alongside the River Dun Navigation.

Locate near existing major roads to avoid creating new roads or upgrading and changing the character of minor roads, which h would incur further loss of landscape character.

Locate where existing trees, and hedgerows can screen development from the most sensitive viewers.

Retain ditches and possibly incorporate them into a sustainable urban drainage scheme within the development.

Avoid designated nature sites to conserve nature and wildlife habitat.

Use natural colours to integrate the development into its background.

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

The landscape capacity for strategic employment in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Strategic Employment Survey for The Hatfi eld – Stainforth TriangleThis is a large triangle of land extending from Hatfi eld & Stainforth Station in the south west and is bounded by the railway line, Hatfi eld’s well screened northern housing edge and the M18 motorway. The surroundings providing a diverse backdrop to the area of landscape which also contains a varied mix of elements. There are a few sensitive viewers on the well screened south eastern edge of Stainforth, and the northern housing edge of Hatfi eld. There are some less sensitive viewers using the industrial area and also the M18 motorway and motorway service area. There are several more sensitive viewers using the public rights of way network in the more intact rural areas and the leisure users of Hatfi eld Water Park.

The central and eastern parts of the triangle are distinctive areas of landscape which are fairly rural and intact with a pattern of public rights of way and mature hedgerows punctuated by characteristic mature trees. Much of this area is not visible from the M18, which is on a well screened embankment on the eastern edge of the triangle. It contains a nature site of local importance and is considered to be of high landscape quality and moderate landscape value. An area of rough pasture in the centre of the triangle separates this area from the more degraded area to the west described below. There is a potential for the loss and fragmentation of a high quality intact, landscape if development were to occur here. There would be major changes in views due to the scale of this type of development which would be set against an essentially rural backdrop for several sensitive viewers on the existing northern Hatfi eld housing edge, the public footpaths and from the Hatfi eld Water Park.

A much more diverse and degraded character exists to the west of the area, between the north west edge of Hatfi eld and the south east edge of Stainforth. Here there is a diverse mix of land uses including arable crops, large spoil heaps, strategic employment, retail warehouses, and waste disposal and recycling. The landscape here is of a low landscape quality, degraded by the presence of rubbish, security fences and untidy barbed wire fences. Landscape value is also low for this degraded, fragmented, noisy and disturbed area with built elements dominating planted elements. Landscape impacts of such a development in the degraded area are thought to be relatively low due to existing diversity and loss of intactness and character. There is potential to enhance such an area with sensitive high quality development. Visual impacts would also be low due to the existing degradation and limited numbers of sensitive viewers.

The potential for mitigation is moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Avoid merging of settlements of Hatfi eld and Stainforth.

Develop area that is already disturbed and degraded and avoid the intact rural areas.

Potential to create a new character in the degraded area to the west.

Keep housing and industrial development in separate areas to give legibility and distinct character to any new development.

Avoid designated nature sites to protect wildlife.

Retain existing lanes, public rights of way, hedgerows, mature trees and pattern of fi elds.

Retain the network of ditches and incorporate them into a sustainable urban drainage scheme.

Use green roofs to soften the edges, help create a new green character for the development and provide habitat for wildlife.

Locate away from the leisure area of Hatfi eld Water Park so as not to aff ect its rural setting.

The landscape capacity for strategic employment development in the degraded south western corner of Stainforth-Hatfi eld Triangle is considered high and the landscape capacity on the northern housing edge of Hatfi eld is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Mineral WorkingsThe buildings, structures and spoil heaps associated with the former deep coal mine at Stainforth are found in this disturbed and diverse LCA but surface mineral workings are not characteristic. The many busy roads already accommodate large trucks and access is good. However upgrading any of the smaller lanes to access additional mineral workings would incur a localised loss of character. Such a development would fi t with the scale of the existing spoil heaps and any associated embankments and screen planting could fi t with the wooded embankments to the river and motorway. Depending on the location, the changes in views for sensitive viewers could be minimal. Visual impacts are broadly considered to be low due to the M18 motorway and river embankments and spoil heaps providing screening and the existing disturbed and diverse character of the LCA.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate away from existing settlements and public rights of way where possible to limit visual impacts.

Use existing main roads for access and avoid upgrading minor roads or creating new roads to limit changes in character.

Careful choice of location using existing screening and embankments to reduce or eliminate some visual impacts.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts for the more sensitive viewers.

Restoration to an appropriate ecological habitat which could enhance the wildlife value of the area.

Retain or divert existing public rights of way.

Retain existing roadside ditches, woodland and hedgerows and trees, and replace missing ones to enhance screening.

Do not site on or near designated nature sites.

The landscape capacity for mineral workings in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Compost facilitiesThe landscape capacity for compost facilities is largely driven by location relative to major roads and the character of the individual farm rather than by landscape character area. There are a few scattered farms in the LCA, several of which are adjacent to major roads. Where this is the case there would be negligible changes resulting in low landscape and visual impacts on landscape character. However if changes to minor roads or lanes were necessary, then there may be impacts on landscape character and some impacts on the scale, pattern and sense of movement in the landscape. Landscape capacity is likely to be higher where the landscape is already disturbed, diverse, larger scale and modern in character; where the agricultural barns and associated farm buildings are medium to large scale and modern not historic in character; and where the farm yard and access roads are well screened.

In addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document, mitigation could be achieved by the following:

Screen any roads with obviously increased levels of traffi c

Screen yards to visual movement and some noise

Use existing roads for access to reduce loss of character area

Replace any hedges trees and ditches removed for road widening

Locate facilities on modern large scale farms.

The landscape capacity for compost facilities in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be dependant on the factors described above. Each proposed facility should be judged individually against these criteria.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for WindpowerWindpower is a new type of development which would be introduced into an already diverse and disturbed landscape with many existing manmade elements. It would fi t the large scale of the spoil heaps and the movement of traffi c on the busy roads and motorways. However, it would not fi t with the scale of this relatively small LCA and would be close to many settlements on its edges. Access roads may change the nature and character of some existing lanes. Visual impacts will be high due to the size and number of turbines and their visibility from long distances. There are many potentially sensitive viewers both within and also outside the LCA including those in potentially less diverse areas.

The potential for mitigation is considered limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate so that spoil heaps and embankments screen lower built elements.

Install smaller scale turbines to reduce visual impacts.

Avoid locating on nature sites to avoid disruption of wildlife and their habitats.

Use existing roads for installation and management access.

Potential to act as a green landmark next to the motorway.

Consider and avoid visual impacts to the internationally designated wild areas of Thorne and Hatfi eld Moors to the east in LCA G2.

The landscape capacity for windpower in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for BiomassWillow biomass was not observed in this area, but is ecologically suited to a river fl oodplain. Its use would not aff ect long distance viewers but may aff ect closer viewers by increasing enclosure on public rights of way and reducing the pattern of fi elds by hiding fi eld boundaries. However these impacts are though to be reduced due to the already existing enclosure by embankments, trees and hedgerows. Introduction of incinerators and chimneys may be appropriate where existing urban infl uences already exist.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Plant behind existing tall hedgerows to reduce loss of views.

Plant away from public rights of way and lanes to reduce the eff ects of enclosure where views presently exist.

Avoid designated nature sites

Retain the road side ditches to keep existing character.

Plant in strips along watercourses to integrate with existing willows and existing patterns of tree planting in the landscape

The landscape capacity for biomass in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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E3 - East Don & Dun River Carrlands

Broad Landscape Capacity for Large scale ForestryThere is currently very little woodland of any type in this LCA and coniferous trees are not ecologically suited to a river fl oodplain. Large scale forestry would be visible to sensitive viewers from further away due to the height of the trees and would not be totally screened by the embankments. However, it could serve to screen some of the more disturbed and degraded areas of the LCA. Enclosure of public rights of way could be increased and for those less sensitive viewers travelling through the LCA using road and rail. The potential for mitigation is limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Planting a mix of species especially around the edges to blend with existing tree and hedge cover.

Avoid enclosing existing lanes track ways and public rights of way.

Plant adjacent to existing woodland to reduce disruption of remaining fi eld patterns.

Locate where it would screen the more disturbed and degraded areas.

Smaller scale planting to fi t with the scale of the LCA.

The landscape capacity for large scale forestry in E3 – East Don and Dun River Carrlands is judged to be moderate.

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