LSC336 LVIA Report for IGas Energy PLC

LVIA

Tinker Lane exploratory Well

Landscape And Visual Impact Assessment

Prepared for IGas Energy PLC

Binghui Gong 140207204

1 Content

Content 1.0 Introduction

3

2.0 Project Description

4

2.1 The Site

4

2.2 Proposed Development

5

3.0 Policy Context

7

3.1 National Policy

7

3.2 Local Policy

8

4.0 Landscape Effects

9

4.1 Methodology 4.2 Landscape Character Baseline 4.3 Assessment of Landscape Effects 4.4 Summary

5.0 Visual Effects

9 11 17 20

21

5.1 Methodology

21

5.2 Visual Baseline 5.3 Assessment of Visual Effects

23 31

5.4 Summary

37

2 Content

6.0 Mitigation

38

6.1 Avoidance

38

6.2 Reduction 6.3 Offsets

39 41

7.0 Restortion

42

8.0 Final Statement

44

9.0 Reference

45

3 Introduction

1.0 Introduction EIA defined: An Environmental Impact Assessment is defined by the Landscape Institute (2013) as “a way of ensuring that significant environmental effects are taken into account in decision making.

(P.5) European Directive provides the EIA framework 85/337/EEC that amended by 97/11/EC and 2003/35/ EC and was adopted into the Town and Country Planning Regulations in 1999 for England and Wales (European Commission, 2009). An EIA is required under the European Union Directive, which applies fairly to all countries of the United Kingdom but is authorized by country regulations. Meanwhile, each country has specific EIA regulations, guidance and advice.

An EIA covers a wide range of environmental topics that be listed by the EU Directive, the Regulations applied in the UK and the related guidance documents: - Human Beings, Population; - Flora and Fauna; - Soil, Water, Air, Climate; - Landscape; - Cultural Heritage (including architectural and archaeological heritage); - Material Assets. (Landscape Institute, 2013) LVIA defined: An Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment is defined by the Landscape Institute (2013) as “a tool used to identify and assess the significance of and the effects of change resulting from development on both the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity. (P.4) An LVIA is included within an EIA. It is appropriate for all projects that need a formal EIA but also could be implemented informally to make an appraisal of development proposals and planning applications. (Landscape Institute, 2013) Purpose of the LVIA: Applying the LVIA may be helpful in different design forms of development or other projects that could cause change in the landscape and in visual amenity. (Landscape Institute, 2013) Therefore, an LVIA is necessary to the proposed land use change or development.

An LVIA covers: - Climate; - Fauna and Flora; - Human Beings; - Soil; - Noise; - Cultural Heritage; - Air; - Water. (Landscape Institute, 2013) This report documents the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment of the well site with a drilling rig up to 60m high off the A638 near Torworth in Nottinghamshire, which proposed by IGas Energy Company. This LVIA begins by the project description and will then go on to the related policies. The following section will investigate and analyze the landscape and visual impact of this project. The last two chapters will be concerned with mitigation measures and restoration plan. In the end, a final statement will as a conclusion of this report.

4 Project Description: The Site

2.0 Project Description 2.1 The Site The application site is located in the Bassetlaw District area of Nottinghamshire on the Retford Road between Blyth and Barnby Moor. The site is situated around 2.6km South East of outskirts of Blyth and approximately 1.5km North West of outskirts of Barnby Moor. The edge of Village Torworth is on the North East of the application site and the distance is 1.4km. Figure1 shows the wider context of the site and Tinker Lane is located in the East Midland of United Kingdom and county of North Nottinghamshire.

The application site is 2.2ha in size. The exploratory well site will occupy approximately half of the site. (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, no date) The site can be described as large-scale gently sloping arable field and adjacent roadside verge, which is located between the unenclosed L-shape mixed woodland boundary and the Hedgerows boundary along Road A634. The woodland is a piece of growing estate forest. The Beech farm lies to the southwest of the site and College Farm and Daneshill Nature reserve area lie to the northeast. Figure2 shows the local context of the site.

Site Location

(No Date)

Figuire1

5 Project Description: Proposed Development

2.2 Proposed Development The development would last three years from the commencement of site construction. (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016) 2.2.1 IGas Energy PLC IGas is a British leading energy company that manages exploration and production of onshore oil and gas. The business has received license to explore for oil and gas in a number of locations including the East Midlands, North West and the Weald Basin. IGAS is operating over 100 sites around the country and employing about 160 staff now. (IGas Energy Plc, 2015) 2.2.2 Construction (3 months) Main activities happen in this period are drilling of monitoring boreholes, site establishment, which including a new access onto the Road A634, gates and fences, soils stripping and storage, welfare and parking. (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016) The wellsite construction process would consist of the following: “- Formation of a new site access; - Erection of new gates, security fencing and closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras; - Stripping and storage of top soil and formation of on-site bunds which would be put to grass and maintained for the life of the development; - Creation of a wellsite platform using impermeable geotextile membrane layers covered by a layer of aggregate hard standing and the installation of a 4m deep wellhead cellar with associated steel conductors (the development would incorporate 2 cellars, though only one well is applied for and would be drilled; - The spare cellar is a back-up and is simply a contingency measure); - Installation of bunded storage areas for chemicals and a surface water attenuation tank for surface water management; - Staff welfare accommodation and on site vehicle parking.� (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016, P.3-2) 2.2.3 The Drilling (4 months) This step includes exploratory vertical multi core well to recover samples from and measure the properties of geological formations that underlie the site, testing and retention. (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016) The drilling rig is located towards the center of the site and up to 60m with an 11.5m high rig platform.

The whole drilling activity for the exploratory well would take about 4 months to complete including installation and removal of the drilling rig. Meanwhile, the construction would be updated everyday, 24hours. Artificial lighting would be required by this development for operational and security purposes during drilling activity period, 24hours, and 7 days a week. (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016)

6 Project Description: Proposed Development

2.2.4 Restoration In the terms of the exploration work is not viable, the well would be plugged and capped. Meanwhile, the wellhead would be removed with industry technique safety. Furthermore, all construction materials, service below ground and the rest of on-site infrastructure would be removed from the site and be recycled or disposed by a permitted waste disposal facility. The whole restoration period would last for approximately 8 weeks and operating hours would be daytime. A five-year aftercare project would be implemented following restoration to ensure the site was return to full agricultural productivity. (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016) Rev.

Figuire2 (IGas Energy Plc, 2016d)

Revision note

Date

Existing plan reflects data recorded during topographical survey carried out on 16th October 2015

Existing Ground Plan

0

5m

10m

Scale 1:500 Client

CONSULTING STRUCTURAL & CIVIL ENGINEERS

as rŘsNj¶ɴ

Dennett House Brighton Road Sway Lymington Hampshire SO41 6EB

Job Title

IGas Energy Plc Land West of A634, Barnby Moor, Blyth, Nottinghamshire Tinker Lane Site

Drawn By

Date

Sheet Size

January 2016 AJNE Existing Ground Plan Scale 1:500

A1

Drawing Title

Drawing Number

TL3/01

Revision

7 Policy Context: National Policy

3.0 Policy Context 3.1 National Policy National policies regarding environmental protection of the exploratory borehole are outlined below.

All the policies are excerpted from <National Planning Policy Framework> and <Overarching National Policy Statement for Energy (EN-1)>. Department for Communities and Local Government published NPPF on March 2012. Department of Energy and Climate Change published NPS on July 2011.

- NPPF Paragraph 109: “The planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils; recognizing the wider benefits of ecosystem services; minimizing impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible.” (Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012, P.25-26) The site is currently in agricultural use and is surrounded by farmlands. Footpaths and farm tracks link the nearby buildings. An unenclosed L-shape mixed woodland and existing Hedgerows define the boundary of the site. The woodland is a piece of growing estate forest. Tinker Lane, Barnby Moor LWS and Daneshill LWS are the 3 non-statutory Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) near the application site. In order to conserve the existing landscapes and wildlife, applicators need to consider potential effects and consult the relevant regulations at prior period. Meanwhile, the proposed development should reduce the influence on the traffic and local residents’ life during the construction time.

- NPPF Paragraph 120: “To prevent unacceptable risks from pollution and land instability, planning policies and decisions should ensure that new development is appropriate for its location. The effects (including cumulative effects) of pollution on health, the natural environment or general amenity, and the potential sensitivity of the area or proposed development to adverse effects from pollution, should be taken into account.” (Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012, P.28) - NPS Paragraph 4.10.2: “Pollution control is concerned with preventing pollution through the use of measures to prohibit or limit the releases of substances to the environment from different sources to the lowest practicable level. It also ensures that ambient air and water quality meet standards that guard against impacts to the environment or human health.” (Department of Energy and Climate Change, 2011, P.60) The Proposed development will cause lots of problems of pollution. The vehicles would cause air pollution like dust, petrol fumes and smoke, the equipment and machines would cause noise pollution that affect nearby residents; the artificial lighting would cause light pollution, which influence the existing vegetation and nearby residents, etc. After the construction, the removing and finishing period would cause pollution again.

- NPS Paragraph 5.14.2: “Sustainable waste management is implemented through the “waste hierarchy”, which sets out the priorities that must be applied when managing waste: prevention; preparing for reuse; recycling; other recoveries, including energy recovery; disposal.”

8 Policy Context: Local Policy

Equipment required on site for the exploratory well: “Drilling rig and ancillary equipment; Containerized diesel power generators; Pumps & storage tanks for diesel, water, drilling mud and cuttings; Drill casing storage area and pipe rack; Ancillary equipment and materials; Staff welfare facilities, offices, workshop, stores and parking.” (Dart Energy (East England) Ltd, 2016, P.3-3) In order to build these constructions, trunks and heavy vehicles would transport a large amount of material. The applicators need to consider that how the materials would be disposed or recycled after the project finished.

3.2 Local Policy Local Policies regarding development within Bassetlaw that relevant to the proposal site are outlined below. All the policies are excerpted from <Bassetlaw district local development framework>, which was published on November 2011.

- Policy DM9: Biodiversity and Geodiversity “Development proposals will be expected to take opportunities to restore or enhance habitats and species’ populations and to demonstrate that they will not adversely affect or result in the loss of features of recognized importance, including: Protected trees and hedgerows; Ancient woodlands; Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); Regionally Important Geodiversity Sites; Local Wildlife Sites (Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)); Local and UK Biodiversity Action Plan Habitats (including Open Mosaic Habitats on Previously Developed Land); Protected Species.” (Bassetlaw District Council, 2011, P.65-66) - Policy DM9: Landscape Character “New development proposals in and adjoining the countryside will be expected to be sensitive to their landscape setting. They will be expected to enhance the distinctive qualities of the landscape character policy zone in which they would be situated, as identified in the Bassetlaw Landscape Character Assessment44. Proposals will be expected to respond to the local recommendations made in the Assessment by conserving; restoring, reinforcing or creating landscape forms and features accordingly.” (Bassetlaw District Council, 2011, P.66) The proposed site is located on an arable field bordered by species-poor trimmed hedgerows. To the east the field is comprise of grassland with growing bramble and also scattered broad-leaved tree planting. The margins of the field itself are un-cropped grass. Meanwhile, more plant species such as Common Restharrow (Ononis repens) and Field Scabious (Knautia arvensis) existed on the roadside verge. This site was considered to be a potential space to support a notable flora or given the presence of the nearby Local Wildlife Site like Tinker Lane and Barnby Moor LWS. (IGas Energy, 2015) Therefore, the applicators need a more detailed botanical survey and protective plan to conserve and enhance the Biodiversity and Landscape.

9 Landscape Effects: Methodology

4.0 Landscape Effects 4.1 Methodology Sensitivity of the landscape receptors: The degree of the sensitivity is based on judgments of the susceptibility to change and value of the receptor. (Landscape Institute, 2013) Magnitude of landscape effects: Combining the size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. (Landscape Institute, 2013) Significance of landscape effects: It could be defined in relation to each development and its specific location. Meanwhile, it is a final conclusion combining the judgments of sensitivity and magnitude.

(Landscape Institute, 2013) In the following form, the conclusion levels of sensitivity and magnitude depend on the higher degree in related components. The significance depends on the lower level in sensitivity and magnitude.

4.1.1 Assessing landscape Effects Definitions Sensitivity Susceptibility of receptor to change

High The receptor would be destroyed or totally changed by the development and could never be restored.

Value related to receptor

High Usually with a significant value to the 3 levelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; landscape. The loss of this feature would cause irreversible result to the landscape characters.

Moderate

Low

The receptor The receptor would be affected would be influand changed by enced in a low dethe development. gree and could be It could cope with nearly completely the proposed derestored after velopment but not removal period. in the long term.

The development might be acceptable to it without significantly disturbance.

Moderate

Low

Neutral The receptor would be slightly affected or not by the proposed development.

Neutral

Usually with a Usually with a low The receptor has comparatively significance to no value and significant value at landscape charfeature to the regional and local acter. The loss of local landscape. scale. The loss of this feature would Meanwhile, no this feature would not affect noticeaone would pay have a moderate ble change to the attention to it even influence on the landscape. it loss. baseline characters.

10 Landscape Effects: Methodology

Duration Size or scale

Reversibility

Magnitude Long Mid Short 10 years plus 5 to 10 years 0 to 5 years Large Medium Small Neutral The range and the The feature is The development The feature with a landscape feature significant and the would affect the little or no value. would be affected change of it might feature in a comThe change of it is quite large. The impact the landparatively small would not cause loss/addition of scape at a mediscale and the any noticeable this feature would um scale. change of this differences on the entirely alter the character usually landscape basescale of the origiwould influence line even in the nal landscape. the landscape in a short term. short term.

None Partial Complete The feature could With the removal After the whole be significantly of the project the project finished, changed by the view could be the view could be development. partially restored entirely restored with moderate like the original changes. baseline view.

Significance

Siginificance of Landscape Effect

High

Medium

The landscape The landscape would be changed would be changed significantly by the and influence proposed develop- the former sense ment. The effect of the area. The is direct and make effect could be the feature would direct or indirect not be restored to but usually irreoriginal situation. versible.

Based on guidance from Landscape Institute (2013)

Low

Neutral

The landscape feature usually is affected in the short term within the local area.

One/both of the overall sensibility and magnitude is/ are neutral. The landscape feature has no value to the local landscape. Meanwhile, The effect by the development on this landscape feature is slight even none.

11 Landscape Effects: Landscape Character Baseline

4.2 Landscape Character Baseline Landscape Character Assessment was defined as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the process of identifying and describing variation in character of the landscape. LCA documents identify and explain the unique combination of elements and features that make landscapes distinctive by mapping and describing character types and areas. They also show how the landscape is perceived, experienced and valued by people.â&#x20AC;?

(Tudor, 2014, P.8) A summary of the relevant published Landscape Character Assessments relating to the site and surrounding area is outlined below. These wider character assessments are then used to provide the context for the local scale landscape assessment for the application site.

4.2.1 National Level Tinker Lane site located on the north of Sherwood 49 and South of Humberhead Lwvels 39. The range of Sherwood National Character Areas is from Nottingham to the north that located in the East midlands of United Kingdom. Southern Magnesian Limestone, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield on the west, where have a strong physical and culture link in coal mining industry through the agricultural land and woodlands; Trent Valley Washlands lie to the south of Sherwood area; Trent and Belvoir Vales is on the east with a open arable land; Humberhead Levels located on the north that has an influence on flooding downstream. (England, 2012) (National character area profiles, 2014) Site Location

Site Location

Figuire3

12 Landscape Effects: Landscape Character Baseline

Key Characters: - Most of the area is coinciding with its distinctive sandstone outcrop that forms a belt of waving hills.

The sandstone is based on the Magnesian limestone and marl, which are exposed to the west of the land and forming the base of the major aquifer.

- The sandstone gives rise to well-drained, acidic, sandy soils. Meanwhile, the majority of the area and neighbor area sit on a sandstone aquifer, which provides water to the area.

- The area has been historically managed as woodlands. Therefore, it remained a well-maintained wood space. Sherwood is principally characterized by oak and birch forest, which contribute strong sense to the place. Meanwhile, Large estate parklands, heathland, open arable land and a strong mining heritage also characterize the area.

- The narrow river corridors and the riparian vegetation link these character areas. However, the river has potential flooding issue in the Humberhead and the Trent Valley washlands.

- Many areas of unenclosed lowland heathland are supported by the free draining geology and acidic soils. Meanwhile, the acid grassland usually links the wood pasture areas and based on marginal agricultural land, roadsides and rail and restored colliery space.

- The mining of coal sources beneath the sandstone has been extended. The industrial heritage in the landscape is visible. Abandoned sites are gradually restored.

- Farms and villages scattered in agricultural land with larger residential area surrounding. The local red sandstone, red brick and pantiles are the main characteristic materials for building.

- The root crops are the main character of the commercial agriculture, especially in the north.

Meanwhile, pig and poultry units are also characteristics.

- Extended farmlands often with treeless and hawthorn hedges.

- The area, especially Sherwood Forest, is where the famous legend of Robin Hood happened.

(England, 2012)

13 Landscape Effects: Landscape Character Baseline

4.2.2 Regional Level Tinker Lane located on the north of Sherwood and south of IDLE lowlands.

Historic Character: A wide and diverse range of landscapes including the heartland of the historic Sherwood Forest and the extensive parklands and large estates of the Dukeries characterizes the Sherwood region. The noble of aristocratic estates and agricultural reform which laid down largely in the 18th and early 19th centuries, and by those of late 19th and 20th century industry, particularly coal mining, dominate the current landscape. The historical themes including Newstead Abbey and Lord Byron, and the internationally renowned Robin Hood legend have been linked in this area, which with rich historical, ecological and landscape features. (Council, 2009b) The Sherwood region has characters affected by a number of factors. The high quality woody spaces and strong brushy character remind the formerly extensive areas of forest and “waste”. A series of features connected to create a unique landscape including: rolling landform, scattered areas of grass, bracken and heather heathland, excellent examples of lowland oak/birch woodland, large mature coniferous forests, enclosed arable farmlands, narrow river corridors and ornamental parklands.

(Council, 2009b) FIGURE 1 Regional Character Areas Key Nottinghamshire County boundary Bassetlaw District boundary Idle Lowlands Lowlands Idle

Site Location

RETFORD

WORKSOP

Site Location

Bassetlaw District

Magnesian Limestone Limestone Magnesian Mid Notts Notts Farmlands Farmlands Mid Trent Washlands Washlands Trent

Mansfield District

MANSFIELD

East Notts Notts Sandlands Sandlands East

Sherwood Sherwood

SUTTON

Newark and Sherwood District

Ashfield District KIRKBY SOUTHWELL NEWARK

Derbyshire Coalfields Coalfields Derbyshire HUCKNALL

Gedling Borough Broxtowe Borough ARNOLD

NOTTINGHAM CITY

CARLTON

South Notts Notts Farmlands Farmlands South WEST BRIDGFORD

Rushcliffe Borough

Vale of of Belvoir Belvoir Vale Trent Trent Valley Valley Trent Valley Leicestershire Wolds Wolds Leicestershire

Figure 4 (Nottinghamshire County Council, 2009) © © ©Crown Crown Crown copyright. copyright. copyright. All All All rights rights rights reserved. reserved. reserved.

2009 Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire County County County Council, Council, Council, 100019713, 100019713, 100019713, 2009 2009

(Nottinghamshire County Council, 2007)

Figure 5

14 Landscape Effects: Landscape Character Baseline

Key Characters

The Sandstone Estatelands is a planned estate landscape in the northernmost part of the region between Worksop and Retford. The narrow alluvial corridor divides this roughly triangular-shape are into two parts. Woodlands are mainly planted with broad-leaved and coniferous species, including ash, oak, sycamore, Scots pine and larch. The woodland edges frame a sequence of large spaces influenced by the trees in associated areas of parkland.

- Gently rolling landform - Large-scale Undulating topography - Large tillable fields and grasslands - Low-cut hawthorn hedges - Straight roads confined by wide grass edge - Wooded skylines enclose the views Figure 6 - Residential cottages and isolated brick-built farmhouses (Council, 2009b)

Forest sandlands Pine plantations, semi-natural woodland and heath and large arable fields characterize this well wooded, undulating and in places industrialized area.

- Dissected rolling landform - Geometric pattern in large-scale cultivated lands - Principally characterized by veteran stag-headed oaks and scrubby semi-nature woodland that provide frequent views of wooded skylines.

- The widespread growing of bracken, gorse and broom species reflect strong brushy character.

- Dense large pine woodland and neatly trimmed hawthorn hedgerows occur in this area.

(Council, 2009b) Figure 7

Figure 8

The Idle Lowlands on the north of Sherwood is an extensive low-lying region that spread to the Humber Estuary from Nottinghamshire. This region contains some sparsely inhabited levels and former cattlands, which now for arable production. Majority of the residential area sit on â&#x20AC;&#x153;islandsâ&#x20AC;? of higher ground, especially on Axholme and lower-lying sandlands between Retford and Doncaster. The Sherwood region to the southwest borders these basins.

Village sandlands - A softly rolling agricultural landscape.

- Ordered pattern of Hedged fields - Regulated circulation network - Red brick-built constructions with pantile roofs - Tillable farmland has been intensively managed (Council, 2009a)

15 Landscape Effects: Landscape Character Baseline

4.2.3 Local Level Tinker Lane is in the Parish of Torworth, north Nottinghamshire. The site sits on agriculture land, around between the unenclosed L-shape woodland boundary and the Road A634. The woodland is a piece of growing estate forest.

Key characters: - Medium to large-scale geometric field pattern - The site is managed as arable farmland with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soft hillsâ&#x20AC;? topography, gently rolling landform - A L-shaped woodland and hedgerows (Cratageus monogyna) define the boundary of the field, which the site located.

- Wooded skylines quite enclose the views - A belt of maintained and trimmed hedgerows separates the road A634 and the field that the site located. Except the hedge edge, the field is not allowed to enter by the steel fence and gate.

- The Beech farm lies to the southwest of the site and College Farm and Daneshill Nature reserve area lie to the northeast. The farmsteads are 2-3 stories.

- Containers are constructed in place of the site.

- Sight from the gate, the power lines could be seen across backfields from northwest to southeast.

Pylons are around 20-30 meters high.

Nature Reserve

Jubilee Farm

College Farm Container Site Location A634 Road

Beech Farm

Pylon Power Line

Google Maps

Figure 9

16 Landscape Effects: Landscape Character Baseline

Woodland Agricultural Field

Woodland Hedgerows Figure 10

Agricultural Field Figure 11

4.2.4 Landscape Values As mentioned in the policy section, except the L-shape woodland and hedgerows, vegetation is also common around farmsteads, such as Jubilee Farm or Beech Farm. This site was considered to be a potential space to support a notable flora or given the presence of the nearby Local Wildlife Site like Tinker Lane and Barnby Moor LWS. (IGas Energy, 2015) Views enclosed by wooded skylines and the woodland provides limited vertical features. It has a moderate value to the landscape character.

The road is bounded by tightly clipped hedgerows, which are commonplace with some mature hedgerow trees. These hedgerows have moderate values to help to break up the landscape and add to the rural character.

Tranquility constitutes the rural character of this site and has a moderate value. Although this area is surrounded by farmlands, it would be a peaceful place when the farm machinery stopped.

The value of the farmsteads is low due to no farmsteads existing the application site and they would not be affected directely. However, the farmlands and farmhouses establish the countryside landscape character of this rural area.

Although the Medium to large-scale geometric field pattern determines the historical layout, the development would not result in huge change to the perception of the landscape as a whole. It has a low value.

Topography is a key landscape character. The value is moderate to local and regional level. The gently rolling landform provides the long view character and an agriculture setting adding to the rural character.

Even though the public footpaths and riding tracks existing in the site to the north, west and south, the site itself has no public access across it. Consequently, the pathways have low values to the landscape feature.

17 Landscape Effects: Assessment of Landscape Effects

4.3 Assessment of Landscape Effects 4.3.1 Potential Landscape Impact The proposed development could destroy the existing vegetation and land cover on site. Meanwhile it could damage hedgerow boundaries. Furthermore, it would reduce the quality of the landscape character and a long lasting effect. The Heavy industrial machinery and High technical equipment might endanger the rural character of the site.

Installation and operation of new access, fences, soil bund, hard standing, plant, buildings and other structures within the site would damage the underlying geology and ecology of the site irreversibly.

If not managed well, removal of all structures and final restoration would not completely let the site back to its current agricultural use.

4.3.2 Predicted Landscape Effects - Woodland Sensitivity: Low. The L-shape woodland would not be affected significantly.

Magnitude: Low. The 24hr artificial lighting might affect a little part of woodland slightly near the boundary of proposal site during the operational period.

Significance: Low. - Hedgerows Sensitivity: Moderate. Change of the hedgerows would affect the baseline conditions, but not in the long term.

Magnitude: Low. In order to create new gates for the project, a small number of hedgerows would be removed.

Significance: Low. - Tranquility Sensitivity: Moderate. It will be disturbed by the noisy of the development but it would be restored to the site.

Magnitude: Low. The tranquility might be reduced as a result of vehicle movements and drilling activities but the scale of effect is small.

Significance: Low. - Farmsteads Sensitivity: Low. No farmsteads within the site and they would not be affected, but they are valued by the rural characters.

Magnitude: Neutral.

Significance: Neutral.

18 Landscape Effects: Assessment of Landscape Effects

- Field Pattern Sensitivity: Low. Medium to large-scale geometric field pattern reflect the historical character but the pattern scale is comparatively large and the shape is simple. The allocation site layout would be changed but the wider context would not be affected.

Magnitude: Moderate. New fences and new gates would be added in the proposed site.

Significance: Low. - Topography Sensitivity: Moderate. The gently rolling landform lacks of mature vegetation and natural characters.

The development might be acceptable in this site without significantly disturbance but the proposed soil bunds would change the landform.

Magnitude: Moderate. The construction and removal of all the equipment need to strip the soil and change the landform. However, the well would be plugged and capped and the landform might be returned to previous situation.

Significance: Moderate.

- Pathways Sensitivity: Low. The pathways would not be affected significantly and without noticeable change to the baseline state. However, pathway is an important landscape character in this local area.

Magnitude: Neutral. No footpaths across the site directly.

Significance: Neutral.

19 Landscape Effects: Assessment of Landscape Effects

4.3.3 Assessment In the following form, the conclusion levels of sensitivity and magnitude depend on the higher degree in related components. The significance depends on the lower level in sensitivity and magnitude. It seems more equitable.

Landscape receptor Woodland Hedgerows Tranquility Farmsteads Field Pattern Topography Pathways

Sensitivity of landscape receptor Conclusion Susceptibility Value

Magnitude of landscape effects Duration

Scale

Reversibility

Conclusion

Neutral

Moderate

Low

Short term

Neutral

Complete

Neutral

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Short term

Low

Complete

Low

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Short term

Low

Complete

Low

Neutral

Low

Low

Short term

Neutral

Complete

Neutral

Low

Low

Low

Short term

Low

Complete

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Short term

Moderate

Complete

Moderate

Neutral

Low

Low

Short term

Neutral

Complete

Neutral

Receptor Woodland Hedgerows Tranquility Farmsteads Field Pattern Topography Pathways

Sensitivity

Magnitude

Significance

Low

Neutral

Neutral

Moderate

Low

Low

Moderate

Low

Low

Low

Neutral

Neutral

Low

Low

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Low

Neutral

Neutral

20 Landscape Effects: Summary

4.4 Summary 4.4.1 Landscape Sensitivity The overall sensitivity of overall landscape character this part of “Sherwood” to the project is considered to be low. The industrial characters would disturb the original characteristic countryside features during the development period. However, the site and the extent area might accept the overall effects.

4.4.2 Magnitude of Landscape Impact The magnitude of change relating to the alteration of overall landscape character this part of “Sherwood” as a whole is considered to be low to moderate. The baseline conditions would be influenced for the duration of the development and a period of restoration afterwards.

4.4.3 Significance of Effect Therefore, the overall landscape effects upon the application site and this part of “Sherwood” as a whole are considered to be low. If managed well, the effects are adverse in nature during operational phases and the baseline would be restored after final restoration.

21 Visual Effects: Methodology

5.0 Visual Effects 5.1 Methodology Sensitivity of Visual receptors: Each visual receptor (particular person or group of people) could be influenced at a specific viewpoint, should be assessed in accordance both their susceptibility to change in views and visual amenity as well as value attached to particular views. (Landscape Institute, 2013) Magnitude of the visual effects: Combining the size or scale, the geographical extent of the area i nfluenced and its duration and reversibility. (Landscape Institute, 2013) Significance of landscape effects: It could be defined in relation to each development and its specific location. Meanwhile, it is a final conclusion combining the judgments of sensitivity and magnitude.

(Landscape Institute, 2013) 5.1.1 Assessing landscape Effects Definitions Sensitivity Susceptibility of visual receptor

High

Moderate

Low

Stationary Stationary The receptors receptors or users receptors, might be visitors whom views are residents, users or workers who key to the experi- and visitors. Visual would not focus ence. (E.g. Local amenity is a key on the view and residents, peoaspect of the the visual amenity. ple who always landscape to them go outside and but not focused. appreciate the views of public landscape, visitors to surrounding attractions.)

Value related to viewpoint

High

Moderate

Heritage assets and planning designations, where could provide people with great enjoyment and interest might have the highest value. (E.g. famous artworks, facilities etc.)

Usually a local scaled view with value but the facilities offered are indirectly related to the visual landscape.

Low

Neutral The receptors might be road users who would not pay attention to the views.

Neutral

he degree of Usually no integration or significant addition contrast of change or loss to the view is few and the in any season. view usually in the short term.

22 Visual Effects: Methodology

Duration Size or scale

Reversibility

Magnitude Long Mid Short 10 years plus 5 to 10 years 0 to 5 years High Moderate Low Neutral A significant scale The development The degree of Usually no of the loss or has a contrasting integration or significant addition addition of character to contrast of change or loss to the view features in the former baseline at is few and the in any season. view and the a short to medi- view usually in the period is long. The um term or partial short term. proposed visual intrusions in development the longer term. usually cause contrasting visually change to original landscape.

None Partial CompleteP The proposed With the removal After the whole development of the project the project finished, changes the view could be the view could be original landscape partially restored entirely restored significantly and with moderate like the original the baseline view changes. baseline view. would never come back.

Siginificance

Significance of the visual effect

High

Medium

Low

Neutral

Receptors are Receptors usually Receptors are not The view has no significantly with comparatively focus on the view change and has sensitive to the medium and the visual no influence to the changes in visual sensitive to the amenity. Usually baseline amenity. visual is a small-scale characters.

Meanwhile, The amenity. The change in short to Meanwhile, one or overall visual scale of change is mid term. both of the overall sensitivity and not small and the visual sensitivity magnitude are duration is usually and magnitude is both high. short to mid term. neutral.

Based on guidance from Landscape Institute (2013)

23 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

5.2 Visual Baseline 5.2.1 Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) A Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) is GIS computer generated, which is used to identify the theoretical extent of visibility of the proposed development. Colored areas are visible from the viewpoint.

The highest point within the site is 56m, which is the height of the drilling rig. Other facilities are 10m high. The 4 spots in the map are used to define the site location but with no other purpose.

!!!!

1:50000

Figure 12

24 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

5.2.2 Baseline Viewpoints

Viewpoint1

Viewpoint5

Viewpoint4

Viewpoint2

Viewpoint3

(IGas Energy Plc, 2015)

Figure 13

25 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

Viewpoint 1 is taken on the North West side of the proposed site at the junction of Long Brecks Lane and A634, Blyth, Worksop. This viewpoint provides an elevated view over the undulating landscape.

The hedgerows and some small hedgerows trees forming the large field boundaries, which could be seen in front of the viewpoint as a screen and the surrounding fields. Jubilee Farm, the farmhouses, footpaths and the winding A634 could also be seen from this view. The distance from the site is 1.8km. Receptors are local residents who living near the place, road users who passing by as well as workers who working around the farmlands.

Figure 14

26 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

Viewpoint 2 is outside the steel gate of the site. The entrance path that lead people go from to the gate is muddy and tough, which from the A634, Reford. This viewpoint offers a direct open view of the site and the L-shape woodland behind. Wooded skylines quite enclose the views. Meanwhile, the containers and the muddy path that been paved steel boards are close the viewpoint on the front.

The Distance from the proposed site is 0.1km. Receptors are local residents who living around the site, workers who working here and nearby, visitors to the area and the woodland and road users.

Figure 15

27 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

Viewpoint 3 is on A368 and quite opposite to the Ye Olde Bell Hotel, which located in the Barnby Moor. It is on the South East of the proposed site. Although the front hedgerows as a belt of screen, a gently rolling landform from left to right and the agricultural lands formed by the hedgerows boundaries could be seen. Meanwhile, Several trees decorate the front fields and the ultimate tree line as a long screen close the views. Distance from the proposed site is 1.3km. Receptors are local residents who living nearby, hotel users who living and working in the Ye Olde Bell Hotel, workers who working around the farmlands and road users.

Figure 16

28 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

Viewpoint 4 is the car park within the Nature Reserve, which beside the Daneshill Road and North East of the site. Due to the long distance between the site and this viewpoint, people cannot see the site from this point. However, This viewpoint provides a special natural view, which including the peaceful lake, wetlands, clusters of trees and some wild ducks. Distance from the proposed site is 2.2km. Receptors are local residents, visitors and workers who working in the Nature Reserve and nearby.

Figure 17

29 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

Viewpoint 5 is on the Baulk Lane and quite closes the Torworth. It is on the North of the site and will be the solar farm. The Lined trees and hedgerows define the boundary of this farm. From this viewpoint, the L-shape woodland (which is behind the application site), the power lines and farmhouses could be seen. Wooded skylines quite enclose the views. Distance from the proposed site is 1.5km. Receptors are local residents who living in the adjacent farmhouses, road users, workers and visitors.

Figure 18

30 Visual Effects: Visual Baseline

5.2.3 Visual values Viewpoint1: This viewpoint has moderate value to receptors because people could see the rural landscape features such as the agriculture fields on a gently rolling landform, the hedgerows boundaries, farmsteads, footpaths that across the land and A634 Road.

Viewpoint2: Although no more nature features inside the view sight except the L-shape woodland and the grassland, the woodland might attract visitors to explore and appreciate. Due to this reason, this viewpoint has a moderate value to the visual value.

Viewpoint3: This viewpoint has a moderate value to the receptors. The receptors could see an open and peaceful farmland with hedgerows boundaries and several species of cluster trees decorating.

Meanwhile, the distant fields and tree skylines could be seen.

Viewpoint4: The receptors could not only see the luxury nature characters such as the vegetation, water and wildlifes, but also could enjoy the transquility of this area and approach the nature.

Therefore, this viewpoint has a high value to the visual value.

Viewpoint5: The open agricultrure land, which will be a solar farm in the future; The lined mature trees and hedgerows, which define the left boundary of this field; and the distant power lines, wooded skylines and farmsteads are all reflect the rual landscape characters of this area. Thus, this viewpoint has a moderate to high value.

Viewpoint 1 2 3 4 5

Baseline Summary Distance to application site Receptor 1.8km Residents, road users, workers 0.1km Residents, road users, workers, visitors Residents, road users, workers, hotel 1.3km users 2.2km Residents, visitors, workers 1.5km Residents, road users, workers, visitors

Value Moderate Moderate Moderate High Moderate

31 Visual Effects: Assessment of Visual Effects

5.3 Assessment of Visual Effects 5.3.1 Predicted Visual Impacts Viewponit1 Sensitivity: Moderate. Receptors could see a partial view of the drilling rig and this abrupt industrial pole would disturb the original countryside view. Meanwhile, no proper trees in the front would animate it even in the spring and summer. However, it would not block any views and the road users with a sequential view might be affected less than the residents with a stationary view.

Magnitude: Low. From this viewpoint, only partial of the rig could be seen and it would stay no more than 4 months. Therefore, the area it would affect is small and the period is a short term.

Significance: Low. Figure 19

Drilling rig

32 Visual Effects:Assessment of Visual Effects

Viewpoint2 Sensitivity: Moderate. Whether local residents, workers, visitors (mainly to the woodland) and drivers passing by, their sight would be interrupted by the proposed development. 1-3m high soil bunds would be filled in this part of the site that in front of the woodland, which might damage the original grassland. The containers and the drilling rig would block the right of the scenery.

Furthermore, the 3m high weld mesh fencing would seriously affect receptorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; view of this area including the wooded skyline and the grassland.

Magnitude: High. The proposed development would influence whole range in this photo and not only in this scope.

Significance: Moderate.

Figure 20 Drilling rig 2-3m Fencing 1-3m Soil bund

2-3m Container

33 Visual Effects: Assessment of Visual Effects

Viewpoint3 Sensitivity: Moderate. From this angel, only the top of the drilling rig would be seen on the right but no nature trees could completely block the drilling rig even in the spring and summer. Receptorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; view might still be influenced by the development from this viewpoint.

Magnitude: Low. The scale it affects within this range of the photo and extent would be small and the period is a short term.

Significance: Low.

Figure 21

Drilling rig

34 Visual Effects:Assessment of Visual Effects

Viewpoint4 Sensitivity: High. The whole proposed development would be not visible from this viewpoint and receptors would not be influenced. However, this place is a valuable nature place with beautiful and peaceful scenery. Therefore, lots of visitors and tourists will come to appreciate.

Magnitude: Neutral.

Significance: Neutral.

Figure 22

Drilling rig

35 Visual Effects: Assessment of Visual Effects

Viewpoint5 Sensitivity: Low. The development and the drilling rig would be almost completely blocked by the lined trees even in winter when trees become more transparent. Therefore, receptors might not discover the rig easily.

Magnitude: Low. Only a little part of the drilling rig could be seen from this viewpoint and the scale it would affect is quite small.

Significance: Low.

Figure 23

Drilling rig

36 Visual Effects:Assessment of Visual Effects

5.3.3 Assessment In the following form, the conclusion levels of sensitivity and magnitude depend on the higher degree in related components. The significance depends on the lower level in sensitivity and magnitude. It seems more equitable.

Viewpoint

Sensitivity of landscape receptor Conclusion Susceptibility Value

1 2 3 4 5 Viewpoint 1 2 3 4 5

Magnitude of landscape effects Duration

Scale

Reversibility

Conclusion

Neutral

Moderate

Low

Short term

Low

Complete

Low

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Short term

High

Complete

High

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Short term

Low

Complete

Low

HIgh

High

High

Short term

Neutral

Complete

Neutral

Low

Moderate

Low

Short term

Low

Complete

Low

Sensitivity

Magnitude

Significance

Low

Low

Low

Moderate

High

Moderate

Moderate

Low

Low

High

Neutral

Neutral

Low

Low

Low

37 Visual Effects: Summary

5.4 Summary 5.4.1 Sensitivity of Visual receptors The overall visual sensitivity of this part of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sherwoodâ&#x20AC;? to the project is considered to be low to moderate. Except the Viewpoint4, other viewpoints would all affected by the development, especially the viewpoint2. Although the distance and existing vegetation would reduce the effects in a certain degree, the drilling rig could still disturb the original rural character and scenery of these areas.

5.4.2 Magnitude of the visual effects Based on this short-term development, the scope of main visual intrusions might only be seen as large in the viewpoint2. The ranges that would be affected on other viewpoints are quite small and the degrees are comparatively low. Therefore, the overall visual magnitude is low.

5.4.3 Significance of landscape effects As the visual sensitivity is low to moderate and the magnitude is low, the significance of effect is deemed low. Thus the proposed development would not cause a major adverse effect on the local visual amenity during the operation period.

38 Mitigation: Avoidance

6.0 Mitigation The purpose of this mitigation section is to minimize the significant negative effects to each receptor brought about from the proposed development. (Landscape Institute, 2013) The following measures are from the <Planning Supporting Statement>, which published by Dart Energy (East England) Limited for Tinker Lane 1 Exploratory Well in May 2016.

- Except the entrance sides, the existing hedgerows boundaries would still be allowed to grow out in height.

- In order to avoid sight lines for road access and strengthen the landscape structure, more locally native plant species would be filled in the existing hedgerows.

- To offer screening of ground level disturbance and activity, a 2.5m high hoarding and 3m high soil storage will be placed along the roadside, inside the hedgerows fence.

- The fencing and hoarding would be painted in a coincident color with surrounding landscape.

Meanwhile, the soil bunds would be grass seeded to reduce the contrast to the original grasslands.

Although the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposals already include some mitigation methods, these measures below could be enhanced. In this section, 3 stages would be considered and they are avoidance, reduction and offset.

6.1 Avoidance Instead of the proposed removal measures, transplanting methods could be used to preserve the mature hedgerows (on the proposed gate) to avoid the loss of them. The hedgerows can then be replanted after the removal period of the entire development.

39 Mitigation: Reduction

6.2 Reduction 6.2.1 Figure24 shows the what would be look like when proposed development at current site. The buffer between the application site and the A634could be seen. The buffer be seen from this photo includes a trimmed hedgerow boundary, a strip of unmaintained grassland and one tree. Because the photo was taken in winter, the tree and the hedgerows became transparent. However, the existing vegetation could not decorate the proposed development even in the summer. Therefore, people passing by the area would be passively focus on the industrial development, specially the drilling rig. To reduce the visual impact, more trees and other vegetation species (specially the evergreen plants) could be introduced into the buffer area. According to the Figure 25, although addition of vegetation could not block the whole drilling rig, they would animate the scenery and enhance the overall biodiversity of this area.

Figure 24

40 Mitigation: Reduction

Figure 25

6.2.2 To reduce the light influence at night, the lights caps could be used to decrease the direct strength of the lights. Meanwhile, the caps would still allow the lights to work.

41 Mitigation: Offsets

6.2.3 In order to reduce the visual adverse impact on color contrast, not only the fencing of the site, but also the containers and temporary equipment could be paint in a recessive dark green color or other landscape color tune to increase the visual coherence.

The Site

Google Maps

Figure 26

6.3 Offsets This project is a temporary short-term development and the overall significance of landscape and visual effects are low, thus the offsetting is not appropriate.

42 Restoration

7.0 Restoration According to the <Planning Supporting Statement>, which published by Dart Energy (East England) Limited for Tinker Lane 1 Exploratory Well in May 2016. The exploratory well and boreholes will be plugged and capped; all construction materials would be removed from the site and then be reused, recycled or disposed; the topsoil that used on the soil bund would be replaced; the site would return to its previous agricultural use. These steps would take approximately 8 weeks to complete.

Furthermore, a five-year aftercare project would be implemented following restoration to ensure the site was return to full agricultural productivity. (Dart Energy (East England) Limited, 2016) Except returning the landscape situation exactly to the original baseline condition, restoration proposal could also enhance the existing landscape and rise to landscape and visual effects.

Supporting Measures are listed below: - Enhanced hedgerows boundary To reduce the visual impact and avoid sight lines for road access, more planting species would be introduced into the buffer between the application and A634. In this case, more vegetation will be added/ filled in the hedgerows boundary to enhance the diversity and landscape character of this area.

- Extended woodland From the baseline part, the overall value of the site is low because few vegetation exiting and a little interest it could bring to visual receptors. Aiming at the situation, the exiting woodland could be extended and several glades would be formed. Children can play in woodland, families can have picnic in glades, couples can have a romantic time in the most secret wooded area, etc. Furthermore, more vegetation been added here might enhance the green network of this local area.

- New pathway Due to no direct footpath through the site, it would be inconvenient to visitors who want to go to the L-shaped woodland. Meanwhile, adding pathway would increase the rural landscape character and enhance the connections to each field. Furthermore, more people would be attracted to come and more activities would happen. This site would be livelier.

43 Restoration

The following restoration plan shows the strategies conceptually.

Enhanced Hedgerows boundaries and Green Buffer

New Pathways

Extended Woodland and new glades

Google Maps

Figure 27

44 Final Statement

8.0 Final Statement This LVIA report has explored the effects of the Thinker Lane Exploratory Well project both on landscape as a resource and visual amenity of receptors. The overall significance of the effects is low. The development is a temporary construction and would not cause noticeable loss or addition to the landscape character. Meanwhile, the land would be restored to its previous agriculture use after full removal and restoration period.

However, the whole development will be on site for almost 3 years, the landform, grassland, hedgerows and tranquility will be affected directly. Furthermore, receptors on the viewpoint2 will be affected more significantly than others for the duration of construction and drilling construction (7months). If the mitigation methods proposed are undertaken efficiently, the effects will be reduced.

Meanwhile, if the restoration measures proposed are integrated well, these measure could not help the development restore the site but also enhance the landscape positively beyond its previous baseline condition.

45 Reference

9.0 Reference Guidance For EIA and LVIA Landscape Institute (2013) Guidelines for landscape and visual impact assessment. 3rd edn. London.

Tudor, C. (2014) An approach to landscape character assessment. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/ government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/396192/landscape-character-assessment. pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Landscape Character Assessment Council, N.C. (2009b) Countryside appraisal - Sherwood - Nottinghamshire county council. Available at: http://cms.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/home/environment/landimprovements/landscapecharacter/ countrysideappraisal/countrysideappraisal-chapterfive.htm (Accessed: 2 January 2017).

Council, N.C. (2009a) Countryside appraisal - idle lowlands - Nottinghamshire county council. Available at: http://cms.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/home/environment/landimprovements/landscapecharacter/ countrysideappraisal/countrysideappraisal-chaptersix.htm (Accessed: 2 January 2017).

England, N. (2012) NCA profile: 49 Sherwood - NE333. Available at: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/1401066 (Accessed: 2 January 2017).

Planning Policies Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National planning policy framework. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/6077/2116950.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Department of Energy and Climate Change (2011) Overarching national policy statement for energy (EN-1) planning for new energy infrastructure URN 11D/ 711 energy planning reform department of energy and climate change area 3A 3 Whitehall place London SW1A 2AW. Available at: https:// www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/47854/1938-overarching-nps-for-energy-en1.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Bassetlaw District Council (2011) Bassetlaw district local development framework PROPOSALS MAP PROPOSALS MAP. Available at: https://www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/media/105905/CS2AdoptedProposalsMap.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Project Development Dart Energy (East England) Ltd (2016a) Environmental impact statement (EIS) section template (IE).

Available at: http://www.igas-engage.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/non-technical-summary.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Dart Energy (East England) Ltd (2016b) Environmental statement section template (UK). Available at: http://www.igas-engage.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/vol-2-chapter-03-development-description.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

46 Reference

Dart Energy (East England) Limited (2016c) Vol 1 planning support statement. Available at: http:// www.igas-engage.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/vol-1-planning-support-statement.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Dart Energy (East England) Ltd (no date) SITE DESCRIPTION 2 CONTENTS. Available at: http:// www.igas-engage.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/vol-2-chapter-02-site-description.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017a).

IGas Energy plc (no date) About IGas - Igas engage. Available at: http://www.igas-engage.co.uk/ about-igas/ (Accessed: 25 January 2017b).

Figures Figure1: http://ukmap.facts.co/ukmapof/UKDetailedMap.png Figure2: IGas Energy Plc (2016d) Vol 1 tl3 01 existing ground plan. Available at: http://www.igas-engage.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/vol-1-tl3-01-existing-ground-plan.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Figure3: National character area profiles (2014) Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-character-area-profiles-data-for-local-decision-making/national-character-area-profiles#ncas-in-east-midlands (Accessed: 2 November 2016).

Figure4: Figure 1 regional character areas (no date) Available at: https://www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/media/245719/Figure-1-Regional-Character-Areas.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

Figure5: Nottinghamshire County Council (2007) Nottinghamshire landscape guidelines 6 IDLE LOWLANDS CARRLANDS VALLEY CARRS AND LEVELS VILLAGE SANDLANDS TERRACE SANDLANDS FOREST SANDLANDS 5 SHERWOOD REGION 4 MAGNESIAN LIMESTONE RIDGE A gently rolling, in places urbanised, agricultural landscape with a. Available at: http://cms.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/landscapetypesplan.pdf (Accessed: 2 November 2016).

Figure6: Council, N.C. (2009b) Countryside appraisal - Sherwood - Nottinghamshire county council.

Available at: http://cms.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/home/environment/landimprovements/landscapecharacter/countrysideappraisal/countrysideappraisal-chapterfive.htm (Accessed: 2 November 2016).

Figure7: Council, N.C. (2009b) Countryside appraisal - Sherwood - Nottinghamshire county council.

Available at: http://cms.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/home/environment/landimprovements/landscapecharacter/countrysideappraisal/countrysideappraisal-chapterfive.htm (Accessed: 2 November 2016).

Figure8: Council, N.C. (2009a) Countryside appraisal - idle lowlands - Nottinghamshire county council. Available at: http://cms.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/home/environment/landimprovements/landscapecharacter/countrysideappraisal/countrysideappraisal-chaptersix.htm (Accessed: 2 November 2016).

Figure9: Google Maps Figure10: Hand drawing+Photoshop Figure11: Hand drawing+Photoshop Figure12: Generated by GIS Figure13: IGas Energy Plc (2015) Vol 1 tl 01 site location plan. Available at: http://www.igas-engage. co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/vol-1-tl-01-site-location-plan.pdf (Accessed: 25 January 2017).

47 Reference

Figure14-18: Photographs Figure19-23: Photographs+Photoshop Figure24: Photographs Figure25: Hand drawing+Photoshop+Photographs Figure26: Google Maps Figure27: Google Maps