Ashfield District Council Employment Landscape Site ...€¦ · Sherwood Business Park can be seen...

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Ashfield District Council Employment Landscape Site Assessment Methodology and score sheet This assessment has been carried out to identify and evaluate the potential landscape and visual effects development would have on the site. Site name Land adjacent Junction 27, M1 Site address Land adjacent Junction 27, M1 Kirkby in Ashfield Site reference no: K11 Site Ha 8.52 Ha Date of Site Assessment 31/12/2015 Viewpoint location Revision 3

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View 1 – Looking northwards over the arable field towards Huthwaite, the Coop distribution centre next to the M1 and the Derbyshire hills. View north eastwards to St Marys Church in Sutton, Kirkby and eastwards towards the telecom tower on Derby Road. The tops of the units on Sherwood Business Park can be seen across the tree cover.

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View 2 – Looking northwards over the arable field towards Huthwaite, the Coop distribution centre next to the M1 and the Derbyshire hills. View north eastwards to St Marys Church in Sutton, Kirkby and eastwards towards the telecom tower on Derby Road. The tops of the units on Sherwood Business Park can be seen across the tree cover. Additional view westwards over the M1

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View 3 – Looking west from the top of the bank. Flat arable field which slopes down to the business park. Distant view towards Huthwaite and the Coop distribution centre. View not available from the access road as the site is at a higher elevation.

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View 4 – Looking northwest from the traffic island on the A608. The overhead power cables and the corner tree planting can be seen along with the hedgerow boundary to the site.

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View 5 – Looking south from the road island within the business park. Site slopes down towards the road. Tree planting and small telecom tower is shown in the corner.

View 6 – Looking south from Willow Drive over business units. Southern edge of site is visible on the skyline.

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Section 1: Overview of Strategic and Local Context

Section 1A Overview of Strategic Context – Reference Documents

Document Title Document Overview Desk Based Review and Appraisal Natural England (formerly Countryside Agency) – Character Map of England

The Countryside Character initiative mapped England into 159 separate, distinctive character areas on a national scale. The assessment provides a broad contextual understanding and description covering an extensive landscape area within which the site is located. It establishes the underlying characteristics of the wider landscape.

The Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield is an area that has seen great change over the past few centuries. The impact of widespread industrialisation and development on the landscape and settlement pattern within the National Character Area (NCA) is clear, influencing the visual and ecological landscape. A generally low-lying area, with hills and escarpments above wide valleys, the landscape embraces major industrial towns and cities as well as villages and countryside. Over half of the NCA (64 per cent) is currently designated as greenbelt land; this maintains some distinction between settlements and represents areas that are often under pressure for development and changes in land use. Very little of the NCA is designated for geology or nature conservation, but instead the landscape is dotted with many pockets and patches of habitat where species find refuge. This is often on land that was once worked for minerals or occupied by major industry, and as these enterprises have declined the land they once dominated has opened up with opportunities to create a new landscape which will continue to provide a strong sense of place for local populations. The large populations of the towns and cities within the NCA mean that there will be opportunities to better engage people with the natural and historical environment, creating new access and recreational openings that deliver a better quality of life while also

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helping people and wildlife to adapt to a changing climate. Rivers and waterways are an important feature in the landscape, often linking rural and urban areas and increasingly providing green corridors and tranquil settings for both people and wildlife.

Greater Nottingham Landscape Character Assessment (2009) (GNLCA)

The landscape character assessment covers the landscape of Greater Nottingham and was undertaken to inform the preparation of local authorities Local Plans. The assessment focuses on the rural landscape and areas bordering urban areas. It does not include an assessment of the character of towns or villages. It does however make reference to how settlements integrate with the surrounding landscape and any key elements or distinctive characteristics of settlements where they are evident within the landscape. The assessment identifies 79 Draft Policy Zones (DPZ’s) which are considered to have a unique and distinctive character. The site will fit into one of these DPZ’s.

Draft Policy Zone (DPZ)

The DPZ identifies the characteristic features of the zone’s landform, land use, vegetation type, building type/materials, settlement form and main views. ML019 Kirkby Quarry, Portland Park and Rise Hill

CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES

An area strongly associated with limestone quarrying south of Kirkby in Ashfield and west of Annesley Woodhouse Landform is disturbed in part by current and past quarrying activity, where quarrying has ceased land has been restored Landform is typically strongly undulating with steep slopes in places. Slopes are often more uniform on areas of restored land Landscape is influenced by many urban elements and has a predominantly urban fringe character Small watercourses are localised features on low ground at the base of slopes

Watercourses are typically characterised by woodland, rough grassland and scrub at the margins

Land use at Annesley Woodhouse quarry comprises associated workings with water bodies and bare ground

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Outside the quarry, land use is a mixture of agriculture, recreational land, woodland and scrub

Portland Park is a recreational area and important for wildlife

Pockets of naturally regenerated scrub and gorse on steeper slopes are common

Field pattern is modified and of modern origin and not present within the quarry and Portland Park

Fields towards the edges of the DPZ are irregular in size and shape. Fields at Rise Hill are medium sized and irregular in shape Field boundaries are mostly hedges; occasional timber fences are present Views are typically enclosed by landform, with longer and more open views possible from higher ground Overhead lines and pylons are prominent built features

Motorway and moving traffic are urbanising features visible to the south west There is a prominent individual high point at Rise Hill with adjacent more low-lying open farmland

Overall character is influenced by urban fringes of Annesley and Kirkby in Ashfield

Urbanising elements are frequent in the landscape and notable at settlement edges

Prominent roofline on high ground at Nuncargate south of Portland Park

Railway line on embankment and new housing development are prominent to the north east of Portland Park and Rise Hill

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Section 1B Appraisal of Strategic Context - GNLCA

GNLCA Category GNLCA Notes Desk Based Review and Appraisal of GNLCA

Landscape Condition

A judgement is made by consideration of state or intactness of landscape features, elements and characteristics and how these combine to inform a positive visual impression. This includes elements such as hedgerows, woodlands, field pattern, urban influences, infrastructure and restored landscapes. Judgements of condition are made as to how identified characteristics positively influence the appearance of the landscape. A three point scale is used to make judgements: Good Condition Features are well managed and are almost always intact and of consistent quality. The agricultural land is well managed and features are intact with little sign of decline. Moderate Condition Features are mostly well managed although in places there is evidence of decline in management and loss of features such as some fragmented hedgerows or dilapidated walls. Poor Condition Few features are intact or well managed. Loss or decline of features is frequent. Boundaries such as hedgerows are rarely intact and other boundaries are often of variable style and condition. Such elements combine to give an untidy or disjointed appearance to the landscape.

A strongly undulating landscape interrupted and influenced by quarrying and extraction industry. Where quarrying activity has ceased areas have been remediated and restored largely as natural recreation areas. There are limestone outcrops and gorse scrub at Annesley Woodhouse Quarry SSSI. The area comprises many urbanising features and adjoins development in most directions. The area adjoins Kirkby Vales character area to the north which is more rural in nature. Land use is a mix of quarry, woodland, arable farming and pasture. Fields vary in size throughout the area with the majority being irregular in shape and pattern. As much of the area is restored land, farmland has a modern field pattern. Field boundaries are typically hedges although these are often fragmented and replaced by fencing closer to urban fringes. Woodland comprises large irregular blocks of predominantly broadleaved woodland which is infrequent in the landscape, Although where present it is a prominent and a defining feature. The largest is an irregular shaped woodland block at Portland Park on the northern edge of the area. The landscape condition varies from POOR to MODERATE within area. Where present hedgerows are generally intact with some localised fragmentation. Woodland typically is immature or developing having regenerated on disrupted land and forms part of recreation or nature conservation sites which are well managed.

Landscape Character

Strength of character is determined by a range of criteria:

An assessment of how characteristic features and elements combine to form a sense of place;

Extraction industry has influenced and remodelled much of this landscape. Disturbed or modified ground is a prominent feature. Where land has been restored or has naturally re-colonised‘ natural’ areas have

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How distinctive and recognisable are the pattern of elements that make up the character, including both positive and negative elements;

Presence and quantity of distinctive features; Identification of landscapes containing historic patterns and features which may have declined or become fragmented thereby weakening character but which could be reinstated.

A three point scale is used to make judgements as to strength of character: Strong Character Strong character is defined as a consistent distribution of distinctive characteristics such as rock outcrops, hills, river floodplain, and woodland. These characteristics combine to create a strongly distinctive sense of place. Minor changes in land use or land cover would not necessarily detrimentally influence character. Moderate Character Distinctive characteristics are consistent though the area although their distribution is less obvious or less frequent. The landscape still has a recognisable and distinctive character although it could be altered or weakened through minor changes in land use or land cover. Weak Character A landscape where features and patterns are present which help to define character, however, there are often numerous influences none of which are overriding and many features show signs of alteration or decline. Even minor changes in land use or land cover could have a marked influence on the character of the area.

resulted which are important for recreation and ecology. Undulating land and sharp changes in level are notable and often restrict views. Urban fringes, railway and motorway on embankment also restrict or enclosure views. Views from Portland Park and immediate surroundings are enclosed by woodland, Rise Hill and development on the fringe of Annesley Woodhouse on a ridgeline. The strength of landscape character is POOR. Some features are distinctive but these have only a localised effect. Features are typically scattered and inconsistent across the landscape. The pattern of agriculture is in pockets and at the edges of the area and the landscape is influenced by many urbanising features.

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Using the Landscape Condition and the Landscape Strength judgements, the matrix below shows how the DPZ categories of actions are worked out. The action detail is specific to each DPZ. LANDSCAPE STRATEGY MATRIX

Good Landscape Condition

MODERATE Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD Conserve and Enhance

GOOD Conserve

Moderate Landscape Condition

POOR – MODERATE Enhance and Restore

MODERATE Enhance


Poor Landscape Condition

POOR Restore/ Create


MODERATE Enhance

Weak landscape Strength

Moderate Landscape Strength

Strong Landscape Strength

Highlight/ circle score for landscape strategy Good - 5 points Moderate - Good - 4 points Moderate - 3 points Poor - Moderate – 2 points Poor - 1 point

The strategic categories used in the assessment for landscape quality in the GNLCA document are: Conserve: where the landscape quality is considered to be good (due to good condition and strong character) and there should be an emphasis on protecting or safeguarding the key features and characteristics of the landscape in their present form. Enhance: emphasis should be to improve existing features which may not be currently well-managed or where existing features are of good quality but could be of greater benefit if improved. This may include improvements to landscape management practices or the introduction or removal of elements or features in order to strengthen character and/or improve perceived condition. Restore: emphasis should be on repairing or re-establishing features that have been lost or are in a state of severe decline. Create: where the landscape quality is poor (due to poor condition and weak character) and the original landscape pattern is no longer evident. In such places there is a need to form new and different landscapes. An example of this is a landscape which has been heavily influenced by quarrying and industry, field pattern and features are no longer evident and the restored land has altered the land form.

Strategic Context Score (Section 1B)

Score 2 /5

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Section 1C Overview of Local Context – Reference Documents (can be added to)

Document Title Notes Desk Based Review and Appraisal

ADC Local Plan

Note if there are any saved policies relevant to the site.

Under the Ashfield Local Plan Review 2002 (Saved Policies) the site is located in the Green Belt (Policy EV1) and is defined as being located outside the main urban areas and named settlements (Policy ST4). Adjacent to the site is a Local Wildlife Site (Policy EV6/40)

ADC Green Infrastructure Technical Paper

Considers the “bigger picture” in terms of how green spaces work together and form strategic networks.

Site Designation: Note any strategic corridor designation relevant to the site.

Actions: Refer to any strategic corridor enhancement actions relevant to the site

Look at the map in the technical paper to see if it links in with green corridors

The site is identified in the Green Infrastructure & Biodiversity Technical Paper, 2013 as being adjacent to a District Strategic Corridor running from Pinxton to Thieves Wood (GI-8).

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Section 2 – Site Analysis: Landscape Context and Character Section 2A Identify the baseline condition and character of the landscape

Description Notes Site Assessment Describe the site

Where the site is located/ off which named roads. General description of the site e.g. farmland with hedgerows/ hedgerow trees. Topography - flat/ undulating/ valleys/ plateau Boundaries

The site is located off Junction 27 of the M1 and the A608 Mansfield Road. The site is arable farmland with hedgerows, some hedgerow trees and areas of tree planting. Electricity lines on timber poles cross the southern part of the site and there is a small telecommunications mast at the northern corner. The site is relatively level over the southern part but slopes down towards the northern boundary. Post and rail fencing forms the eastern boundary to the site.

Describe the landscape surrounding the site

General description of the site e.g. farmland with hedgerows/ hedgerow trees. Topography - flat/ undulating/ valleys/ plateau Boundaries Setting - what land uses border the site (east/ west/ north/ south)

The landscape surrounding the site consists of the strategic road network of the M1, the A608 and the infrastructure roads for the Sherwood Business Park. Sherwood Business Park is to the north and east. To the south of the A608 is arable farmland with hedgerows, woodland plantations and trees which comprise the setting for Annesley Hall and Park. The topography slopes down to the M1 and the undulating landscape towards Bagthorpe. The land rises in the north towards Huthwaite.

Condition Notes Site Assessment Describe the landscape condition of the site

Refer to the site’s GNLCA relevant DPZ for guidance and use as a checklist. Make a judgement as to the condition of the landscape (Good/ Moderate or Poor). Use the guidance notes in section 1B above. For info. – Hedgerows

Good condition - very few gaps, evidence of management - e.g. is it kept to a reasonable height, hasn’t been allowed to ‘grow out’.

Highlight/ circle Good / Moderate / Poor The site has a defined boundaries with the field in good condition. The areas of tree planting within the site require management.

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Poor condition - a lot of gaps, hedgerow has not been managed and has ‘grown out’.

Describe the condition of the landscape surrounding the site

Refer to the site’s GNLCA relevant DPZ for guidance and use as a checklist. Make a judgement as to the condition of the landscape surrounding the site (Good/ Moderate or Poor). Use the guidance notes in section 1B above. For info – Hedgerows

Good condition - very few gaps, evidence of management - e.g. is it kept to a reasonable height, hasn’t been allowed to ‘grow out’.

Poor condition - a lot of gaps, hedgerow has not been managed and has ‘grown out’.

The condition of the landscape surrounding the site is moderate to poor, due to the effect to the adjacent M1. The business park is maintained to a good standard with buildings in good repair. The farmland to the south of the A608 is in moderate condition.

Character/strength Notes Site Assessment

Identify any significant features of the site that contribute to the surrounding landscape character, the site’s setting and the relevant DPZ

Refer to the site’s GNLCA relevant DPZ for guidance and use as a checklist to see if the site has any of the key characteristics/ strengths. Use the guidance notes in section 1B above. Make a judgement as to the strength of character of the site (Strong/ Moderate/ Weak)

Highlight/ circle Strong / Moderate / Weak The site is agricultural with tree planting. It is irregular in size and shape. The field boundaries are hedges with timber fences. Views are enclosed by landform, with longer and more open views .Overhead lines are prominent built features

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Identify any significant features of the landscape around the site that contribute to the site’s setting and the relevant DPZ

Refer to the site’s GNLCA relevant DPZ for guidance and use as a checklist to see if the landscape around the site has any of the key characteristics/ strengths. Use the guidance notes in section 1B above. Make a judgement as to the strength of character of the site (Strong/ Moderate/ Weak)

Strength of character of the landscape is Moderate due to the influence of the landscape to the south of the A608. Landscape is influenced by many urban elements and has a predominantly urban fringe character Fields towards the edges of the DPZ are irregular in size and shape. Field boundaries are mostly hedges; occasional timber fences are present Views are typically enclosed by landform, with longer and more open views possible from higher ground Overhead lines and pylons are prominent built features

Motorway and moving traffic are urbanising features visible to the south west .

Using the Landscape Condition and the Landscape Strength judgements for the site, apply the matrix below to give a score for the site being assessed. LANDSCAPE STRATEGY MATRIX

Good Landscape Condition

MODERATE Enhance


GOOD Conserve

Moderate Landscape Condition


MODERATE Enhance


Poor Landscape Condition

POOR Restore/ Create


MODERATE Enhance

Weak landscape Strength

Moderate Landscape Strength

Strong Landscape Strength

Highlight/ circle score (using matrix) Good - 5 points Moderate - Good - 4 points Moderate - 3 points Poor - Moderate – 2 points Poor - 1 point

Site Analysis Score (Section 2A)

Score 3/5

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Section 2B Assess the effect development of the site will have on the landscape as a resource Capacity to accommodate Development

Does the landscape have the capacity to accommodate development? Is there adjacent development that it will form part of? Effect on the landscape – High – total or major alteration to key elements , features or characteristics of the local or wider landscape resource, so that post development the baseline situation will be fundamentally changed. Medium –Partial alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the local or wider landscape resource such that post development the baseline situation will be noticeably changed. Low - Minor alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the local or wider landscape resource such that post development the baseline situation will be largely unchanged, despite discernible differences.

Highlight/ circle score High- 3 points Medium – 2 points Low – 1 point

Openness How open is the site within the landscape?

The southern part of the site due to its raised elevation will be more open than the northern part.

Prominence How prominent will development be in the landscape? Will development require screening? Consider if screening would be effective.

The site will not be prominent within the landscape due to its location next to the existing business park and the road networks.

Presence of existing screening

What types of existing screening are there (buildings/ trees/ road embankments?) Where are they located in relation to the site?

There is existing tree planting on the northern and eastern boundaries. The A608 and the business park infrastructure roads are at a lower level than the site.

Capacity to Accommodate Development Score (Section 2B)

Score 1/3

Section 2C Set the visual baseline

Site Assessment

Identify and describe the illustrative views of the site

From the area surrounding the site. Locations tend to be at publicly accessible locations such as roads, rights of way and public open spaces. Mark the position and number the viewpoints on a plan. Allow 3 to 5 views per site.

Number and describe the direction of the views View 1 – Looking northwards over the arable field towards Huthwaite, the Coop distribution centre next to the M1 and the Derbyshire hills.

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View north eastwards to St Marys Church in Sutton, Kirkby and eastwards towards the telecom tower on Derby Road. The tops of the units on Sherwood Business Park can be seen across the tree cover. View 2 – Looking northwards over the arable field towards Huthwaite, the Coop distribution centre next to the M1 and the Derbyshire hills. View north eastwards to St Marys Church in Sutton, Kirkby and eastwards towards the telecom tower on Derby Road. The tops of the units on Sherwood Business Park can be seen across the tree cover. Additional view westwards over the M1

View 3 – Looking west from the top of the bank. Flat arable field which slopes down to the business park. Distant view towards Huthwaite and the Coop distribution centre. View not available from the access road as the site is at a higher elevation.

View 4 – Looking northwest from the traffic island on the A608. The overhead power cables and the corner tree planting can be seen along with the hedgerow boundary to the site.

View 5 – Looking south from the road island within the business park. Site slopes down towards the road. Tree planting and small telecom tower is shown in the corner.

View 6 – Looking south from Willow Drive over business units. Southern edge of site is visible on the skyline.

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Section 2D Assess the visual effects development of the site will have on receptors

Site Assessment

Identify the categories of people (receptors) who will be affected by changes in views and visual amenity

The five main visual receptor groups are: 1. Residents- tend to have a higher sensitivity to changes in their

landscape than those passing through.

2. Walkers, cyclists, visitors and equestrians- tend to have high sensitivity as they are mainly concerned with the enjoyment of the outdoor environment.

3. Workers- tend to be less sensitive to effects as they are focussed on the tasks they are carrying out.

4. Motorists travelling on the strategic road network in Ashfield– tend to have a low sensitivity as they are focussed on travelling for necessity/ commuting.

5. Motorists travelling on local roads – tend to have a medium to high sensitivity as they could alternatively be travelling for pleasure purposes.

The sensitivity of receptors is primarily dependant on:

The location (how close they are to the site and the context)

The expectations and occupation/ activity of the receptor

The importance of the view which can be determined with respect to its popularity or numbers of people affected; its appearance in guidebooks or on tourist maps etc.

Note anything about a view that is visually important. The main visual receptor groups are:

2. Walkers, cyclists, visitors and

equestrians

3. Workers

5.Motorists travelling on local roads

Describe how development will affect the identified receptors

1. Residents

2. Walkers, cyclists, visitors and equestrians

3. Workers

Refer to the numbered viewpoints. The magnitude of the effect will be influenced by:

The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development and the scale of change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, including the proportion of view occupied by the proposed development.

The degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape with the existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics in terms of form, scale, mass, line, height, colour and texture.

Highlight/ circle score Scores have been weighed based on the sensitivity of the receptor. Residents, walkers, cyclists, visitors, equestrians and local road users - ( x 2) Workers and strategic road network users- ( x 1) 1. Residents High - 6 points Medium - 4 points

Low- 2 point

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4. Motorists

(Strategic road network)

5. Motorists (local

roads)

The magnitude of effect on views can be rated as below-

High – Total or major alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be fundamentally changed

Medium - Partial alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be noticeably changed

Low - Minor alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be noticeably unchanged

2. Walkers, cyclists, visitors and equestrians High - 6 points Medium - 4 points

Low- 2 point

3. Workers High - 3 points Medium - 2 points Low- 1 point 4. Motorists (strategic road network) High - 3 points Medium - 2 points Low- 1 point 5. Motorists (local roads) High - 6 points Medium - 4 points Low- 2 points

Visual Effect on Receptors Score (Section 2D)

Score 5 /24

Score 1- 8 out of 24 = Low score value 1

Score 9-16 out of 24 = Medium value 2

Score 17-24 out of 24 = High score value 3

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Score value 1 /3

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Section 3 – Mitigation

Information Required Notes Site Assessment

Describe the mitigation required for the development

Visual mitigation, existing feature protection and enhancement. Development constraints e.g. restrict to low rise, material choices. Link to the results of B and D sections above

Proposed units with a large mass should be set back from the A608 or located nearer the northern boundary of the site, to avoid being in a prominent position on the southern boundary. Tree planting should be incorporated into the scheme on the north western boundary and to reinforce the southern boundary.

Describe management requirements for mitigation

Add timescales and detail. All existing trees and hedgerows along with new planting should have a 10 year management plan. Full landscape plan with National Plant Specification / British Standard Information to be provided for mitigation scheme.

Overall scores

Section 1B - Strategic Context 2 (max 5)

Section 2A - Site Analysis Score 3 (max 5)

Section 2B - Capacity to Accommodate Development 1 (max 3)

Section 2D - Visual Effect on Receptors 1 (max 3)

TOTAL SCORE 7 ( max 16)

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Ashfield District Council Employment Landscape Site Assessment Methodology and score sheet This assessment has been carried out to identify and evaluate the potential landscape and visual effects development would have on the site. Site name Land off Hamilton Road Site address Land off Hamilton Road, Sutton in Ashfield Site reference no: S6 Site Ha 9.9 Ha Date of Site Assessment 25/11/2015 Viewpoint location Revision 3

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View 1 – Looking North East towards Mansfield over arable field from Road Bridge over railway line. Distant view of Mansfield Town Centre to the north east and Kingsmill Reservoir / Adventure Base to the west. View of housing on the Skegby Lane ridge to the north.

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View 2 – Looking North West from A617 towards Kings Mill Hospital and housing above supermarket on Sutton Road

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View 3 – Panoramic View from West to East - St Mary’s Church in Sutton in Ashfield/ Brierley Forest Park in Huthwaite/ Kingsmill Hospital / Telecom mast on Skegby Lane/ Housing above Supermarket/ Mansfield Town Centre./ mixed urban fringe view in distance. View of Hospital predominates.

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View 4 – Looking west on the Timberland Trail at the junction of Hamilton Way and Hamilton Road. View of undulating green field. Hedgerows and trees on boundary screen further views.

View 5 – View south over the railway line across fields towards Hamilton Hill.

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Section 1: Overview of Strategic and Local Context Section 1 A Overview of Strategic Context – Reference Documents Document Title Document Overview Desk Based Review and Appraisal Natural England (formerly Countryside Agency) – Character Map of England


The Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield is an area that has seen great change over the past few centuries. The impact of widespread industrialisation and development on the landscape and settlement pattern within the National Character Area (NCA) is clear, influencing the visual and ecological landscape. A generally low-lying area, with hills and escarpments above wide valleys, the landscape embraces major industrial towns and cities as well as villages and countryside. Over half of the NCA (64 per cent) is currently designated as greenbelt land; this maintains some distinction between settlements and represents areas that are often under pressure for development and changes in land use. Very little of the NCA is designated for geology or nature conservation, but instead the landscape is dotted with many pockets and patches of habitat where species find refuge. This is often on land that was once worked for minerals or occupied by major industry, and as these enterprises have declined the land they once dominated has opened up with opportunities to create a new landscape which will continue to provide a strong sense of place for local populations. The large populations of the towns and cities within the NCA mean that there will be opportunities to better engage people with the natural and historical environment, creating new access and recreational openings that deliver a better quality of life while also helping people and wildlife to adapt to a changing climate.

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Rivers and waterways are an important feature in the landscape, often linking rural and urban areas and increasingly providing green corridors and tranquil settings for both people and wildlife.




The DPZ identifies the characteristic features of the zone’s landform, land use, vegetation type, building type/materials, settlement form and main views. SH 11 Lindhurst Wooded Farmlands

CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES • • Gently undulating topography • Coniferous forestry plantations with deciduous

margins to road edges • Deciduous woodlands with Oak, Sweet

Chestnut dominant • Intensive arable farming in large geometric

fields • Mixed species hedgerows with mature trees to

farm tracks • MARR route crosses the north of the area • Built edge of Mansfield and Kirkby in Ashfield

to the north and west • Isolated farms and limited settlement.

Heath land character, particularly to road verges, heath land species present on woodland rides

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Section 1B Appraisal of Strategic Context - GNLCA GNLCA Category GNLCA Notes Desk Based Review and Appraisal of GNLCA

Landscape Condition


The Landscape Condition is defined as Moderate The area has a coherent pattern of elements mainly large geometric arable fields and blocks of plantation woodland, there are some detracting features these include telecommunications masts on high points, busy roads including the A60 and MARR route and the built edge of nearby urban areas. Overall this gives a visually coherent area. There are a number of SINCs and heath land sites in the area. Overall this is a moderate habitat for wildlife although connectivity is reduced by poor hedgerows and busy roads. Cultural integrity is variable in that the land use pattern is still recognisable to the west from Sanderson’s plan of 1835 but many hedgerows have been removed. Many of the woodlands existed at the time of this Plan but they have been more infilled with conifer planting in recent times so that only their boundary shape remains. A visually coherent area with a coherent functional integrity gives a moderate landscape condition

Landscape Character

Strength of character is determined by a range of criteria: • An assessment of how characteristic features and elements

combine to form a sense of place; • How distinctive and recognisable are the pattern of

elements that make up the character, including both positive and negative elements;

The Landscape Sensitivity is defined as Moderate The components of the landscape are characteristic of the Sherwood LCA. The time depth is historic (post 1600) giving a moderate sense of place overall. There is evidence of the pre enclosure heath land

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• Presence and quantity of distinctive features; Identification of landscapes containing historic patterns and features which may have declined or become fragmented thereby weakening character but which could be reinstated.


character in the presence of heath land species to road edges and woodland rides. The undulating landform is apparent with intermittent areas of woodland giving a moderate visibility of features in and out of the PZ. There are dominant views of the urban edges of Mansfield and Kirby in Ashfield. A moderate sense of place and a moderate visibility leads to a moderate landscape sensitivity overall.

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Good Landscape

Condition

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD

Conserve and Enhance

GOOD

Conserve

Moderate Landscape

Condition

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


Poor Landscape

Condition

POOR

Restore/ Create

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

Weak landscape

Strength

Moderate Landscape

Strength

Strong Landscape

Strength

Highlight/ circle score for landscape strategy Good - 5 points Moderate - Good - 4 points Moderate - 3 points Poor - Moderate – 2 points Poor - 1 point This landscape has been assessed as of Moderate quality, with an Enhance approach suggested to its future management, although the Sherwood LCA’s use a different approach; with a Moderate landscape requiring a Create and Conserve approach.

The strategic categories used in the assessment for landscape quality in the GNLCA document are: Conserve : where the landscape quality is considered to be good (due to good condition and strong character) and there should be an emphasis on protecting or safeguarding the key features and characteristics of the landscape in their present form. Enhance: emphasis should be to improve existing features which may not be currently well-managed or where existing features are of good quality but could be of greater benefit if improved. This may include improvements to landscape management practices or the introduction or removal of elements or features in order to strengthen character and/or improve perceived condition. Restore: emphasis should be on repairing or re-establishing features that have been lost or are in a state of severe decline. Create: where the landscape quality is poor (due to poor condition and weak character) and the original landscape pattern is no longer evident. In such places there is a need to form new and different landscapes. An example of this is a landscape which has been heavily influenced by quarrying and industry, field pattern and features are no longer evident and the restored land has altered the land form.


Score 3 /5

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Section 1C Overview of Local Context – Reference Documents (ca n be added to) Document Title Notes Desk Based Review and Appraisal

ADC Local Plan


Under the Ashfield Local Plan Review 2002 (Saved Policies) the site is located in the Countryside (Policy EV2) and is defined as being located outside the main urban areas and named settlements (Policy ST4). The site is identified as being in a Mature Landscape Area (Policy EV4 -Rl) and is located near to an ancient monument at Hamilton Hill (Policy EV11 – Re). To the north west of the site is a Local Wildlife Site at Kings Mill (Policy EV6/86). Kings Mill Reservoir is now designated as a Local Nature Reserve.



• Site Designation: Note any strategic corridor designation relevant to the site.

• Actions: Refer to any strategic corridor enhancement actions relevant to the site

• Look at the map in the technical paper to see if it links in with green corridors

The site is defined as rural/agricultural land, with accessible (public) green space to the north west of the site surrounding the reservoir. There are several GI routes nearby to the site – they could be incorporated into the design of any potential development. Local corridors S14 and S15, go to the north east and south west of the site, connecting up with other routes, and the District Strategic Corridor GI-20 is to the north west to the site next to Kingsmill Reservoir, linking up the area to Mansfield and to Sutton in Ashfield town centre. The Strategic Identifies that in relation to S14 there is the potential to enhance the ecological connections along this stretch and also enhance the green character for those travelling along it.

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Section 2 – Site Analysis: Landscape Context and Ch aracter Section 2A Identify the baseline condition and character of th e landscape



The site is located at the intersection of the A617 Sherwood Way South and Hamilton Road. The land crowns, sloping down westwards to the Worksop to Nottingham railway line and north eastwards towards the Hermitage Lane Industrial Estate. It is an arable field. The boundaries are mainly hedgerows of varying heights. The screen planting along the A617 and road bridge over the railway line form a boundary to the south. Hamilton Road with mixed hedgerows forms the boundary to the east. The public right of way named the Timberland Trail runs behind the hedgerow boundary to the northeast of the site.



The land around the site undulates. Higher points within the landscape are the prominent local landmark of Hamilton Hill to the south of the site and the ridge along the B6014 Skegby Lane behind Kings Mill Hospital to the north west. Kingsmill Reservoir is located to the west of the site. To the immediate south is the strategic route A617 and the railway line is to the west. Arable land and grazing is located around the road junction of the A617 / Hamilton Road. To the northeast of the site is the Hermitage Lane Industrial Estate and Oakham Business Park. Further east of Hamilton Road are the infrastructure entrance points for the currently undeveloped Summit Business Park.

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• Good condition - very few gaps, evidence of management - e.g. is it kept to a reasonable height, hasn’t been allowed to ‘grow out’.

• Poor condition - a lot of gaps, hedgerow has not been managed and has ‘grown out’.

Highlight/ circle Good / Moderate / Poor The site is well maintained with evidence of hedgerow management.





The condition of the surrounding landscape is moderate as it is a mixed urban fringe landscape with some detracting elements such as the built edge of urban areas and the adjacent roads.

Character/ strength Notes Site Assessment



Highlight/ circle Strong / Moderate / Weak . The site has a gently undulating topography, with intensive arable farming in a large geometric field. It is located on the built edge of Mansfield.

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The landscape around the site has gently undulating topography, with intensive arable farming in large geometric fields. It is located on the built edge of Mansfield. There are mixed species hedgerows with mature trees to farm tracks. The A617 Sherwood Way South (MARR) route crosses the landscape. The strength of character is moderate.

Using the Landscape Condition and the Landscape Strength judgements for the site, apply the matrix below to give a score for the site being assessed . LANDSCAPE STRATEGY MATRIX

Good Landscape

Condition

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


GOOD

Conserve

Moderate Landscape

Condition

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


Poor Landscape

Condition

POOR

Restore/ Create

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

Weak landscape

Strength

Moderate Landscape

Strength

Strong Landscape

Strength



Score 4 /5

Section 2B Assess the effect development of the site will hav e on the landscape as a resource Capacity to accommodate Development

Does the landscape have the capacity to accommodate development? Is there adjacent development that it will form part of? Effect on the landscape – High – total or major alteration to key elements , features or characteristics of the local or wider landscape resource, so that post development the baseline situation will be fundamentally changed.

Highlight/ circle score High- 3 points Medium – 2 points Low – 1 point The site is on the edge of the urban fringe with adjacent urban industrial development.

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Medium –Partial alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the local or wider landscape resource such that post development the baseline situation will be noticeably changed. Low - Minor alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the local or wider landscape resource such that post development the baseline situation will be largely unchanged, despite discernible differences.


The site is not widely open but would be viewed from higher location points within the surrounding landscape.


Development would not be very prominent within the landscape as it would adjoin the existing industrial area. Screening would be effective for views towards the site from around Kingsmill Reservoir and along Hamilton Road.



Existing screening comprises the embankment at the traffic junction of the A617 and Hamilton Road and some taller hedgerows at the junction of Hamilton Road and Hamilton Way.


Score 1 /3

Section 2 C Set the visual baseline

Site Assessment



Number and describe the direction of the views View 1 – Looking North East towards Mansfield over arable field from Road Bridge over railway line. Distant view of Mansfield Town Centre to the north east and Kingsmill Reservoir / Adventure Base to the west. View of housing on the Skegby Lane ridge to the north. View 2 – Looking North West from A617 towards Kings Mill Hospital and housing above supermarket on Sutton Road

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View 3 – Panoramic View from West to East - St Mary’s Church in Sutton in Ashfield/ Brierley Forest Park in Huthwaite/ Kingsmill Hospital / Telecom mast on Skegby Lane/ Housing above Supermarket/ Mansfield Town Centre./ mixed urban fringe view in distance. View of Hospital predominates. View 4 – Looking west on the Timberland Trail at the junction of Hamilton Way and Hamilton Road. View of undulating green field. Hedgerows and trees on boundary screen further views. View 5 – View south over the railway line across fields towards Hamilton Hill.

Section 2 D Assess the visual effects development of the site w ill have on receptors

Site Assessment



landscape than those passing through. 2. Walkers, cyclists, visitors and equestrians- tend to have high

sensitivity as they are mainly concerned with the enjoyment of the outdoor environment.




The sensitivity of receptors is primarily dependant on: • The location (how close they are to the site and the context) • The expectations and occupation/ activity of the receptor • The importance of the view which can be determined with

respect to its popularity or numbers of people affected; its appearance in guidebooks or on tourist maps etc.



equestrians

3. Workers.

4. Motorists travelling on the strategic road network in Ashfield.

5. Motorists travelling on local roads

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1. Residents


3. Workers

4. Motorists


5. Motorists (local

roads)


• The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development and the scale of change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, including the proportion of view occupied by the proposed development.

• The degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape with the existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics in terms of form, scale, mass, line, height, colour and texture.

The magnitude of effect on views can be rated as below- • High – Total or major alteration to key elements, features or

characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be fundamentally changed

• Medium - Partial alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be noticeably changed

• Low - Minor alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be noticeably unchanged


Low- 2 point 2. Walkers, cyclists, visitors and equestrians High - 6 points Medium - 4 points

Low- 2 point 3. Workers High - 3 points Medium - 2 points Low- 1 point 4. Motorists (strategic road network) High - 3 points Medium - 2 points Low- 1 point 5. Motorists (local roads) High - 6 points Medium - 4 points Low- 2 points


Score 8 /24




1 Score value 1 /3

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Section 3 – Mitigation Information Required Notes Site Assessment



Screening would be effective for views towards the site from around Kingsmill Reservoir and along Hamilton Road. Lower rise units at the junction of the A617/Hamilton Road would be preferable to avoid significant visual intrusion as this is the higher area of the site.



Overall scores


Section 2A - Site Analysis Score 4 (max 5) Section 2B - Capacity to Accommodate Development 1 (max 3) Section 2D - Visual Effect on Receptors 1 (max 3) TOTAL SCORE 9 ( max 16)

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Ashfield District Council Employment Landscape Site Assessment Methodology and score sheet This assessment has been carried out to identify and evaluate the potential landscape and visual effects development would have on the site. Site name Land off Coxmoor Road Site address Land off Coxmoor Road, Sutton in Ashfield Site reference no: S8 Site Ha 6Ha Date of Site Assessment 25./11/2015 Viewpoint location Revision 3

1

1 5

2 3

4

5

6

2

View 1 – Looking south from Kings Mill Reservoir access road entrance off the A617

View 2 – Looking south from A617 road bridge over the railway line.

3

View 3 – Looking south west from the Hamilton Road / A617 traffic junction.

4

View 4 – Panoramic view from west to east. Looking at industrial units / Sutton urban area / Skegby Lane ridgeline/ Kingsmill Hospital / housing above supermarket/ conifer plantations in far distance / Hamilton Hill/ Hamilton Hill Farm.

5

View 5 – Panoramic view from west to east. Looking at industrial units / Brierley Forest Park/Sutton urban area / Silverhill park/Skegby Lane ridgeline / Kingsmill Hospital / Hamilton Hill. Urban fringe view over fields. View 6 –View north east to south east from Business Park looking across fields. View of A617 /Hamilton Hill/ Hamilton Hill Farm/ housing/ substation.

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The Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield is an area that has seen great change over the past few centuries. The impact of widespread industrialisation and development on the landscape and settlement pattern within the National Character Area (NCA) is clear, influencing the visual and ecological landscape. A generally low-lying area, with hills and escarpments above wide valleys, the landscape embraces major industrial towns and cities as well as villages and countryside. Over half of the NCA (64 per cent) is currently designated as greenbelt land; this maintains some distinction between settlements and represents areas that are often under pressure for development and changes in land use. Very little of the NCA is designated for geology or nature conservation, but instead the landscape is dotted with many pockets and patches of habitat where species find refuge. This is often on land that was once worked for minerals or occupied by major industry, and as these enterprises have declined the land they once dominated has opened up with opportunities to create a new landscape which will continue to provide a strong sense of place for local populations. The large populations of the towns and cities within the NCA mean that there will be opportunities to better engage people with the natural and historical environment, creating new access and recreational openings that deliver a better quality of life while also

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helping people and wildlife to adapt to a changing climate. Rivers and waterways are an important feature in the landscape, often linking rural and urban areas and increasingly providing green corridors and tranquil settings for both people and wildlife.












8


Landscape Condition



Landscape Character





9




10


Good Landscape

Condition

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


GOOD

Conserve

Moderate Landscape

Condition

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


Poor Landscape

Condition

POOR

Restore/ Create

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

Weak landscape

Strength

Moderate Landscape

Strength

Strong Landscape

Strength




Score 3 /5

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ADC Local Plan


Under the Ashfield Local Plan Review 2002 (Saved Policies) the site is located in the Countryside (Policy EV2) and is defined as being located outside the main urban areas and named settlements (Policy ST4). The site is identified as being in a Mature Landscape Area (Policy EV4 -Rl) and is located ner to an ancient monument at Hamilton Hill (Policy EV11 – Re).






The site is defined as rural/agricultural land, with a SINC to the north east of the site (Hamilton Hill).There is a local GI corridor to the south of the site. S13, which connects up with other routes in the area. S13 - The creation of the MARR route rendered this road a dead end and provides potential for development as a green corridor connecting the east of Sutton with Cauldwell Wood and the Cauldwell Brook (and the south of Mansfield). Linear green space around Kirkby Folly Road provides a green finger into the built up area.

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The site is located off Hamilton Road and Coxmoor Road. It comprises farmland with hedgerows. The site gently undulated, sloping down towards Hamilton Road. The boundaries of the site are hedgerows with post and rails to the farm and galvanised palisade surrounding the substation.



The topography of the site is gently undulating and then it rises steeply to form Hamilton Hill. The land rises to a high point south of Cauldwell Road. The boundaries are mixed with hedgerows, post and rail fencing and industrial fencing. Industrial units / business units border the site to the west and north west. To the north is the A617 strategic route and to the north east is the strong landform of Hamilton Hill.





Highlight/ circle Good / Moderate / Poor The site comprises of wide fields, with well-maintained hedgerows.

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The condition of the surrounding landscape is moderate. The landscape is urban fringe with mixed uses of industrial estate and farmland.




Highlight/ circle Strong / Moderate / Weak The site has undulating topography, intensive arable farming in large arable fields.



The strength of character of the surrounding landscape is moderate . Urban settlement of Sutton in Ashfield is adjacent the industrial units. The landscape has an undulating topography, with intensive arable farming in large arable fields and the MARR route (A617).

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Good Landscape

Condition

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


GOOD

Conserve

Moderate Landscape

Condition

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


Poor Landscape

Condition

POOR

Restore/ Create

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

Weak landscape

Strength

Moderate Landscape

Strength

Strong Landscape

Strength



Score 4 /5

Section 2 B Assess the effect development of the site will hav e on the landscape as a resource Capacity to accommodate Development




The site is not open within the landscape. Industrial / business park units bound the site on two sides.

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Development would not be prominent within the landscape. Industrial / business park units bound the site on two sides. Screening would be effective at the Coxmoor Road / Cauldwell Road and the north eastern boundary of the site to screen views for the A617.



Industrial / business park units and Hamilton Hill form boundaries to the site on two sides.


Score 1 /3


Site Assessment



Number and describe the direction of the views

View 1 – Looking south from Kings Mill Reservoir access road entrance off the A617

View 2 – Looking south from A617 road bridge over the railway line.

View 3 – Looking south west from the Hamilton Road / A617 traffic junction.

View 4 – Panoramic view from west to east. Looking at industrial units / Sutton urban area / Skegby Lane ridgeline/ Kingsmill Hospital / housing above supermarket/ conifer plantations in far distance / Hamilton Hill/ Hamilton Hill Farm.

View 5 – Panoramic view from west to east. Looking at industrial units / Brierley Forest Park/Sutton urban area / Silverhill

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park/Skegby Lane ridgeline/ Kingsmill Hospital / Hamilton Hill. Farm. Urban fringe view over fields. View 6 –View north east to south east from Business Park looking across fields. View of A617 /Hamilton Hill/ Hamilton Hill Farm/ housing/ substation.


Site Assessment









• The location (how close they are to the site and the context) • The expectations and occupation/ activity of the receptor • The importance of the view which can be determined with



1. Residents


equestrians

3. Workers

5. Motorists travelling on local roads

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1. Residents


3. Workers

4. Motorists


5. Motorists (local

roads)


• The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development and the scale of change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, including the proportion of view occupied by the proposed development.



• High – Total or major alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be fundamentally changed







Score 12 /24




2 Score value 2 /3

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Screening would be effective at the Coxmoor Road / Cauldwell Road and the north eastern boundary of the site to screen views for the A617.



Overall scores



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Ashfield District Council Employment Landscape Site Assessment Methodology and score sheet This assessment has been carried out to identify and evaluate the potential landscape and visual effects development would have on the site. Site name Land adjacent Summit Park Site address Land off MARR Road, Sutton in Ashfield Site reference no: S7 Site Ha 13.8. Ha Date of Site Assessment 25/11/2015 Viewpoint location Revision 3

1

1 2

3

4

2

View 1 – Looking north east across site from A617. View obscured by existing scrub vegetation and hedgerow.

3

View 2 – Looking north east at field access point. Conifer planation to the east. Attractive enclosed rural view over fields and hedgerows. Slope and scrub belt runs across site northwest to north east splitting the site into lower level and higher level fields.

4

View 3 – Panoramic view from top of road embankment. View westwards over infrastructure for Summit Business Park and then northwards over agricultural arable fields (top section of site forming part of larger arable field) and conifer planation boundary to the east.

5

View 4 – Looking north from A617 Road Bridge towards Pleasley pit and partial view through tree cover on road side. Looking North West there is a distant view of housing on Skegby Lane ridge. Site is divided by internal change in level (lower brown arable field and light green higher field as seen through trees).

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The Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield is an area that has seen great change over the past few centuries. The impact of widespread industrialisation and development on the landscape and settlement pattern within the National Character Area (NCA) is clear, influencing the visual and ecological landscape. A generally low-lying area, with hills and escarpments above wide valleys, the landscape embraces major industrial towns and cities as well as villages and countryside. Over half of the NCA (64 per cent) is currently designated as greenbelt land; this maintains some distinction between settlements and represents areas that are often under pressure for development and changes in land use. Very little of the NCA is designated for geology or nature conservation, but instead the landscape is dotted with many pockets and patches of habitat where species find refuge. This is often on land that was once worked for minerals or occupied by major industry, and as these enterprises have declined the land they once dominated has opened up with opportunities to create a new landscape which will continue to provide a strong sense of place for local populations. The large populations of the towns and cities within the NCA mean that there will be opportunities to better engage people with the natural and historical environment, creating new access and recreational

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openings that deliver a better quality of life while also helping people and wildlife to adapt to a changing climate. Rivers and waterways are an important feature in the landscape, often linking rural and urban areas and increasingly providing green corridors and tranquil settings for both people and wildlife.












8


Landscape Condition



Landscape Character





9




10


Good Landscape

Condition

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


GOOD

Conserve

Moderate Landscape

Condition

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


Poor Landscape

Condition

POOR

Restore/ Create

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

Weak landscape

Strength

Moderate Landscape

Strength

Strong Landscape

Strength




Score 3 /5

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ADC Local Plan


Under the Ashfield Local Plan Review 2002 (Saved Policies) the site is located in the Countryside (Policy EV2) and is defined as being located outside the main urban areas and named settlements (Policy ST4). The site is identified as being in a Mature Landscape Area (Policy EV4 -Rl) and is located near to an ancient monument at Hamilton Hill (Policy EV11 – Re). Although not identified in the Local Plan Review, the Cauldwell Brook on the boundary is identifies as a Local Wildlife Site in relation to its zoological importance. A population of white clawed crayfish has been identified in the Cauldwell Brook. A tributary watercourse flows through the site.






A District Strategic Corridor S14 is located adjacent to the south of the site along the MARR. The site may offer the potential to form part of a green infrastructure link from S14 to S15 currently identified as a missing link through Cauldwell Woods.

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The site is located off the A617. The land slopes downwards to a watercourse and hedgerow / scrub belt in the centre of the field. The site comprises farmland with arable fields with tall hedgerows and mature trees. The site is split into two fields. One is at a higher level next to a farm and forms part of a larger field. The field next to the A617 is at a lower level at the bottom of the hedgerow / scrub belt. Boundaries consist of hedgerows, post and rail and conifer plantation.



The landscape surrounding the site consists of an urban fringe landscape to the west and an agricultural landscape to the east. To the west the Summit Business Park is laid out for development with Kings Mill Hospital in the distance and housing on the ridge on Skegby Lane. The A617 runs in cutting to the south of the site. The surrounding landscape has an undulating topography. To the east is the strong form of conifer plantations. To the north, The Oakham Way Business Park can be glimpsed though a belt of birch trees.



Highlight/ circle Good / Moderate / Poor The site has a strong hedgerow/ scrub belt structure and landform.

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The landscape around the site is of moderate condition with the inclusion of the A617 strategic route and adjacent business park.




Highlight/ circle Strong / Moderate / Weak The site forms part of a wider coherent arable landscape/ woodland landscape to the east. The site has gently undulating topography and mixed species hedgerows with mature trees to farm tracks.



The strength of character of the surrounding landscape is moderate. The landscape has gently undulating topography and mixed species hedgerows with mature trees to farm tracks. It has coniferous plantation and deciduous woodland along with intensive arable farming. The A617 crosses the area, with the built edge of Mansfield further north.

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Good Landscape

Condition

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


GOOD

Conserve

Moderate Landscape

Condition

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

MODERATE – GOOD


Poor Landscape

Condition

POOR

Restore/ Create

POOR – MODERATE

Enhance and Restore

MODERATE

Enhance

Weak landscape

Strength

Moderate Landscape

Strength

Strong Landscape

Strength



Score 4 /5

Section 2 B Assess the effect development of the site will hav e on the landscape as a resource Capacity to accommodate Development




The site is enclosed within the landscape

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The site will not be prominent within the landscape. The existing topography and existing planting provides screening.



The existing topography and existing planting provides screening.


Score 3 /3


Site Assessment



Number and describe the direction of the views View 1 – Looking north east across site from A617. View obscured by existing scrub vegetation and hedgerow.

View 2 – Looking north east at field access point. Conifer planation to the east. Attractive enclosed rural view over fields and hedgerows. Slope and scrub belt runs across site northwest to north east splitting the site into l lower level and higher level fields

View 3 – Panoramic view from top of road embankment. View westwards over infrastructure for Summit Business Park and then northwards over agricultural arable fields (top section of site forming part of larger arable field) and conifer planation boundary to the east.

View 4 – Looking north from A617 Road Bridge towards Pleasley pit and partial view through tree cover on road side. Looking North West there is a distant view of housing on Skegby Lane ridge.

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Site is divided by internal change in level (lower brown arable field and light green higher field as seen through trees).


Site Assessment









• The location (how close they are to the site and the context) • The expectations and occupation/ activity of the receptor • The importance of the view which can be determined with




equestrians 4. Motorists travelling on the strategic road

network in Ashfield.


1. Residents


• The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development and the scale of change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition,

Highlight/ circle score Scores have been weighed based on the sensitivity of the receptor. Residents, walkers, cyclists, visitors, equestrians and local road users - ( x 2)

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2. Walkers, cyclists,

visitors and equestrians

3. Workers

4. Motorists


5. Motorists (local

roads)

including the proportion of view occupied by the proposed development.



• High – Total or major alteration to key elements, features or characteristics of the view, such that post development the baseline situation will be fundamentally changed



Workers and strategic road network users- ( x 1) 1. Residents High - 6 points Medium - 4 points




Score 7 /24




1 Score value 1/3

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The existing topography and existing planting provides screening.



Overall scores



Ashfield District Council Employment Landscape Site ...€¦ · Sherwood Business Park can be seen...

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