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4-1 | Landscape and Visual CANTREF ADVENTURE FARM LUGE Chapter 4: LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL Introduction 4.1 This chapter of the Environmental Statement identifies any potential change, as a result of the proposed development, to both people’s views towards the site and the character of the surrounding landscape, commonly referred to as landscape and visual resources. The assessment assigns a level of value and sensitivity to the landscape and visual resources and in so doing can identify the significance of any effects on landscape and visual resources as a result of the project. The extent and detail of the assessment has been agreed in consultation with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. A detailed landscape planting scheme has been incorporated into the project. The content of this scheme takes into account the feedback received. Assessment Methodology 4.2 Brecon Beacons National Park (BBNP) has indicated that the economic and agricultural sustainability offered by the proposed development must be balanced against any impact on the high quality of the landscape of the Brecon Beacons. This chapter demonstrates that these issues have been assessed and addressed thoroughly. Planning Policy Context 4.3 The BBNP Planning Policies of relevance to this assessment are: SP1 Na�onal Park Policy; SP3 Environmental Protec�on; SP10 Sustainable Distribu�on of Development; CYD LP1 Enabling Appropriate Development; Policy 38 Farm Diversifica�on; Policy 48 New or Extended Outdoor Ac�vity Centres; and Policy 58 Sustainable Drainage Systems. Relevant Guidance 4.4 This landscape and visual assessment is based on the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Third Edition (Landscape Institute & Institute of Environmental Management and

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4-1 | L a n d s c a p e a n d V i s u a l

C A N T R E F A D V E N T U R E F A R M L U G E

Chapter 4: LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

Introduction

4.1 This chapter of the Environmental Statement identifies any potential change, as a result of the proposed development, to both people’s views towards the site and the character of the surrounding landscape, commonly referred to as landscape and visual resources. The assessment assigns a level of value and sensitivity to the landscape and visual resources and in so doing can identify the significance of any effects on landscape and visual resources as a result of the project. The extent and detail of the assessment has been agreed in consultation with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. A detailed landscape planting scheme has been incorporated into the project. The content of this scheme takes into account the feedback received.

Assessment Methodology

4.2 Brecon Beacons National Park (BBNP) has indicated that the economic and agricultural sustainability offered by the proposed development must be balanced against any impact on the high quality of the landscape of the Brecon Beacons. This chapter demonstrates that these issues have been assessed and addressed thoroughly.

Planning Policy Context

4.3 The BBNP Planning Policies of relevance to this assessment are:

SP1 Na�onal Park Policy;

SP3 Environmental Protec�on;

SP10 Sustainable Distribu�on of Development;

CYD LP1 Enabling Appropriate Development;

Policy 38 Farm Diversifica�on;

Policy 48 New or Extended Outdoor Ac�vity Centres; and

Policy 58 Sustainable Drainage Systems.

Relevant Guidance

4.4 This landscape and visual assessment is based on the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Third Edition (Landscape Institute & Institute of Environmental Management and

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Assessment). This is not a prescriptive document and the assessment has been tailored to suit the scale and nature of the development.

4.5 LANDMAP Guidance note 3 (2010) was consulted to establish justification for the extent and depth of the landscape baseline evaluation based on the database.

4.6 The Landscape Institute Advice Note 3 01/11 on photography has been considered and photographs from viewpoints suggested by BBNP have been prepared in accordance with this guidance.

Study Area

4.7 The extent of the desk study was determined by the LANDMAP guidance note 3 which sets out how the search area for (windfarm) developments should be established. This document establishes the principal of considering all aspect areas where ‘significant effects’ are anticipated. These should include each LANDMAP layer. To this end, a professional judgement was made for each layer, considering sensitivity, availability of views or where the site serves as background. Guidance note 3 was prepared to assist in the use of LANDMAP for the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment of onshore wind turbines. This application varies from the proposed development in that wind turbines generally would affect a more extensive area than a luge track. The principals set out in the guidance have been followed nonetheless.

4.8 Visual effects: Consideration was given to the range of people and places that may be affected. The areas where visibility can be expected were identified during the desk study and initial site visit to establish a draft Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI). The ZVI was refined through later field work and in response to comment from BBNP; the final ZVI is presented as Figure 4.15.

4.9 The extent of the study area was limited by practical consideration of the likely visibility of the proposed development and on professional opinion. Most places from which the development will be visible in good light conditions are within a range of 6 to 7km. Vantage points beyond this range would typically be Mynydd Troed at a very distant 11.5km. The visual impacts at this range were not considered.

Baseline Methodology

4.10 Desk Study: The LANDMAP database was consulted, together with the BBNP Supplementary Planning guidance (Landscape Character Assessment) and in particular the ‘Middle Usk Valleys’ LCA (6). The BBNP Local Development Plan (2013) and the BBNP Management Plan were also consulted.

4.11 Field work: to confirm the baseline landscape character and visual baseline. This was carried out by making field observations in good weather from locations around the site and from public rights of way and roads in the surrounding area at different times of the year and in different weather conditions.

Consultation

4.12 A summary of all consultation with stakeholders or consultees (such as local planning authority) is provided in the table below.

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A40

Brecon

1

H2

H1

H4

H5

H3

Campsite

F1

R5

R4

R3

F2R2

F3

F4

R1

H6

R6

F5

H7

R7

F6

Existing Farm Park

The Site

KEY:

Dwellings - referred to in text

Roads - referred to in text

Public Rights of Way referred to in text

Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI)

close to the site

ZVI (distant locations)

R1

H1

F1

CONSULTANTSUPPER BRECHFA LLANDEFALLE

BRECON POWYS LD3 0NG

LANDSCAPE

Email: [email protected]

Website: hairelandscapeconsultants.co.uk

Tel. 01874 754066

HAIRE

Ckd byDateNov '15

Scale

1:25,000

@ A3 Drawn by

Rev.Figure 4.15

Drawing no.

Client:

Project name:

Drawing title:

Mr. Colin Evans

Zone of Visual Influence and

Reference Plan

Upper Cantref Farm

Camp Site & Ablution Block

K.H.

ARev A: 18.11.16: ZVI (distant locations)

extended, R7, H7 and F6 added

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Table 4.1: Consultation Responses Relevant to this Chapter

Date Consultee and Issues Raised How/ Where

Addressed

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

The BBNPA Scoping Opinion stated that an EIA was required due to the

following environmental impacts and sensitivities relevant to landscape

and visual resources:

• the visual sensitivity of users of surrounding farmland, public

rights of way and open access areas, particularly in the short

term.”

• an increase in visitor numbers in a National Park offering “peace

and tranquillity with opportunities for quiet enjoyment,

inspiration, relaxation and spiritual renewal” as a special quality

(Brecon Beacons National Park Management Plan).

• the noise generated as a result of the general operation of the

proposed luge and the sensitivity of nearby residents, users of

surrounding farmland, public rights of way and open access

areas, particularly in light of the special qualities of the National

Park.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail in

paras 4.218-29 &

Table 4.5

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

The development should be assessed to ensure that it is consistent with

the adopted BBNP Local Development Plan 2007-2022, its policies and

related supplementary planning guidance.

It is requested that the following current landscape guidelines and

reports are taken fully into account:

• Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, third

edition, LI and IEMA, 2013 (GLVIA 3).

• Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/2011. Photography and

photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment.

• Landscape Visual Representation of Windfarms Good Practice

Guidance, December 2014, SNH.

• LANDMAP information Guidance Note 3, NRW/CCW, June 2010

• BBNP Landscape and Development Supplementary Planning

Guidance including the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA)

• BBNP Management Plan

It is expected that the LVIA will be carried out to current good practice.

This assessment

follows this guidance

generally. Refer to:

Viewpoints

(Appendix 4.1)

Paras 4.39-4.104 &

4.165-4.217

Paras 4.218-229

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Date Consultee and Issues Raised How/ Where

Addressed

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

The letter lists the components that make up the proposed development,

points out that a hedge will be re-aligned and requests detail as follows:

• Building drawings

• Luge details- visualisations, cross sections and materials and

sections through the luge cut and fill

• Access track and path details and materials

• Contours clearly annotated

• Consistency between the masterplan and landscape mitigation

plan e.g. areas of fill

• Information on the trees removed and length of hedgerow

removed and relocated

• An accurate description of the proposed planting mitigation with

typical dimensions eg width of tree belts and plant spacing.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail:

Figs 4.10/11/12

Figs 4.13/14

Paras 4.130-133

Fig 4.9

Figs 4.7 & 4.9

Fig 4.8

Fig 4.9

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

Mitigation should be designed both to screen the development

effectively and to reflect the enclosure pattern. For instance, tree belts

should link and anchor into the existing field boundaries rather than

appear as separate blocks.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail as

follows

Ref Figs 4.10/11/12

Ref figs 4.13/14

Paras 4.128-4.134

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

The assessment should be carried out in accordance with GLVIA3 by one

or more suitably experienced chartered landscape architects. A full

method should be set out as an appendix which should allow judgements

to be consistent, transparent and understandable. There should be full

definitions of all categories of landscape and visual sensitivity, magnitude

and significance of effect used in the assessment, and how these are

arrived at. A 5 point calibration for sensitivity, magnitude and significance

is preferred as it is considered to better reflect the subtleties of landscape

and visual impact. If intermediate terms are used such as high/medium

or medium/low these should be defined in the method. The level at which

effects are significant in terms of Environmental Impact Assessment

Directive and UK Regulations should be defined.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail in the

Methodology

section.

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Date Consultee and Issues Raised How/ Where

Addressed

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

The assessment and conclusions should be consistent with the method.

For each landscape and visual receptor, there should be an assessment

of the sensitivity and magnitude of change leading to the significance of

effect and nature of change (beneficial, neutral or adverse) with a

justification.

The LVIA should take into account winter and summer effects to come to

overall assessments.

The effects of the development should be assessed for Year 0, directly

after completion, and at Year 10 or 15- whenever the planting mitigation

is considered to be established. The expectation of growth of the planting

should be explained (including heights) and should be based in part on

what has been achieved by plants on the adjacent site so far.

Judgements on the nature of the effects i.e. beneficial, neutral or adverse

at year 0 and year 15 should be separated from the magnitude of change.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail in the

Assessment sections

Ref para 4.134 &

Figs 4.13/14

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

In terms of landscape character assessment, the sensitivity of a landscape

receptor should be assessed by describing and combining its

susceptibility and value.

The effect on landscape should be divided into the effects on the

landscape character area (LCA), on the site, and on landscape elements

within the site. The LANDMAP assessment of the area should also be

noted and taken into account.

The LCA in which the proposed development is located is no.6 Middle Usk

Valleys LCA (see Appendix B). The assessment sets out the distinctive

characteristics, special qualities, overall strategy and specific

management guidelines amongst other information. The LVIA should

address how the proposed development affects these and how it

minimises impacts. There should be an assessment of the sensitivity and

magnitude of change leading to the significance of effect. There should

also be a tabulated assessment of the effects on the special qualities of

the LCA.

With regard to the site, there should be an assessment of the sensitivity

and magnitude of change leading to the significance of effect with a

justification. The susceptibility of the site is likely to include its sloping

nature. Its value will include location in the National Park.

From the above, the effect on BBNPA policies should be assessed.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail in the

following sections:

Ref paras 4.179-217

Ref paras 4.285-291

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

Taking into consideration the value of the development and a

proportionate approach it is accepted that a GIS generated Zone of

Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) may be too expensive to be justified, although

A thorough site

appraisal was

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Date Consultee and Issues Raised How/ Where

Addressed

2nd June

2016

it would be helpful. A very thorough site appraisal is needed to ensure

that all key and representative viewpoints are explored.

carried out and is

presented in

the assessment of

visual effects

section.

Ref paras 4.8 & 4.9 BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

The precise viewpoints from which a formal visual impact assessment will

be made will need to be agreed between the developer’s landscape

architect and the Authority. Photos from each of the viewpoints proposed

to be assessed should be sent through to the Authority for agreement.

These should include specific and representative viewpoints for a range

of receptors from a range of distances.

The range of receptors which will need to be considered will include

PROWs including promoted trails- Three Rivers Ride, Usk Valley Walk, Taff

Trail; open access land- Cefn Cyff and Rhiw, dwellings/settlement and

roads. Viewpoints in the LVIA which should be included are:

• R1, R2, R5, F5/R6 to illustrate the effects on the Three Rivers

Ride.

• F1 and F2 to illustrate the effects on local PROWs.

• F3 and F4 to illustrate the effects on open access land/PROWs.

• Viewpoints near H3 and H5 to illustrate the effects on

settlement. The play area at Llanfrynach may be a suitable proxy

for the settlement but this will need to be agreed.

This list is not exhaustive and there may need to be other viewpoints

which may illustrate the worst case more effectively. Other receptors

which would not have a view of the development such as nearby

dwellings or listed buildings should be described as in the current LVIA for

completeness.

BBNPA

Scoping

Opinion:

2nd June

2016

Each agreed viewpoint should be assessed in terms of its sensitivity and

magnitude of change with the justification. This should preferably be in

tabulated form with a written summary and a summary table.

For each viewpoint it would be acceptable to have an A3 panorama photo

providing an A3 sized single photo focused on site is also provided for key

views to be agreed. The photos should be annotated clearly showing the

extent of the site.

It would be desirable to have year 0 and year 15 photomontages of the

development from a couple of viewpoints. If this is not possible, a number

of A3 photos should be provided with applied colour tones indicating

where the proposed buildings, luge development, maize maze and

Phone calls were

made to BBNP to

agree viewpoints on

3/10/16 & 10/10/16,

an email sent on

10/10/16 and follow

up phone call on

20/10/16 but no

feedback was

received.

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Date Consultee and Issues Raised How/ Where

Addressed

pastoral field are located. The location of these visualisations would need

to be agreed with the Authority.

2nd June

2016

It is also considered important that the cumulative effects of this

development are considered in conjunction with the existing leisure uses

at Cantref Farm. Cumulative landscape and visual impact assessments of

the combined effect of all the development is needed. Also, the

additional effect of the proposal over and above the existing

development is needed. This will define its relative contribution to

landscape and visual impact compared to the rest of the complex. A

discussion on how the cumulative development affects the special

qualities of the LCA would be helpful. Given the size of the development

it would not be expected that this would be carried out in the same level

of detail as the LVIA but it is an important factor to be considered by

decision-makers.

This assessment

addresses these

issues in detail in the

Cumulative Effects

section. Refer paras

4.266-4.278

10th Oct

2016

Email to

BBNP

Email correspondence following up unanswered phone calls confirming

the photo viewpoints proposed (based on BBNP suggestions) with draft

views attached. No response received.

All of the viewpoints

listed in the BBNPA

scoping opinion are

presented in this

assessment except

for F4 as F3 is

representative of

views from elevated

positions to the

south. Ref Fig 4.15 &

para 4.265

2nd

March

2017

Email to

Ryan

Greaney

of

BBNPA

Email attaching the photographs from the photo viewpoints proposed.

No response received.

Assessment Criteria and Assignment of Significance

4.13 A three-stage assessment process has been employed.

1. Involves an assessment of the nature of the receptors (sensi�vity)

2. The nature of the effects likely to result from the proposed development (magnitude)

3. The significance of the iden�fied effects on receptors. As requested by BBNP, this has been assessed based on a 5 point calibra�on

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4.14 The sensitivity of receptors was assessed by undertaking an appraisal of landscape value or the value of views, in relation to an assessment of each receptor’s susceptibility to the change that would result from the proposed development. Receptors could be single elements such as existing trees or attributes of the wider landscape such as tranquillity.

4.15 The assessment of the magnitude of the effects combines an assessment of the size or scale of the effects likely to result from the development on landscape or views, with an assessment of the geographical extent over which those effects are likely to be experienced and their duration and potential reversibility. The development is assessed with the mitigation embedded in the design.

4.16 The significance of likely landscape and visual effects has been judged by assessing the sensitivity of receptors in relation to the magnitude of effects. For example, a moderate to high magnitude of effect on a highly sensitive receptor is likely to be significant, whereas a similar effect on a receptor of lower sensitivity is less likely to be significant.

RECEPTOR SENSITIVITY/VALUE

4.17 The sensitivity of landscape receptors is based on a combination of the susceptibility of the landscape and the value of the landscape.

Susceptibility of landscape receptors

4.18 The susceptibility of the landscape to accept change is assessed on its vulnerability to degradation through the introduction of new and loss of existing, elements as a result of the proposal. The ability of a landscape to accommodate change depends on the physical nature of the areas affected and their vulnerability, not necessarily the quality of the landscape. For example, a high-quality landscape with an interesting varied landform and dense woodland cover would have a higher capacity to accommodate changes than a flat open landscape. The adverse effects would be more widely visible in an open landscape even if it was of lower quality.

4.19 This assessment uses three categories of capacity to accept change ranging from high to low. These are shown in Table 4.2. The landscape character units defined as ‘high’ are considered particularly vulnerable to change and those categorised as ‘low’ are considered able to accept change (the ‘change’ being considered is that which will result from the proposed development).

Table 4.2: Susceptibility of landscape receptors to change

HIGH Change would have a significantly adverse impact on the existing landscape character that cannot be mitigated.

MEDIUM Change can be accommodated with some mitigation measures. The result may cause some adverse impact on the existing landscape character.

LOW Change can be accommodated with minimal disturbance to the existing landscape character if appropriate mitigation measures are introduced.

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Landscape value

4.20 The value attributed to the landscape is important when assessing the sensitivity of a landscape. The value of each LCA is defined through a combination of professional judgement, field work and desktop work using LANDMAP. This assessment uses four categories of value ranging from outstanding to low. Values can be determined by applying the criteria shown in Table 4.3.

Table 4.3: Landscape value categories

OUTSTANDING

Internationally recognised value and importance, e.g. World Heritage Site. Aesthetically pleasing areas with a strong sense of place and may be rare in terms of character type. Usually containing sites of historic, cultural, geological or natural habitat importance. These areas may be important tourist destinations.

HIGH

Nationally recognised value and importance, e.g. National Park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, etc. Unique, visually attractive areas of naturally well-structured landscape comprising complementing components and a strong sense of place. These areas may be popular tourist destinations.

MEDIUM

Locally recognised value and importance as defined by local authority designations, e.g. Special Landscape Area or Historic Landscape Area. Some picturesque attributes that are aesthetically pleasing and some features that are fragmented and/or spoilt. The area may be associated with tourism although it would not be the main destination.

LOW

Landscape with limited aesthetically pleasing scenery, where characteristics are fragmented and/or spoiled. The areas are unlikely to contain tourist attractions and are unlikely to be rare in character type. Not likely to contain sites of local importance as define by local authority designations.

Landscape Sensitivity

4.21 Landscape sensitivity is determined by combining judgements of the relationship between the susceptibility to change attached to landscape receptors and their value, using the matrix shown in Table 4.4.

Table 4.4: Landscape Sensitivity matrix

SUSCEPTIBILITY TO CHANGE HIGH MEDIUM LOW

OUTSTANDING High High Medium HIGH High Medium Medium MEDIUM Medium Medium Low LOW Medium Low Low

Sensitivity of visual receptors

4.22 The term ‘visual receptor’ means a person, or group of people that will be directly affected by the proposal. Visual receptors are at accessible viewpoints, the sensitivity of which is affected by location,

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the activity of the viewer and the importance of the view. They include viewpoints available to the users of formal outdoor facilities, sporting activities and users of public rights of way, viewpoints from recognised landscape features and beauty spots, from outside local residential properties and viewpoints available to people travelling through the landscape by various means. Views may be glimpsed and fleeting, or open and sustained.

4.23 GLVIA 3rd edition recommends that the assessment of sensitivity will be dependent on:

The loca�on and context of a viewpoint;

The occupa�on or ac�vity of the viewer;

The importance of the view (which may be determined by its appearance in literature or art, on tourist maps and in guidebooks and the facili�es provided for its enjoyment such as car parks); and

The scale of the view and the extent of visibility.

Table 4.5: Nature of receptor of views

SENSITIVITY VIEWS

HIGH

Dwelling houses with a view of the development – this can reduce if the view is oblique. Users of and visitors to major recreational viewpoints, national trails, historic parks and gardens and historic monuments. Users may be in a designated landscape area.

MEDIUM HIGH

People using the landscape for recreation e.g. walkers, ramblers, hikers, horse riders, scenic route users, national cycle route users. Receptors may be in a designated landscape area

MEDIUM Outdoor active recreation users where the main objective is purposeful action such as football, golfers, mountain bikers, theme park visitors, pedestrians in settlements. Travellers on scenic road routes

MEDIUM LOW

People travelling through or past the affected landscape on roads to work or for day to day purposes on rural, minor or very busy roads (travellers on busy roads are said to be medium/low due to the number of users). Users of community facilities.

LOW

Travellers for work or day to day purposes (not related to landscape enjoyment) in cars, buses or trains travelling through peri-urban and urban areas. People in commercial buildings and other locations where their attention may be focused on their work or activity.

MAGNITUDE OF LANDSCAPE (OR VISUAL) EFFECTS

4.24 The following definitions apply to the magnitude of the predicted effects.

4.25 Size or scale of effects: relates to the scale of changes in the landscape, such as the loss or addition of features and the scale of change relative to baseline views.

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4.26 Geographical extent of effects: relates to the area over which the landscape effects are likely to be experienced. This could be at ‘site’ level, the immediate setting of the site or landscape type or character area. On a larger scale this could influence several landscape types or character areas.

4.27 Duration: the following terminology is used to describe the duration of the proposals.

Temporary: Less than one year;

Short term: under 5 years;

Medium term: 5 – 15 years; and

Long term: over 15 years.

4.28 Effects may be temporary, permanent or reversible over time. For example, visual effects arising from construction activities may be limited solely to the construction period and therefore only temporary or they may be permanent where housing replaces a previously rural landscape.

4.29 Reversibility: effects may be reversible, for example the restoration of a quarry following mineral extraction. The assessment therefore considers the practicality of effects being reversed with an approximate timeframe for reversibility.

4.30 Nature of effects: the nature of effects may be positive or negative (beneficial or adverse) direct or indirect. Direct effects are those which result directly from a development itself, whereas indirect or secondary effects may arise as a consequential change resulting from development, for example the need to upgrade utilities (‘off site’) as a result of the proposed development.

4.31 Where additional effects caused by the proposed development when considered in conjunction with other proposed developments of the same or different types, these are known as cumulative effects.

Determination of Magnitude of LANDSCAPE effects

4.32 The magnitude of impact on landscape character is determined by the degree of change that would be introduced by the proposed development. It is determined by factors including size or scale, extent of area influenced, duration and reversibility.

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Table 4.6 Magnitude of Landscape Effects

CATEGORY DESCRIPTION

Major adverse landscape effect

The proposals will be at complete variance with the scale, landform pattern or character of the landscape and/or would diminish or destroy the integrity of characteristic features and their settings

Moderate adverse landscape effect

The proposals will be at odds with scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape and/or would cause a noticeable diminution of characteristic features and their settings

Minor adverse landscape effect

The proposals will not quite fit into the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape and/or would cause a perceptible diminution of the integrity of characteristic features and their settings

Negligible adverse landscape effect

The proposals will create a perceptible deterioration in the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape

No change The proposals will not cause any change to the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape

Negligible landscape benefit

The proposals will provide a perceptible improvement to the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape

Minor landscape benefit

The proposals will achieve a degree of fit with the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape and go some way towards improving the character, sense of place or scale of the landscape

Moderate landscape benefit

The proposals will fit well with the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape and would noticeably improve the character, sense of place or integrity of the landscape

Major landscape benefit

The proposals will fit very well with the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape and would restore the character, sense of place or scale of the landscape

Determination of Magnitude of VISUAL effects

4.33 The size and scale of change in the view relates to the degree of contrast or integration likely to result from the proposed development and is influenced by the relative time over which a view is experienced and whether it is a full, partial or glimpsed view.

4.34 The following criteria are used to assess the size and scale of visual effects, based on the degree of change to the view or composition:

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Table 4.7 Magnitude of Visual Effects

MAGNITUDE PREDICTED VISUAL EFFECTS

Major adverse or beneficial visual effect

The proposals will cause a dominant or complete change to the composition of the view, the appreciation of the landscape character, the ability to take in or enjoy the view

Moderate adverse or beneficial visual effect

The proposals will cause a clearly noticeable change to the view, which would affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character or the ability to take in or enjoy the view

Minor adverse or beneficial visual effect

The proposals will cause a perceptible change to the view, but which would not materially affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character or the ability to take in or enjoy the view

Negligible adverse or beneficial visual effect

The proposal will cause a barely perceptible change to the view, which would not affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character, or the ability to take in or enjoy the view

No change The proposals will cause no change to the view

SIGNIFICANCE OF EFFECTS

4.35 The significance depends on the items considered within the landscape sensitivity assessment and the factors that influence the magnitude of change upon it. The relationship between sensitivity and magnitude informs the effects for the proposed development, using the ‘significance of effects’ matrix shown in Table 4.8. This is the IEMA significance diagram and its use in this case has been suggested by BBNP.

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Table 4.8 IEMA Significance Diagram

Limitations of the Assessment

4.36 No limitations were encountered in preparing this assessment.

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Baseline Environment

Landscape Context

4.37 The site lies within the Brecon Beacons National Park on the northern flank of the valley of the Afon Cynrig.

4.38 The BBNP Landscape Character Assessment, carried out in 2012 identified the area within which the site lies as ‘Middle Usk Valleys’ shown in Figure 4.1. This typically has the following characteristics:

• Underlying geology of red/brown mudstones/sandstone overlain by glacial deposits;

• Gently undula�ng landform;

• Rela�onship with river Usk and its tributaries (the site drains south-eastward into the Cynrig);

• Predominantly pastoral land use, with pockets of forestry;

• Field boundaries generally hedgerows (o�en trimmed) enclosing semi-regular fields; and

• A variety of trees, including hedgerow trees, coppice woodlands and veteran trees.

Figure 4.1: BBNP Landscape Character Assessment

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4.39 This study recognises the information held within the LANDMAP database, prepared by Natural Resources Wales. LANDMAP is an all-Wales landscape resource where landscape characteristics, qualities and influences on the landscape are recorded and evaluated. It provides detailed analysis of the landscape and allows an understanding of the geology and the history of the site and wider area and from this the evolution of the landscape pattern can be understood under five special datasets: Visual and Sensory, Landscape Habitats, Geological Landscape, Historic Landscape and Cultural Landscape. LANDMAP is a tool to help sustainable decision-making and natural resources planning whilst ensuring transparency in decision-making. The evaluations of the various Aspect Areas are given in LANDMAP and included in this assessment.

4.40 The different Aspect Areas on which the assessment has been made are presented in a separate map for each layer.

4.41 The extent of the study of LANDMAP is based on those aspect areas that could be affected by the proposed development. In particular the area between the upland to the north east, the summit of Pen y Fan to the south west and Allt yr Esgair to the east was considered. BBNP has requested that Guidance Note 3 is followed and this states that all five layers should be considered and these are covered separately below.

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LANDMAP Aspect areas – Visual and Sensory

Figure 4.2: Visual & Sensory Aspect Areas considered

4.42 The site lies within the LANDMAP Visual and Sensory Aspect Area BRCKNVS148 ‘Glyn Tarell and Cynrig Valley’. This is summarised as follows:

‘Series of upland pastoral valleys, carved by the Tarell, Cynrig and Menasgin rivers, draining north from Brecon Beacons upland to the Usk valley. The valleys have a strong structure of deciduous woodland and trees, particularly on riparian corridors, which enclose the mostly improved pastures of small to medium sized fields. Trimmed hedges are apparent in many areas. Stone walls separate the area from the adjacent moorland and these are broken down in places. The rivers and adjacent corridors are attractive focuses of the valleys. Conifers such as Larches are planted in distinctive rows in places and there are also a limited number of conifer plantations which fit well into the landscape. While the area appears to be well managed, bracken and scrub are encroaching and indeed the head of the Tarell valley is no longer cultivated and is effectively upland moorland, outside this aspect area. The area is a foil to the bleak and open uplands of the Beacons behind and views are possible to and from the upland area. The A470 passes through the Tarell valley and affects its tranquillity, as does the A40 to the north although overall, the area is very peaceful and undisturbed. The largest settlement is Libanus on the A470. Elsewhere scattered farmsteads complement the landscape’.

4.43 This aspect area has a ‘High’ evaluation, justified as follows:

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‘The mosaic of upland pasture and woodland centred on attractive river corridors has high scenic quality. The area’s textures and patterns are a superb foil to the bare uplands of the Brecon Beacons. Attractive views are possible to and from the Beacons. The area also acts as a setting to the Usk valley. Overall, the area is unspoilt, in good condition and has a consistent character throughout. It is used for walking as a contrast to the uplands’.

4.44 Other identified characteristics include:

There are atrac�ve views in and out (to uplands);

Fences are iden�fied as the typical boundary type;

Exis�ng management is considered to be appropriate generally; and

The key quality that should be conserved is tranquillity.

4.45 This area is said to have a ‘Moderate’ sense of place/local distinctiveness: The area has common characteristics with many upland valleys in the area. The combination of strong deciduous woodland cover with conifers, mainly Larch, gives a distinct upland feel. This is enhanced by the backcloth of the Beacons.

4.46 The land to the south of the site is very elevated and the site can be seen from locations within this aspect area (BRCKNVS833: ‘Brecon Beacons’) which has an overall ‘Outstanding’ evaluation.

4.47 This is justified as follows:

‘The area has particularly high scenic quality with panoramic views due to its distinctive and dramatic topography. The skyline of Pen y Fan and Fan y Big form an important landmark which express the essence and high point (literally and metaphorically) of the Beacons. The area has a consistent and distinctive character throughout with a strong sense of place. The area is a major attraction for hikers and sightseers, which indicates strong consensus on the area’s value and scenic quality’.

4.48 This area is said to have a ‘strong’ sense of place/distinctiveness: ‘very distinctive landforms of glaciated sandstone scarp slope combined with the wildness of the area’.

4.49 Aspect area BRCKNVS 735 ‘The Usk Valley East of Brecon’ lies to the north and east of the proposal site (within 2km). This area has a ‘High’ overall evaluation, justified as follows:

‘The area is generally unspoilt by development and the rural vernacular of farms and dwellings complement the surrounding landscape. The valley floor combines with the River Usk, the valley sides and hilltops to provide a pleasing range of complementary landscapes’.

4.50 This area is said to have a ‘strong’ sense of place/distinctiveness: ‘the juxtaposition of valley floor and river with valley sides and mountain make the area very attractive with striking contrasts of lowland and upland and views. Settlements also add to this character’.

4.51 The key characteristic to be conserved is: ‘the medium grain of landscape which filters but allows views of valley sides’.

4.52 To the north and east of the Usk valley lies (aspect area BRCKNVS 711) Llanfilo Farmlands. This occupies a large area, extending almost as far as Talgarth.

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4.53 This area has a ‘Moderate’ evaluation:

‘The area has a varied and interesting topography with distinct hills and landcover dominated by pastoral agriculture with attractive woodland blocks and diversity of views. It has a generally unspoilt character although there are detractors including quarry, some housing and management of forests. The area’s varied and interesting topography with distinct hills gives a sense of place. The pastoral landscape is relatively common in the County’.

LANDMAP Aspect Areas – Landscape Habitat

Figure 4.3: Landscape Habitat Aspect Areas considered

4.54 The proposal site lies within the Usk Valley ‘Mosaic’ (BRCKNLH 895). This is an extensive area that includes the Usk valley and the valley of the Wye between Llyswen and Hay. The site lies centrally within the east-west span of the area but towards its southern edge, where it is bounded by the upland of the Beacons.

4.55 It is described as ‘Improved agricultural land of the Usk and Wye valleys centred upon Brecon. Improved grasslands occur with arable farming also practiced. In addition to the watercourses, hedgerows, mature trees and occasional small woodlands as well as isolated fields of unimproved or semi-improved grassland form the basis of the biodiversity interest. The Monmouthshire and Brecon canal is an additional feature’.

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4.56 Features that contribute to the biodiversity interest are streams, ponds, hedgerows and veteran trees.

4.57 Landmap acknowledges that the river Usk is recognised and protected under European legislation and is of outstanding value, it lies within a largely improved landscape of moderate nature conservation value.

4.58 To the south, the upland lies within the (BRCKNLH 598) Corn Du – Pen y Fan aspect area.

4.59 This is an extensive area that includes the most elevated parts of the Beacons as contained by the A470 in the west and Talybont reservoir in the east. The site lies some 1.6km to the north of the northern edge of this area, towards its eastern end.

4.60 It is described as ‘Upland habitat dominated by unimproved acid grassland. Key features for biodiversity include cliffs, rock outcrops and the communities that they support. Heath and arctic alpines are found on some of the steep slopes while small areas of modified bog are found on level parts of the hill tops’.

4.61 It is of ‘outstanding’ value, with the rock outcrops being identified as being significant contributors to biodiversity. Much of the grassland is recognised as being heavily grazed and therefore relatively impoverished.

4.62 Two other aspect areas occupy locations close to the proposal site. These are based around areas of particular land cover. As such, they comprise groups of often quite small areas with similar characteristics.

4.63 Aspect area BRCKNLH 502 (Llanfrynach) ‘Broadleaved Woodland’ comprises several discrete parcels of woodland that occupy the various stream valleys that descend from the Beacons towards the Usk. The site lies on the western flank of the Cynrig valley and as such is as close as 200m to the nearest part of this area.

4.64 It is described as ‘A series of broadleaved woodlands centred upon watercourses on the northern flanks of the central Brecon Beacons. Neutral and marshy grasslands also have a limited presence’.

4.65 It is of ‘High’ value, having a concentration of semi-natural broadleaved woodlands of the upland fringe, parts of which are designated. Lesser Horseshoe bats are known to use the habitat for foraging. Other features that significantly influence the biodiversity are streams.

4.66 Slightly further away, aspect area BRCKNLH 764 ‘Talybont Allt Lwyd’ comprises ‘Bracken’. This is a small area comprising several discrete parcels of land. The site lies some 2km to the north and north west of the nearest part of this area which is described as ‘Bracken dominated slopes on the north eastern slopes of the central Beacons near Talybont’ It is of ‘High’ value (or it was in 2003) as ‘semi-natural habitat of the upland fringe dominated by Bracken but including developing scrub of biodiversity interest’.

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LANDMAP Aspect Areas – Geological Landscape

Figure 4.4: Geological Aspect Areas considered

4.67 The proposal site lies within aspect area BRCKNGL 961 (Cefn Cantref). This is an extensive area contained by the Usk floodplain and the Tarell/A470(T) and including the sloping land between the upland and the rivers. The site lies centrally within this transition, and towards the eastern end of this aspect area.

4.68 It is described as ‘N to NE draining valleys of U shaped Glyn Tarell, Nant Cwm Llwych, Cwm Sere, Cwm Cynlyn and Cwm Oergwm dissected through lower rounded hills of south dipping St Maughan’s group into the River Usk. Boulder clays covering valley floors and plateau of Glyn Tarell and Nant Cwm Llwych. Patches of fluvioglacial gravels and moraine on plateau below Cwm Sere and Cwm Oergwm’.

4.69 This aspect area is evaluated as ‘High’.

4.70 To the south, the upland lies within the area BRCKNGL 723 (Pen y Fan – Fan y Big). This is an extensive area that comprises the north facing escarpment slopes of the Beacons. The site lies 1.6km to the north of the northern extremity of this area, but centrally in relation to its east-west span.

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4.71 It is described as ‘the north-facing escarpment of south dipping Old Red Sandstone upland plateau, dissected by straight, steep valleys (Cwm Sere, Cwm Cynwyn, Cwm Oergwm) separated by sharp ridges (arêtes) and with NE facing cirques as heads’ (more detail is given on specialist features).

4.72 Cwm Sere and Cwm Cynwyn join to form Afon Cynrig approximately 1km upstream of the site.

4.73 This aspect area is described as ‘Outstanding’.

4.74 The river Usk, to the north and east of the proposal site runs through aspect area BRCKNGL 184 (Brecon Usk Valley). This aspect area includes the floor of the Usk valley and extends from the west of Brecon downstream as far as Crickhowell. It includes the confluence with the Rhiangoll just upstream of Crickhowell and the floor of the Rhiangoll valley. At its closest, the site lies within 1km of the western part of this area which includes the flatter land around Llanfrynach.

4.75 It is described as ‘River Usk valley and floodplain between Brecon and Myarth – broad valley, dissected through S dipping St Maughans grouping N part, Senni beds in S. Islands of St Maughans group in river channel form rounded hills. Alluvium in channel, fluvioglacial gravels, moraine, river terraces and alluvial fans at mouths of tributary rivers. Valley part fault controlled S of Llechfaen’.

4.76 The overall evaluation of this aspect area is ‘Moderate’.

4.77 The area north and east of the Usk valley lies within BRCKNGL 196 (Llanfihangel Talyllyn). This aspect area includes the farmland to the east of Brecon and north of the Usk, extending almost as far north east as Talgarth. The site lies 3km outside this area to the south west.

4.78 It is described as ‘SE dipping St Maughans Group W of straight NNE – SSW? Fault controlled Llynfi valley, forming strike ridges in hilly terrain with fault valleys SW – NE. Tributary valleys draining E & NE into Llynfi and dissecting plateau N into Wye. Boulder clay patches on slopes. Fault controlled (NNE-SSW) Llynfi valley to E’.

4.79 The overall evaluation of this aspect area is ‘Moderate’.

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LANDMAP Aspect Areas – Historic Landscape

Figure 4.5: Historic Landscape Aspect Areas considered

4.80 The proposal site lies within aspect area BRCKNHL 525 (Libanus) which covers an extensive area of upland, to the north of the Beacons massif. The site lies centrally within the area and towards its northern edge. It is therefore at a lower altitude than much of the aspect area.

4.81 It is described as ‘a large irregular tract of mixed fieldscape covering much of the often steep and deeply incised southern slopes of the Usk valley south of Brecon. The overall field pattern is made of a large number of dissimilar blocks of mainly straight sided fields, although this is less well marked west of the Gwidi and in some of the steeper side valleys at the eastern end of the area. It is peppered with medieval and post medieval farms but also contains evidence of earlier iron-age and bronze activity’.

4.82 Its overall evaluation is ‘High’: ‘Extensive area of irregular fields and sinuous woodland occupying sloping ground below the Beacons escarpment. Dominated by medieval and later agriculture with numerous high (and lower) status farms and houses, some designed landscapes, potentially early medieval settlement, scattered early and late prehistoric sites, all of which compensate for its slightly diffuse nature’.

4.83 Important patterns are identified as Regular fieldscapes, Woodland, Non-nucleated settlement, other settlement, communications, military, designed landscape.

4.84 Traditional boundary types are identified as Hedgerows and Dry-stone walls.

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4.85 The area to the south of the site is elevated and lies within aspect area BRCKNHL 829 (Bannau Brycheiniog). This aspect area covers a massive part of the central Brecon Beacons upland. The site lies approximately 1.6km to the north of the northern edge of the area which in general follows the boundary between the enclosed and unenclosed land.

4.86 ‘It is extensive open upland common. Early settlement and land use represented by early prehistoric lithic finds, numerous burial and ritual monuments, clearance cairns, enclosure sites and hut circles and by later prehistoric hillforts and defended enclosures. Medieval and later settlement and land use indicated by hafod sites, hut and platform sites. Later post medieval land use represented by scattered stone quarries, sheepfolds, boundary cairns and markers, quarries and limekilns and shooting butts. Isolated reservoirs in steep sided valleys. The area includes peat and bog sites of paleoenvironmental significance’

4.87 Its overall evaluation is ‘Outstanding’, it comprises ‘extensive open upland common with numerous archaeological sites from all periods in reasonable condition. High amenity value’.

4.88 To the north and east, lies aspect area BRCKNHL 857 (Llanhamlach). This aspect area covers a wide area that extends from close to the site to the east and north east including the floor of the Usk valley and more undulating land extending as far as the western part of the bowl of Llangorse lake. Close to the site it extends as far as Llanfrynach.

4.89 It is described as follows: ‘Undulating lowland mostly to the north of the Usk and the upper Llynfi valley with landscape of medium to large irregular fields, dispersed farmsteads and small church settlements such as Llanhamlach, Llangasty Talyllyn, Llanfrynach, Llansantffraed and Llandefaelog tre’r-graig of early medieval origin. Early settlement and land-use indicated by prehistoric burial and ritual monuments. Parts of the area fall within the middle Usk and the middle Wye Historic Landscape areas’.

4.90 Its overall evaluation is ‘Outstanding’, it comprises ‘complex intensive utilised area of field systems and associated significant medieval and early medieval settlements (with churches, castles and moated sites). Scattered earlier (chambered tombs, round barrows, finds) and later (hillforts) prehistoric remains’.

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LANDMAP Aspect Areas – Cultural Landscape

Figure 4.6: Cultural Landscape Aspect Areas considered

4.91 The proposal site lies within aspect area BRCKNCL 712 (Vale of Usk). This aspect area includes the wider Usk valley from east of Sennybridge to a point downstream of Crickhowell and includes Brecon.

4.92 It is described as ‘a broad, fertile valley running east/west through the southern part of the National Park (although much of it runs along the northern boundary of the NP). Long history of occupation supporting several medium to large estates and houses. Generally good quality buildings and well preserved and maintained landscapes. It is developing steadily as a tourist area as footpaths are improved and extended. A highly sought after area in which to live’. The site lies within this area close to its southern edge.

4.93 It is identified as having a special functional link with the rest of the National Park, providing access for the important east/west line of communication and an important tourist area in its own right.

4.94 It has an overall ‘High’ evaluation for the vale’s landscape quality and continuation of occupation over an extended period. Its condition is said to be good (economic factors result in a good standard of care).

4.95 Its value is said to be high (evaluated in comparison with other parts of the Study Area. ‘A lovely fertile valley with good buildings and landscapes and developing as a tourist area’.

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4.96 The trend is said to be ‘improving’ (role of NPA (and other bodies) has been hugely influential in raising standards of conservation and presentation). The existing management is said to be generally appropriate. Conservation and preservation measures now operating are maintaining and continuing to improve the quality of the landscape and its built environment.

4.97 Principal management recommendations are: maintain present standards of control and conservation, seek to provide employment and housing to serve all sectors of the community.

4.98 The upland area to the south of the site lies within aspect area BRCKNCL 839 (The Beacons). This aspect area includes the main upland areas of the Beacons west of Talybont reservoir and as far west as Trecastle. The site lies to the north of this area, close to its eastern end.

4.99 It is described as follows: ‘The Brecon Beacons – that collectively give the National Park its name – have pervasive psychological and perceptual resonance among those who know, fear and love them as places of natural beauty, physical challenge and danger. They are both a physical presence and psychological phenomenon’.

4.100 It has an overall ‘Outstanding’ evaluation (as an image and a concept deeply embedded in peoples’ perceptions). Its condition is said to be good (the image will not be dissipated) and its value is outstanding (as iconic images and perceptions that give the National Park its identity). The trend is constant (the image will not be dissipated).

4.101 The proposal site is also identified as lying within aspect area BRCKNCL 847 (Brecon Beacons National Park). This aspect area appears to take in the entire National Park and is recognised as being a highly complex area including references to Brecon, the main town for the area (with its Jazz Festival) the obvious attraction of Pen y Fan and Hay on Wye (historic town and tourist attraction including the literary festival).

4.102 The summary description is: ‘The BBNP located close to large conurbations in one of the most popular National Parks in Wales not only for visiting but also for living. The high standards of conservation coupled with the outstanding scenery give it very special significance. It is an area where farming is an important part of the economy and influencing the character of the landscape. Culturally there is diversity across the Park exemplified by wealth distribution and the concomitant manifestation and distribution of the Welsh language. The NPA is acutely aware of these cultural differences and has given due cognisance in their liaison with local communities. As with many other areas of Wales the cultural nature of the Park is undergoing change as external influences are continuing to effect cultural change. An example is the rapidly increasing level of house prices and the general levels of income generated locally’ (this was written in 2003).

4.103 It has an overall ‘Outstanding’ evaluation, ‘the area being of international importance because of its designation and the statutory controls and management. A significant and widely recognised cultural area of designated landscape in the 20th Century’.

4.104 Its condition is said to be good (the role of statutory, community and volunteer bodies contributes to the quality of conservation). Its value is said to be Outstanding and the trend is said to be Improving ‘the substantial work over the past decades by the NPA and other bodies has not only produced

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physical result but has also contributed to a broadening and deepening of the understanding of the significance of cultural issues’.

Landscape setting of the proposed development

4.105 The site lies within the Brecon Beacons National Park, grid reference SO057257, some 3.5km to the south east of Brecon town centre at an elevation of approximately 210m A.O.D.

4.106 The landscape of the area is rolling pastureland with well defined field boundaries usually edged with established hedges and interspersed with blocks of woodland. In general, the land rises from the wide valley of the river Usk in the north, to the ‘wild’ upland that extends to the peaks of the Brecon Beacons to the south. This is described in the LANDMAP ‘visual and sensory’ aspect areas.

4.107 Upper Cantref farm lies on a south east facing slope, forming the western side of the valley of the Afon Cynrig, a small river that runs north east from the Beacons to join the Usk to the east of Brecon. This landscape is dissected by several rivers similar in size to the Cynrig and numerous smaller, tributary streams that run in shallow, steep sided valleys. These are often edged with (usually) deciduous woodland.

4.108 Apart from the trees that fill the narrow stream valleys, there are numerous woodlands, both deciduous and coniferous within this landscape. To the west of the site, a long established sunken lane is also lined with mature trees, this is a strong and distinctive feature within this landscape.

4.109 There is a historic church, St Mary’s and associated Rectory, Cantref House at the end of the drive to the site (these buildings are both Grade II listed). Beyond this focal point, the local community comprises farms and isolated houses that are separated from each other, usually by several fields.

4.110 Access to this area is via lightly trafficked lanes which lead south from Brecon or west from the village of Llanfrynach but do not extend much more than 1km closer to the Beacons than Upper Cantref because of the extreme topography. These lanes are generally contained by established hedgerows.

4.111 Farms in this area are quite small, typically separated by around 1km of farmland, and are usually accessed from dedicated private tracks. There are numerous other isolated dwellings or farmsteads, either on private tracks, or accessed from the network of narrow, winding lanes.

4.112 This area is used for recreation and there are tourist facilities nearby that provide accommodation. The lanes provide access to the countryside and they carry cyclists and pedestrians as well as agricultural traffic. Of particular note here is the ‘Three Rivers Ride’, part of the National Bridleroute Network which extends from near Hay on Wye to Libanus. This route runs east-west, skirting the base of the Beacons some way to the south of the site.

4.113 There are two public footpaths close to the application site. One follows the field boundary immediately to the west of the proposal site, linking Cantref with Tir-y-groes. This is the sunken lane feature referred to earlier. The second leads south from Cantref church and crosses the Afon Cynrig before climbing southward to join a minor road. Other paths extend onto the open mountain land to the south and views extend far to the north from these routes.

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Part of Cantref Farm Park Recent planting in Farm Park (2015 photo)

Detailed Landscape Assessment (baseline description of the site)

4.114 The proposal will be a development of the existing recreational use of Upper Cantref Farm, which is an adventure farm park and a centre for pony trekking. The farm includes bunkhouse accommodation within the existing farm buildings.

4.115 The buildings of the farm comprise a mixture of traditional stone structures and modern steel framed buildings. These are grouped at the end of 250m long drive which runs north east from a minor public road that roughly follows the course of the Afon Cynrig.

4.116 The farm lies on sloping ground and is surrounded by generally rectangular fields. The stone built farmhouse is at the lower, eastern edge of the farm, some 40m away from the main group of farm buildings and 10m lower. There are numerous mature Ash, Beech and Poplar trees, together with several Cypress trees, grouped mainly on the sloping ground between the farm buildings and the farmhouse. These help set the character of the site and screen the farm buildings in distant views from locations to the east.

4.117 A camping site was developed in 2013 and this occupies land on the southern edge of the farm. Areas around this facility have been planted with native woodland which is developing. The planting scheme extends to the main farm park which is situated to the north east of the farm buildings.

4.118 The farm park comprises a field with a central ‘green’ and various attractions arranged around it. These include animal pens with shelter buildings, a boating lake feature, paddling pool, climbing frames and a long slide. This latter feature is dug into the slope and extends to the west of the main farm. The remainder of the farm park field is grazed pasture with a track around the perimeter for farm tractor rides. A wildlife pond is located at the south eastern corner of the site.

4.119 A planting scheme was carried out in 2013/14 as part of the development of the camping site. This scheme includes native woodland planting, together with hedges around the central green. Intended to mitigate any visual impact of the farm park in views from the east and north east and to integrate the development into the landscape.

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4.120 The proposal site lies to the north of the existing farm park. It is a single field that is rectilinear in shape, oriented east to west, with a considerable slope down to the east. It is separated from the main farm park field, its southern boundary, by a trimmed hedge of varying density.

4.121 The northern boundary comprises a dense belt of trees which separates the field from a similar field to the north. This tree belt is made up of two parallel overgrown hedgerows and includes many mature specimens. In views from outside the site, the lower part of this feature appears to be a narrow woodland feature (rather than a hedge or conventional field boundary). The upper part comprises smaller growing tree species including Blackthorn, Hazel and Goat Willow.

4.122 The eastern boundary is a trimmed hedge with a slope below this into the next field. The field to the east is relatively flat and separates the site from the steep wooded valley of the Cynrig to the south east.

4.123 The upper western boundary is a trimmed hedge along most of its length. At its northern end, there is a block of trees that occupies an area of steeply sloping ground between the fields. This area is used to gain access from the farm to the fields to the north and west and there are gateways through the hedgerows to allow this.

Left image: View south west across the central part of the site showing maize crop (2015) with Cefn Cyff ridge in distance

Right image: Dense hedgerow & tree belt along northern site boundary (on the left) with eastern site boundary hedge in middle distance and Cynrig valley woodland beyond.

4.124 A maize crop was grown on the western (upper) part of the site in 2015 and in 2016.

Future Baseline Conditions

4.125 There is the threat of tree disease that is likely to affect the baseline landscape character in the medium term. The recent outbreak of Phytophthora ramorum means that Larch is being removed from the landscape and this will affect the distinctive rows of conifers referred to in the LANDMAP description of these landscapes.

4.126 Chalara dieback of Ash may affect the woodlands of this area in time. This species is not included in the proposed planting scheme.

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4.127 Views of the farm will become less complex as the recent (2013-14) hedge and woodland planting becomes established.

Mitigation Measures Adopted as Part of the Project

4.128 The proposed development is of further recreational features in the sloping field to the north of the existing farm park. These are a maize maze and a luge track as set out in Figure 4.7. As shown on this plan, part of the field at the lower, eastern end will be retained as pasture.

4.129 In addition, two attenuation ponds will be created at the lower, eastern end of the main ‘Farm Park’ field (refer Figure 4.8). These will accept drainage run off from the proposed track complex and will be fenced to allow the marginal areas around them to develop as wildlife habitat.

4.130 The maize maze is essentially a maize crop and this will be sown into the existing field in the conventional way. It will generally be sown in May and harvested in the late autumn. It will only be used as a maze once it has attained a suitable height.

4.131 The luge track will compromise a 3m wide bitmac surfaced track that will follow a sinuous route down the field before returning up the slope via a straight section of the track. There will be a single building at the top of the climb that will contain all of the queuing, ticketing, cart storage etc. This will be in the extreme south western corner of the field. A second new building to contain toilet facilities and a refreshment kiosk is proposed for the existing farm park.

4.132 The track will follow a carefully designed gradient so that the experience of travelling down it is dynamic but controlled. This means that in general, the upper part of the track will be cut into the slope and the lower part will be constructed on embankment. Earthworks will be graded out into the surrounding landform, creating a subtle topography.

4.133 The proposed landscape mitigation measures are (refer to Figures 4.8, 4.9, and Sections figures 4.10, 4.11 & 4.12):

Plan�ng of new agricultural hedges to contain the retained paddock at the western end of the field;

Plan�ng of na�ve woodland species to embankment areas;

Plan�ng of new thick woodland belts across the site (to sub-divide the field);

Grassland management to areas within the circuit and marginal areas to increase visual diversity and biodiversity; and

Construc�on of ponds as atenua�on and to provide wildlife habitat.

4.134 An indication of the likely growth rate of the proposed mitigation planting was gained from an existing Tir Gofal woodland scheme that was planted in 2005. The cross sections were updated so that they illustrate the height that the planting can be expected to be 15 years after implementation. These sections also serve to illustrate the spatial arrangement of the woodland blocks and grass areas. They also allow an idea to be gained of how the blocks of trees, once established will combine in views