Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Prepared for COBEX Ltd
LVIA
Howbrook Open Cast Mining Proposal
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Department of Landscape The University of Sheffield
Wednesday 4th February 2014
Student No. 110175636
2
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
Contents 1. About Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 1.1. 1.2. 1.3. 1.4. 1.5. 1.6. 1.7.
LVIA in Environmental Impact Assessment Strategic Environmental Assessment Role within Europe and the United Kingdom Law Purpose of LVIA Landscape and Visual Impacts Assessed Separately Key Objectives Agreed Terminology
2. Assessment Methodology 2.1. Introduction 2.2. Desk Study 2.3. Field Survey 2.4. Computer Modelling 2.5. Establishing a Baseline 2.6. Assessing Landscape and Visual Effects 2.7. Sensitivity Criteria 2.8. Magnitude Criteria 2.9. Significance Criteria 2.10 Cumulative Effects
3. Cobex Development Proposals 3.1. 3.2. 3.3. 3.4. 3.5. 3.6. 3.7.
About Cobex The Siting Project Outline Site Layout Phases of Development Time Frame Do Nothing Scenario
4. Policy Context 4.1. 4.2. 4.3. 4.4.
European Policy National Planning Policy Framework Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council South Yorkshire Community Forest
5. Landscape Baseline 5.1. 5.2. 5.3. 5.4. 5.5. 5.6. 5.7. 5.8. 5.9.
Landscape Condition Landscape Features Landscape Value Landscape Character Assessments 38 Nottingham, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield 37 Yorkshire Pennine Fringe E1 West Barnsley Settled Wooded Farmland Historical Character Landscape Perceptions
5.10.
5
5.11. 5.12. 5.13. 5.14. 5.15. 5.16. 5.17.
5 5
5.18.
7
5.19. 5.20. 5.21. 5.22. 5.23. 5.24. 5.25. 5.26. 5.27. 2.10
7 7 8 8 9 10 11 12 13 13
5.28.
14
5.29. 5.30. 5.31. 5.32. 5.33. 5.34. 5.35.
14 14 14 15 16 16 16
5.36.
17
5.37. 5.38. 5.39. 5.40.
17 17 18 20
5.41.
21
5.42. 5.43. 5.44. 5.45. 5.46. 5.47. 5.48. 5.49. 5.50.
21 21 22 22 22 23 23 24 25
5 6 6 6
3
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
5.51.
25
5.52. 5.53. 5.54. 5.55. 5.56. 5.57. 5.58. 5.59.
25 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
5.60.
32
5.61. 5.62.
32 33
5.63.
34
5.64. 5.65.
34 35
5.66.
36
5.67. 5.68. 5.69. 5.70.
36 36 36 37
5.71.
38
10.1 10.2
38 38
11. Final Statement
5.72.
41
12. Glossary
5.73.
42
13. References
5.74.
44
6. Visual Baseline 6.1. 6.2. 6.3. 6.4. 6.5. 6.6. 6.7. 6.8.
Zone of Theoretical Influence Representative Viewpoints Viewpoint 1:Storrs Dike Public Footpath Viewpoint 2: Carr House Farm Viewpoint 3: Westwood Country Park Viewpoint 4: High Green Viewpoint 5: Bank Lane Viewpoint Summery
7. Landscape Effects 7.1. Predicted Effects 7.2. Landscape Effects Analysis
8. Visual Effects 8.1. Predicted Effects 8.2. Visual Effects Analysis
9. Mitigation 9.1. 9.2. 9.3. 9.4.
Options for Mitigation Avoidance Reduction Remaining Effects after Mitigation
10. Restoration 10.1 Aim of the Restoration 10.2 Outline Proposal
4
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
1 About Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 1.1 LVIA in Environmental Impact Assessment Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) forms an integral part of a formal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). EIA is an internationally recognised tool for the identification and assessment of the potential significant effects of a development upon the environment before planning consent is granted and suggests measures for the mitigation of the identified adverse effects. (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 3)
1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment Further developments have recognised the need for the impacts to the environment to be assessed at an earlier stage of development and not just at the project level, which is where the EIA is used. This has led to the Directive 2001/42/EC The assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment which the EIA is an element of, offering a strategic approach to environmental protection. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 7)
Figure 1Role of EIA with in the SEA (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 7)
1.3 Role within Europe and the United Kingdom Law The European Union Council Directive 85/337/EEC in 1985 led to the introduction EIA becoming a statutory part of the planning process (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 3) and has developed through other directives, all of which have now been consolidated in Directive 2011/92/EU. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 5) The EIA has been legally incorporated into the United Kingdom (UK) planning system under the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011. (Department for Communities and Local Government, 2013)
Figure 2 Legal Structure of the EIA (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 6)
1.4 Purpose of the LVIA The role of the LVIA is to inform the decision making process with a thorough assessment of the likely significant effects of changes on both the “landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity” (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 4) as a result of both public and private developments. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 5) LVIA uses the information gathered to suggest mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the significant effects and provide an environmental statement of the residual significant effects. (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 3)
5
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 1.5 Landscape and Visual aspects assessed separately The process of LVIA looks at the effects on landscape and visual aspects separately. The two components are:
Landscape Assessment: assessing the effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right and the value attached to the landscape. Visual Assessment: assessing the effects on the key views and visual amenity experienced by people (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 21)
1.6 Key Objectives The key objectives of the LVIA are to: Establish a Baseline
Understand the policy context of the site and the surroundings. Identify the landscape elements, features, key characteristics and value of the site and the surrounding area. Evaluate the resources to identify key landscape receptors. Evaluate the visual relationship between the site and its surroundings identifying the visual receptors sensitive to changes in visual amenity.
Identify likely significant Impacts
Predict and identify the likely significant effects of the proposals on the landscape resources and views/visual amenity, assessing the magnitude of the effect on the identified receptors and the receptors sensitivity to change.
Identify Mitigation Measures
Identify mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce, avoid or compensate the predicted likely significant effects. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 43) Outline an appropriate restoration proposal to further mitigate the likely significant effects.
Provide a Summary Statement
Detail the residual effects on the landscape resource or views/visual amenity which cannot be mitigated and summarise the most significant remaining effects in a summary statement. (Land Use Consultants, 2011, p. 198)
1.7 Agreed Terminology In line with good practice measures identified in the reference text Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 12) the definitions of key terms have been outlined in a glossary at the end of the report which should always be referred to for clarity.
6
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
2 Assessment Methodology 2.1 Introduction This section outlines the methodology used throughout the assessment as outlined in the reference text Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment (The Landscape Institute, 2013)
Making a Judgement As part of the LVIA, professional judgement is of great importance where most measurements will not by quantifiable and will rely on qualitative judgements to be made. It is essential that a clear and transparent methodology is outlined to justify the judgements made. The following explains the methods used through the assessment and the judgements here have been made by a Landscape professional. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 21)
Consultation The study area, baseline and viewpoints have been identified through discussion with:
The Department of Landscape at the University of Sheffield; Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council; Sheffield City Council.
2.2 Desk Study A desk study was undertaken to establish the policy context of the proposal, identify the initial landscape baseline, identify key viewpoints and identify the receptors to change. This was completed in the December of 2013.
Data Sources The baseline data was compiled through the use of the following data sources:
Ordnance Survey Explorer 1:25000 Map Aerial Photography The European Commission National Policy Planning Framework Barnsley Development Plans National Landscape Character Assessment Landscape Character Assessment of Barnsley Historic Landscape Character Assessment of Barnsley GIS generated Zones of Theoretical Influence Field Surveys
7
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2.3 Field Survey The field survey was conducted by a Landscape Professional in the December of 2013 and they travelled to the site and throughout the area of study to assess the information gathered from the desk study against the reality of the site and its surroundings further confirming the key receptors. The field study also identified and assessed the key viewpoints. The survey was completed through the use of field notes and photographs. Seasonal changes should be noted as they will have a significant effect on the results of the survey. The use of winter conditions provides maximum visibility due to reduced impact from vegetation, although the quality of lighting is reduced. All these and other factors will be taken into account when judgements are made.
2.4 Computer Modelling Method for creating Zones of Theoretical Visibility The visual analysis requires an identified area of which the site is visible and this area can be identified through 3 methods:
Visual Envelope Mapping (VEM): This outlines the outer limit of land from which the scheme is visible. Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI): Maps the area from which development can be seen allowing for obstacles such as landform, trees, woods etc. Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV): Same principle as ZVI but only uses landform
(Schroth, 2013)
The LVIA has used a ZTV as part of the visual baseline as this offers the most accurate mapping of where the development is visible. The ZTV provides a bear earth topographic model which allows for changes throughout the lifetime of the development in the surrounding landscape, such as changes to the built environment or the seasons. The ZTV has been developed using base data (OS-LAN- Form Profile Plus with 2.5m vertical accuracy) input to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software. Information on the development was input using the height of the five tallest elements of the development alongside the average height of the observer at 1.6m to generate a map which is colour coded to signify how many of the five points can be seen within 5km of the site.
Method for Creating Visualisations Visualisations are a useful means to communicating the landscape and visual effects of any development to both professionals and the general public. As a part of the visual assessment, visualisations will be done through a process of computer photomontage to create a photorealistic representation of the changes to a range of viewpoints. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, pp. 102-103).
8
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 2.5 Establishing the Baseline Landscape Baseline The landscape baseline identifies the features that make up the landscape and the character of the landscape for both the site and the surrounding area. The baseline also identifies the likely changes to the baseline whether directly or indirectly due to development. In this assessment the baseline will consider the:
Landscape Features; The elements and features within a landscape which are distinctive and characteristic of the site and wider area. These can be identified through the process of desk study and field survey. Landscape Character; A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that make one landscape different from another, rather than better or worse. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 157) The character areas will be identified using existing national and local character assessments. Landscape Designations; Designations given on an international, national or local level to protect a valued or important landscape with in statue or planning documents. (The Landscape Institute, 2013) These will be identified in the desk study. Landscape Perceptions; The associations and memorable qualities of the landscape attained by the range of users of the landscape. This will be a judgement made through the field survey. Landscape Value; The importance attached by society to a particular landscape. The LCA and designations are both tools for identifying the value attached to the landscape by society.
Visual Baseline The visual baseline identifies the key visual receptors in the landscape who are susceptible to change. This is achieved through the selection of key view points on and around the site which have been identified through the ZTV and consultation with the competent authorities. The key views will be photographed and verbally documented alongside a map showing the exact location of the image and technical information about the photographs. These images will also be used to form visualisations of the changes arising from the development alongside a verbal description.
9
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2.6 Assessing Landscape and Visual Effects The aim of the analysis phase of the assessment is to identify which of the effects to both the landscape and visual amenity are most significant and which are not. All types of effects shall be considered including positive or negative, direct or indirect, long term or short term. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 9) To determine the most significant effects on the landscape and visual resources requires the use of two principle criteria which are as follows:
Sensitivity: A term applied to specific receptors, combining judgements of the susceptibility of the receptor to the specific type of change or development proposed and the value related to that receptor. Magnitude: A term that combines judgements about the size and scale of the effect, the extent of the area over which it occurs, whether it is reversible or irreversible and whether it is short term or long-term. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, p. 158)
It is important to have “a balanced and well-reasoned judgement of these two criteria” (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 92). The criteria for judging sensitivity and magnitude in the Brechfa Forest Wind Farm: Environmental Statement (Land Use Consultants, 2011) offers just this and the criteria have been appropriately adapted for this assessment. This Environmental Statement also offers an appropriate method of assessing the significance of the effects has been adopted, offering a clear method of cross-comparing the magnitude and sensitivity measures. Two further criteria will be included in the assessment of magnitude which are the nature of the change and the impact the changes will have:
Nature The nature is the length of time the effect will last and also a consideration of whether it is realistically reversible. Nature will be categorised as: Short Term (up to 5 years)
Long Term (Over 5 years)
Reversible
Irreversible
(The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 147)
Impact The impacts from the changes can be both positive and negative, or neutral and should be a consideration in the assessment and the following options will be used: Adverse
Neutral
Beneficial (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 147)
10
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 2.7 Sensitivity Criteria The sensitivity of the receptors will be assessed against the following criteria: Sensitivity
Criteria
High
Medium
Low
Landscape features which make a positive contribution to the character of the landscape; are highly valued; that would take a long time to mature, repair or replace; are in good condition, Landscape Character where the key identified characteristics are extremely susceptible to change from development on site and in the wider area, Viewpoint which is valued and used by a large number of identified receptors; where manmade elements have minimal intrusion; has been designated as important; provides the viewer with a scenic, relatively uninterrupted view.
Landscape Features which make a moderate contribution to the character of the landscape; are moderately valued; can be replaced but would take some time to mature, repair or replace; are in reasonable condition, Landscape Character where the key identified characteristics are moderately susceptible to change from development; overall character is somewhat representative of the wider character area, Viewpoint which has some value and is used by a moderate number of identified receptors; where manmade elements make some intrusion; may have some local significance; provides a scenic view with some interruptions.
Landscape Features which make little or no contribution to the character of the landscape; have low value; would be easily replaced or would not need replacing; is in poor condition or poor state of repair Landscape Character where the key identified characteristics of are less susceptible to change by development; overall character is not representative of the wider character area, Viewpoint which has no known value and is used by very few or no receptors; where manmade elements are very prominent; has no know local significance; provides a limited view with regular interruptions.
(Land Use Consultants, 2011, pp. 199-200)
11
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2.8 Magnitude Criteria The magnitude of change will be assessed against the following criteria: Magnitude
Criteria
High
Medium
Low
Negligible
Landscape Features have been dramatically lost or altered; have been altered, affecting the coherence and characteristics of the area, Landscape Character of the site has be totally lost or altered; no longer represents the character of the wider area, Viewpoint has suffered substantially due to the increase in manmade elements due to site operations; the dramatic loss of use by receptors; the total loss of local value; a very significant disruption of scenic views.
Landscape Features have been partially lost or altered; have been altered, partially affecting the coherence and characteristics of the area, Landscape Character of the site has be partially lost or altered; decreased representation of the character of the wider area, Viewpoint has suffered moderately due to increase in manmade elements due to site operations; the partial loss of use by receptors; partial loss of local value; a significant disruption of scenic views.
Landscape Features have been mildly lost or altered; have been altered, mildly affecting the coherence and characteristics of the area, Landscape Character of the site has be slightly lost or altered; minor decrease in representation of the character of the wider area, Viewpoint has suffered mildly due to increase in manmade elements due to site operations; the minor loss of use by receptors; minor loss of local value; a minor disruption of scenic views.
Landscape Features have been insignificantly/not lost or altered; have been insignificantly altered, having a minor/no effect on the coherence and characteristics of the area, Landscape Character of the site has be insignificantly/not lost or altered; insignificant decrease in representation of the character of the wider area, Viewpoint has suffered insignificantly due to the increase in manmade elements due to site operations; the insignificant loss of use by receptors; the insignificant loss of local value; an insignificant disruption of scenic views.
(Land Use Consultants, 2011, p. 201)
12
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 2.9 Significance Criteria The significance of the change will be assessed through consideration for both the magnitude of change and the sensitivity of the receptors through a cross comparison method as outlined below:
Imperceptible
Low
Medium
High
Low
Negligible
Negligible –Low
Low
Low-Medium
Medium
Negligible
Low
Medium
Medium-High
High
Sensitivity
Magnitude of Change
Negligible
Low-Medium
Medium- High
High
(Land Use Consultants, 2011, p. 202)
2.10 Cumulative Effects The LVIA also takes into account the potential for cumulative effects due to additional developments that may be taking place in the wider landscape. Currently there are no additional planning proposals for development within the wider area of Howbrook which would result in additional effects on the landscape and visual resources.
13
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
3 Cobex Development Proposals 3.1 About Cobex Cobex Ltd is a locally based open cast coal operator with 12 years of experience employing up to 40 people who have worked on several successful opencast sites in the Leeds and Wakefield area. (Cobex Ltd, 2013, p. 6)
3.2 The Siting The site is located within South Yorkshire County and Barnsley Metropolitan District. The site is 11.5 km north of Sheffield, 8km South of Barnsley, 300m to the North East of the village of Howbrook and east of the Peak District national park. The Westwood Country Park sits directly on the Northern boundary of the site.
N Figure 3 Aerial view of the site in the wider landscape- 5km Zone (Google, 2014)
To the North is the Westwood Country Park, to the East is High Green residential area, and to the South and West are open, agricultural land with clumps of woodland, irregular field patterns, scattered trees and small hamlets. The site is bordered by four minor roads to the South and West. The A61 follows the East boundary. (Cobex Ltd, 2013, p. 6)
3.3 Project Outline Cobex Ltd have outlined a proposal to extract coal from the site at Howbrook through a process known as open cast mining where coal that is located near the surface is extracted by removing the top layer of soil and digging out the coal without the need for blasting. The process involves cutting a series of strips in a sequential system, systematically infilling the previous strips. Mitigation measures during the process include the storing of top soil in grassed screening mounds around the site, the protection of a rare seed mix, the protection of select mature trees and the returning of the landform to its original state after backfilling. (Cobex Ltd, 2013, p. 6) 14
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 3.4 Site Layout The site has been laid out with the areas for extraction take place in the North and East areas of the site which has the most natural screening from the woodlands and falling landform. See fig 4. The coal processing area and the site offices will be located in the south east corner of the site opposite the residential area and adjacent to the main road. This will also be the sole entrance into and out of the site. The top soil from the site will form 3m screening mounds which will be placed around a majority of the site boundaries as shown on the diagram below. Further the overburden storage mounds (OBTIP) will be in several locations. The OBTIP 1 will be on the east side near to the main road and on the site of Area C. OBTIP 2 will be in the centre of the site the most open part of the site. OBTIP 3 will be a provisional extra storage mound to the North of the site.
N Figure 4 Site Plan from Cobex Ltd (Cobex Ltd, 2013)
Site Entrance
15
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 3.5 Phases of development The proposal is divided into four phases which are as follows:
Site Preparation
This phase is where the top soil and sub soil are stripped away, some trees and all hedgerows are removed all in preparation for the areas for excavation, access and processing. The soil is then stored in mounds to act as a screen ground the site. This will last a period of 2 months. (Cobex Ltd, 2013, p. 7)
Extraction
The process of extraction is split down into 3 areas, as identified on the plan [A, B, C]. These will be systematically excavated, starting with Area C and phase should last 16 months (Cobex Ltd, 2013, p. 8) i.
ii.
iii.
Area C will first be excavate in two halves (cuts 1-2) using a single excavator using the excess material to creating a screening mound around the processing area up to 20m lasting 8 weeks. Area B (cuts 3-7) will commence towards the end of extraction in area C employing a second excavator and using material to backfill the void in area C and add to OBTIP 2 up to 15m lasting 20 weeks Area A (cuts 8-14) will commence refilling area B in the process. This will last 40 weeks.
Decommission
Once the extraction phases has ended the last of the top soil will need to be replaced to back fill the void taking approximately 10 weeks (Cobex Ltd, 2013, p. 5)
Restoration
The proposals outline a restoration project which would change the use of the land from agriculture and pastoral land into a golf course.
3.6 Time Frame Estimated development time frame before restoration is 1 year and 9 months. The restoration time frame has not yet been outlined and is subject to change as a result of the assessment.
3.7 Do Nothing Scenario If left undeveloped the land will continue to be worked as agricultural land, although modern day pressures will see a continued merging of fields losing field patterns and hedgerows.
16
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
4 Policy Context 4.1 European Policy The most recent European Directive, 2011/92/EU, states under Article 4 that any project which falls within Annex 1 will require an EIA. (European Union, 2011, p. 5) Annex 1, item 19 refers to open-cast mining projects where the site is over 25 hectares (European Union, 2011, p. 10) which therefore legally require the EIA and this LVIA to be undertaken for the Howbrook development proposals
4.2 National Planning Policy Framework Green Belt (PG9) The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for the UK provides guidance on policy creation regarding the protection of green belt land with a primary concern on keeping land permanently open and maintaining character, although it does not class mineral extraction, such as open-cast coal mining, as an inappropriate form of development which is beneficial to the Howbrook project. The NPPF outlines policy guidance which would relate to the restoration phase of the development with a need for policy to “plan positively to enhance the beneficial use of Green Belt, such as looking for opportunities to provide access; to provide opportunities for outdoor sport and recreation; to retain and enhance landscapes, visual amenity and biodiversity; or to improve damaged and derelict land.� The requirement for an EIA is supported through the NPPF guidance with recommendations that planning applications are heavily assessed on the effects to the Green Belt and that permission will not be granted unless the environmental concerns are outweighed by other considerations. The need for mitigation measures will be key to ensuring that the effects to both the Green Belt and the Environment are minimal. (Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012, pp. 19-21)
Community Forest (PG9) Restoration of the development is a significant part of the planning process and the NPPF outlines how the creation of Community Forests can be beneficial, not only to the environmental, but also to the granting of planning permissions. An appropriate restoration of the Howbrook could develop around this policy. (Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012, p. 21)
17
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Mineral Extraction (PG13) The NPPF outlines policy guidance on mineral extraction with a strong encouragement of extraction of minerals prior to future development although only if environmentally feasible and that there are no adverse effects on the natural environment. The guidance recommends the restoration should be carried out to the highest of environmental standards. The role of the LVIA will aim to assess the significance of these effects at Howbrook and provide a suitable suggestion for restoration. (Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012, p. 92)
4.3 Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council Green Belt (GS9) The Barnsley Unitary Development Plan (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000) gives clear policy which does not ban development in the Green Belt, but any project must not harm the visual amenity of the Green Belt. The Howbrook site is located within the Barnsley Green Belt (fig.4), so the visual effects of development will need to be considered and this LVIA will investigate the significance of the changes on visual amenity. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, p. 52)
Figure 5 Location of site within the Barnsley Metropolitan Borough green belt. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2014)
Environment (M4) (GS14) (GS21) Policy M4 outlines that any opencast mining project “will be considered in light of national and regional guidance which has been covered in the NPPF�. This therefore means the Howbrook project for open-cast mining is not an inappropriate use of the land and could be approved as long as the effects to the environment are assessed, as will be done with the LVIA. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, p. 70) Policy GS14 describes the councils continued support for farmers and land owners in helping them to improve and conserve the landscape. The will mean the Howbrook proposals will need to propose a well-designed restoration program which can support the aims of the policy. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, p. 53)
18
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal Policy GS21 requires proposals to retain and manage the existing hedgerows, woodlands and trees on a site. The Howbrook site is affected by this policy directly and has provided proposals to minimise the removal of such landscape features and the effects of the proposals on these will be examined in this assessment. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, p. 178)
South Yorkshire Forest (GS24) (GS23) The UDP firmly supports the creation of the South Yorkshire Forest in policy GS24 and policy GS23 encourages this by supporting “the development of extensive new woodland and hedgerow planting”. These policies will put pressure on the restoration plans for the Howbrook proposals and the LVIA will offer a restoration plan which can meet such policies. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, pp. 181-182) Mineral Extraction (M9) and (CSP38) Policies M9 and CSP38 give the clear guidance on the appropriateness for a mineral working proposal which outlines strict criteria. The proposal will be assessed on the effects to local amenity and to landscape value, both of which the LVIA will as part of for the Howbrook proposal. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, p. 237) (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2011, p. 150)
Policy CSP38 says that all proposals must have an appropriate reclamation and after use, being assessed on the restoration of the site following the works. This is essential for the Howbrook proposal and the LVIA will assist in offering a proposal for restoration that can mitigate the effects of the works. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2011, p. 150) The recent Core Strategy has outlined new policy guidelines for mineral extraction in CSP38 which says that “future extraction of minerals will normally take place within existing quarries or by site extensions rather than new sites” (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2011, p. 150), however the Howbrook site is not an existing site of mineral extraction. However the policy also says that such methods can take place before another form of development and can be on Greenfield land. This is similar to NPPF PG13 and suggests the potential for Howbrook to operate on the land.
Borough of Landscape Value (GS13) The Howbrook site also falls under the designation of a Borough of Landscape Value (see fig.5) and this requires the development to not cause a loss of valuable landscape features, of which the LVIA will distinguish in the landscape baseline study. Development should be designed sympathetically to the area, conserve the overall character of the area and if possible, enhance the character. The LVIA aims to determine the distinctive character of the area and provide measures to mitigate the significant effects the development may have upon the character. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000, p. 53)
Figure 6 Site within the Borough of Landscape Value (East Riding, 2011)
19
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Green Infrastructure (CSP33) Policy CSP33 focuses on the protection, maintenance, enhancement and creation of a network of Green Infrastructure assets. (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2011, p. 136) The policy recognises the importance of landscape character assessments, which will be a vital piece of the landscape baseline study to recognise the distinctive and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that distinguish it from another landscape. (The Countryside Agency, 2002, p. 19)
4.4 South Yorkshire Community Forest The South Yorkshire Community Forest is not a legal policy document, but as it is important to the NPPF it is worth highlighting the key aspects of the document which might affect Howbrook. The plan gives little guidance that would affect the operational phase of development with only P2 which aims to prevent the removal of mature trees, hedgerows, ancient woodland and wetlands. Some of these will be on the Howbrook site and will need protecting. All other guidance will inform the restoration phase of the development in particular the overriding aims to plant new woodlands (L1/P1), the replanting of hedgerows (L2), and enhance the local character (P3/L4) The plan builds on policy CSP33, with a focus on the creation of a network of Green Infrastructure (L3). Fig 7 shows where the site lies adjacent to an area for restoration. (South Yorkshire Forest Partnership, 2002)
Figure 7. The Site with in South Yorkshire Green Infrastructure Framework (South Yorkshire Forest Partnership, 2011, p. 28)
20
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
5 Landscape Baseline 5.1 Landscape Conditions The site is set within a lowland area of undulating landform. Screening mounds and extraction voids will change the current landform temporarily. Fig 10 shows the site has nine fields although aerial photography (fig.9) and field work identify a merger of fields resulting in a loss of the local field patterns. The fields are bounded by a few remaining hedgerows which are in a poor condition and any remaining would be removed by the development.
Figure 8 Site location on the OS Explorer 1:25000 map
The How Brook and another unnamed tributary run through the site providing two uninterrupted bands of vegetation. Development would cut through these banks at two points. The Storrs Dike runs along the northern boundary within the Westwood. There are a number of scattered mature trees from old hedgerows which have been outlined for protection by Cobex Ltd although a number of other trees will be lost. Overhead power lines run from North to South across the centre of the site with a single pylon tower on site. Two footpaths run along the site with one following the Storrs Dike along the northern boundary. The other, known as the Barnsley Boundary Walk, crosses from Carr House Farm to the Storrs Dike path in the east. The proposal would see the Barnsley Boundary Walk temporarily closed to the public while the mining operations take place.
Figure 9 Site Location and immediate Landscape (Google, 2014)
5.2 Landscape Features
Public Footpaths : 2 Scattered Trees : 19 2 Tributaries with Vegetation: 1.4km Formal Hedgerow : 0.4km Irregular Field Patterns : 49ha Undulating Landform
Figure 10 Site plan with identified Landscape Features (Cobex Ltd, 2013)
21
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
5.3 Landscape Value The policy context has already outlined the designation as an area of Greenbelt (PG9/GS9) and an Area of Borough Value (GS13). The following section looks at the range of character assessments in place for the site and the wider area.
5.4 Landscape Character Assessments Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) is a widely recognised tool for guiding development by helping to understand the present day landscape, the historical changes and how it may continue to change in the future. The use of LCA helps to ensure that any development does not “undermine whatever is characteristic or valued about any particular landscape” (The Countryside Agency, 2002, p. 14).
The Howbrook site falls within three character areas:
38 Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield 37 Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe
Figure 11 National Character Area map for the UK with site location (Swanwick, 2002, p. 48)
E1 West Barnsley Settled Wooded Farmland
5.5 38 Nottingham, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield Key Characteristics:
Rolling landforms with hills, escarpments and broad valleys Large areas of both arable and pastoral land still in use although pressures from the urban fringe creating a fragmented farmed open country Local variation in landscape character reflecting variations in underlying geology Small, fragmented remnants of pre-industrial landscape and semi-natural vegetation, including many areas of woodland, river valley habitats, subsidence flashes and other relict habitats Ever present urban influences from major cities, smaller industrial towns and mining villages. Complex mix of built up areas, industrial land, dereliction and farmed open country. Widespread influence of transport routes, including canal, road, and rail, with ribbon developments emphasising the urban influence in the landscape. Strong cultural identity arising from history of coal mining and other heavy industry. (Natural England, 2013(b))
22
Figure 12 (Natural England, 2013(b))
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 5.6 37 Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe Key Characteristics:
A landscape dissected by steep sided valleys, dropping from the uplands in the west to the lowlands in the east , Local underlying sandstones and gritstones commonly used as a building material, particularly in industrial buildings, Predominantly pastoral farming with strong linear patterns of walled enclosures in the uplands and hedgerows in the lowlands, Extensive and dramatic views from higher land out over lower-lying land to the east. Urban development mainly confined by valleys creating dramatic interplay of views between settlements and the surrounding hillsides, Predominantly broadleaved woodlands on steep valley sides forming important backdrops and the impression of a well wooded landscape Dense network of transport routes (Road, Rail, Canal, footpath) and urban development creating a close conjunction of large scale industry, urban areas and transport routes with in open countryside.
Figure 13 (Natural England, 2013)
(Natural England, 2013)
5.7 E1 West Barnsley Settled Wooded Farmland
Figure 14 Map of Barnsley Character Areas (Land Use Consultants, n.d.)
23
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Key Characteristics:
Gently rolling landform with hills and broad valleys. Substantial areas of intact agricultural land, both in arable and pastoral use Irregularly shaped small, medium and large fields bounded by hedgerows, stone walls and fences Small, medium sized and large woodlands, mainly deciduous and some coniferous Stone farmsteads (often with large modern outbuildings) , villages, and Hamlets set in open countryside Large stone country houses set within designed parkland landscapes Urban encroachment visible to the east, outside the character area. (Land Use Consultants, n.d.)
5.8 Historical Character The South Yorkshire Historic Environment Characterisation Project (SYHCP) has placed the site within the character area ‘Assarted Enclosure’. The key identified Characteristics are:
Ancient irregular field patterns with mainly hedged boundaries Once heavily wooded, much of the land has been cleared for cultivation Areas of ancient woodland remain Other areas demonstrate piecemeal enclosure dating to medieval times Underlying geology is lower and middle coal measures A rolling, hilly landscape with steep scarps in the west. Surviving areas of woodland found on the steeper slopes Settlement is generally dispersed with a significant distribution of medieval farm buildings. (South Yorkshire Timescapes, 2014, p. 38)
Figure 15 (South Yorkshire Timescapes, 2014)
24
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 5.9 Landscape Perceptions Field Survey identified four potential perceptions of the site which could be affected by the development. The open feel of the space could be minimised, the rural aspect might be lost due to a removal of field patterns and agricultural land. The feeling of a green landscape might be lost with a removal of the grass and meadows. The perception of a tranquil landscape, especially to the west might be disturbed by the increase in traffic and machinery being used.
6 Visual Baseline 6.1 Zone of theoretical Influence GIS has been used to develop a map of the Zone of Theoretical Influence across a 5 kilometre radius, using five of the tallest features created from the development. In this case these are the overburden and screening mounds which sit between 10 and 15 metres tall. The ZTV highlights the areas of which these five points can be seen and has been rendered with a colour scale to show the number of mounds visible from each point on the map. N
Number of Mounds Visible
Figure 16 Zone of Theoretical Influence
6.2 Representative Viewpoints To develop the baseline and identify the visual receptors a range of representative viewpoints from the north, east, south, and west have been chosen. This has been done through consultation with the University of Sheffield, with the Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council using the results of the ZTV. The following viewpoints will provide photographic illustrations as well as a written description.
25
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 6.3 Viewpoint 1: Storrs Dike Public Footpath
Site Location
Camera: Panasonic DMC-FS30 Lens Type: Zoom Focal Length: 5mm
Existing Views This viewpoint is representative of the Storrs Dike public footpath which follows the northern edge of the site. Walkers along the path have a full sequential view into the site looking over a rising landform creating a view with a short horizon. The view is over a very smooth, empty and green landscape with few features visible. To the west is an open view of agricultural land and woodland. To the north is a filtered view through dense woodland. To the east is a limited view of High Green residential area and woodland. Vehicle drivers get a glimpse view through a gap when passing. N
Predicted Views The effects of the development will result in a 3m high screening mound being constructed along the entire northern edge following the Storrs Dike Public Footpath. The screen will remove detrimental views to the mining works taking place on the other side of the screen. The screen will also be seeded with grass to maintain a green, natural aesthetic. The change will remove the sequential views up and across the field, bringing the horizon very close to the user of the path. Views of the wider landscape and hedgerow to the west will also be obstructed along the path and views for vehicle drivers will be removed. Filtered views to the north through the woodland will not be obstructed.
26
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 6.4 Viewpoints 2: Carr House Farm Site Location
Camera: Panasonic DMC-FS30 Lens Type: Zoom Focal Length: 5mm
Existing Views This view is representative of the Carr House Farm which is on the site boundary and the residents (approx. 6) will be the key receptors who have a stationary view. Walkers on the Barnsley Boundary public footpath will receive a sequential view. They will receive a long distance, panoramic view of the undulating landform from north to south with a strong backdrop of woodland behind a series of large, merging, green grass fields. Some hedgerow is visible but in poor condition and patchy corridors of vegetation can be seen following the two tributaries. High Green residential area sits clearly to the east amongst woodland and to the South-East is a higher rising landform. Area A
N
3m Screening Mound
Predicted Views The close proximity of the viewpoint makes it highly susceptible to change. At ground level the screening mounds will block a significant amount of the view to the South although the taller hills to the south-east will still be visible. The change in landform from the mounds and extraction will be highly visible. The strong green aspect and the remaining hedgerow will be lost once the land is cleared. Views to the north and east will still be very visible. Views from the upper levels of the property will be much less obstructed revealing views over the mining operations. The routes cut through the vegetation along the tributaries will be visible from this viewpoint. Machinery and office buildings will add intrusions to the immediate landscape and the views for walkers will be lost with the temporary closure of the Barnsley Boundary public footpath.
27
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 6.5 Viewpoint 3 : Westwood Country Park Site Location
Camera: Panasonic DMC-FS30 Lens Type: Zoom Focal Length: 14mm
Existing Views This viewpoint is representative of Westwood Country Park and is a recognised viewpoint on OS maps. Receptors are the local population as well as visitors to the area due to the importance of the area. The viewpoint offers a stationary, panoramic and elevated view over the site to the undulating landform and pattern of small, green fields with hedgerow. Looking southeast is the High Green residential area which sits low within the view, south-west Howbrook is clearly visible and views to the west are screened by the woodland. Woodland and landform hide most of the northern part of the site. N
Processing Area
OBTIP2
Predicted Views The areas of extraction sit in the north of the site and therefore will be disguised by the woodland and landform. The openness of the view makes it susceptible to change, but the vast view across the landscape will make changes to the site less noticeable. Noticeable changes will come from the creation of the overburden mounds and the removal of the green grass layer. The offices and coal processing equipment will be visible in the foreground.
28
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 6.6 Viewpoint 4: High Green Site Location
Camera: Panasonic DMC-FS30 Lens Type: Zoom Focal Length: 5mm
Existing View The viewpoint represents the view of the residential area of High Green with the key receptors here being the local residents (approx. 70) who receive a stationary view from their homes or a sequential view when driving through estate. The view is heavily screened by the boundary trees providing a filtered view with some glimpses across the main road to the site. There are limited views to the west with some fields visible and taller landforms in the north and south are slightly visible. The views are heavily interrupted by other residences.
N
Predicted View Due to the heavy screening the visibility of the works will be very limited. The views to the wider landscape will not be altered and the screening mounds will block any views through the fields to the offices and processing area.
29
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 6.7 Viewpoint 5 : Bank Lane Site Location
Camera: Panasonic DMC-FS30 Lens Type: Zoom Focal Length: 15mm
Existing View The viewpoint is representative of the elevated area to the south-west which has open panoramic views across the undulating landscape with a dominance of patches of woodland and green open field, but irregular field patterns are not significant. This view point will be shared by several receptors. Private residents along the road (approx. 15) which look out over the landscape have a stationary view of the area, where as vehicle users will receive a sequential view. This is also representative of the view for walkers, whether local or from further afield using the Trans Pennine Trail also gaining a sequential view. The landform and woodland removed much of the site from view. High Green to the east and the electricity pylons add minimal interruption to the view.
N
Predicted View The distance of the viewpoint from the site, the dropping landform and strips of woodland mean that any major changes will cause minimal disruption the view particularly the mining areas. Visible change will come from the entrance of the site, the offices and processing areas, although screening mounds will remove some of the impact of these elements. Changes to the he greenness of the open fields and changes to onsite trees will not be noticeable from this distance.
30
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal 6.8 Viewpoint Summery
No.
Viewpoint
NGR
Distance to Boundary
1
Storrs Dike
31901 89832
0m
32896 98853
0m
33964 98448
577m
2 3
Carr House Farm Westwood Country Park
Direction to the Site
Receptors
Local and Visiting Walkers, Road Users Residents, Walkers on footpath, South-East Road Users Local and Visiting Walkers, South-West Users of the Park South
4
High Green
33403 98013
77m
North-West Residents, Road Users
5
Bank Lane
91194 97441
1854m
North-East
Few Residents, Local and Visiting walkers, Road Users
The viewpoints have identified a range of receptors which will sensitive to the changes from the development. These receptors will be used as part of the impact analysis process to assess the significance of the change on the receptor and the representative views. The key receptors and their location have been mapped to illustrate the changing receptors across the north, east, south and west of the site. VP1
VP2
N
VP3
VP4
VP5
31
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
7 Landscape Effects 7.1 Predicted Effects
32
The preparation of the land and through the rest of the development the remaining 525m of formal hedgerows in place will be lost throughout. The effect will be permanent although they can be replaced in the restoration. The loss of hedgerow will further result in the loss of the irregular field patterns identified on site. This will also be a permanent loss and might affect the local landscape character. The preparation stage will change the landform with the creation of screening mounds and overburden mounds up to 20 metres in height. In an undulating landscape these mounds will greatly alter the landform but only through the operational stage as they will be removed after the work finishes. The extraction phase will see a lot of material taken from the ground again altering the landform. The work will create deep cuts into the ground, unlike the local landform. This effect will only be temporary as any excavated areas will be refilled. During the whole process the work will require cuts to be taken across the tributaries resulting in a loss of 50m of vegetation along the river bank. This will only be a temporary effect as it can be left to regrow afterwards. Through the entire process the 49 hectares of agricultural land and the perception of a green and rural landscape will be lost due to the removal of all the top soil across most of the site. This will be a long term change during the operational stage, but can be restored afterwards. Throughout the whole development the Barnsley Boundary Walk (public footpath) will be closed. This will prevent local and visiting walkers from walking through the site although this will be a temporary closure which can be reopened at the restoration stage. The clearing and preparation of the site will see the loss of 8 scattered mature trees which remain from old hedgerows. Their loss would be permanent and irreplaceable, taking many years to regrow. Throughout the development there will be an increase in vehicular traffic which will affect the quiet, country like perceptions of the site, particularly on the west side away from the A61. This will be temporary and return to normal after restoration.
Removal of grass and topsoil Construction of soil mounds Increase in vehicles and machinery Overall effects
Perceptions Green Landscape Openness Tranquillity Rural Landscape
Policy and Designations PG9/GS9 Development in the Green Belt PG13/M4 Extraction of Minerals GS14 Loss of 49 hectares farmland GS21 Loss of 525m of hedgerow Loss of 8 mature trees
Overall effects Overall effects Overall effects Overall effects
525m of hedgerow removed Loss of field patterns Total of 49 hectares of agricultural land lost 50m of vegetation removed on stream banks Closure of Footpath Creation of earth mounds Creation of deep holes in the ground Loss of 8 mature scattered trees
Effect
Landscape Character NCA 37 NCA 38 E1 SYHCP
Scattered Trees
Public Footpaths Landform
Stream Vegetation
Landscape Feature Hedgerow Field Patterns Agricultural Land
Receptor ST
Nature LT R IR
Impact A N B
L L H H H
M M L M
M L M M
L H H L
M
M M M
Sensitivity
L H H L L
H M H H
L L L L
H H H L
L
L L H
Magnitude
Low Low – Medium High Low - Medium Low- Medium
Medium-High Medium Medium Medium-High
Low Low Low Low
Low -Medium High High Low
Low
Low Low Medium-High
Significance
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
7.2 Landscape Effects Analysis
33
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
8 Visual Impacts 8.1 Predicted Effects
34
Throughout the process the screening mounds along the northern boundary will remove all views from the public footpath. The effect will be temporary as they will be removed after the works have finished, Residences along Bromley Carr Road will suffer great visual disturbance from the creation of screening and overburden mounds limiting select views and altering the view of undulating landform. All these effects will be temporary and will be removed or restored after the completion of the works, Views at a distance from the site from the north at Westwood Park and from the more elevated southern areas will be affected from the office and coal processing areas of the development. The open views to this part of the site will make it very visible, although at a distance the impact is reduced. This effect will be visible throughout the whole development, but is temporary. Throughout the works the green aspect of the site will be lost with the field’s grass and top soils being removed. This will affect all views, but more so from a closer viewpoint. The whole process will see routes cut through the continual bands of vegetation following the tributaries. This will affect views from most angles, but most significantly from an elevated angle, such as West Wood Park, This will be a longterm, but not permanent effect if left to regrow or is replanted. Throughout the development there will be a greatly increased visibility of large scale machinery and vehicles on and around the site. This will be of great effect to the quieter west and south sides of the site. This will only be a temporary effect which will reverse to normal after restoration.
M M M M M M M
H H
L L
M M M
Viewpoint 3 : Westwood Country Park Visibility of operations equipment Changes in landform due to mounds
Viewpoint 4 : High Green Residential Area Filtered views of operations equipment Mounds screening the mining work
Viewpoint 5 : Bank Lane Changes in the landform Views of operations equipment Removal of green fields aspect
Sensitivity
Viewpoint 2 : Carr Road Farm Loss of green aspect Loss of view of hedgerow/field patterns Blocked views due to storage mounds Open view over the extraction areas Loss of view to streams Loss of view of open, undulating landscape View of operations equipment
IR
Impact A N B
M M M M
ST
Nature LT R
Viewpoint 1: Storrs Dike Public Foot Path Loss of view across the field Mounds screening the mining works Loss of green view Loss of view to the wider landscape
Effect
L L L
N N
L L
H H H H H H H
H H H H
Magnitude
Low Low Low
Negligible Negligible
Low-Medium Low-Medium
Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High
Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High
Significance
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
8.2 Visual Effects Analysis
35
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
9 Mitigation 9.1 Options for Mitigation The role of the LVIA is to suggest strategies which address the significant effects with the aim of avoiding, reducing or offsetting the significant negative effects. The best measures for mitigation will be those that are designed into the scheme from an earliest point in the process whereby they can be used to adapt and modify the development “as part of an environmentally integrated design. (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 43) The primary measures taken to mitigate against the significant effects have been outlined in the project description provided by Cobex Ltd and have been considered throughout the assessment phase. The secondary measures are those specifically designed to mitigate against the significant effects raised through the assessment of landscape and visual effects and thus will aim to achieve the following (The Landscape Institute, 2002, p. 43)
9.2 Avoidance:
The detrimental effects of the views from Carr House Farm over the areas of coal extraction should be avoided through the relocation of the 3m screening mound to the north side of the house and along the length of the house. See fig.17
Figure 17 Proposed and Alternative Design of Screening Mound (Author.2013)
The relocation of the screening mound would also significantly open up the views from Carr House to the wider landscape avoiding effects on the perception of the area as an open landscape and avoid effects on the views to the tributaries onsite. See fig.4
9.3 Reduction:
36
The effects to openness of the landscape as a perception can be reduced through the reduction in the height screening and overburden mounds allowing visibility across the site and to the wider landscape. This will also reduce the effects of views from Carr House Farm and Westwood Country Park The widening of storage mounds, along with the height reduction, can minimise the effect to landscape character by providing a softer landform which is more in keeping with the undulating landscape. See fig.18
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
Figure 18 Proposed and Alternative height and spread of storage mounds. (Author.2013)
The effects to openness can also be reduced through the relocation of material from OBTIP 2 to OBTIP 3, reducing the height of the mound which is visible from most viewpoints. OBTIP3 will therefore become bigger but is less visible. See fig.19
Figure 19 Proposed and Alternative sizing of storage mounds to create openness (Author.2013)
To reduce the impact to the perception of a landscape as green and rural the process of site preparation could be broken down also into phases throughout the process whereby area B is prepared during extraction on Area C, and Area A is prepared only which area B is nearly finished with extraction. This will help ensure the by minimising the amount of grass removed at once the site can appear greener and rural for longer. The phased approach can also minimise the effects to public footpaths by keeping the Barnsley Boundary Walk open until Site A is required and also by removing the need for screening mounds along the Storrs Dike Footpath until necessary. The phased approach will also reduce the effects on the views from Carr House Farm, by minimising the time area A is altered.
9.4 Remaining Effects after Mitigation After the considerations for mitigation the remaining effects are:
The Visibility of the coal processing and office area from the Westwood Country Park and Bank Lane viewpoints and their representative areas. The loss of the perception of tranquillity with the increase in machinery in use and vehicular traffic in and around the site. The loss of characteristic field patterns and 525m of formal hedgerow across the site which have been identified in the landscape character assessments. The reduced perception of a rural landscape with the removal of agricultural land and the associated management of the land. The 8 mature trees will not be lost permanently. 37
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
10 Restoration 10.1
Aim of the restoration
The following restoration proposal outlines a sensitive approach to dealing with the remaining significant adverse effects after mitigation. The proposal also provides the opportunity to further enhance other characteristics of the wider landscape and meet a number of policies and guidance identified in the policy context.
10.2
Outline Proposal
The key to the proposal is to build on the community forest initiative which is supported in the NPPF policy PG9 and by the South Yorkshire Forest Partnership (SYFP). The design also builds upon policy GS25 for the enhancement of recreational facilities in areas, such as Westwood Country Park and the extension of the park where possible. The plan also builds on policy GS26 for the extension of public rights of way and connecting public footpaths. Hence the restoration involves the creation of a woodland extension to the Westwood Country Park, acting as a continuation of the park with additional footpaths and connectivity, which also builds on statement R7 of the SYFP plan. The strategy embraces SYFP statement R4 and R5 by offering spaces for formal and informal recreation, such as sports fields, as well as an opportunity to use the existing landform to create a woodland biking track as an alternative activity to the area. Integration with Westwood Country Park provides a chance to develop the whole park into a place of outdoor activity with the aim to making a profit. Environmental sustainability comes through the extension of woodland throughout the site which will connect up and create a network of woodland. This also supports policy CSP33 in establishing the green infrastructure. In line with policy PG9, GS24 & 23 and SYFP statements P3 & L4 the restoration aims to recreate and enhance the local character which had been lost prior to development with the reinstatement of the formal hedgerows and irregular field patterns with the new woodland backdrop. This will enhance the site character and the character of the wider area, especially from viewpoints in Westwood Country Park. The design has allocated the open spaces where they are most visible in the wider landscape to maintain the perception of a green landscape and offering wide views to maintain the openness. The use of old field patterns and meadows will help to maintain the rural feel which will be lost through development.
38
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
N
Figure 20 Outline proposal for the Restoration after decommissioning of the open cast coal mine (Not to Scale)
Woodland
Bike Track
Footpath
Meadow
Hedgerow
Site Boundary
Open Field
Stream (Blue Line)
39
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
40
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
11 Environmental Statement Considering that the recommended mitigation measures are taken on board then there would be great potential to avoid and reduce a large percentage of the likely significant effects identified in the assessment. The residual significant effects which should be taken into consideration will be the temporary effect of the coal processing area and offices on the visual amenity of the site, in particular from the sensitive viewpoints of Carr House Farm and the well-used West Wood Country Park. Other key considerations should be the impact the development will have upon people’s perceptions of the landscape as rural, green and tranquil during the period of development, but following a suitable restoration strategy, as outlined, this should not be a long-term issue. A restoration, as proposed, offers great potential to reverse the detrimental effects on the local character with the reinstatement of hedgerows, field patterns and open land, as well as developing the South Yorkshire Community Forest.
41
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
11 Glossary The appropriate definitions listed have been abstracted from the reference text Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment as they are clear, recognised and have been well developed through professional experience. (The Landscape Institute, 2013, pp. 155-159)
Baseline Studies: Work done to determine and describe the environmental conditions against which any future changes can be measured or predicted and assessed. Character: A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape, natural or manmade, making it different from one landscape to the other. Development: Any proposal that results in a change to the landscape and/or visual environment. Effect: The result of the action or impact on the environment due to development. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The process of gathering environmental information; describing a development; identifying and describing the likely significant environmental effects of the project; defining ways of preventing/avoiding, reducing, or offsetting or compensating for any adverse effects; consulting the general public and specific bodies with responsibilities for the environment; and presenting the results to the competent authority to inform the decision on whether the project should proceed. Environmental Statement: A statement that includes the information that is reasonably required to assess the environmental effects of the development and which the applicant can, having regard in particular to current knowledge and methods of assessment, reasonably be required to compile, but that includes at least the information referred to in the EIA regulations. Green Infrastructure: Networks of green spaces and watercourses and water bodies that connect rural areas, villages and cities. Landscape: An area, as perceived by people, the character of which is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or manmade factors. Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA): A tool used to identify and assess the likely significance of the effects of change resulting from development both on the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity. Landscape Character Areas (LCAs): These are single unique areas which are the discrete geographical areas of a particular landscape type Landscape Effect: Effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right. Landscape Perceptions: The associations and memorable qualities of the landscape attained by the range of users of the landscape.
42
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
Landscape Receptors: Defined aspects of the landscape resource that have the potential to be affected by a proposal. Landscape Value: The relative value that is attached to different landscape by society and can be valued differently by various different users for different reasons. Magnitude: A term that combines judgements about the size and scale of the effect, the extent of the area over which it occurs, whether it is reversible or irreversible and whether it is short term or long-term. Impact: The action which is being taken by the development on the environment. Perception: Combines the sensory (that we receive through our senses) with the cognitive (our knowledge and understanding gained from many sources and experiences) Photomontage: A visualisation which superimposes an image of a proposed development upon a photograph or series of photographs. Sensitivity: A term applied to specific receptors, combining judgements of the susceptibility of the receptor to the specific type of change or development proposed and the value related to that receptor. Significance: A measure of the importance or gravity of the environmental effect, defined by significance criteria specific to the environmental topic. Visual Amenity: The overall pleasantness of the views people enjoy of their surroundings, which provides an attractive visual setting or backdrop for the enjoyment of activities of the people living, working, recreating, visiting, or travelling through an area. Visual Effects: Effects of specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people. Visual Receptors: Individuals and/or defined groups of people who have the potential to be affected by a proposal. Zone of Theoretical Visibility: A map, usually digitally produced, showing areas of land within which a development is theoretically possible.
43
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
12 References Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2000. Barnsley Unitary Development Plan. [Online] Available at: https://vle.shef.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fweba pps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_27880_1%26url% 3D [Accessed 10 January 2014]. Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2011. Core Strategy. [Online] Available at: https://www.barnsley.gov.uk/media/Development%20%20Planning%20and%20Transportation/Planning%20Policy/LDF/Core%20Strategy%20Submi ssion/Adopted%20Core%20Strategy.pdf [Accessed 10 January 2014]. Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, 2014. Unitary Development Plan. [Online] Available at: https://stratus.pbondemand.eu/connect/barnsley/?mapcfg=udp Cobex Ltd, 2013. Howbrook Background. [Online] Available at: https://vle.shef.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_group=courses&url=%2Fwebapps% 2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Fcontent%2Ffile%3Fcmd%3Dview%26content_id%3D_979889_1 %26course_id%3D_27880_1%26framesetWrapped%3Dtrue [Accessed January 2014]. Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012. National Planning Policy Framework. [Online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/211 6950.pdf [Accessed 10 January 2014]. Department for Communities and Local Government, 2013. Environmental Impact Assessment: Guidence. [Online] Available at: http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/environmentalimpact-assessment/what-legislation-covers-environmental-impact-assessment/ [Accessed 20 January 2014]. East Riding, 2011. Local Landscape Designations. [Online] Available at: http://www.eastriding.gov.uk/padocs/OCT2011/06DF8F87360D11E19A908330FBEA5004.pdf [Accessed 10 January 2014]. European Union, 2011. Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council. Official Journal of the European Union, pp. 26/1 - 26/21. Google, 2014. Google maps. [Online] Available at: https://www.google.co.uk/maps/preview/@53.4864718,1.5347208,4847m/data=!3m1!1e3 [Accessed 20 January 2014]. Land Use Consultants, 2011. Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm: Environmental Statement. [Online] Available at: https://vle.shef.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fweba pps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_27880_1%26url% 3D [Accessed 21 January 2014].
44
Howbrook Open-Cast Mining Proposal
Land Use Consultants, n.d. Barnsley Landscape Character Map. [Online] Available at: https://vle.shef.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fweba pps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_27880_1%26url% 3D [Accessed 22 January 2014]. Natural England, 2013(b). 38. Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield. [Online] Available at: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/4743624?category=587130 [Accessed 21 January 2014]. Natural England, 2013. 37. Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe. [Online] Available at: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5459581769613312?category=58713 0 [Accessed 21 January 2014]. Natural England, 2013. Landscape Character. [Online] Available at: http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/landscape/englands/character/ Schroth, O., 2013. Lecture 2 Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. [Online] Available at: https://vle.shef.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fweba pps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_27880_1%26url% 3D [Accessed January 2014]. South Yorkshire Forest Partnership, 2002. South Yorksire Forest Plan. [Online] Available at: http://www.syforest.co.uk/downloads/S_York_Forest_plan.pdf [Accessed 24 January 2014]. South Yorkshire Forest Partnership, 2011. South Yorkshire Green Infrastructure Strategy. [Online] Available at: http://www.syforest.co.uk/projects.php?p=273 [Accessed 24 January 2014]. South Yorkshire Timescapes, 2014. Barnsley Zones. [Online] Available at: http://sytimescapes.org.uk/zones/barnsley Swanwick, C., 2002. Landscape Character Assessment Guidence for England and Scotland, Cheltenham: The Countryside Agency. The Countryside Agency, 2002. Landscape Character Assessement: Guidence for England and Scotland. [Online] Available at: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/2671754?category=31019 [Accessed 20 January 2014]. The Landscape Institute, 2002. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 2 ed. London: Spon Press. The Landscape Institute, 2013. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3 ed. London: Spon Press.
45
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
46