Landscape Character & Visual Amenity - Calderdale€¦ · Landscape Character & Visual Amenity 4 fpcr 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This is a Landscape Character and Visual Amenity prepared

Landscape Character & Visual Amenity

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ID Planning

Thornhills Lane, Draft Allocation Calderdale Local Plan

Landscape Character and Visual Amenity

April 2018


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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd Registered Office: Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby DE74 2RH Company No. 07128076. [T] 01509 672772 [F] 01509 674565 [E] [email protected] [W] www.fpcr.co.uk This report is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without the written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. Ordnance Survey material is used with permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896.

Rev Issue Status Prepared / Date Approved/Date

27.04.18

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.fpcr.co.uk/


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CONTENTS

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................

2.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................

3.0 PLANNING CONTEXT ..........................................................................................................

4.0 LANDSCAPE CONTEXT .......................................................................................................

5.0 BASELINE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER & VISUAL AMENITY .............................................

6.0 DESIGN APPROACH & POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ........................................................

7.0 SUMMARY .............................................................................................................................

FIGURES

Figure 1: Site Location Plan

Figure 2: Aerial Photograph

Figure 3: Environmental Designations

Figure 4: Topography Plan

Figure 5: Landscape Character

Figure 6: Visual Amenity Plan

Figure 7-11: Photograph Viewpoints

Appendix A: Methodology


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1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1 This is a Landscape Character and Visual Amenity prepared by FPCR Environment & Design Ltd

on behalf of ID Planning.

1.2 The report considers the land at Thornhills Lane, Brighouse that is identified as a housing allocation

(LP1463) in the draft Calderdale Local Plan (July 2017). The draft allocation, hereon referred to as

the site, lies on the eastern edge of Brighouse and covers around 111 ha of land. The site is

proposed within the draft plan by the Council as a “Garden Suburb” with an indicative capacity for

1,926 homes. The site is shown in Figures 1-2.

1.3 The draft Local Plan states:

“The Local Plan identifies a number of key sites and locations which are essential to the delivery

of the strategy. These include the identified Garden Suburbs at Brighouse and Rastrick and larger

development sites which could accommodate in excess of 50/100 dwellings” (§13.40)

1.4 Building upon the Council’s “Garden Suburb” vision, a 'ground up' landscape led masterplanning

approach would ensure that the site’s principal assets (i.e. the settlement of Thornhills;

Thornhills Beck and its valley; steeply sloping fields; woodland, mature trees and ecological

features; and the site’s lanes and rights of way) are sensitively conserved and form the basis in

which to guide the location of development. The conservation of existing landscape features would

underpin the scheme’s wider green infrastructure strategy. These existing features can be suitably

expanded and enhanced by the addition of new green infrastructure such as new woodland planting

and accessible greenspace to define and contain built development parcels and to assimilate

development within the landscape.

1.5 As part of any potential planning application, primary and secondary design and landscape

mitigation measures would be developed. This would ensure that the location, layout and

disposition of built uses within the site are sensitively assimilated into the landscape so that the

impact and consequential effects on landscape and visual receptors is minimised.

1.6 Through an analysis of landscape and visual resources, and subject to a sensitively designed

masterplan that is expected to include an extensive green infrastructure strategy, it is considered

that the site and its landscape context is tolerant of change, and has the capacity to absorb well-

designed and well-planned development without resulting in any unacceptable long term

landscape and visual harm.


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2.0 INTRODUCTION

2.1 The purpose of this report is to explore landscape character1 and visual amenity2. It also assess

the ability for the landscape of the site and its context to absorb change in the form of new

development.

2.2 The report includes a series of design principles from a landscape and visual perspective that can

guide development upon the site. These principles are focused upon minimising landscape and

visual impacts through well-designed mitigation strategies that can be developed through any

future masterplanning process.

2.3 It is expected that any planning application for development on the site would include further

analysis through the means of a Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) - as well as other

environmental studies. The LVIA would provide judgments on the magnitude of change and the

level of effects on receiving landscape receptors3 and visual receptors4. The LVIA, alongside

additional environmental, planning and technical work, would guide the masterplanning process.

METHODOLOGY

2.4 This report has been prepared using the guidance contained within the Guidelines for Landscape

and Visual Impact Assessment GLVIA3 (2013)5. The FPCR Methodology is contained in

Appendix A.

2.5 The report provides an understanding of the landscape that would potentially be affected, in terms

of constituent elements, character, condition and value. For the visual baseline this includes an

understanding of the area in which people experience views of the site, and the nature of these

views.

Landscape Character

2.6 The baseline landscape is described by reference to existing landscape character assessments

and by a description of the site and its context through the field work analysis.

2.7 The characteristics of the existing landscape resource is considered in respect of the

susceptibility of the landscape resource to accommodate change arising from development. The

value of the landscape is also considered.

Visual Amenity

2.8 A series of preliminary viewpoints are included which are judged to provide representative views

towards the site for some of the principal visual receptors. The views typically represent what can

be seen from a variety of distances and from different viewing experiences.

2.9 The visual receptors most susceptible to change are generally likely to include:

1 Landscape Character: A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one landscape different form another, rather than better or worse [GLVIA3 definition] 2 Visual Amenity: The overall pleasantness of the views people enjoy of their surroundings, which provides an attractive visual setting or backdrop for the enjoyment of activities of people living, working, recreating, visiting or travelling through an area [GLVIA3 definition] 3 Landscape receptors: Defined aspects of the landscape resource that have the potential to be affected by a proposal [GLVIA definition] 4 Visual receptors: Individuals and/or defined groups of people who have the potential to be affected by a proposal [GLVIA3 definition] 5 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition, Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, April 2013


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• Residents at home;

• People engaged in outdoor recreation, including use of public rights of way, whose

attention or interest is likely to be focused on the landscape or particular views;

• Visitors to heritage assets or other attractions, where views of surroundings are an

important contributor to the experience; and

• Communities where views contribute to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents in the

area.

2.10 Visual receptors likely to be less sensitive to change include:

• People engaged in outdoor sport or recreation which does not involve or depend upon

appreciation of views of the landscape;

• People at their place of work whose attention may be focused on their work or activity,

not on their surroundings.

3.0 PLANNING CONTEXT

3.1 The following provides a summary in relation to landscape matters.

National Context

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF 2012)6

3.2 The NPPF sets out the Government’s planning polices and how these are expected to be applied.

At the heart of the NPPF is the presumption in the favour of sustainable development.

3.3 The core planning principles includes the following:

• “take account of the different roles and character of different areas, promoting the vitality of our

main urban areas, protecting the Green Belts around them, recognising the intrinsic character

and beauty of the countryside and supporting thriving rural communities within it” (§ 17)

Planning Practice Guidance (PPG 2014)

3.4 The PPG is an online planning resource that provides guidance on the NPPF. The PPG states

that:

"One of the core principles in the National Planning Policy Framework is that planning should

recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside. Local plans should include strategic

policies for the conservation and enhancement of the natural environment, including landscape.

This includes designated landscapes but also the wider countryside " (§001 Reference ID: 8-001-

20140306)

Local Context

Replacement Calderdale Unitary Development Plan (2009)

3.5 Until such time as the new Calderdale Local Plan is adopted (which is expected to be at the end of

2019) the Development Plan is the current Replacement Caldersale Unitary Development Plan

(RCUDP).

6 National Planning Policy Framework, Communities & Local Government, March 2012


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3.6 Strategic and Core Policies include GNE 2 Protection of the Environment. This states that:

“Development should protect, conserve and enhance the character, quality and diversity of the

natural, historic and cultural environment (whether in urban or outlying areas) within the district in

order to improve the quality of life for all and to maintain the natural heritage of the district for use

for future generations and for its own sake”

3.7 There is no specific landscape character policy per se, although the RCDUP states that:

“Policies NE1 to NE10 seek to protect the quality of the environmental and agricultural land within

the Green Belt” (The site and the surrounding land around Brighouse lies within the Green Belt)

3.8 The plan includes a landscape designation in the form of Special Landscape Areas, as expressed

within Policy NE12. The site and the landscape to the east of Brighouse does not lie within a Special

Landscape Area. These designation are predominantly within the western parts of the

Borough.

Draft Calderdale Local Plan (2017)

3.9 The site - along with a number of other draft allocations for development - is proposed as a Green

Belt release. It is identified as a housing allocation (LP1463) in the draft Calderdale Local Plan and

is referred to as a “Garden Suburb”.

3.10 Draft Policy IM7, which covers the masterplanning for these “Garden Suburbs”, lists a number of

design measures. With relevance to landscape matters this is expected to include:

“high standards of design that respect the character of the landscape, heritage, adjacent and

nearby settlements and built development, reflecting the urban to rural transition with appropriate

boundary treatment;

make effective use of the site through the application of appropriate densities in terms of scale,

height and massing, and its relationship to adjoining buildings and landscape;

create a strong sense of place, ensuring the proposed development makes a positive contribution

to local character and distinctiveness

accessible open space to meet identified local needs and/or increase accessibility to existing open

spaces; a green infrastructure strategy, providing an integrated network of green spaces;”

3.11 The emerging plan includes draft Policies: GN1 Securing Green Infrastructure Provision; GN2 A

Joined up Green Infrastructure Network; GN3 Natural Environment; and GN4 Landscape

Character. This latter policy states the following:

“New development should be designed in a way that is sensitive to its landscape setting, retaining

and enhancing the distinctive qualities of the landscape area in which it would be situated. For each

Landscape Character Area, planning permission will only be granted if the proposed development

would:

Make adequate provision as far as is practicable for the retention of features and habitats of

significant landscape, historic, geological and wildlife importance;

Where possible, enhance the character and qualities of the landscape area through appropriate

design and management;

Reflect and enhance local distinctiveness and diversity; and


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Provide appropriate landscape mitigation proportionate in scale and design, and/or suitable off-site

enhancements.”

4.0 LANDSCAPE CONTEXT

4.1 The baseline studies determine and describe the current condition of those aspects of the

environment that are likely to be affected by any development.

4.2 The baseline studies have been formulated following a review of published landscape

characterisation work alongside field surveys of the site and the surrounding landscape. This has

included an understanding of the area of the landscape that may be affected, and the area in which

the development is may be visible

Limitations/Assumptions

4.3 The level of impacts and effects on landscape character and visual amenity cannot be determined

at this stage as there is no masterplan or development proposals in which to assess.

4.4 Reasoned assumptions have been made on the landscape components of the site and the visibility

of the site for receptors based upon the initial field work analysis.

4.5 Further work in terms of landscape character and visual amenity would be undertaken as part of

any future planning application through the process of a Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment

(LVIA). This would include judgments on the effects upon the site’s landscape receptors, such as

woodland and mature trees, as a consequence of the proposed development’s masterplan. Effects

would also take into account design and mitigation measures and green infrastructure strategies.

Designations

4.6 The site and the surrounding landscape is not covered by any landscape quality designation at

either a national or local level. In contrast, much of the landscape within the Borough is covered by

a Special Landscape Area designation within the Development Plan (Policy NE12 of the RCUDP).

According to the RCUDP, these designations covers some 66% of the Borough.

4.7 The Special Landscape Area designations are taken forward within the draft Local Plan (Policy

GN4-Landscape Character), which states that these are “the most important landscapes of the

Borough” and that they need to be safeguarded (§ 20.11).

4.8 Although landscape designations are not an exclusive indicator of quality, designated landscapes

are commonly acknowledged as being of particular importance and sensitivity. What is clear is that

the site and its landscape context lies within an area of lesser landscape importance than around

two-thirds the Borough that is considered to be “important” and which is covered by a Special

Landscape Area designation.

4.9 From a heritage perspective there are no Scheduled Monuments, Conservation Areas or Listed

Buildings within the site, although the Grade II Listed Woolrow Farmhouse lies adjacent to the west

of Clough Lane. There are a further four separate listings near Birkhouse Farm that lies a little

further to the north. The Grade II Listed Kirklees Park lies some distance (1.4km) to the south of

the site beyond the built up area of the village of Clifton and the M62 Motorway.


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4.10 A substantial proportion of the Borough, to include the site - although this is removed from the

Green Belt in the draft Local Plan as part of its allocation - and all of the land around Brighouse,

lies within the Green Belt designation.

4.11 In terms of ecology there are areas across the Borough that are referred to as part of a Wildlife

Habitat Network, as described within draft Policy GN2. Within the site this includes a number of

pasture fields in the vicinity of the small village of Thornhills; a narrow belt woodland at Rock Hole

Wood near the watercourse of Thornhills Beck; and the wooded corridor of a dismantled railway

line.

NATIONAL CHARACTER

National Character Area: Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe (2014)

4.12 Landscape character is assessed by Natural England through the use of National Character Area

(NCA) Profiles. These provide a broad contextual understanding and describe the general

characteristics found across these substantial landscape areas. The site, and the wider landscape

around Brighouse, lies within the extensive NCA 37: Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe7 that

covers some 58,000 ha of the landscape. The NCA Profile states:

“The Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe National Character Area (NCA) is a transitional landscape

from the upland areas of the Southern Pennines NCA in the west through to the low-lying land of

the Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield NCA to the east”

LOCAL CHARACTER

Calderdale Landscape Character Assessment and Review of Special Landscape Area

Designations (2016)

4.13 Landscape characterisation has been undertaken at localised level across the Borough. The

landscape is subdivided into seven Landscape Character Types (LCTs) and then seventeen

Landscape Character Areas (LCAs).

4.14 The majority of the site and the wider landscape to the east of Brighouse lies within the Coalfield

Edge Urban Fringe Farmland LCT and the Thornton- Queensbury LCA. The very western fringes

of the site lie within the Wooded Rural Valleys LCT and the Clifton Beck LCA. (Figure 5) A summary

of these LCAs are explained below.

Thornton- Queensbury LCA

4.15 The report notes that:

“This LCA is fragmented and comprises urban fringe land to the north and east of Halifax and to

the west, north and east of Brighouse…”

4.16 Its key characteristics are the following

Topography, geology and drainage

7 National Character Area Profile 118: Bristol, Avon Valleys and Ridges, October 2014, Natural England


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• The LCA comprises pockets of higher gently undulating ground sloping up from the adjacent

valleys of Shibden Valley (LCA G12) and Clifton Beck (LCA G13).

• Underlying geology of the Pennine Lower Coal Measures formation, comprising sandstones,

shales and mudstones with bands of coal.

• Minor watercourses originating from springs on the higher ground flowing towards the

surrounding valleys, creating the rolling landform.

Woodland cover

• Blocks of broadleaved woodland cloaking the slopes of stream valleys, including some ancient

replanted woodland at Jagger Park Wood.

• Mature trees are a common feature along field boundaries, as are in-field trees.

• Coniferous woodland around Ogden Water is a locally prominent feature.

Land use and field patterns

• A mixed field pattern, ranging from larger-scale arable fields to small-scale pastoral enclosures

which results in a seasonal mosaic of colours and textures.

• Horse paddocks and equestrian enterprises are common around settlements.

• Field boundaries consisting of a mixture of stone walls, wire fences and hedgerows, with

frequent trees.

• Golf courses located on the fringes of settlements, including Crow Nest, Lightcliffe and Willow

Valley Golf Clubs.

Semi-natural habitats

• Broadleaved riparian woodlands forming valued habitats, including Cromwell Wood and Elland

Park Wood (a Site of Ecological Interest). Remnant moorland habitat is found to the west of

Swales Moor.

• Beechwood Park Local Nature Reserve is located in the west of the LCA, recognised for its

woodland and grassland habitat.

Archaeology and cultural heritage

• Numerous disused coal mining shafts and quarries alluding to the mining history of the area,

including a nationally important mine shaft, gin circle, spoil heap and tramway at Brow Pit, near

Holmfield.

• The LCA contains and provides a key part of the setting to Northowram Village Conservation

Area.

Settlement and road pattern

• Includes the settlements of Shelf, Northowram, Hipperholme, Clifton and Southowram which

can visually form a continuation of the surrounding urban areas.

• Within the rural fringes, there are scattered farmsteads with buildings of a traditional local stone

vernacular. These are mixed in with more modern buildings of various styles.

• Several A-roads crossing through the landscape, connecting the main towns. The M62

motorway skirts round the eastern edge of the LCA close to Clifton.


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• Numerous trails crossing through the landscape, including the Calderdale Way, Brontë Way,

Kirklees Way and Brighouse Boundary Walk.

Views and perceptual qualities

• Urban fringe character, due to the dense urban development adjacent to the LCA, including

Halifax, Brighouse and the outer Bradford suburbs.

• Pylon lines and overhead cables often featuring in views, particularly around Southowram and

Willow Valley Golf Club.

• Views vary due to the strongly undulating land, although are generally expansive due to

elevation. There are long views over Ovenden and Halifax to the uplands beyond in the west.

• In clear conditions, travellers along the Keighley Road (A629) in the north of the LCA can enjoy

expansive views across the district, along the Calder and to the Peak District National Park

beyond”

4.17 The report reaches an evaluation of this LCA. Under the heading of “Valued landscape feature and

attributes” it concludes that:

“The LCA has an urban fringe character with a mixed land use and features such as pylons, golf

courses and modern development, although there are some more rural and tranquil areas found

further away from the main settlements which surround the LCA. Strong visual connections with

the district’s upland landscapes evoke contrasting feelings of remoteness. Tranquillity can be

affected by traffic noise and movement relating to the main roads which run through and adjacent

to the LCA.

This LCA contains and surrounds several settlements; located in the more densely populated

eastern part of the district around Halifax. These include Shelf, Northowram, Hipperholme,

Southowram and Mixenden. The LCA also surrounds and rises up above the larger towns of Halifax

and Brighouse, providing a rural edge to development and visual connection with the upland

landscapes to the west. In clear conditions, elevated land in the north of the LCA (including along

the Keighley Road) allows expansive views across the district, along the Calder and to the Peak

District National Park beyond.

Many trails and footpaths provide access to the landscape, including the Kirklees Way, Calderdale

Way and Brontë Way. A network of other routes links the villages with the surrounding woodland

and countryside. Small patches of Open Access Land are found at Scout Edge, Ringby Farm and

near Beacon Hill.”

Clifton Beck LCA

4.18 The western edges of the site, within the vicinity of the dismantled railway line, are located within

this LCA. The report notes that:

“This LCA consists of one contiguous valley in the east of Calderdale District. The Clifton Beck

Valley is located to the south of Shelf and runs down the eastern side of Brighouse. The LCA is

fully contained within Calderdale.

4.19 Its key characteristics are the following:

Topography, geology and drainage


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• Distinctive incised forked valley landform associated with several becks and brooks including

Clifton Beck, Hoyle House Beck, Bottom Hall Beck and Wyke Beck.

• Fast flowing, moss and fern-edged streams cutting down into the underlying Pennine Coal

Measures bedrock.

Woodland cover

• Thick broadleaved woodland including beech, sycamore and Scots pine cloaking the valley

sides. Areas of woodland include Sun Wood, North Wood and Jagger Park Wood. This includes

areas of ancient woodland in the north of the valley.

• There is a significant area of broadleaved woodland located in Wellholme Park in the south of

the LCA. This includes oak, ash, sycamore and rowan.

• In-field and boundary trees are frequent features, adding to the valley’s wooded character.

Land use and field patterns

• Small-medium scale pasture fields arranged in a regular pattern along the valley sides, divided

by a mixture of gritstone walls and hedgerows.

• Disused shafts provide evidence of the landscape’s industrial heritage.

Semi-natural habitats

• Sun Wood, to the south of Shelf, is recognised as a locally important ecological site –

comprising ancient upland oak woodlands.

• Freshwater streams on the valley floor provide semi-natural habitats for aquatic species.

Archaeology and cultural heritage

• Strings of watermills with associated features including mill ponds, races and dismantled

railways located along the valley floor; legacies of the area’s industrial past.

• Wellholme Park in the south of the LCA is recognised as a locally significant park and garden,

as is Shelf Hall Park in the north.

Settlement, road pattern and rights of way

• The valley becomes densely settled in the south where it skirts around Brighouse. Settlement

upstream is sparser and consists of small villages and isolated farms.

• In the north of the valley, roads are infrequent and minor. The A641 runs along the bottom of

the valley to the south of Bailiff Bridge.

• The Bradford to Halifax railway crosses the valley via the Grade II listed Bottom Viaduct.

• The Calderdale Way circular route crosses through much of the LCA, joined by the Brontë Way

and the Brighouse Boundary Walk, along with other footpaths, cycle routes and bridleways.

Views and perceptual qualities

• A secluded, ‘hidden’ and tranquil character created by the incised landform, densely wooded

slopes and pockets free from modern development, particularly in the north.

• There are limited views out as a result of the landform and tree cover.


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• To the south, there are some urban fringe influences, including pylon lines crossing to the north

of Norwood Green.

• From the upper slopes, views are funnelled south to include the urban form of Brighouse and

the upland fringes beyond.

4.20 Under the heading of “valued landscape feature and attributes” the report concludes that the LCA

is:

Comparatively rural and tranquil considering the proximity of adjacent urban development, although

this can be eroded by the presence of main roads and industrial development, particularly in the

south near Brighouse. The north of the valley is highly tranquil due to low levels of development

and dense woodland.

This valley forms an immediate rural setting to several settlements, providing a green edge to

Brighouse, Lighthouse, Norwood Green and Shelf. Views out are generally limited although can be

more extensive from the upper slopes to include Brighouse and the uplands beyond

There are several long distance rights of way which pass through the LCA, including the Calderdale

Way, Brontë Way and Brighouse Boundary Walk. Shelf Hall Park and Wellholme Park both provide

destinations for informal recreation and amenity for nearby local communities”

Summary

4.21 Whilst the report provides an assessment of the characteristics of these large LCAs, it does not

come to a judgment on landscape quality, value or sensitivity. Nor does it provide recommendations

in terms of landscape management guidelines.

5.0 BASELINE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER & VISUAL AMENITY

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

5.1 The baseline appraisal work has been formulated through the use of a field visit and a review of

the published landscape characterisation work. The following provides an overview.

Site Context

5.2 The study area plan (Figure 1) and the aerial photograph (Figure 2) illustrate the site and its

surrounding landscape context.

5.3 In broad terms the site comprises a comparatively large parcel of agricultural land to the east of the

urban area of Brighouse. It lies between the main transport routes of the A643 (Clifton Common -

Highmoor Lane- Walton Lane) and the A649 (Birkby Lane).

5.4 The wooded corridor of a dismantled railway line lies within the site’s western fringes with the

recreational area of Wellholme Park and the built up area of Brighouse beyond. Part of the western

boundary is defined by Clifton Beck, that is a tributary of the River Calder.

5.5 The site’s southernmost boundary is defined by the A643 and the residential edge of the village of

Clifton. Further south, beyond the village, is an extensive industrial site along the River Calder and

the A644 (Wakefield Road). The A644 connects with the M62 Motorway at Junction 25.


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5.6 To the north and east, the site boundaries are defined by a combination of Jay House Lane, Clough

Lane and hedgerow boundaries. The well treed Willow Valley Golf Course lies to east of the A643.

5.7 The village of Hartshead Moor Top lies to the north east at the A643-A649 junction. Heading

west, the elevated A649 connects with the built up area of Baliff Bridge.

Site Features & Character

5.8 Within the site is the small village of Thornhills that is accessed from Thornhills Lane and Jay

House Lane. Thornhills, which includes a mix of traditional and more modern buildings, is linear

in its form with properties straddling Thornhills Lane which is narrow in its character. Scattered

farms and individual buildings occur within the site. This includes Green Barn, Pondwell Lodge,

Jay House Farm and Hole Bottom Farm.

5.9 The site is agricultural in nature being farmed as grazing land. Hedges -which are fragmented in

places -, together with fences and dry stone walls define the field pattern. More open, larger and

gently undulating fields lie within the central and eastern parts of the site (see Viewpoints 11-12)

In contrast, a more enclosed pattern of sloping pasture fields lie to west of Thornhills Lane where

the landform falls towards the valleys of Thornhill Beck and Clifton Beck (see Viewpoint 16-17)

5.10 The fast flowing Thornhills Beck connects with Clifton Beck which flows southwards through the

built up area of Brighouse and then into the River Calder. There is a further watercourse to the east

of the site and a number of field ponds.

5.11 Woodland and mature tree cover is rather limited being restricted to the western parts of the site.

This includes Rock Hole Wood alongside Thornhills Beck, a block of woodland around the property

of The Lodge on Thornhills Lane and along the dismantled railway line. There is comparatively little

woodland and tree cover within the remainder of the site (see Viewpoint 13)

5.12 As well as Thornhills Lane, Jay House Lane and Thornhills Beck Lane, the site can be accessed

by a number of public rights of way. This includes sections of the recreational trails of Calderdale

Way, the Brighouse Boundary Walk and the Bronte Way. These provide access across the wider

landscape to include connections with other routes such as the Kirklees Way-Spen Valley

Heritage Trail. A section of the Brighouse Boundary Walk runs across the highest part of the site

in the vicinity of Cam Lane, providing opportunities to view Brighouse to the west (see Viewpoint

9,) and across the eastern parts of the site up to the rise at Whitaker Pits Wood (see

Viewpoint 10)

Landform

5.13 The wider landscape around Brighouse is effectively shaped by the River Calder and by its

tributaries, which includes Clifton Beck. Brighouse sits within the Calder Valley with the settlement

lying within the valley floor and occupying the alley slopes that rise above the town (Figure 4).

Given the nature of the landform, the site is influenced to varying degrees by its relationship with

the built up area of Brighouse, that is visible within the valley, and the settlements of Hipperholme

and Hove Edge that occupy higher land to the west. The residential edges of Clifton are also

apparent (See Viewpoint 6 and Viewpoint 9)

5.14 The site comprises part of the upper valley landscape above the Clifton Beck and a plateau

of comparatively higher land to the east of Brighouse. The site’s lowest point is on its western edge

at 60m AOD (Above Ordnance Datum) near Clifton Brook. The landform rises steadily, and in

places sharply, up to the village of Thornhills and Thornhills Lane before culminating in a small


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rounded rise within the central part of the site (133m AOD) near Cam Lane. The landform

descends to Jay House Lane (127m AOD) and then into a narrow valley formed by Thornhills Beck.

5.15 The landscape rises to the north of the site at Common End Farm (128m AOD) and at Cherry Hall

(156m AOD) on the elevated A649 that lies on a local ridge. Whitaker Pits Wood (145m AOD)

lies on higher land to the north east with Hartshead Moor Top reaching 169 m AOD.

5.16 To the south of the site, Clifton sits on a small ridge (c106m AOD) above the Calder, before the

landform falls sharply into the Calder valley (c53 AOD).

Landscape Value

5.17 An assessment is made on the value of this landscape. Landscape value can apply to a landscape

area as a whole, or to the individual elements, features and aesthetic or perceptual dimensions

which contribute to the character of the landscape. In all landscapes, there will be variations in the

level of landscape value depending on a number of elements.

5.18 With regards to establishing landscape value, § 5.19 of GLVIA3 notes that:“ A review of existing

landscape designations is usually the starting point in understanding value…” Neither the site nor

the surrounding landscape is subject to a landscape quality designation at either a national or local

level.

5.19 In all landscapes there will be variances in the level of landscape value depending on a number of

factors. GLVIA3 goes onto describe those elements that are generally agreed to influence value

and a review of these is set out below.

Landscape Quality (condition)

5.20 The site is predominantly in agricultural use and is considered to be generally intact in terms of its

fabric. Both the site and the immediate landscape show no marked signs of dereliction, although

the fabric to include boundary features and hedges has clearly been subject to agricultural

practices which includes a number of fragmented boundary hedges. Overall, however, it is

considered that the site and the immediate area is in a moderate to good condition.

Scenic Quality

5.21 The landscape around Brighouse is pleasant and attractive - primarily on account of its landform

character of rising hills and steeper slopes above the Calder Valley.

5.22 For the most part, it is judged that site exudes a pleasant farmland landscape, but not one that is

considered to ‘out of the ordinary’ in landscape terms. There are some attractive landscape

elements within this landscape such as the wooded corridor of dismantled railway near Thornhill

Viaduct, and the narrow valley landscape associated with Thornhill Beck. Views across to

Brighouse and the surrounding hills are another pleasant feature.

Rarity

5.23 It is concluded that site does not contain any particularly unusual landscape features. Whilst

woodland, mature trees and the watercourses of Thornhill Beck and Clifton Beck are clearly of local

value worthy of retention, they are not rare elements within the context of this landscape. Moreover,

and as described later in the report, none of these components would preclude the ability to deliver

well designed high-quality development.


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Representativeness

5.24 The site and the surrounding landscape is considered to be broadly representative of the National

Character Area Profile and the Landscape Character Areas in which it is located. This includes the

following characteristics summarised from the Thornton-Queensbury LCA that are judged to be

pertinent to the site.

• “higher gently undulating ground…”

• “Minor watercourses… creating the rolling landform.”

• “ Field boundaries consisting of a mixture of stone walls, wire fences and hedgerows…

• “…scattered farmsteads with buildings of a traditional local stone vernacular. …mixed in with

more modern buildings of various styles.

• Several A-roads crossing through the landscape” and

• “Numerous trails crossing through the landscape, including the Calderdale Way …and

Brighouse Boundary Walk.

5.25 In addition, some of the characteristics of the Clifton Beck LCA are reflective of the site’s landscape

character in the vicinity of Clifton Brook and the dismantled railway line. These are:

• “Fast flowing, moss and fern-edged streams…

• “Thick broadleaved woodland… ”

• “Small-medium scale pasture fields …along the valley sides,

• The valley becomes densely settled… where it skirts around Brighouse”..

• A secluded, ‘hidden’ and tranquil character created by the incised landform, densely wooded

slopes…

• …Limited views out as a result of the landform and tree cover.

• From the upper slopes, views are funnelled south to include the urban form of Brighouse and

the upland fringes beyond”

Conservation Interest

5.26 The site is not covered by any statutory ecological designation. Whilst providing local wildlife benefit

the framework of watercourses, hedgerows and trees are comparatively widespread elements

within this landscape. As discussed later within the report, those elements defined as being part of

the Wildlife Habitat Network can be utilised as key elements of a proposed green infrastructure

strategy.

5.27 The site contains no Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings or Conservation Areas. Heritage

assets in the local landscape include the adjacent Grade II Listed Woolrow Farmhouse and Listed

Buildings clustered around Birkhouse Farm to the north.


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Recreation Value

5.28 Sections of the recreational routes Calderdale Way, Brighouse Boundary Walk and the Bronte Way

cross the site. These all appear to be well used recreational routes – part of a wider and extensive

network of routes across the landscape that also includes the Kirklees Way- Spen Valley Heritage

Trail.

5.29 Welholme Park, that lies outside the site, provides a large area of accessible recreational space,

whilst to the east of the site is the extensive Willow Valley Golf Course.

Perceptual Aspects

5.30 The urban area of Brighouse and the A643 and the A649 have, to varying degrees, an influence

on this landscape that affects levels of tranquillity. There are, however, degrees of tranquillity within

the site away from these urban influences -as would be expected. This includes along Thornhills

Beck Lane for example.

Associations

5.31 The site is not subject to any specific cultural associations in terms of significant artists or writers,

nor any notable events in history.

Landscape Value

5.32 Having examined the above factors and using a word scale of high, medium and low, it is concluded

that the site and its immediate context is of medium landscape value. Whilst it has some value, like

all landscapes, the site lies outside of the “most important landscapes of the Borough” that are of

higher value. Overall, whilst it is pleasant and in places attractive - like much of the wider landscape

around Brighouse - it is considered the site has no pronounced sense of scenic quality, tranquillity

or wildness such that it sets it apart.

5.33 The site contains some landscape assets, as one would expect within this landscape. These

features are predominantly focused within the western parts of the site. These do not constrain the

ability in which to deliver the development and can be readily encompassed within a comprehensive

green infrastructure strategy.

VISUAL AMENITY

5.34 The baseline visual study includes an understanding of the area in which the site may be visible. It

explores the groups of people who may experience views and the nature of these views. The

interaction of landform, settlements and vegetation determines the extent of visibility across the

landscape. An analysis of the site’s visual envelope (i.e. the area in which the site may be visible)

and the availability of views has been undertaken in parallel with the landscape character analysis.

Visual Receptors and Viewpoints

5.35 Visual Receptors include: residents; users of public rights of way; users of open spaces and

recreational facilities; highways users and people at their place of work. In general, residents and

rights of way users are normally of higher susceptibility (sensitivity) to change, although the

surrounding context can in some cases have a bearing on susceptibility.

5.36 A series of initial photographs have been taken to help demonstrate representative views for visual

receptors within this landscape and to aid the descriptions of landscape character. Further

photographs would be undertaken as part of a LVIA to demonstrate varying degrees of visibility for


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receptors and this will assist in the judgements on the likely visual effects of the Proposed

Development.

Residents

5.37 There are a number residential properties within the site and this includes residents within

Thornhills (See Viewpoint 4), together with individual properties and farmsteads at Jay House

Farm, Green Farm, Pondwell Lodge, Cock Walk Farm, and Hole Bottom Farm.

5.38 Residential properties border the site on the edge of Clifton along the A643 (Clifton Common), and

at Edward Street, Victoria Avenue, Linden Close and Birch Close. Viewpoint 5 taken near Birch

Lane provides a representative view looking across the site: illustrating that these receptors have

views of Brighouse. Given their location, all of these receptors (residents) afford views of the site

as well as the surrounding local landscape. The nature of the landform is such that many of the

residents within the site have views of the built up area of Brighouse and the wider rising landscape

to the west. Viewpoint 5 and 8 taken from Thornhills Lane provide an example of this.

5.39 There are also views back towards the western parts of the site from Brighouse with residential

receptors having views of the rising slopes up to Thornhill Lane. Views of the site are also

experienced for properties and farmsteads at Common End Farm and Lower Birkhouse Farm,

albeit these tend to be restricted to views of the sloping fields up to Thornhills Lane rather than the

wider site.

Rights of Way Users

5.40 Users of the rights of way experience close range views of the site and the surrounding landscape.

Depending on their location and context, these receptors also experience views of the built-up area

of Brighouse (see Viewpoint 6, from the Calderdale Way). As they move through the landscape

these receptors often have an awareness of moving through a landscape that lies close to edge of

Brighouse and Clifton. This is less so along Clough Lane and the section of Bronte Way that runs

through the site to the east. (Viewpoints 12 and 14 Figures).

Highway Users

5.41 Highway users that are travelling past the site along the A643 or along Jay House Lane, Thornhills

Beck Lane and Thornhiils Lane experience transient views of the site and the landscape.

5.42 These receptors afford close range views of the site although the actual level of visibility varies.

More open views are experienced for highway users travelling on the A643 (Viewpoint 13) whilst

along Thornhills Beck Lane visibility is restricted and obscured by a combination of rising land and

vegetation (see Viewpoint 16)

5.43 Moving along Thornhills Lane there are views of the site as well views across to Brighouse.

(Viewpoints 4-5). From Jay House Lane, in the general vicinity of Jay House Farm, there are more

open and distant views across the landscape (Viewpoint 2-3). All of these receptors are of lower

sensitivity.


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Summary

5.44 Clear views of the site are broadly limited to localised visual receptors. These being receptors within

the site itself such as residents in Thornhills and users of the rights of way. There are also views

for those receptors within the immediate context. This includes residents on the edge of Clifton and

those within Brighouse. Road users, to include those travelling through the site on Thornhills Lane

and Jay House Lane, have transient views of the site.

5.45 The rise in the landform within the vicinity at Cherry Hall and at Harthead Moor Top forms a local

ridge that effectively contains the site from the much wider landscape to the north and east. The

character of the landform is such that it falls from this ridge towards the Calder Valley and, as a

consequence, much of the site is oriented towards the built up area of Brighouse that lies within

the valley. Where parts of the site are visible from higher vantage points to the west and south of

Brighouse, where the land rises above the Calder Valley, the site - and development upon it -would

observed within the context of the wider built up area of Brighouse that is visible.

6.0 DESIGN APPROACH- POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

6.1 The nature of landscape sensitivity takes into account the susceptibility to change8 arising from

proposed development, alongside a judgment on value. It is reasonable to conclude that in all

landscapes there will be variances in sensitivity to change, depending on the receptor’s landscape

character and value, and the type of change that would occur, together with the scale and

magnitude of this change.

6.2 Whilst any new built development upon the site would likely result in a high magnitude of landscape

and visual change due to the introduction of built development upon it - indeed any built

development on existing green fields is likely to have impacts of this nature - this is tempered by

the fact that the site is influenced and associated to varying degrees with the built-up area of

Brighouse that lies within the valley and on the valley slopes. Built development sited on the valley

slopes orientated towards the town would not be an uncharacteristic feature within this landscape.


masterplan that includes a comprehensive green infrastructure strategy and a perimeter landscape

framework of planting and new habitats it is considered that this landscape is potentially tolerant of

change, and has the capacity to absorb well-designed and well-planned development in the form

of a “Garden Suburb” presented by the draft allocation.

6.4 As part of any potential planning application, design and mitigation measures would be developed

and adopted as part of the masterplanning process. This would ensure that the location, layout and

disposition of built uses are sensitively assimilated into the landscape so that the impact and

consequential effects on landscape and visual receptors is minimised.

6.5 Building upon the “Garden Suburb” vision, it is anticipated that a 'ground up' landscape led

masterplanning approach would be the preferred starting point to help shape the masterplan. This

would ensure that the site’s principal assets (i.e. Thornhills, Thornhills Beck and its valley, steeply

sloping fields, woodland, mature trees, ecological features, and the lanes and rights of way) are

sensitively retained and form the basis in which to guide the location of the development parcels.

8 The ability of the landscape receptor to accommodate proposed development without undue consequences for the maintaining the

baseline situation and/or the achievement of landscape planning polices and strategies.{GLVIA3]


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6.6 The conservation of existing landscape features would underpin the scheme’s wider green

infrastructure strategy. These features can be suitably expanded and enhanced by a variety of

additional habitats such as new woodland planting and accessible greenspace. This would define

logical built development parcels and provide a broad framework of landscape habitats to

assimilate development within the landscape.

Green Infrastructure

6.7 The creation of a multifunctional green infrastructure would perform a range of benefits for

landscape and biodiversity, water and drainage, sports and recreation, health and well-being and

climate change. This would be focussed upon the conservation of the site’s landscape features

that are of particular value as well as the delivery of compensatory habitats to provide mitigation

for any disruption and losses. New areas of greenspace and habitat creation in the form of new

green infrastructure would provide overall enhancement.

6.8 The green infrastructure could, for example, include the provision of parks and open space that

would connect with the railway corridor, Welhome Park and the various recreational trails. Space

could be provided for allotments and community food growing areas to embrace the “Garden

Suburb” vision. The planting of new broadleaved woodland, species rich hedgerows and the

creation of various species rich grassland habitats can also be delivered.

6.9 A key part of the strategy would be to ensure that areas of greenspace, overlapping woodland,

trees and hedgerows are established around the perimeter of the layout. This includes the site’s

eastern fringes where it borders Jay House Lane, and alongside key landscape assets such as

Thornhills Beck. This would provide an appropriate and sensitive relationship between built

development and the surrounding landscape.

6.10 The following provide a series of guiding principles for development.

1) To accord with the aspirations for green infrastructure and good design contained

within the NPPF and to embrace the emerging policies within the Local Plan. This

includes draft policies G1, G2 (green infrastructure) and G4 (landscape character).

2) To develop and deliver sensitive and well-designed design and landscape strategies

that address the development’s relationship with particular components within the site

such as the built character and setting of Thornhills, the watercourse of Thornhills Beck

and its associated valley, and public rights of way.

3) To establish a 'ground up' landscape led masterplan, whereby the site’s established

landscape features are conserved within broad areas of greenspace, and which form the

starting point for the design and the masterplan layout;

4) To minimise impacts upon landscape character and visual amenity by establishing a

green infrastructure framework that:

a) protects, conserves and enhances landscape features of particular value;

b) delivers compensatory landscape features to provide appropriate mitigation for any

loss or disruption as a consequence of the introduction of built development and

infrastructure;

c) introduces a variety of new habitats and landscape features to provide long term

enhancements;


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d) to ‘soften’ and filter views of built development through the use of new planting, and

to establish appropriate development ‘setbacks’ from sensitive visual receptors

through new greenspce;

e) to utilise existing viewing points across the valley and to expand on these through

the design exercise.

5) Ensuring that the development’s green infrastructure is multifunctional in its design and

management so that it performs a range of functions, to include benefits for recreation,

biodiversity, drainage and climate change;

6) To establish a variety of interconnected new habitats that can provide long term

biodiversity benefits;

7) To sub-divide and contain the built development through the means of greenspace

corridors. By utilising the landform, woodland, trees and rights of way, these

greenspace corridors would protect features of value as well as establishing

interconnected wildlife habitats and new walking and cycling routes;

8) To deliver easily accessible recreational space for the new and wider community with

new parks, sports and open space for healthy active living.

9) To conserve and expand upon the existing rights of way within the site (e.g Calderdale

Way, Brighouse Boundary Walk, Bronte Way). These can be accommodated within

greenspace corridors forming key features of the masterplan.

10) To establish a well-designed perimeter landscape that provide an appropriate and

sensitive interface between the built development and the surrounding countryside.

11) To minimise impacts on sensitive visual receptors through a well-considered

masterplan. This would address, amongst other things, the location of built

development within the site; the scale, mass and height of new buildings; and the use

of greenspace and planting to ‘soften’ and filter views of built development;

12) To explore opportunities in which to ‘green’ the built environment with the use, for

example, of street trees, landscaped streets, village greens, and the inclusion of native

shrubs, hedges and trees for gardens as part of the “Garden Suburb” vision

13) To ensure that there is an appropriate mechanism in place so that the long-term

maintenance and management of the green infrastructure can either be adopted by the

Local Authority or by a landscape management company.

6.11 Though the analysis of the baseline landscape character and visual amenity, these guiding

principles - which can clearly be developed further - are considered to be an appropriate and

sensitive design response that would minimise impacts of development on landscape character

and visual amenity as well as seeking to deliver overall enhancements.


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7.0 SUMMARY

7.1 Overall, whilst the site is pleasant and, in places, attractive - like much of the wider landscape

around Brighouse - it is judged that the site has no substantive sense of scenic quality and

landscape value such that it sets it apart. Whilst the site contains some landscape assets - as one

would expect within this landscape - these do not preclude the ability in which to deliver

development on the site. Given the overall scale of the site, these features are in fact rather limited

in extent, being predominantly focused within the western parts of the site. In contrast, much of the

central and eastern parts of site beyond Thornhills Lane are of lesser landscape interest.

7.2 The character of the landform is such that the local landscape falls towards the Calder Valley and,

as a consequence, much of the site is oriented towards the valley and the built up area of Brighouse

that lies within it. Where the site is visible from higher vantage points to the west and south of

Brighouse, where the land rises above the Calder Valley, development upon the site would be seen

within the context of the wider built up area of Brighouse.

7.3 Clear views of the site – and consequently any development upon it – are broadly limited to

localised visual receptors. These being receptors within the site itself such as residents in Thornhills

and users of the rights of way. There are also views for those receptors within the local landscape,

to include residents on the edge of Clifton and those within Brighouse. Design and mitigation

measures would be developed and adopted as part of the masterplanning process. This would

ensure that the location, layout and disposition of built uses are sensitively assimilated into the

landscape so that the impact and consequential effects on these visual receptors is minimised.

7.4 Building upon the “Garden Suburb” vision of the draft allocation, a 'ground up' landscape led

approach would ensure that the design has regard to components such as the village of Thornhills;

Thornhills Beck and its valley; woodland, mature trees and ecological features; and the lanes and

rights of way. These elements would help to form a logical network of greenspaces that can help

define and contain the scheme’s built uses. These can then be expanded upon as part of a wider

green infrastructure strategy to ensure that built development is appropriately assimilated into this

landscape.


masterplan that includes a comprehensive green infrastructure strategy that based on conservation

and enhancement, it is considered that the site and the local landscape is potentially tolerant of

change and has the capacity in which to absorb new development as presented by the draft

allocation.


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Thornhills Lane,Brighouse

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Figure 1 -

SITE CONTEXT

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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

K:\8300\8369\LANDS\LVIA\8369 Fig 1 Site Context.indd

This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.

Ordnance Survey material - Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence Number: 100019980 (Centremapslive.com)

LP1463 (Draft Allocation)

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Thornhills

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ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGNATIONS

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Registered Parks & Gardens(Kirklees Park)

Scheduled Monuments

Listed Buildings

Green Belt (Revised)

Special Landscape Area Policy Number: GN4

Local Wildlife Site

Wildlife Habitat Network

Calderdale Local Plan (Initial Draft) October 2017

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40m - 50m AOD

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Calderdale District

Kirklees District

Bradford District

Note: National Character Area (NCA) 37: Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe covers all mapping extents shown.

Calderdale District Landscape Character Assessment and Review of Special Landscape Area Designation - October 2016

Kirklees District Landscape Character Assessment - July 2015

South Bradford Landscape Character Supplementary Planning Document - October 2008

Rural Fringes (LCT)

Barkisland - Holywell Green (LCA)

Batley - Dewsbury Rural Fringes (LCA)

Shibden Valley (LCA)

Clifton Beck (LCA)

Thornton - Queensbury (LCA)

Calder Valley Floor (LCA)

Batley Fringe Incised Valleys (LCA)

Wooded Rural Valleys (LCT)

Wooded Rural Valleys (LCT)

Industrial/Business Parks (LCT)

Enclosed Pasture (LCT)

Coalfield Edge Urban Fringe Farmland (LCT)

Industrial Lowland Valleys (LCT)

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 1: View from A643 Highmoor Lane

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 2: View from Jay House Lane

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Green FarmResidential properties at Kinfold

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 3: View from Jay House Lane

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 4: View from Thornhills Lane, Thornhill

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 5: View from Thornhills Lane, Near Cock Walk Farm

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 6: View from Calderdale Way off Thornhills Lane

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 7: View from Thornhills Lane near Calderdale Way

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 8: View from Thornhills Lane

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 9: View from Brighouse boundary walk. Looking North West

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 10: View from Brighouse boundary walk looking North East

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White Acre Farm


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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 11: View from Brighouse boundary walk looking south

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 12: View from Bronte Way

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 13: View from A643 (Highmoor Lane) Near Jay House Lane

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 14: View from Clough Lane (Public Footpath)

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 16: View from Jay House Lane west of Jay House Farm

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 17: View from Thornhills Lane west of Hole Bottom Farm

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 18: View from Thornhills Beck Lane, near dismantled railway corridor

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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 19: View from public footpath

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 20: View from Thornhills Lane

Dismantled Railway Brighouse Thornhill Beck Valley


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PHOTO VIEWPOINT 21: View from A649 (Birkby Lane) near Cherry Hall

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Appendix A Landscape and Visual Appraisal – Methodology and Assessment Criteria

Introduction

The methodology for the Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) undertaken for the proposed development is detailed in the LVA report. The following information should be read in conjunction with this methodology.

As advised in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (3rd Edition) (GLVIA3), the judgements made in respect of both landscape and visual effects are a combination of an assessment of the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of the landscape or visual effect. The following details the definitions and criteria used in assessing sensitivity and magnitude for landscape and visual receptors.

Where it is determined that the assessment falls between or encompasses two of the defined criteria terms, then the judgement may be described as High/ Medium or Moderate/ Minor etc. This indicates that the assessment lies between the respective definitions or encompasses aspects of both.

Landscape

Landscape Sensitivity

Landscape receptors are assessed in terms of their ‘Landscape Sensitivity’. This combines judgements on the value to be attached to the landscape and the susceptibility to change of the landscape from the type of change or development proposed. The definition and criteria adopted for these contributory factors is detailed below.

There can be complex relationships between the value attached to landscape receptors and their susceptibility to change which can be especially important when considering change within or close to designated landscapes. For example, an internationally, nationally or locally valued landscape does not automatically or by definition have a high susceptibility to all types of change. The type of change or development proposed may not compromise the specific basis for the value attached to the landscape.

Landscape Value

Value can apply to a landscape area as a whole, or to the individual elements, features and aesthetic or perceptual dimensions which contribute to the character of the landscape. The following criteria have been used to categorise landscape value. Where there is no clear existing evidence on landscape value, an assessment is made based on the criteria/ factors identified below (based on the guidance in GLVIA3 paragraph 5.28, Box 5.1).

• Landscape quality (condition) • Conservation interest • Scenic quality • Recreation value • Rarity • Perceptual aspects • Representativeness • Associations

Landscape Value Definition

High Landscape receptors of high importance based upon factors of quality, rarity,

representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities

and associations.

Medium Landscape receptors of medium importance based upon factors of quality, rarity,


and associations.

Low

Landscape receptors of low importance based upon factors of quality, rarity,


and associations.

Landscape Susceptibility to Change

This means the ability of the landscape receptor (overall character type/ area or individual element/ feature) to accommodate the proposed development without undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline position and/ or the achievement of landscape planning policies and strategies. The definition and criteria for the assessment of Landscape Susceptibility to Change is as follows:

Landscape Susceptibility to Change

Definition

High A highly distinctive and cohesive landscape receptor, with positive characteristics and

features and no or very few detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features

intact and in very good condition and/ or rare. Limited capacity to accept the type of

change/ development proposed.

Medium Distinctive and more commonplace landscape receptor, with some positive

characteristics/ features and some detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape

features in moderate condition. Capacity to accept well planned and designed

change/ development of the type proposed.

Low

Landscape receptor of mixed character with a lack of coherence and including

detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features that may be in poor or improving

condition and few that could not be replaced.

Greater capacity to accept the type of change/ development proposed.

Magnitude of Landscape Effects

The magnitude of landscape effects is the degree of change to the landscape receptor in terms of its size or scale of change, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. The table below sets out the categories and criteria adopted in respect of the separate considerations of Scale or Size of the Degree of Change and Reversibility. The geographical extent and duration of change are described where relevant in the appraisal.

Scale or Size of the Degree of Landscape Change

Scale or Size of the Degree of Landscape Change

Definition

High Total loss of or substantial alteration to key characteristics / features and the

introduction of new elements totally uncharacteristic to the receiving landscape.

Overall landscape receptor will be fundamentally changed.

Medium Partial loss of or alteration to one or more key characteristics / features and the

introduction of new elements that would be evident but not necessarily

uncharacteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be

obviously changed.

Low

Limited loss of, or alteration to one or more key characteristics/ features and the

introduction of new elements evident and/ or characteristic to the receiving

landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be perceptibly changed.

Negligible

Very minor alteration to one or more key characteristics/ features and the

introduction of new elements characteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall

landscape receptor will be minimally changed.

None No loss or alteration to the key characteristics/ features, representing ‘no

change’.

Reversibility

Reversibility

Definition

Irreversible The development would be permanent and the assessment site could not be

returned to its current/ former use.

Reversible The development could be deconstructed/ demolished and the assessment site

could be returned to broadly its current/ historic use (although that may be subject

to qualification depending on the nature of the development).

Visual

Sensitivity of Visual Receptors

Visual sensitivity assesses each visual receptor in terms of their susceptibility to change in views and visual amenity and also the value attached to particular views. The definition and criteria adopted for these contributory factors is detailed below.

Visual Susceptibility to Change

The susceptibility of different visual receptors to changes in views and visual amenity is mainly a function of; firstly, the occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at particular locations; and secondly, the extent to which their attention or interest may therefore be focussed on the views and visual amenity they experience.

Visual Susceptibility to Change

Definition

High Residents at home with primary views from ground floor/garden and upper floors.

Public rights of way/ footways where attention is primarily focussed on the landscape

and on particular views.

Visitors to heritage assets or other attractions whose attention or interest is likely to be

focussed on the landscape and/ or on particular views.

Communities where views make an important contribution to the landscape setting

enjoyed by residents.

Travellers on recognised scenic routes.

Medium Residents at home with secondary views (primarily from first floor level).

Public rights of way/ footways where attention is not primarily focussed on the

landscape and/ or particular views.

Travellers on road, rail or other transport routes.

Low

Users of outdoor recreational facilities where the view is less important to the activities

(e.g. sports pitches).

Travellers on road, rail or other transport where views are primarily focussed on the

transport route.

People at their place of work where views of the landscape are not important to the

quality of the working life.

Value of Views

The value attached to a view takes account of any recognition attached to a particular view and/ or any indicators of the value attached to views, for example through guidebooks or defined viewpoints or references in literature or art.

Value of Views Definition

High A unique or identified view (eg. shown as such on Ordnance Survey map, guidebook

or tourist map) or one noted in literature or art. A view where a heritage asset makes

an important contribution to the view.

Medium A typical and/ or representative view from a particular receptor.

Low An undistinguished or unremarkable view from a particular receptor.

Magnitude of Visual Effects

Magnitude of Visual Effects evaluates each of the visual effects in terms of its size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. The table below sets out the categories and criteria adopted in respect of the Scale or Size (including the degree of contrast) of Visual Change. The distance and nature of the view and whether the view will be permanent or transient are also detailed in the Visual Effects Table.

Scale or Size of the Degree of Visual Change

Definition

High The proposal will result in a large and immediately apparent change in the

view, being a dominant and new and/ or incongruous feature in the landscape.

Medium The proposal will result in an obvious and recognisable change in the view and

will be readily noticed by the viewer.

Low

The proposal will constitute a minor component of the wider view or a more

recognisable component that reflects those apparent in the existing view.

Awareness of the proposals will not have a marked effect on the overall nature

of the view.

Negligible/ None

Only a very small part of the proposal will be discernible and it will have very

little or no effect on the nature of the view.

Level of Effect

The final conclusions on effects, whether adverse or beneficial, are drawn from the separate judgements on the sensitivity of the receptors and the magnitude of the effects. This overall judgement is formed from a reasoned professional overview of the individual judgements against the assessment criteria.

GLVIA3 notes, at paragraphs 5.56 and 6.44, that there are no hard and fast rules with regard to the level of effects, therefore the following descriptive thresholds have been used for this appraisal:

• Major: A Major landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Moderate: A Moderate landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Minor: A Minor landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Negligible: A Negligible landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change.

Where it is determined that the assessment falls between or encompasses two of the defined criteria terms, then the judgement may be described as, for example, Major/ Moderate or Moderate/ Minor. This indicates that the effect is assessed to lie between the respective definitions or to encompass aspects of both.

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Landscape Character & Visual Amenity - Calderdale€¦ · Landscape Character & Visual Amenity 4 fpcr 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This is a Landscape Character and Visual Amenity prepared