Wellington Heath Neighbourhood Development Plan

Transcription

1 Wellington Heath Neighbourhood Development Plan Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Assessment REPORT On behalf of Wellington Heath Parish Council September 2016 Carly Tinkler CMLI * 46 Jamaica Road Malvern WR14 1TU * carlytinkler@hotmail.co.uk *

2 Document Version Control Version Date Author Comment Draft V CT Working version issued for preliminary comment Draft V CT Updated and issued for comments Draft V CT Updated following comments: final draft issue Final CT Updated following comments: final issue Carly Tinkler CMLI

3 Contents Page number Foreword Acronyms 1 Introduction Background Scope of the Commission Qualifications and Experience Structure of Report 2 2 Method and Process Landscape Assessment Methods Wellington Heath Assessment Approach 6 3 Baseline Landscape and Visual Situation Overview of Designations, Receptors and Features National Designations and Features National and Countywide Landscape Character Historic Landscape Character Local Landscape Character Biodiversity Visual Amenity Public and Social Amenity Green Infrastructure 64 4 Summary of Findings Landscape Quality Landscape Character Sensitivity Visual Sensitivity Potential Effects Key Constraints 69 5 Overall Sensitivity and Capacity Overall Sensitivity Landscape Value Landscape Capacity 70 6 Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations Summary and Conclusions Recommendations and Future Initiatives 74 Tables Table A1: Capacity of Parcels in order of Assessment 72 Table A2: Parcels in order of Capacity (High to Low) 72 Appendices (bound separately) Appendix A: Technical Overview and Definitions of Terms Appendix B: Summary Descriptions of National Character Areas and County Landscape Types Appendix C: Landscape Assessment Tables of Criteria Appendix D: LSCA Process Flowchart Appendix E: LSCA Parcel Schedule Summaries Appendix F: Plans and Figures (see below) Carly Tinkler CMLI

4 Figures (bound separately) Figure 1: Location Plan and Overview Figure 2: LSCA Study Area Figure 3: LSCA Landscape Baseline Figure 4: LSCA Visual Baseline Figure 5: LSCA Capacity Plan NOTE: The figures are best read when printed at A3 size, but should also be legible at A4 for most people. Carly Tinkler CMLI

5 Foreword to the Report In the UK today there is an urgent need to build new homes. In 2007 the Government set a target of increasing the supply of housing to 240,000 additional homes per year by The National Housing and Planning Advice Unit (now defunct) advised that up to 290,500 additional homes may be needed in each year to 2031 (at the time of writing, the Government had subsequently abolished national and regional planning housebuilding targets). HBF and Glenigan s March 2016 Housing Pipeline report 1 shows that planning permissions for 242,819 homes were granted in England during the third quarter of 2015, representing an upward trend; however, there is no certainty that this will continue. As a result, almost every city, town and village in the country is under pressure to find suitable sites for future residential development (Wellington Heath s local planning authority (Herefordshire Council) has set a target of at least twenty-eight new dwellings to be built in the parish during the plan period ). This landscape assessment was commissioned by Wellington Heath Parish Council in June Its purpose was to determine the potential capacity of 29 parcels of land in and around the settlement to accept new residential development, from a landscape and environmental perspective. The findings are being used to guide Wellington Heath s Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) for the plan period up to 2031, and will help in fulfilling the local community s vision for the parish (which is to safeguard our rural environment and to enhance our community through managed development ), and the associated environmental objectives (which include preserving the rural character of the village and its lanes, ensuring that new development is sustainable, and complements the existing landscape setting, and that it does not have a significant detrimental effect on the environment). The assessment s findings will also be used to assist with determining the line of the future village settlement boundary, as the NDP process allows communities to determine this so long as the decisions take into account the results and analyses of objective, evidence-based studies, surveys and consultations, and demonstrate compliance with planning policy. A settlement boundary is defined as the dividing line or boundary between areas of built / urban development (the settlement) and non-urban or rural development (the countryside). Boundaries are usually drawn around whatever is determined to be the integral core of a settlement. Typically included within them are built form and land associated with existing employment areas, community facilities and services, and the bulk of a settlement s housing stock, including any sites identified as potentially suitable for housing. Land outside them is defined as open countryside and is usually oriented towards agriculture, tourism and / or outdoor recreational uses, although it may include parts of gardens, orchards, paddocks and other land not normally perceived as countryside. In planning terms there is a presumption in favour of built development within the settlement boundary whereas, beyond the boundary in open countryside, development is much more tightly controlled. The purpose of the settlement boundary is to act as a distinct, defensible line between these areas, determining where certain types of development may be acceptable or, where protection of land is required, for a wide variety of reasons. European conventions, national and local planning policy and various sources of guidance, make it clear that the protection and enhancement of landscape character and visual amenity are highly important factors in the decisionmaking process at all levels. Both are an essential component in deciding the future location of settlement boundaries, especially if, like parts of Wellington Heath, the landscape is nationally important, being designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Understanding the area s history, value, character, and the contribution each individual parcel of land makes to that character, is a fundamental part of the process of understanding the effects of change on the landscape and those who use it. The health and wellbeing of both the community and the environment are also of paramount importance, and landscape makes a significant contribution to this. The issues involved in this study are complex, and a variety of published methods for landscape assessment have been combined in order to provide the fine-grained, evidence-based and objective results which are needed here. The full results are presented in this report, which supersedes the summary originally published in March It is important for those relying on the information to be able to clearly see how the conclusions were reached. Thus, the baseline studies have been written up in full, the methods used have been described in some detail, and an explanation of the main technical terms used has been given, in order to ensure that the process is fully understood. It is not necessary to read the entire report in order to find the levels of capacity and constraints which apply to each parcel: the results are shown on a plan (Figure 5), and are set out in the tables in Section 5 Overall Sensitivity and Capacity. The NDP process is extremely hard work, and many of those involved are local volunteers whose input, usually over a period of over several years often goes unrecognised. I am very grateful to everyone in Wellington Heath who generously provided their time, assistance, fascinating background information and on-the-ground knowledge, and invited me into their homes, all of which were invaluable to this study. Any errors in the text are likely to be mine, so if spotted, please let me know. Feedback can be via the Parish Council representatives, or directly to the author of this report (carlytinkler@hotmail.co.uk). Thank you. Carly Tinkler September Carly Tinkler CMLI

6 Acronyms Below are the acronyms most frequently used in the landscape assessment report and schedules: ALC Agricultural Land Classification AOD Above Ordnance Datum AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty AONBP Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership ASNW Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BRC Biological Records Centre EIA Environmental Impact Assessment ELC European Landscape Convention EPS European Protected Species FS&D Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings GI Green Infrastructure GLVIA3 Guidance for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 3 rd Edition HC Herefordshire Council HE Historic England HER Historic Environment Record HLC Historic Landscape Characterisation HPI Habitat of Principal Importance LCA Landscape Character Assessment LCT Landscape Character Type LNR Local Nature Reserve LPA Local Planning Authority LSCA Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Assessment LVIA Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment LWS Local Wildlife Site NCA National Character Area NDP Neighbourhood Development Plan NIWT National Inventory of Woodland and Trees NPPF National Planning Policy Framework NVC National Vegetation Classification OS Ordnance Survey PC Parish Council PHI Priority Habitat Inventory PRoW Public Right of Way PWH Principal Wooded Hills SM Scheduled Monument SEO Statement of Environmental Opportunity SFRT Settled Farmlands on River Terrace SMR Sites and Monuments Record SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest SWDP South Worcestershire Development Plan SWS Special Wildlife Site TPO Tree Preservation Order TPO Tree Preservation Order VP View Point ZTV Zone of Theoretical Visibility Carly Tinkler CMLI

7 1 Introduction 1.1 Background Wellington Heath is a civil parish and rural village in south east Herefordshire. The village itself lies just over one kilometre (km) away from the northern edge of the market town of Ledbury, and c. 5km west of the Malvern Hills. The Hills form a highly distinctive and influential feature in the region, running north south for some 12km between North Malvern and Chase End. The Hills ridgeline forms the boundary between Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and at Chase End, c. 6km south east of Wellington Heath, the county boundaries of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire meet The south-eastern sector of the parish, and most of the village, lie within the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), at its western edge In June 2015, as part of Wellington Heath s ongoing Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) process, Wellington Heath Parish Council commissioned chartered landscape architect Carly Tinkler CMLI to carry out an assessment of the landscape of the village and its surrounding areas The purpose of the assessment was to determine the sensitivity of the landscape to change, and whether certain parcels of land in and around the settlement had the capacity to accept new residential development or not, from a landscape, visual and environmental perspective (the Foreword sets out the background context to this) The assessment s findings provide an important evidence-base for, and will be used to guide and inform, the emerging NDP. They will help to identify green spaces in and around the village which the community may consider to be worthy of protection from new development (protection can be secured through the NDP process), and they will assist in determining where to draw the line of the future settlement boundary The findings can also be used to help develop detailed landscape strategies and future environmental and recreational projects / initiatives for the local area, the village, and individual parcels of land. These could be the subject of specific NDP policies The capacity assessment was carried out over a period of several months. Due to funding restrictions, the findings were originally presented in summary format only, comprising a brief report / technical note, the marked-up baseline maps, and schedules and tables setting out the sensitivity and capacity results for each parcel of land. The production of a full technical report and accompanying figures, which would explain in greater detail how the assessment was carried out and what the findings were, was delayed until early summer The first draft of the summary document was produced in December 2015 and it was subsequently published on the PC s website, with local residents views about the interim findings invited. The assessment process and results were presented at a public consultation event in March 2016, at which further feedback from the community was gained The consultation included several questions about landscape-related issues: these were factored in to the assessment, and proved to be very useful in informing judgements about landscape sensitivity and capacity (these and other terms are explained later in this report: see also Appendix A Technical Overview and Definitions of Terms) In summary, the consultation responses illustrate the value that the community places on the environment in which they live. At the March 2016 event, the results of the questionnaires were presented. 78% of respondents agreed with Vision A, which identifies the need To safeguard our rural environment and to enhance our community through managed development Around three quarters of all respondents considered that it was Very Important to protect, conserve, enhance and manage a wide variety of landscape features and habitats. 1.2 Scope of the Commission The most appropriate form of study for the landscape-related work required to inform the NDP was considered to be a combination of assessments: Landscape Character Assessment (LCA), Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Assessment (LSCA), and Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA). These are explained in more detail in the report, but to summarise, LCA describes the factual baseline situation, LSCA evaluates the sensitivity of the landscape and its Carly Tinkler CMLI 1

8 capacity to accept certain types of change, and LVIA assesses potential effects on landscape character and visual amenity arising from proposed development In order for the assessments to be of most use to any future landscape strategies to be included in the NDP, it was agreed that the study would make broad recommendations for future environmental and recreational projects / initiatives in and around the village. These would need to be the subject of further work, once the study s findings had been reviewed and decisions made about which of the projects if any to take forward. Some could potentially be funded by development monies or grants The brief for the commission emphasised that the assessment should consider in particular the landscape and scenic beauty of the area, as it is either within, or is outside but forms part of the setting of, the AONB. The consultant was expected to make reference to key local documents including the AONB Landscape Strategy and Guidelines, and to carry out the landscape assessments in accordance with published guidance and current best practice. The study was to be objective and evidence-based, and carried out by a suitably qualified and experienced practitioner. 1.3 Qualifications and Experience In terms of qualifications and experience relevant to the scope of this commission, I am a Chartered Landscape Architect. I undertake the planning, design, co-ordination and management of both large and small scale landscape and environmental projects in the UK and abroad I specialise in landscape, environmental and colour assessment, and have done so for over 30 years. I was a contributor to the Landscape Institute s Guidance for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 1st edition, and a reviewer of the current 3rd edition ( GLVIA3 ). I am also a member of working groups set up by the Landscape Institute and Natural England which are tasked with updating technical advice to members on GLVIA3, and revising landscape sensitivity and capacity assessment guidance, and I act as a judge of various competitions and awards on behalf the Institute I advise bodies such as AONB partnerships and local planning authorities, providing comments on planning applications, attending Design Review Panel meetings, and giving expert evidence at appeals. Many of the schemes are residential developments. I undertook the appraisal of over 100 sites for Herefordshire s Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) in 2014, and am working on landscape and townscape assessments for Neighbourhood Development Plans with several local communities I have lived and worked in the Herefordshire / Worcestershire area for much of my life, so am very familiar with the natural, physical, historic, cultural and social aspects of the landscape and villages in and around the area. 1.4 Structure of Report This report is broadly structured in line with the rather linear assessment processes described in Section 2, and is set out as follows: Section 2 explains the landscape assessment methods used, and the processes followed Section 3 describes the current baseline landscape and visual situation within the defined study areas, including matters such as landscape character, landscape history, heritage assets, cultural associations, biodiversity, visual, public and social amenity Section 4 summarises the findings of this assessment. Judgements and conclusions about landscape quality, landscape character and visual sensitivity, and value are set out. Potential effects are also considered in this section In Section 5, judgements about landscape sensitivity and capacity are set out. Table 1A sets out the capacity of the individual parcels in the order in which they were assessed and reported in the text and on the plans. Table 1B provides the same information, but in order of each parcel s capacity, from high to low Section 6 sets out the assessment s conclusions. The various recommendations arising from the study are also summarised Appendices are bound separately and are as follows: In Appendix A, a technical overview of landscape, assessment, and definitions of the key terms and phrases used, is provided. Carly Tinkler CMLI 2

9 Appendix B contains summary descriptions of the National Character Areas and County Landscape Character Types. Appendix C contains the criteria used in making judgements in this assessment. Appendix D shows the LSCA process flowchart. The LSCA parcel schedule summaries are contained in Appendix E. Appendix F contains the plans and figures referred to in the report The baseline information was firstly hand-drawn onto Ordnance Survey (OS) maps at a variety of scales ranging from 1:25,000 to 1:5000e. It was then transferred into digital format by members of the NDP Working Group. The figures (which are available separately, as is the Landscape Capacity plan) comprise: Figure 1: Location Plan and Overview Figure 2: LSCA Study Area Figure 3: LSCA Landscape Baseline Figure 4: LSCA Visual Baseline Figure 5: LSCA Capacity Plan NB: The figures are in colour; they are best read when printed at A3 size, but should also be legible at A4 for most people. Carly Tinkler CMLI 3

10 2 Method and Process 2.1 Landscape Assessment Methods Clearly, new development results in certain changes to the existing baseline landscape and visual situation, which is likely to subsequently affect landscape character and views in some way Informed judgements about what and who will be affected, and what the degree of change will be, have to be made in order to inform decisions. Such judgements are based on a wide range of factors. At the outset, questions have to be asked such as: - What is there, and who sees it? - How important is it, to whom, and why? - What is the nature of the proposed change? - What is the degree of change? - How, and to what degree, will change affect what is there and those who see it? - Is the degree of change acceptable or not, especially in relation to current planning policy and guidance? Landscape and other technical assessments can help to answer these questions. Landscape assessment is a complex process, but it is important to understand it in order to properly understand the findings and draw conclusions. The assessments findings may be used by planning authorities and others to inform decisions about whether the change is acceptable, or whether it would result in unacceptable consequences, which are often expressed as harm, or negative effects In this case, a variety of published methods for carrying out the different types of landscape assessments required have been used and combined in order to provide the fine-grained, evidencebased and objective results which are needed here. Other issues, such as certain physical constraints to development, have also been factored in The three main forms of assessment are LCA, LSCA and LVIA. The full methods are not included in this report, but are summarised below. Where necessary, further clarification is provided in the text, but for more detailed information please refer to the guidance documents 2. In Appendix A, there is a technical overview of landscape, assessment, and definitions of the key terms and phrases used In An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment (October 2014), Natural England defines LCA as the process of identifying and describing variation in the character of the landscape. It seeks to identify and explain the unique combination of elements and features (characteristics) that make landscapes distinctive (Fig. 1. What is Landscape?) [see below] By setting down a robust, auditable and transparent, baseline, [LCA] can not only help us to understand our landscapes, it can also assist in informing judgements and decisions concerning the management of change. 2 For further information on methods, techniques and processes, see An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment (October 2014) Natural England; Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland - Topic Paper 6: Techniques and criteria for judging sensitivity and capacity The Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage (2002); and Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 3 rd Edition (2013) Landscape Institute / Institute of Environmental Assessment (usually referred to as GLVIA3 ). Carly Tinkler CMLI 4

11 LCA Guidance Figure 1: What is Landscape? The information recorded in the LCA informs all aspects of the other types of landscape assessment. It is necessary to understand what is there and how valuable it is before making judgements about potential effects and their level of significance, or levels of sensitivity and capacity LSCA is a systematic, evidence-based process. It provides an objective, impartial and transparent system for assessing the sensitivity of the landscape and its capacity to accommodate change, whilst also retaining the aspects of the environment which for a variety of reasons are valued. Such change is usually in the form of social and / or economic expansion, although the method can be applied to other forms of development such as polytunnels, or changes in landuse, for example commercial forestry It has been developed in response to the growing need for people, communities and planning authorities to make informed decisions about the allocation of land for development It also responds to an increasing public interest in, and awareness of, what the term landscape really means, as set out in Appendix A. There is also a desire to understand for oneself how new development can change the landscape, and what the effects and subsequent implications of this might be, both on the landscape itself and those who experience and use it Whilst there are published techniques for LSCA practitioners to use, and which still underpin the overall LSCA approach, over time, more bespoke methods have evolved. These can be tailored to suit specific commissions such as this one, where the findings are used to inform the Neighbourhood Plan, and future planning decisions. New guidance is likely to be published by Natural England in Carly Tinkler CMLI 5

12 the coming months, and studies such as these are being used to inform the updating of the methods and processes This assessment considers the likelihood of new development giving rise to certain effects (adverse or beneficial) on landscape character and visual amenity. This is factored in to conclusions about Landscape Capacity, and follows the principles of LVIA, the guidance for which is set out in GLVIA3. However, it is important to note that LVIA is used mainly for assessing the effects of site-specific developments, where the type, scale and form of proposed new built form is known. LSCA tends to be carried out at an early stage in the planning process, as the findings are used to inform judgements about the suitability or otherwise of land for certain generalised types of development (e.g. housing, forestry, intensive agriculture, renewable energy and so on). The potential for likely effects is factored in, but only at a high-level (see Appendix A) This assessment also takes into account Green Infrastructure (GI) assets such as access to nature and informal recreation, energy and food production, and water resource management. Biodiversity is factored in at the desktop stage, recording designated areas of nature conservation interest. Habitats which are likely to have high potential for biodiversity are also noted during the on-theground surveys. The value and sensitivity of heritage assets are also considered, in terms of the assets landscape context and setting, in line with published guidance (for example English Heritage [now Historic England] s The Setting of Heritage Assets (revised June 2012)) Where appropriate, recommendations are made to help take forwards the opportunities identified in the study. 2.2 Wellington Heath Assessment Approach This section explains how the Wellington Heath landscape assessment commission was approached The study area boundaries for the assessment were determined at the outset. The outer boundary of the landscape character assessment study area was defined by the wider landscape context of the village, and its area of influence. This is partly determined by the visual envelope, i.e. the places from which a given area is visible, but also takes into account the characteristics of a particular landscape type, the extent of which is not necessarily determined by visibility. The preliminary assessment covers areas beyond the parish boundary (see Figure 1: Location Plan and Overview) The study area boundaries for features or places of importance such as sites of nature conservation interest and heritage assets were drawn with consideration given to the potential area of influence of the individual feature The boundary of the study area for the detailed LSCA was drawn more tightly around the village. This was discussed and agreed with members of the PC and NDP group, and was determined through a combination of mapping exercises, on-the-ground visits, and taking into account areas within and adjacent to the settlement which could potentially attract interest from commercial developers in the future The area was then subdivided into individual parcels which were numbered (there are 29 in total, but two parcels were later sub-divided into a) and b) (if, for example, one part of the parcel has a higher capacity to accept development than another), so there are 31 in the summary tables). This numbering is consistent throughout the study, and is used on the plans and in the schedules. Some of the parcels are individual fields or plots; others comprise several fields or plots which share similar characteristics and / or landuse The capacity study area excludes land on which there are existing residential properties (and other substantial built form). In principle, such sites could be redeveloped so long as the siting, scale, density and so on are the same as that which exists. However, any new development on such sites should be the subject of detailed assessment The study area does include parts of gardens in some cases, on the basis that new residential development could theoretically be built there. An arbitrary line around the curtilage of existing properties is drawn to allow for garden, parking etc. It is not necessary at this stage to be constrained by matters such as boundaries and land-ownership the aim is to determine the capacity of a particular area to accept new development For ease of reference, the study area was divided into four geographical sectors (North to East, East to South, South to West, and West to North). The central point is the southern end of Ochre Hill s Carly Tinkler CMLI 6

13 junction with The Common near the village centre (close to the Farmer s Arms pub), and the sectors radiate outwards following roads and physical features in and around the outskirts of the village In order to understand all the elements, features and factors that contribute to an area s landscape character, it is necessary to carry out research, including reviewing and recording (on maps, schedules and in note-form) relevant background material from sources such as books, reports and studies, historic maps and documents, local archives and historians, government and other websites The baseline study takes into account national and / or local landscape-related designations, strategies, policies and guidance (especially that produced by the Malvern Hills AONB Partnership (AONBP); the landscape s natural history and cultural heritage; its character; settlement and land use patterns; key views; public rights of way (PRsoW); recreation; hydrology; topography; significant vegetation and so on, in order to establish its value. ( Significant vegetation is predominantly mature tree cover which forms a noticeable feature in the landscape: Google Earth is used in the first instance, as this makes it much easier to identify the vegetation and draw it onto the baseline maps; the information is then used during the on-the-ground surveys.) If any of these has the potential to be affected by, or act as a constraint to, development on a particular parcel of land, it is noted in the schedules, and carried forward for verification through the on-the-ground assessment Views and visual amenity are also part of the baseline study stage. The process involves a combination of driving and walking around the area. In this case, both publicly-accessible and (where possible / accessible with permission) privately-owned parcels were visited The purpose of this step is to test the mapped desktop baseline findings on-the-ground and refine them in the light of what the landscape reveals. Landscape zones or sectors are established, constraints checked, landscape characteristics noted, the extent of the areas of influence and visual envelopes modified, visibility checked, and the nature of the views is recorded. The potential for both adverse and beneficial effects is considered further, and scope for mitigation is also factored in Please note that unless otherwise stated, all photographs are taken using a Digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera with the equivalent of a 50mm focal length manual lens, typically with five frames per view. This represents the normal breadth of vision as advocated by the Landscape Institute in Advice Note 01/11 Photography and Photomontage in LVIA. Photographs are taken at eye level (approximately 1.70m above ground level) Firstly, the wider study area is visited and the information gathered is processed. This sets the context for the on-the-ground visits to each parcel The baseline information for each parcel is then entered in the schedules, and the findings are used to make judgements about each one s level of quality, value, sensitivity and capacity (for definitions of these terms and the process flowchart, please see Appendices A and D respectively) The capacity study area boundary, parcel boundaries and a summary of some of the key baseline information are shown on Figure 3 LSCA Landscape Baseline and Figure 4 LSCA Visual Baseline. Plans showing the findings of the baseline assessments in the wider study area and in the village have been drawn up in draft form It is important to note that the assessment of a landscape s capacity to accept change will vary according to the type and nature of change being proposed. This must be defined before undertaking the assessment. In this case, the assessment considers the landscape s capacity to accept residential development only The study makes the assumption that within the AONB, new residential development would be required to be of high quality, and that buildings would be sensitively designed using traditional (or other appropriate) building techniques and materials, especially those which reflect the local vernacular and key characteristics. It is also assumed that new schemes would demonstrate a strong, locally-appropriate and effective landscape framework, with siting, access, layout, scale, design and engineering work being landscape-led Outside the AONB, even adjacent to its boundary, it is possible that design requirements may be less stringent, unless it is demonstrated that development would have an adverse effect on the AONB s setting, but the assumption is still that care will be taken to integrate built form into its surroundings. Low-quality development would be very likely to reduce a parcel s level of capacity, in or out of the AONB. Carly Tinkler CMLI 7

14 The criteria which have been used in the landscape assessments to determine levels of value, susceptibility, sensitivity and so on are set out in the tables in Appendix C. Not all the criteria need to be met in order for a parcel to be categorised at a certain level: they simply indicate the factors which need to be taken into consideration, and professional judgement must be applied when deciding which ones are relevant The levels are graded on a five-point scale from Very High to Very Low with the possibility of split categories in between, which means that small variations in sensitivity and capacity are taken into account and a clear hierarchy of sites can be established It should be noted that the AONB designation confers what is usually categorised as either Very High or High level of value, but does not automatically mean that the landscape is in good condition or of high quality (although it should be borne in mind that these are amongst the reasons that the designation was made in the first place), nor that it necessarily has a high sensitivity to change. The landscape assessment needs to go beneath these broadly-applied value judgements and consider each parcel on its own merit, although the weight of the designation is still factored in Once the summary schedules are complete and preliminary sensitivity and capacity values determined, the information is transferred onto the overall capacity plan and summary tables At this point, each parcel s level of overall sensitivity and capacity is looked at again in the context of the values ascribed to the other parcels. The tables are set out in ascending / descending order of capacity, to ensure that they have been assessed on a like-for-like basis. Again, professional judgement must be applied at this point: for example, if two parcels are of equally high capacity, they should be compared, and the level of capacity adjusted if it is concluded that they do not have equal potential for development, as defined by the criteria As set out above, it does not necessarily follow that parcels with low sensitivity have high capacity for development and vice versa: other factors must be considered and professional judgement applied. For example, parcels which are currently in poor condition, which may reduce their level of sensitivity, should be assessed for their potential for improvement; this could increase sensitivity, especially within the context of better quality landscapes in the area. The likelihood and feasibility of such improvement taking place also has to be considered. Similarly, if a parcel in poor condition performs an important function in the landscape, such as forming part of a setting or a strategic gap, its overall sensitivity is likely to be higher, despite its current condition It is important to note that the assessment does not specify which levels of capacity are most or least appropriate for new development it is up to the community to decide where to draw the line. It does, however, provide a fine-grained analysis which can be interrogated. The results are set out in in schedules and tables so that objective comparisons and decisions can be made It is also important to note that potential physical and / or other constraints to development such as landownership, means of access, topography, flood zones and so on are not factored into the landscape assessment. However, where it is obvious that significant engineering work and / or hedgerow removal would be required to achieve access into a site, for example, this is likely to affect landscape character and visual amenity, and so it is taken into account when making judgements about the capacity of a parcel of land to accept development Open countryside (technically, land beyond a settlement / settlement boundary) is normally a constraint to new residential development in planning policy terms, and such areas are likely to have very limited capacity Conversely, a site may have high capacity to accept new development in landscape terms, but it may not be accessible without third party agreement, or be liable to flooding. These are not necessarily in themselves or in combination absolute constraints to development, of course, and there may be acceptable solutions for overcoming them without giving rise to adverse effects. Where these could give rise to effects on landscape character and visual amenity, however, they are taken into account in the assessment Although consideration of planning policy is beyond the scope of this study, it is clear that the most sensitive sites, and those with least capacity, are also most likely to be in conflict with the various policies and other guidance The final results are set out on the overall capacity plan (see Figure 5 in Appendix F), the summary tables (see Tables A1 and A2 at the end of Section 5), and the individual parcel schedules 1 29 (see Appendix E). Carly Tinkler CMLI 8

15 3 Baseline Landscape and Visual Situation 3.1 Overview of Designations, Features and Receptors Figure 1 - Location Plan and Overview shows Wellington Heath parish and village in their wider context, and the areas covered by the geographical sectors described in the previous section. It also shows the location of key landscape / environmental designations and features, and key viewpoints. The wider LCA study area covers most of the area on the map, whilst the boundary of the LSCA study area is shown as having been drawn quite tightly around the main settlement The report sets out the descriptions and findings in the order of their sector orientation; it begins in the North to East sector and continues clockwise, returning to the north The sectors are also shown on Figure 2 LSCA Study Area (this figure also shows the locations and numbers of the individual parcels assessed in the LSCA, and local features such as footpaths) The landscape baseline information is shown on Figure 3, and the visual baseline is shown on Figure The baseline information set out in this section is summarised in the schedules of the individual parcels of land, which are contained in Appendix E Some of the key landscape-related designations, features and receptors identified within the wider study area at the desktop stage are subsequently discounted if it is judged that they could not possibly be affected by new development of the type and scale which is under consideration here Those which are selected for further consideration on-the-ground are described in more detail in the sections which follow, shown on the figures, and noted in the individual parcel schedules where relevant (most lie within or adjacent to the LSCA study area, unless otherwise noted) To summarise, the following features and receptors were identified as having the potential to be affected by new development of the type proposed: Malvern Hills AONB (directly or indirectly) Landscape character (national) Landscape character (county) Landscape character (local) Historic landscape character Villagescape (character, setting etc.) Function / value Green Infrastructure assets and Ecosystem Services Heritage assets / cultural heritage Trees with TPOs, on National Inventory of Trees, certain PHI sites and other significant vegetation Biodiversity Water quality Soil quality Visual amenity Visual receptors (e.g. road users / tourists; residents; users of PRsoW; users of recreational open spaces) Public / Social amenity. 3.2 National Designations and Features LANDSCAPE: MALVERN HILLS AONB For locations / boundaries see Figures 1 and 2. Carly Tinkler CMLI 9

16 3.2.2 Within the LSCA study area, the western boundary of the Malvern Hills AONB runs along the west side of the village, along Ledbury Road and Jack s Lane, meaning that most of the built-up part of the village lies within the AONB AONBs are of national importance (and indeed of international importance, being recognised as Category V protected landscapes by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature). They are designated solely for their special landscape qualities. They are considered to be of such outstanding natural (or scenic ) beauty that they require, and enjoy, a high level of protection through European, national and local planning policies and plans, in order to secure their permanent protection against development that would damage their special qualities, thus conserving a number of the finest landscapes in England for the nation s benefit The primary purpose of AONB designation is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the landscape; this includes flora, fauna and other elements and features. Public appreciation is a key component of natural beauty, and the secondary purposes of AONB designation include meeting the need for quiet enjoyment of the countryside, and having regard for the interests of those who live and work there. The natural beauty of these areas is recognised as contributing significantly to economic activities and well-being through tourism and inward investment. The Malvern Hills AONB Partnership s Management Plan (published April 2014) states that Each year, some 1.25 million visitors come to the AONB to enjoy its natural and cultural heritage. Tourism makes a significant contribution to the local economy. Local authorities in Herefordshire and Worcestershire support tourism strategies that recognise the importance of AONBs as special landscapes and as important destinations for people seeking the natural environment Even though AONB landscapes are designated because they are considered to be of high quality, within them there may be places where, on a site-or area-specific basis, the quality of the landscape is assessed as moderate or even low. However, such an area must be considered within the context of the nationally important and valuable landscape, and seen as an integral part of the whole regardless of the level of its contribution Also, some areas are only of low quality because they are in poor condition, for example through inappropriate management which results in loss of traditional landcover and features such as grassland, orchard or woodland. In some cases, this level of condition is temporary, and such areas could be restored. It is thus not always reasonable to use a low condition baseline as the context for evaluating the effects of new development. TREES AND WOODLANDS There are several blocks and belts of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland (AsSNW) scattered throughout the study area. These are highly important landscape (and ecological) features, and are characteristic of the Principal Wooded Hills LCT in particular, which lies north, east and south east of the village Some of the woodland areas (including some of the AsSNW) in and around the village are included in the National Inventory of Woodlands and Trees (NIWT) 3. HERITAGE There are no Scheduled Monuments within the parish. Within the study area there is Wall Hills Camp hillfort (c. 2.5km south west of the village). Although outside the study area, the iconic British Camp hillfort on the Malvern Hills is a Scheduled Monument, and it is visible from certain locations in the village and parish No Grade I listed buildings were identified within the parish, the nearest being in Bosbury and Ledbury. Eastnor Castle is Grade I listed and lies c. 3km south east of the village There is one Grade II* building in the parish: Peg s Farm (c. 1km north west of the village), which is a highly-distinctive timber-framed farmhouse dating from the 14 th century There are numerous Grade II listed buildings and structures within the study area. Those of relevance to the LSCA are in and around the village. They are noted in the parcel schedules as appropriate, and their locations are shown on the baseline maps. 3 Carly Tinkler CMLI 10

17 There are no Registered Historic Parks and Gardens (RHPGs) within the parish, but Eastnor Castle lies within a Grade II* RHPG, and there is a Grade II RHPG at Hope End, the boundary of which is adjacent to Wellington Heath s parish boundary, c. 1km north east of the centre of the village There is one Unregistered Historic Park and Garden (URHPG) in the parish (although not a national designation, only local (i.e. of countywide importance), URHPGs enjoy the same protection under HC s planning policy as RHPGs do). This is Prior s Court, which lies at the north-western edge of the parish, a former country estate noted for its kitchen garden. BIODIVERSITY There are no Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) within the parish. The closest lies on the northern outskirts of Ledbury (railway cutting), with Upper Hall Farm Quarry, Mayhill Wood and Eastnor Park lying further to the south east. 3.3 National and Countywide Landscape Character The complexity of the landscape in this part of Herefordshire is reflected in the number of different landscape areas and types which cover it. National Landscape Character Nationally, the country is divided into National Character Areas (NCAs) NCAs are the responsibility of Natural England. They are areas that share similar landscape characteristics, and which follow natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative boundaries, making them a good decision-making framework for the natural environment Importantly, NCA profiles are guidance documents which can help communities to inform their decision-making about the places that they live in and care for. The information they contain will support the planning of conservation initiatives at a landscape scale, inform the delivery of Nature Improvement Areas and encourage broader partnership working through Local Nature Partnerships. The profiles will also help to inform choices about how land is managed and can change The NCA profiles contain specific Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEOs) for each area, which offer guidance on the critical issues identified, and which can help to achieve sustainable growth and a more secure environmental future The landscape in the majority of the study area is covered by NCA 100 Herefordshire Lowlands, although the eastern sectors are covered by NCA 103 Malvern Hills The location of the NCAs is shown on Figure 1 - Location Plan and Overview, and further information, including the key characteristics, Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEOs) and key drivers which are relevant to Wellington Heath, is provided in Appendix B. Regional and County Landscape Character NCAs are relevant to this study for the reasons set out above, and it is important that the assessment evaluates whether the landscapes are good representations of landscape character at a national level. However, the NCA descriptions usually cover large areas, so for more county-specific detail it is necessary to look at the landscape character types (LCTs) which have been surveyed and categorised by both Herefordshire Council 5 and the Malvern Hills AONB Partnership (AONBP) The LSCA study area is covered by several LCTs, which are indicative of the complexity and variety of the landscapes of the area. The types reflect differences in geology and topography, and subsequent variations in landuse and landcover which give rise to character The LCTs are shown on Figure 3, and illustrated throughout the main report; more detailed descriptions are provided in Appendix B; those of most relevance to the study are summarised below: FOREST SMALLHOLDINGS AND DWELLINGS This LCT covers the whole of Wellington Heath village centre, along with the fields which are contiguous with the edge of the settlement and slope down to the east, west and north west. It is Landscape Character Assessment Supplementary Planning Guidance 2004 (updated 2009) Herefordshire Council 6 Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Landscape Strategy and Guidelines 2011 Carly Tinkler CMLI 11

18 described in the LCA as an intimate, densely settled landscape, characterised by strings of wayside cottages and associated smallholdings. SETTLED FARMLANDS ON RIVER TERRACE This LCT covers a locally-broad swathe of landscapes which lie to the north west, west, south and east of the parts of the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT which covers the village centre. In Herefordshire, this LCT is only found along the River Leadon near Ledbury (although it is not confined to a narrow corridor). It is an open, intensively cultivated, settled agricultural landscape, associated with fertile, free draining river terrace soils. These soils give rise to a productive, horticultural land use, where intensive commercial orchards are a recurring and visually prominent feature of the landscape. PRINCIPAL WOODED HILLS This LCT covers the wooded landscapes north, east and south-east of the village. It is adjacent to the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT north and north east of the village, but is separated from it by the Settled Farmlands on River Terrace LCT to the south east. The Principal Wooded Hills is a densely wooded landscape, associated with bands of Silurian sandstones and limestones which form escarpments. The ridges enclose vales eroded in softer shales and mudstones. There is an undulating, in places steeply-sloping topography rising locally towards the adjoining ridge of the Malvern Hills. The character of the landscape is derived from the pronounced relief and the dominant, interlocking woodland cover, often located on the ridges, which together provide a strong sense of visual unity HC s countywide assessment and the AONBP s Guidelines cover broad areas which share similar characteristics, but the level of detail provided is not sufficient for the purpose of more fine-grained assessments such as this; clearly, within these landscapes there are likely to be considerable local variations which must be understood and factored into the baseline studies The landscapes within the LSCA study area were therefore subject to more detailed on-the-ground survey and analysis to supplement the information available. Detailed descriptions of local landscape character in each geographical sector within which the parcels lie is set out in the sections below, and summarised in the parcel schedules Before going into the field, however, it is necessary to complete the desktop baseline and inform the on-the-ground assessment by carrying out a study of the local area s history, as this provides an understanding of how the landscape has evolved and developed into what we see and experience today. 3.4 Historic Landscape Character Historic landscape character is an integral element of landscape character, and thus of landscape character assessment. This is emphasised in the NPPF (e.g. para. 170: Where appropriate, landscape character assessments should also be prepared, integrated with assessment of historic landscape character. ) Landscape assessment guidance is also clear about the matter, setting out the range of historic and socio-cultural baseline information which needs to be gathered, analysed and factored in to the findings. GLVIA3 paras. 5.7 to 5.11 deal with this subject. Para. 5.9 says, The history of the landscape, its historic character, the interaction between people and places through time, and the surviving features and their settings may be relevant to the LVIA baseline studies, as well as the cultural heritage topic Understanding historic landscape character is important because otherwise, the value and importance of certain features may be missed, and not factored into judgements about sensitivity / capacity and potential effects. This may lead to the levels of capacity and / or effect being reported as lower than they should be. As well as Historic England (HE) s guidance which is mentioned above, there are other useful sources of information about the subject to which reference is made during the studies 7. 7 E.g. Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland - Topic Paper 5: Understanding Historic Landscape Character The Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage (2002) Carly Tinkler CMLI 12

19 3.4.4 Historic map regression exercises are very useful in understanding how and why the landscape has evolved as it has, and what relevance this has to current and future landscape-related matters Although HC s new Historic Landscape Characterisation has not yet been published, when it is it should be referred to during the baseline stages of landscape assessment Other good sources of reference are books on local history: the publication Portrait of Wellington Heath by Peter Garnett (Allan Wood 2002) was particularly helpful in informing this assessment The village history page on the PC s website 8 was also used as a reference. It describes the evolution of the village from the medieval period to today; the information has been slightly edited and used to inform the following section. Local Landscape History The assessment found that the landscapes of the area have significant time depth, and a great deal of this is visible in and around Wellington Heath. It identified key historic assets, elements and features, many of which are important characteristics of the local and wider landscape. It also identified a number of cultural associations. All these contribute to Wellington Heath s landscape character, and must be factored in to judgements about landscape value and sensitivity A detailed survey and analysis of the various heritage assets that were identified is beyond the scope of this study, but factors which are likely to need careful consideration in the event of a planning application coming forward are noted in the schedules The Malvern Hills and surrounding areas have been a focus for human activity and settlement since the Bronze Age, and possibly earlier (Warners Pit in Mathon dates from the Palaeolithic period (between c. 500,000 and 150,000 BP), a handaxe from the same period was found north of Colwall, and possible Mesolithic / Neolithic occupation sites have been identified in Cradley) The Hills exert a large and extensive influence on both local and wider landscapes. They are visible from distant viewpoints, and also command exceptional views. They are an abundant source of pure spring water, and the lower-lying areas are fertile and sheltered. The Hills are also believed to have been an early sacred site, of importance for religious and cultural practices. As a result of this, and the increase in trade of valuable raw materials such as salt, many ancient trackways and pilgrims trails criss-cross throughout the area. 1:25,000 scale mapping shows the key routes, most of which are still in use, either as roads or public / private rights of way. The routes tended to be direct, aligned with widely visible landscape features such as hilltops for ease of wayfinding, with only minor detours where physical obstacles barred the way. (This gave rise to the concept of ley lines ; whilst some people are sceptical about the validity of the notion, it is interesting to understand the nature of real straight line markings in ancient landscapes, and what part they have played in the hidden history of human consciousness.) The geology and associated topography on the west side of the Malvern Hills is very different from that on the east side, which has resulted in distinct variations in landuse and social history. The east side was not favourable for settlement between the post-glacial period and the Iron Age, being predominantly flat, poorly-drained brackish marshland. The west side offered better opportunities for a safe, settled and sustainable way of life The Iron Age brought the construction of strategically-placed hillforts; in the local area these include Wall Hills Camp, Sutton Walls Camp, British Camp and Midsummer Hill. A rectangular Iron Age enclosure was found at Ridgeway Cross, with evidence of metalworking (this probably dates from c. 400 BCE), and potteries were established near Malvern. The potteries were mostly on the east side of the Malvern Hills, and during the Roman period this became an important local centre for manufacturing various types of clayware. Although there is little evidence of Roman settlement on the west side of the Hills, there have been several pottery finds and identification of possible kilns in the area dating from that time Reference to the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) indicates that there was other activity going on in the Wellington Heath area, with historic features such as a boundary bank found in Frith Wood. Also in Frith Wood there are occasional small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) pollards of great antiquity (some lime pollards in Gloucestershire are estimated to be 2,000 years old). Nowadays it is a relatively rare tree in the UK, but after the last ice age, it was common (Oliver Rackham called lime a living link with the Mesolithic wildwood ). Its decline may be due to the fact that its uses were mainly 8 Carly Tinkler CMLI 13

20 limited to carving, making twine and rope, so it was not grown on an industrial scale (climate change may also have played a part). Ancient small-leaved lime tree in Frith Wood After the Roman period it appears that local industry (predominantly pottery) declined, and no signs of any populations of note have been found in the study area. However, by the early 7 th century, the Malvern Hills are known to have formed the boundary between the subordinate Mercian kingdoms of Hwicce to the east and the Magonsaetan to the west. Main centres of administration in the area eventually became established, with the Bishop of Hereford taking his seat there in the 7 th century following the conversion of Mercia to Christianity As landholdings, productivity and trade increased, market towns such as Ledbury and Bromyard grew to become important local centres along the main routes, with villages such as Cradley, Mathon and Colwall forming stopping points in between The arrival of the Normans in the 12 th century brought changes to the ways in which the land was used, especially in terms of hunting and agriculture, and the predominantly wildwood landscapes were altered and tamed as manorial courts and estates were established Although not a settlement at the time, Wellington is mentioned in the 13 th century in records of landholdings of the Bishop of Ledbury in 1288 (it was included in the Rent Book (or Red Book ) of the Bishop of Hereford). It was called Walynton (or Walyntone, later Walyngtone), after John de Walynton, who held his land by military tenure. It was part of the manor of Ledbury and the common lands provided grazing for the people of Ledbury rights to which were jealously guarded. There would also have been a few farmsteads leased from the Bishop of Hereford According to Peter Garnett, the area would have been wooded with large patches of marsh, and in the drier parts, heath and scrub. The sheltered valley, where The Common now is, was a favourite place for the people of Ledbury to graze their livestock Some of these farms still characterise parts of the landscape around the village: they were the main employers, and often had tied cottages nearby for their workers. Peg s Farm (Grade II* listed) dates from the 14 th century. Carly Tinkler CMLI 14

21 Peg s Farm The Reformation in the 16 th century resulted in political and religious changes; these led to further changes in landownership, landuse and management which altered many of the landscape patterns and characteristics that would have been common at the time. After the Reformation, ownership of land in Ledbury passed to local gentry. Examples of properties dating from this period include Callow Croft (Grade II listed), a late 16 th / early 17 th century stone / timber-framed house off Jack s Lane During the late 17 th and 18 th centuries, changes in forest law resulted in disafforestation. This ended certain restrictions on the use of land for agriculture: royal lands were sold, and the new landowners began the process of enclosing large areas, which included common land. This resulted in significant changes in the landscapes around the Malverns; the distinct patterns arising from enclosure are particularly visible in Blackmore to the east of Malvern, but also at Bringsty Common north of Cradley. Several new cottages were built on the newly-released land in the area, often illegally Newly-cultivated fields around the villages were mostly used to grow arable / vegetable crops, and there would still have been many orchards. Alongside the brooks, the meadows would have been seasonally-flooded and managed accordingly, with rotational grazing and hay-cropping. Some of these traditionally-maintained, unimproved grasslands still exist, and are a very valuable habitat for flora and fauna In 1693 there had been approximately thirty holders of land in the Wellington division of Ledbury, which included Peg s Farm in the north and Hilltop in the south. Locally, the Heath was used for grazing until the 18 th century when it was occupied by squatters, who were probably attracted to the area by the improved access provided by the newly-constructed Ledbury Canal. By custom, if a house could be marked out, a hearth built, a fire lit and a pot put to boil before the commoners discovered and evicted the squatters, they could remain. Before 1790, sixteen cottages were built in this way and between 1790 and 1813 a further twenty-three. Later these squatters bought their own freehold under the Ledbury Enclosure Act of There is a very good example of one of these dwellings: Squatter s Cottage off Jack s Lane. It is a small timber-framed building (recently sympathetically restored) set in a clearing in the woodland on the outer, west-facing village slopes. It is highly characteristic of the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings landscape character type described above. Carly Tinkler CMLI 15

22 Squatter s Cottage Thus, the village began to grow, albeit slowly; however, according to Peter Garnett: The Common had a plentiful supply of water from springs and streams. It was also south facing and therefore warmer. These were the considerations that influenced people wanting to live there in the 18 th century Peter Garnett explains that the Enclosure Act resulted in the open fields, commons and wasteland converted into a number of separate farms by means of fences and hedges. This gave rise to patterns in the landscape which still characterise many parts of the local area today. Furthermore, The Enclosure Commissioner had to lay out the roads over Wellington Heath and Bradlow [which were common lands] as part of the Inclosure : many of the roads running through and around the village today were built soon after as a result In the early 19 th century, several landscaped parks and gardens were created by wealthy landowners, in accordance with the latest fashions. Often, the new houses that sat within the emparked areas were built on the sites of medieval timber-framed manorial properties which were demolished to make way for brick and stone. Landscape designers incorporated remnant features from medieval chases and deerparks such as fish pools and woodland blocks, although these lost much of their previous natural form, since an ornamental, picturesque, semi-wild character was favoured. Of note in the study area are Eastnor Castle, a Grade I listed building set within a Grade II* RHPG, part of which is a medieval deer park lying over 3km south east of the village), and Hope End House Hope End House is a Grade II listed building set within a Grade II listed RHPG. It is situated approximately 1km north east of the centre of the village, predominantly in Colwall and Coddington parishes, but part of its western boundary is contiguous with Wellington Heath parish s eastern boundary (for location see Figure 1). Other buildings associated with the estate (Home Farm and Bailiff s House) lie within Wellington Heath parish In 1809 the Hope End Estate was purchased by Edward Moulton-Barrett, the father of the poet Elizabeth Barrett (later Browning - see Cultural Associations section below). He converted the Georgian house into stables and built a new mansion of opulent Turkish design : the grounds were redesigned at the same time. The listing describes Hope End s parkland as A picturesque landscape by J C Loudon [ ] associated with a country house, later largely demolished, which he designed at the same time. That landscape lies within a larger and older deer park, with Victorian over-planting. Carly Tinkler CMLI 16

23 Construction of the Hereford and Gloucester canal began in 1793, but the section which runs between Ledbury and Hollow Lane was not completed until The canal reached Hereford in 1845, but by 1861 the Worcester to Hereford railway line had been built, and as trains were faster and cheaper, canal use fell into decline, and several sections were either converted to railway, filled in, or they clogged-up and revegetated naturally (the section between Uplands and Prior s Court is still visible and contains water; the canal bridge is still present on Burton s Lane). Remnant section of canal (zoom lens) The arrival of roads, rail and industry gave rise to new forces for change which re-shaped landscapes and settlements once again. New residential development, especially in the countryside and in villages followed, resulting in the loss of meadows and orchards and woodland cover According to Peter Garnett, Wellington Heath probably took on more of a village feel in the mid-19 th century. The parish of Wellington Heath was carved out of Ledbury in 1842, and the parish church (Christ Church) was built in By the late 19 th century the village was known as Wellington s Heath (i.e. the heath or common of Wellington) The 1887 map shows that orchards proliferated in and around the village at that time, although they were interspersed with woodland and ornamental planting. The village s westernmost ridge was mostly woodland (Wellington Heath Wood) with small orchards, except for Parcel 19 which was an open field even then. Most of the gardens and paddocks associated with properties along the east side of Ledbury Road and both sides of Ochre Hill were planted with orchards Benevolent landowners at Hope End House and other local farmers endowed the church as well as building an infant school on the east side of the Common in 1853, and the Church of England school close to the church in However, the Women s Institute history, researched and written in 1955, described the village as still retaining the characteristics of scattered hamlets and farms and has not acquired, in any large measure, the corporate community life as it is found in older and more compact villages The building which is now the Farmers Arms dates from around It became the village pub after the closure of the Swallow Cider House in 1895, which apparently had a reputation for drunkenness and fighting. The Memorial Village Hall was established after the first world war, and the present hall was built in In the 1950s water and electricity supplies arrived in the village, followed by mains drainage in the mid-1970s. This led to a considerable increase in development, and forty-five of the houses in the village were built at that time. Since then there have been a number of small scale developments, typically single houses on infill sites or clusters of two of three houses along existing roads. Carly Tinkler CMLI 17

24 Changes to the landscape which have taken place over the last few decades can be difficult to determine and measure, but as with all periods in history, and as set out above, political and social change usually result in different landuses and management practices which alter the landscape fabric, and this will no doubt continue to happen in the future Herefordshire has perhaps had less interest than elsewhere from developers proposing alternative energy solutions such as biomass, wind turbines and solar farms, and the appetite for these types of installations appears to be dwindling. However, the national demand for fresh fruit and vegetables to be available all year round is growing apace; this means that in Wellington Heath in particular, the use of polytunnels and cloches is widespread (this matter is dealt with further in the Local Landscape Character section below) In the 18 th and 19 th centuries, the common land would have been kept open for grazing and cultivation. The broadleaved native woodland trees would still have been an important resource and grown for charcoal burning and building, but the wealthy Victorians loved planting exotic ornamental trees, especially evergreens and conifers, in their grounds. Such areas, including The Pleck, were planted with native trees in the mid-1980s, and they are now maturing, making an important contribution to the village s characteristic woodland cover. Little Pleck was similarly planted up in Ornamental and native trees at northern end of village The tree cover in the village has clearly changed over time, and it will continue to wax and wane. As it does, it alters the intrinsic character of the village itself, and the context within or against which built form is seen. This is an important future consideration The Malvern Hills AONB Unit is currently monitoring change in the AONB landscape 9. The ongoing study is being used to help establish whether the condition of the area s key landscape attributes is generally improving or in decline. Cultural Associations Hope End House was the childhood home of Elizabeth Barrett Browning. She was one of the most prominent English poets of the Victorian era, and was popular in both Britain and the United States during her lifetime. She later married the writer Robert Browning. 9 Carly Tinkler CMLI 18

25 Although no evidence was found to suggest that Wellington Heath is directly associated with any other notable individuals, Malvern and the Hills have many important cultural associations. Authors including Tolkien and C S Lewis walked the Hills on their visits, and their writing was influenced by the area s landscape William Langland s Middle English allegorical narrative poem Piers Plowman (c. 1370) opens on the Malvern Hills. Langland was educated at Little Malvern Priory, and scholars say he incorporated the imagery around him in his work 10. Langland was a contemporary of Chaucer, and Piers Plowman has an important place in the English canon, akin to The Canterbury Tales Edward Elgar may have cycled through and around Wellington Heath, particularly while living in Malvern between 1899 and In her diary, Elgar s wife Alice commented, There cannot have been a lane within 20 miles of Malvern that we did not ultimately find. The Malvern Hills landscapes inspired his music, with melodies apparently often arising while he was cycling. 3.5 Local Landscape Character The Malvern Hills exert a strong and widespread influence on the landscape in all directions. From the highest of the summits strung along their length (the Worcestershire Beacon at 425m AOD), it is believed that there is intervisibility between them and up to nineteen historic counties, the furthest point visible being Shining Tor in Cheshire, 130km away. The Hills 13km long, distinctive humpbacked ridgeline is oriented north-south, so the silhouette changes relative to the location of the viewer The terraced profile of the Iron Age hillfort at British Camp (Scheduled Monument also known as the Herefordshire Beacon) is an iconic and distinctive feature in the landscape for miles around; it lies due east of Wellington Heath village and is visible from certain viewpoints (mainly from higher ground on the east side of the village). British Camp visible from north-eastern edge of village The area s geology, topography and hydrology are very complex; they also give rise to abundant springs, fertile soils and wooded hills which, as set out above, were exploited by the communities which settled here. The landscape of the study area is characterised by a locally-distinct pattern of contrasting elements and features shaped by nature and culture. It provides a highly valuable and valued resource for visitors and residents, as well as flora and fauna. 10 malvernmuseum.co.uk/langland Carly Tinkler CMLI 19

26 3.5.4 The landscape character of the local area, between the Hills and Ledbury, particularly reflects these qualities. 1:25,000 scale OS maps (in this case, Explorer Map 190) clearly show the very complex geology which forms a circle from Chase End at the southern end of the Malvern Hills to Coddington c. 4.5km west of Jubilee Hill. Eastnor Castle s parkland occupies a large part of the land in this circle, with Hope End and Brockbury Hall near Colwall also making up part of it; this suggests that the natural beauty of the landscape was an important factor in the siting of their new properties, gardens and parklands The Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) of the soils in the LSCA study area range from Very Good (predominantly in the west, south and east sectors of the study area), to Good to Moderate (mainly in the north and north-east sectors) The sections below describe in more detail the character of the landscapes within the LSCA study area (and that of the wider context if the local landscape is influenced by it). This information is summarised in the LSCA parcel schedules (see Appendix E); the schedules also provide more detailed information about the landscape and surrounding influences of each parcel The schedules also contain a summary of the desktop and on-the-ground study findings which are relevant to each parcel such as character, designations, key features and receptors, function, constraints, key issues, and levels of value, sensitivity and capacity The descriptions are set out in a clockwise direction, beginning with the North to East sector, and broadly follow the numbering order of the parcels. The central point is the southern end of Ochre Hill s junction with The Common near the village centre (close to the Farmer s Arms pub), and the sectors radiate outwards following roads and physical features in and around the outskirts of the village Please refer to the figures, which show the location and distribution of many of the elements and features described below These character descriptions also form part of the visual baseline study, although more information on visual amenity is set out in Section 3.7. North to East: Parcels This sector comprises land lying east of The Common and the PRoW which runs up the west side of Raven Hill Wood, and north of the PRoW leading from the village to Frith Wood Beyond the village and its immediate surrounds, this sector includes Coddington, Colwall, and the northern half of the Malvern Hills (from End Hill to British Camp). Carly Tinkler CMLI 20

27 Landscape north of village The majority of the LSCA study area in this sector lies within the AONB; however, the AONB boundary runs along Raycombe Lane and the PRoW leading to Coddington Vineyard, so parts of the west side of this sector are not AONB (however, they do form a highly important part of its setting, and are visible from the Malvern Hills ridges and summits, including British Camp) The boundary between NCAs 100 and 103 runs approximately north / south through this sector. Because the scale at which the NCAs are mapped is very large, it is not always possible to identify the exact line on the ground unless there is a distinct difference between the two landscapes caused by factors such as geology and soils. In Wellington Heath s case, the assessment concluded that the distinctive ridged topography on which the village is built is significant enough in the wider landscape to logically mark the boundary between the western limit of the influence of the Malvern Hills, and the eastern limit of influence of the Herefordshire Lowlands The village, and the fields on the slopes and undulations to the east, are the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT. The scale, landscape and settlement patterns, landscape elements and features are all very good representations of this rather special LCT, which is described in HC s LCA as distinctive and intimate. There are only a few small areas of it scattered throughout the county (in this area, it only covers Wellington Heath village and adjacent fields), but these landscapes are especially important in our understanding of the county s history The key characteristics which are well-represented in this sector include: Densely settled pattern of small holdings and wayside cottages Settlement plots and gardens separated by small orchards and pasture fields Network of narrow winding lanes Hedged field boundaries with hedgerow trees Mixture of older and more modern building styles An intimate landscape with a strong sense of enclosure (this does not apply to all parts of the land within this sector, however). Carly Tinkler CMLI 21

28 Typical Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT character on west side of Ochre Hill There is a small area of the Settled Farmlands on River Terrace LCT in this sector, but it lies at the northern end of the extent of this LCT, which characterises the East to South sector; it is the Principal Wooded Hills LCT to the east which has the greatest influence on the wider landscape context of this side of the village. Principal Wooded Hills LCT (Frith Wood) Carly Tinkler CMLI 22

29 Typical Principal Wooded Hills LCT north of village (beyond field, on skyline) There is very little influence at all from the Principal Timbered Farmlands LCT to the north, but the Malvern Hills High Hills and Slopes LCT is an influence in some places (see for example photograph of British Camp above) In the north-eastern sector of the main village, Ochre Hill runs along a locally-distinctive ridgeline which separates the west side of the village from the unsettled valley to the east, with land sloping away steeply on both sides. Ochre Hill from east Carly Tinkler CMLI 23

30 To the west of this, a longer spur forms another distinctive ridgeline, with west-facing slopes falling away to the flatter and very open agricultural landscapes which stretch to Marcle Ridge (see South to West sector below) The local topography, combined with the extensive and distinctive mature vegetation in and around the village especially on the ridgelines, means that there is limited association and / or influence between the east- and west-facing sides of the village, and the character of each side is distinctly different Beyond the village edges, the landscape is predominantly open countryside with a distinct rural / agricultural / wooded character, and is very sparsely-settled. However, the character of the landscapes associated with Hope End house is historic ornamental parkland Although there is limited physical association with both the village and the wider landscapes to the north and west (this is considered in more detail in the Visual Amenity section below), the land is more open to the south / south east. There is a steep south east-facing slope which continues down to a watercourse on the east side of the village, with Frith Wood a feature of the skyline to the south east. Open landscapes at north-eastern edge of village, looking south west Hope End RHPG lies within this sector, north east of the village, although as a result of the intervening topography and built form, there is very limited association between the settlement and the historic parkland Within the LSCA study area in this sector there are several ASNW designations, including Raven Hill Wood and Frith Wood. There are two NIWT woodlands. There is also a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) covering several trees on land associated with a property on the east side of Ochre Hill, and TPOs on several trees along The Common As well as the above, there is significant vegetation (both native and ornamental trees) in the gardens and paddocks / pastures associated with properties on both sides of Ochre Hill; there are also good native trees, hedges and tree belts along the field boundaries and lanes, which make a highly important contribution to landscape pattern and scale Closer to the village, the various landscape elements and features in this sector are generally in better condition and of higher quality on the north side of Raycombe Lane than on the south side, where landuse (particularly extensive equestrian use / horse-keeping) has eroded natural features and traditional landcover; however, there is also evidence of hedges being restored and maintained. Carly Tinkler CMLI 24

31 Generally, levels of quality increase further away from the village where the fields and hedgerows are intact and well-managed. Loss of characteristic landcover, elements and features The north-easternmost gateway / approach to village is in this sector, along Raycombe Lane. Parcel 1 is the sloping field beyond the roadside hedge. North-easternmost gateway / approach to village There is another village gateway further along the lane to the west, marked by a half-timbered property associated with an extensive equestrian establishment. At the time of the assessment, there Carly Tinkler CMLI 25

32 was considerable unsightly clutter along the lane arising from signage, advertising, a road collapse, fencing, lighting and other paraphernalia. Village s second north-eastern gateway Agricultural Land Classifications (ALCs) were only available for the fields immediately adjacent to the settlement: in this sector, the ALC is Good to Moderate. East to South: Parcels This sector comprises properties and associated gardens and paddocks / pastures at the southeastern edges of the village east of Horse Road, and the fields and woodland (Frith Wood) beyond Beyond the LSCA study area, the sector includes the eastern outskirts of Ledbury, Eastnor, and the southern half of the Malvern Hills (from British Camp to Chase End) The whole of the LSCA study area in this sector lies within the AONB (the AONB boundary follows Ledbury Road / Beggars Ash, which also delineate the boundary between the East to South and the South to West sectors) The boundary between NCAs 100 and 103 runs approximately north / south through this sector (see commentary in the North to East sector above) The village, and the gardens / paddocks on the slopes and undulations to the south east, are the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT. Please refer to the commentary in the North to East sector above for details The remainder of the LSCA study area in this sector is the Settled Farmlands on River Terrace LCT This LCT is unusual, as it is only found along the River Leadon near Ledbury (although it is not confined to a narrow corridor); however, the fields which lie between the settlement and Frith Wood and which are covered by this LCT, are not overly typical of it, only sharing some of its key characteristics The fields are relatively free-draining and sandy, and are currently used for intensively-growing commercial bush orchards; there are also open views to the south east and south. All of these are key characteristics of the LCT. However, as a result of this landuse they have been enlarged into a single entity, with all the old field boundaries appearing to have been removed. The 1841 tithe map shows the field sub-divided into the medium scale, sub-regular field pattern which is another key characteristic of this LCT, the landuse and landcover being a mixture of orchards, meadows and hopyards, with a few small patches of woodland / coppice. The fields on the east side of the village Carly Tinkler CMLI 26

33 in the North to East sector are better representations of the mid-19 th century landscape illustrated on the tithe map and the LCT. Settled Farmlands on River Terrace LCT between village and Frith Wood The Principal Wooded Hills LCT lies east of the Settled Farmlands on River Terrace LCT; this is part of a broad swathe of the type which runs from Coddington in the north to Clencher s Mill in the south. Frith Wood is an excellent example of the ancient woodlands associated with Principal Wooded Hills (see photograph in section above). In this sector, the combination of topography and vegetation means that visually, the Malvern Hills influence is absent Also in this sector, the parish boundary runs along a well-wooded watercourse which delineates the edge of the more domesticated character of this part of the settlement (the streamside woodland includes alder carr habitat, a feature which would have been common in the post-ice age landscape and familiar to the Saxons). Carly Tinkler CMLI 27

34 Vegetated watercourse along parish boundary east of village (in mid-ground) The rural / pastoral / unsettled character of some of the landscapes beyond the eastern edges of the village is more eroded here than further north, but the traditional field patterns still exist between Horse Road and the watercourse. There is limited association with the wider landscapes to the north and west due to topography and vegetation, but the land opens up more to the south east and south This sector includes the southern end of the village, east of Beggars Ash, where the complex, steeply-sloping north south ridge and valley topography on which the village lies forms a distinct, southward-pointing tip, or spur. To the south east, the hills become more undulating, and to the south, the land falls towards the railway line on the northern edge of Ledbury. South-eastern end of village spur Carly Tinkler CMLI 28

35 This part of the sector is also less well-associated with the village itself, as the slopes face away from the settlement. The landscape elements and features contribute to the distinctly rural character, but the extensive areas of commercial bush orchards which encircle the southern end of the village spur are detractors: this is not so much because of the trees themselves as the associated erosion of the traditional grassland beneath and associated habitats such as hedgerows and woodland coppice. Here, Frith Wood dominates the skyline to the east, and the landscape is relatively unsettled between the village and Ledbury, with only scattered historic farmsteads th century maps show a track crossing Dogberry Field (Parcel 9 there is a smaller Dogberry Field to the south, on what are now parts of Parcels 12 and 13) and the watercourse in the North to East sector, leading to Frith Farm (or, The Frith) which lies in the East to South sector. This is an historic 16 th 17 th farmstead (Grade II listed building, also associated Grade II barn and attached wheelhouse) Within the LSCA study area in this sector, only Frith Wood is the subject of ASNW designation, and it is the only woodland included in the NIWT. There is a traditional orchard on the village edge (Parcel 13) which is a locally-designated Habitat of Principal Importance (HPI) see Biodiversity below One tree covered by a TPO was identified along the east side of Horse Road As well as the above, there is significant vegetation (both native and ornamental trees) in the gardens and paddocks / pastures associated with properties on the east and south sides of Horse Road, along the watercourse, and along the field boundary between the North to East and East to South sectors (this is also an old trackway, now a PRoW and the route of the Herefordshire Trail and the Geopark Way - see the visual and public amenity sections below) This vegetation makes a highly important contribution to landscape pattern and scale; it forms part of the mature native and ornamental tree cover on the ridges and slopes throughout the village which is highly characteristic of Wellington Heath. The treecover gives rise to distinctive wooded skylines, either smooth and flowing with the topography where the woodland is native, or serrated / punctuated by the taller coniferous / ornamental species. Wellington Heath village s wooded skyline from east The natural landscape elements and features which remain in this sector are generally in very good condition, but the effects of the commercial orchards are a detractor which reduces the level of landscape quality In this sector, the ALC of the fields immediately adjacent to the settlement is Very Good. Carly Tinkler CMLI 29

36 South to West: Parcels This sector includes the centre of the village, with the majority of the settlement s built form and associated gardens, small fields / paddocks and tree cover. The area lies west of the southern end of The Common, Horse Road and Beggars Ash, and south of Ledbury road and Harry s Walk (described in more detail in the West to North sector below). The sector boundary line is angled north-westwards along a field boundary; Uplands Farm west of Burton s Lane is included in the sector Beyond the village and its immediate surrounds, the sector extends westwards, approximately along the line of the Hereford to Worcester railway towards Tarrington and Stoke Edith. The Marcle Ridge forms the skyline in views to the west and south west. To the south, the sector includes Ledbury, with the landscapes of Gloucestershire and the Forest of Dean beyond: May Hill is a distinctive feature on the skyline from certain viewpoints In this sector, only the settlement (and the fields associated with it) east of Ledbury Road / Beggar s Ash lie within the AONB. The fields to the west, including Parcel 20, lie outside, but form a highly important element in the AONB s setting This sector lies entirely within NCA 100 Herefordshire Lowlands. As set out above, the distinctive upstanding topography on which the village lies forms a distinct physical separation between NCA 100 and NCA 103 Malvern Hills; the influence of the latter is negligible here due to intervening topography and vegetation (especially Frith Wood to the south east) The character of the wider landscape is complex, with several LCTs covering the areas between the village and Marcle Ridge. In this sector, the southern tip of the village s western ridgeline gives way to prominent south west- and west-facing slopes which fall to River Leadon valley. Beyond, the rural agricultural partly-wooded landscapes to the west which stretch to Marcle Ridge are typical of the Herefordshire Lowlands NCA. They are flat / gently undulating and open, and sparsely-settled, with scattered wayside dwellings / farmsteads; to the south west, industrial development on the northern outskirts of Ledbury becomes a defining influence. View over Ledbury outskirts and viaduct from south-western edge of village Carly Tinkler CMLI 30

37 View from upper western ridgeline slopes looking south west towards Marcle Ridge on skyline In this sector, the settlement, and the fields on the west-facing slopes, are the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT (please refer to the commentary in the North to East sector above for details). The key characteristics are well-represented West of the village, the LCT of the rest of the LSCA study area is Settled Farmlands on River Terrace. The character of the landscape here is very typical of this LCT, with all of the (not always positive) key characteristics represented. A large percentage of the fields between the village and the B4214 to the west are used for commercial fruit production / intensive agriculture, or are improved pasture, (although there are exceptions) At Withers fruit farm, the use of polytunnels is extensive. Although the traditional field patterns are still visible on the ground, and some significant belts of vegetation have been retained, many hedgerows and trees appear to have been lost. At close quarters, the tunnel structures can feel very dominant; from a distance, they are prominent. Carly Tinkler CMLI 31

38 Polytunnels in landscape on west side of village The watercourse which runs along the east side of village (also the parish boundary) rounds off the bottom of the southern spur and turns westwards at this point. It theoretically discharges into the River Leadon, although its course appears to have been compromised where it runs through Withers Farm The local topography results in there being very little association and / or influence between the east and west sides of the village at this point, and the character of each side is distinctly different The built form associated with the village in this sector is densely clustered on the south east-facing slopes between The Common / Ledbury Road and the village s upstanding wooded ridgeline. Fortunately, so far development does not breach the ridgeline itself in views from the west. Settlement below ridgeline in views from west Carly Tinkler CMLI 32

39 There is considerably less built form on the ridge s west-facing slopes, with a few residential properties set in mature, well-wooded gardens. Whilst some of the open spaces in this area have been domesticated in terms of planting and management, other areas are more natural, and include small, traditionally-managed meadows and sloping grassed fields including the locally-large field which comprises much of Parcel 19 (this field has been enlarged: on the tithe map it is subdivided into smaller parcels with names such as Common Piece and Crofts, which describe its landuse at the time). Here, many of the trees on the ridgeline are locally-inappropriate and short-lived species. The roadside hedge is also in poor condition. Open field on east side of Ledbury Road (Parcel 19) Parcel 21 (north and west of the pub) is another of these fields; it also functions as one of the important green open gaps which break up the denser areas of built form throughout the village. Carly Tinkler CMLI 33

40 Field forming important green open gap in village In this sector, beyond the village and on the west side of Beggar s Ash and Ledbury Road, the land falls away on a prominent west-facing slope and the landscape opens up. The dense, mature tree belt and short section of good, well-managed native hedge along the west side of Ledbury Road / Beggars Ash forms a strong boundary to the village (the tree belt surrounds a locally-distinctive single timber-framed wayside property see photograph in section above). The village s southern gateway is here, marked by various signs. Village s southern gateway (Beggars Ash) Carly Tinkler CMLI 34

41 There is also an unsightly sewage pumping station with associated fencing and screen planting just south of this point. This is a detracting feature and ideally, it should be improved. Sewage pumping station at village s southern gateway (Beggars Ash) The west side of the village s southern gateway is characterised by the fields on the slope. The smallest field at the southernmost end is unmanaged grassland, with a steep slope down to the wellwooded watercourse along its southern boundary. The central fields are pasture, and the northern field is currently used for growing blueberries (part of Withers fruit farm): all slope quite steeply westwards from Ledbury Road, although the slope flattens out along their western boundaries Some of the original hedged field boundaries (those between the two central fields, and along their eastern boundary) are eroded or lost. The two central fields were once used as an equine crosscountry course, which may have contributed to the apparent decline in condition. Carly Tinkler CMLI 35

42 View looking north west across fields west of village View looking south across fields west of village Built development on the west side of the ridge is characteristically very scattered. This is an important feature of the setting of the AONB, as longer-distance views towards it from the west are of a sparsely-settled, densely-wooded ridge Some of the tree cover on the village s western slopes is covered by TPOs, including a large area on the ridgeline above the field in Parcel 19, and a smaller area just north of the southern end of Horse Road. The latter include a notable and distinctive stand of mature Scots pine, which are almost Carly Tinkler CMLI 36

43 certainly the same group of trees as shown on mid-19 th century maps; they are visible in many views from the north east, east and south east, and are useful for orientation. Scots pine (TPO) at southern end of ridgeline (zoom lens) The vegetation is a combination of native and ornamental, and is of high value and significance, not just in landscape character terms but visually and ecologically (these are covered in more detail in the sections below) The distinctive wooded skylines noted in the previous section (either smooth and flowing with the topography where native woodland, or serrated / punctuated by tall coniferous / ornamental species) are also a feature in views from the west side of the village. Wellington Heath village s wooded skyline from west Carly Tinkler CMLI 37

44 The wider landscape is generally of good to high quality, but nearer to the village it is characterised by extensive commercial orchards and polytunnels including those at Withers Farm (see photographs above) and Haygrove Farm near Pixley. Polytunnels at Withers and Haygrove farms (view from northern end of Marcle Ridge) These are significant detractors in the landscape, and although they are considered to be temporary structures, in that in theory when removed the land is not permanently scarred and can be restored, in reality permission can be granted for many years and renewed, which means that this form of development does have a degree of permanence which for some may last a lifetime The natural landscape elements and features which remain in this sector are in mixed condition: very good in parts, but eroded / lost in others, especially beyond the village edges where landuse is intensive agriculture. Lines of uncharacteristic Lombardy poplar are planted as windbreaks and visual screens In the village itself, most of the landscape elements and features appear well-managed and in good to very good condition, although there are exceptions, including the eroded / lost native hedge along the east side of Ledbury Road and some of the tree stands themselves. In the case of the latter, tree species include some which are uncharacteristic and inappropriate, and which may be nearing the ends of their useful lives, which may have significant implications in the future (see for example photograph of parcel 19 above) In this sector, the ALC of the fields adjacent to the village s western edge range from Good to Moderate to Very Good. West to North: Parcels This sector comprises land lying north of Harry s Walk (PRoW / footpath WH7) and Ledbury Road, and west of The Common. It includes Jack s Lane, the upper part of Burtons Lane, Withers Farm complex, and the north-western part of the village which straddles both sides of Church Lane, and continues along the south side of Hollow Lane Beyond the village and its immediate surrounds, this sector includes Munsley, Staplow and Bosbury, and extends to Fromes Hill and Bromyard In this sector, only the parts of the settlement which lie east of Jack s Lane and south of Church Lane lie within the AONB. The fields adjacent to the AONB s western boundary form a highly important element in the AONB s setting. Carly Tinkler CMLI 38

45 This sector lies entirely within NCA 100 Herefordshire Lowlands. As set out above, the distinctive upstanding topography on which the village lies forms a distinct physical separation between NCA 100 and NCA 103 Malvern Hills; the influence of the latter is negligible here due to intervening topography and vegetation The character of the wider landscape is complex, with several LCTs covering the areas between the village and Fromes Hill. The Principal Settled Farmlands and Principal Timbered Farmlands LCTs predominate, and the elements and features of the open rural agricultural and sparsely-settled landscapes are good representations of both In this sector, the built form and well-wooded open spaces associated with the various buildings are the Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT (see North to East sector for more information). The scale, landscape and settlement patterns, landscape elements and features are all very good representations of the LCT. Typical Forest Smallholdings and Dwellings LCT character along Ledbury Road West of the village, the LCT of the rest of the LSCA study area is Settled Farmlands on River Terrace. The character of the landscape here is very typical of this LCT, with all of the (not always positive) key characteristics represented (see South to West sector above). The soft fruit-growing complex at Withers Farm occupies the land west of Burtons Lane and south of Hollow Lane, and the activities associated with it give rise to erosion of features and visual clutter. Carly Tinkler CMLI 39

46 Withers Farm off Burtons Lane In this sector, the village has a limited association with wider landscapes to the north, east and south due to topography and vegetation, although from elevated parts of this sector May Hill is visible on the skyline, 20km to the south-south west. May Hill on skyline in view from north-western edge of village Marcle Ridge also forms a prominent feature on the skyline in views to the west, as it does in the South to West sector. Carly Tinkler CMLI 40

47 Marcle Ridge (looking south west from cemetery) From the upper north-western edges of the village, fine panoramic views open up across the good quality, unsettled agricultural landscapes which characterise the area between Wellington Heath and the Bromyard Plateau. View from edge of village to north west The dominant feature and key characteristic of this part of the village is the significant, dense mature tree cover (including Wellington Heath Wood) in the area which lies within a triangle of roads and Carly Tinkler CMLI 41

48 tracks Church Lane to the north, Ledbury Road to the east, and Jack s Lane (PRoW and byway) to the west. There is a plateau at the western village spur s ridgeline at c. 150m AOD. The land slopes down to the west, very steeply in parts, and the area has limited association with the main part of the village to the east mainly due to the topography of the spur, but also vegetation As well as woodland, there are several separate plots and landuses within this area (which comprises Parcel 24), including gardens of the few residential properties scattered around its edges, and associated grass fields / paddocks with a few trees / traditional orchards. Squatter s Cottage lies within this parcel. Squatter s Cottage Jack s Lane is a narrow and probably very old trackway (and Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT)) which runs along the wooded edge of the village s west-facing slope: it is a highly characteristic feature of the village and is well-used and much-loved by locals and visitors alike. Carly Tinkler CMLI 42

49 Jack s Lane The wooded edge is an important feature of this side of the AONB, as longer-distance views back towards it from the west are of a sparsely-settled, densely-wooded ridge (see photographs above) East of Ledbury Road, the land slopes away from the plateau south-eastwards as Ledbury Road slopes southwards. Built form is very scattered along the road (the village Memorial Village Hall is situated here). Although very enclosed in the wider landscape by topography and vegetation in most directions, at higher levels, for example where the footpath from The Common meets Ledbury Road, the landscape opens up in views looking east and south east, with Frith Wood and May Hill visible on the skyline. The slope also faces properties on Ochre Hill s slopes to the south east The northern end of the western ridgeline is incised by a small valley formed by a small watercourse (appearing dry in places) rising south of Church Lane; the valley falls to the south west, forming undulating topography with slopes facing south and west. The watercourse drains into a large pond which is surrounded by a distinctive clump of coniferous trees (the arrangement is ornamental, and suggests that this may be historic parkland, possibly associated with one of the older properties along Burtons Lane) These sloping fields, west of Jack s Lane, form the edge of the open countryside beyond, and are currently used for fruit-growing by Withers Farm. They also form an element in the setting of the AONB. Carly Tinkler CMLI 43

50 Fields west of Jack s Lane The only built form west of Jack s Lane in this sector is Callow Croft, a locally-distinctive late 16 th century timber-framed house (Grade II listed) set in ornamental gardens surrounded by good, mature trees and a traditional orchard. Callow Croft (zoom lens) The approach / gateway to the village from the north west lies along Hollow Lane, with a cluster of modern and older residential properties at the junction with Burtons Lane. At this point, the polytunnel Carly Tinkler CMLI 44

51 development at Withers Farm runs up to the south-western boundaries of these properties, and continues north-westwards along Hollow Lane. Village s north-western gateway (looking north west) Village s north-western gateway (looking south east) Burtons Lane is narrow and the northern section is an old holloway, with tall, unmanaged hedges either side. Carly Tinkler CMLI 45

52 Holloway along northern section of Burtons Lane North of Church Lane, east of the Burton s Road junction, and below the southern edge of Cannon Heath Wood, there is a single brick-built property set above the road on a sloping bank; it is set in mature gardens, and is associated with a paddock and a traditional orchard (PHI site). There are also residential properties both sides of Church Lane between the northern end of Ledbury Road and The Common The village church (Christ Church, originally built in 1841 but rebuilt in 1952 after a fire), rectory and old smithy also lie along Church Lane. Christ Church Carly Tinkler CMLI 46

53 The village s new cemetery is on land opposite the church. The cemetery is a valuable asset and appears to be well-loved by the local community, especially in terms of the amenity it offers for sitting peacefully, enjoying the beautiful views, and appreciating the haven for wildlife which it has become. The village cemetery View from the cemetery The listed buildings in this sector comprise Squatter s Cottage and Callow Croft (see above), and Hope End School House. Carly Tinkler CMLI 47

54 Cannon Heath Wood is an ASNW and is on the NIWT. A large area of the tees to the south, in the triangle of land formed by the three roads which contain it, are also on the NIWT These designated areas form part of the extensive significant vegetation in this sector, most of which is dense, mature native woodland (including Wellington Heath Wood) and of very high value As well as the mixture of both native and ornamental trees, there are also good native treebelts and hedges along the field boundaries and lanes, which make a highly important contribution to landscape pattern and scale, and in particular, to the village s characteristic wooded skyline in views from the west and east Many of the landscape elements and features in and adjacent to the settlement in this sector appear well-managed and in very good to excellent condition. In the wider landscape, natural landscape elements and features are in mixed condition: very good in parts, but eroded / lost in others, especially where landuse is intensive agriculture In this sector, the ALC of the fields adjacent to the village s western edge is Very Good. Summary of Villagescape Character Detailed descriptions of each parcel are set out in the parcel schedules (Appendix E). This section provides a summarised overview of the descriptions above of the overall landscape and villagescape character of the areas which the parcels occupy, i.e. the village itself and adjacent fields The distinctive and unique combination of Wellington Heath s topography and vegetation, as well as influences such as changes in landuse, landcover and management over time, have resulted in very complex and varied local land- and villagescape character The combination of the two parallel ridges together with vegetation result in parts of the village being remarkably well-contained where the slopes are inward-looking. However, on outward-facing slopes there is greater prominence and exposure. Within the village, localised differences in topography and vegetation also give rise to discrete zones, each displaying very different characteristics Topography has influenced the overall settlement pattern, which is linear, predominantly aligned north south and on either side of the roads and lanes which run through and around the village. Where the roads and trackways are close together on the eastern ridges and east-facing slopes, houses are tightly-clustered between them The combination of topography and vegetation also mean that the village has a limited association with the wider landscapes to the north, east and south east, but a strong association with the local and wider landscapes to the south, west and north west, both influencing and being influenced by them In particular, the significant mature native woodland and ornamental trees which cover much of the upstanding ridges and slopes form distinctive and locally-characteristic skylines from many directions. The small green open spaces (fields / meadows) on the upper slopes and ridges also make an important contribution to villagescape character, as they help to break up the dense clusters of built form: development on these would result in coalescence The character of built form in the village is very varied, displaying a wide variety of building methods and styles side-by-side within small areas. Some are locally-distinctive and / or characteristic, others are ubiquitous. Buildings range from 16 th century timber-framed cottages to 21 st century red brick houses ( eco-houses are also being proposed more and more); some older properties are built in the distinctive yellow ochre stone which gives Ochre Hill its name. Carly Tinkler CMLI 48

55 Villagescape character: north to east sector (Ochre Hill) Villagescape character: north to east sector (The Common) Carly Tinkler CMLI 49

56 Villagescape character: south to west sector (Floyds Lane) Villagescape character: south to west sector (Floyds Lane) Carly Tinkler CMLI 50

57 Villagescape character: south to west sector (Ledbury Road) Villagescape character: west to north sector (Church Lane) The roads and gardens within the village itself are generally very well-maintained and managed; the natural landscape elements and features which remain are generally in good condition and intact Wellington Heath s great natural and historical diversity, and its overall good condition, are highly important and valuable characteristics. Carly Tinkler CMLI 51

58 3.6 Biodiversity Biodiversity issues are an important factor in the assessment of landscape effects, as different habitats have different characteristics and features which are visible in the landscape and contribute to its character. Loss or erosion of habitats can therefore lead to adverse effects on landscape character and visual amenity. Changes to landscape features, elements and landcover can also result in changes to these habitats and the species of flora and fauna they support GLVIA3 notes that... the presence of features of wildlife can add to the value of the landscape as well as having value in their own right In its guidance document A Handbook on Environmental Impact Assessment (4th edition 2013), Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) sets out its belief that all landscapes, everywhere, are important as [inter alia] an environment for plants and animals, the condition of which directly affects biodiversity conservation The baseline information which needs to be gathered and considered in landscape assessments is set out in LCA guidance; the list includes literature on wildlife such as relevant Natural Area Profiles, Biodiversity Action Plans, and Phase 1 habitat surveys On-the-ground ecological surveys are beyond the scope of landscape assessment, and that level of detail is not normally required at this stage (proposals for future development should include an ecological survey in accordance with best practice see Recommendations). However, this assessment has taken into account the data which is publicly available. If significant potential for biodiversity is noted during the surveys, and if relevant to landscape character, it is recorded and incorporated into the judgements about value and sensitivity / capacity. The key information is shown on Figure 3, and summarised in the individual parcel schedules in Appendix E The key biodiversity-related factors identified in the assessment are summarised below: There are no SSSIs within the parish, but SSSI Impact Risk Zones 11 extend across the eastern, southern and south-western sectors of the study area. These zones indicate where proposed planned change to the environment could result in significant damage to a SSSI, and / or where future projects could require more planning and consultation in order to avoid affecting those sites There is one Special Wildlife Site (SWS) within the LSCA study area (parcel 17 see schedule for details and recommendations) The trees and associated habitats in the ASNWs and NIWT sites are important habitats for flora and fauna Peter Garnett s book Portrait of Wellington Heath contains interesting information about conservation in the village In 1984, the area known as The Pleck (west of The Common) was purchased by the PC from the LPA with the objective of creating a local wildlife site. Native trees were planted and these are now maturing. Little Pleck, situated further north, was apparently kept by a local resident as a nature reserve from He donated it to the village in 1998, and the PC planted various native trees and shrubs th century maps show a proliferation of orchards both within the village and in the surrounding fields. Traditional orchards are key characteristics of both national and regional landscape character, especially its historic character. They are an integral part of Herefordshire's natural, cultural and socio-economic heritage, and a vital component of the landscape, being of great value in terms of what they contribute to landscape character, landscape history, and of course, biodiversity Many traditional orchards are designated UK Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI) (traditional orchard) under the reviewed UK Framework for Biodiversity to 2020 (previously known as UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitat), and locally-designated Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI). They support a variety of species including noble chafer, lesser spotted woodpecker, various saproxylic beetles and many species of fungus. Active management of these habitats is crucial for their long term survival The majority of orchards within the village have now been cleared, and those on the outskirts have been replaced by commercial bush orchards. The few that remain provide a living link with the landscapes of the past as well as a nationally important habitat for wildlife. Several are PHI / HPI 11 Carly Tinkler CMLI 52

59 sites (for example parcel 13). Some of the remnant orchards in the area show signs of care, others of neglect Traditional orchards are also a green infrastructure asset (see section on Green Infrastructure below) Other HPI / PHI sites within the LSCA study area comprise deciduous woodland, lowland meadow, hedgerows 12, and additional habitat for the distribution of most of these see Figure 3. Unimproved grasslands are a particularly important feature of Herefordshire's landscape, but these nationallyimportant habitats tend to only survive in very small patches. It is estimated that 97% of all unimproved grassland pastures and meadows disappeared from the UK in the 20 th century, and the conservation and expansion of those that remain should be considered a priority The churchyard is currently managed as a haymeadow, and in the 1990s, native trees were planted there by local children; the cemetery provides a variety of habitats which are likely to support a diverse range of flora and fauna green-winged orchids are reported, and protected species could be present, and / or use the area for foraging. It is a small but important part of the wider ecological network There are currently many parts of the study area where vegetation has been identified as significant. It is not just significant in terms of its contribution to landscape character and visual amenity, but also for the fact that it provides a good network of wildlife corridors, foraging areas and other habitats throughout the study area. Some of these have high potential for the presence of a wide variety of flora and fauna, including European Protected Species (EPS) (bats, dormice and great crested newts amongst others), and Nationally Protected Species (NPS) such as barn owls and badgers The various watercourses in the area offer diverse aquatic and terrestrial habitats which make an important contribution to both local and wider biodiversity. They provide vital connections to the wider ecosystem, and their protection and appropriate management is essential. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) introduces a holistic approach to the management of water quality, and establishes a system for the protection and improvement of all aspects of the water environment, including water quality and ecological quality. The Directive requires all inland and coastal waters to reach at least Good status by Harry s Walk is an old green lane which leads to a pond both were cleared and restored in the 1990s; The Pool Piece is a small piece of land close to the pub in the centre of the village. It contains a children s play area alongside a small stream. According to Peter Garnett, it was used for centuries for the people of Ledbury to graze their stock The name Pool Piece originates from the time when a pond was on part of the site. All of these are also likely to be locally-valuable ecological habitats Inevitably, erosion and loss of habitats such as woodlands, hedgerows, orchards, ponds and unimproved grasslands have resulted in the essential connectivity between them being broken in places. These are also highly valuable elements and features in the landscape; their erosion and loss leads to adverse effects on landscape character and visual amenity There are differences in levels of management from parcel to parcel which affect the potential for biodiversity. Intensive farming methods, horse-keeping and other activities can reduce opportunities for flora and fauna; conversely, unmanaged habitats, or ones which are managed for biodiversity, are likely to be highly valuable Residential development can have direct and indirect negative effects on the landscape: the effects of loss of habitat may be quantifiable, but indirect effects arising from increased human activity (noise, lighting, disturbance, pressure on sensitive habitats and species, pollution, domestic pets preying on birds and small mammals etc.) can also arise, especially on the fringes of settlements It is also important to note that gardens can provide very good opportunities for wildlife, and may offer more diverse habitats than improved arable fields, for example, so long as wider connectivity is maintained. 12 The importance of hedgerows as wildlife corridors is supported in the NPPF in paras. 114 and 117 as well as in Circular 06/2005 (Part III) 9. Carly Tinkler CMLI 53

60 3.7 Visual Amenity The assessment of visual amenity is a separate process, distinct from, but related to, the assessment of landscape character. The Landscape Institute s guidance (GLVIA3) explains that the two distinct components of landscape and visual assessment are: 1. Assessment of landscape effects: assessing effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right [i.e. regardless of how visible it is, or who can see it] 2. Assessment of visual effects: assessing effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people LSCA guidance (Topic Paper 6) reminds us that effects on factors such as landscape quality can change the way in which the landscape is perceived. This also affects its value LVIA is normally used to assess the effects which could arise from a specific development with defined parameters. LSCA determines an area s Visual Sensitivity, identifying places where it is likely that change in the landscape would be visible, and to what degree. It may take into account whether there is scope to mitigate adverse effects for example by planting trees to screen views and whether such mitigation would be appropriate or not, in terms of landscape character The visual baseline assessment relies heavily on the findings of the landscape character and historic landscape assessments set out and illustrated above, as well as the mapping of designated sites, heritage / cultural assets, settings / areas of influence, landscape functions, important wildlife habitats, PRsoW and so on. These inform the nature of the view, which is influenced by what condition the landscape is in, how well-cared for and / or well-used it is, and what its character tells us about the area s sense of place and what it contributes to it. Other aspects of landscape character, such as its aesthetic and perceptual qualities, add to the understanding of the quality, value, function and importance of that view. The numbers of people experiencing the view is also taken into account, and their sensitivity as receptors is established by combining their susceptibility to change, and the value of the view (see criteria set out in Tables 8, 9 and 10 in Appendix C) In this assessment, near-distance views are categorised as being up to 0.5km away from the target, middle-distance views are between 0.5 and c. 3km, and long-distance views are over 3km At the desktop stage of the visual assessment process, any other issues which need to be factored in are identified, such as important views identified in published guidance The Malvern Hills AONB Unit s study on views and viewpoints to and from the Malvern Hills (which informed its publication Guidance on Identifying and Grading Views and Viewpoints ) was used to map key viewpoints and associated view corridors on the base plans (see Figure 4 LSCA Visual Baseline). The guidance emphasises that key views and corridors are a material consideration in planning decisions, and that their protection is a priority in this respect. It also makes clear that effects on the AONB can arise, and therefore must be considered, beyond its boundaries (i.e. on its setting ) as well as within them Both the wider and the LSCA study areas lie entirely within view corridors from Exceptional Viewpoints (VPs) 40, 47, 48, 49 and 50, and Special VPs 24 and 26. All of these are on the Malvern Hills ridgeline apart from VP40 (the Obelisk at Eastnor Castle) Both the wider and the LSCA study areas also lie entirely within the view corridor from Special VP45 (view from Durlow Common to Malvern Hills). Part of the wider study area and the whole of the LSCA study area lie within view corridor from Exceptional VP27 (view from Marcle Ridge to Malvern Hills) The closest viewpoint to the village is the Exceptional VP34 on Oyster Hill, c. 2km to the north east, from which there are panoramic views towards the Malvern Hills. However, views of the village and LSCA study area are screened from Oyster Hill by topography The closest Exceptional viewpoint on the Malvern Hills ridgeline is British Camp (VP49), which lies c. 5km east of the village. It is the summit which is most frequently visible in views from the village (see photographs in landscape character section above) The viewpoints and views associated with the Malvern Hills are of national importance. The fact that they are so elevated means that there are extensive and panoramic vistas across the landscape as far as the distant horizon. This also means that in middle- and long-distance views, the individual elements and features which characterise the landscape are perceived as forming a vast, integrated patchwork of patterns, textures and colours, and only large-scale built form (e.g. large village / town) and / or bright colours (e.g. white plastic polytunnel covers and fields of rapeseed) create a noticeable Carly Tinkler CMLI 54

61 contrast in the otherwise green agricultural landscapes. Thus, the viewer tends only to focus on the features which catch or jar the eye, and it is often surprisingly difficult to identify smaller settlements such as Wellington Heath with the naked eye from the Hills The AONB Unit s guidance on views only provides an indication of the theoretical visibility within the view corridors. Actual visibility must be determined through on-the-ground assessment Firstly, the approximate Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) of the village was drawn onto the base maps by analysing topography on the OS maps, and marking the areas which would be screened from view by high hills and ridges The ZTV does not take into account the screening effect of very localised topography such as ridges and stream valleys. Nor does it factor in vegetation or built form. These have to be checked on the ground by driving and walking around the study area The landscape functions assigned to the various parts of the study area (gateway / gap / buffer / setting etc.) also apply to the visual assessment, and are assessed from the visual receptor s perspective. Areas of built form which are physically separated on the ground may appear to coalesce from certain viewpoints, whereas from others, the contribution made by an open, rural gap to landscape and villagescape character is very clear and visually important In assessing views and visual amenity, it is important to take the landscape context into account. Views from higher ground, such as the Malvern Hills, are characterised by extensive panoramas across the complex and diverse landscapes below, which extend to the far-distant horizon. As a result, the viewer tends not to focus on individual features unless they draw the eye for some reason. Examples include tall structures (e.g. church spires and wind turbines); large blocks of forms / colours / patterns / textures which contrast with the surrounding landscape; and surfaces / materials which glint and glare (water, glass, plastic, metal etc.). Polytunnels are a particular culprit Please note that the landscape character descriptions and photographs above form an integral part of the visual baseline study; however, these focus on the LSCA study area and surrounding landscape character. This section describes and illustrates views towards the LSCA study area from long- and middle-distance viewpoints in each geographical sector, and provides an overview of views and visual amenity generally (see also Figure 4 LSCA Visual Baseline). North to East Local topography and vegetation result in there being very little visual association between the village and the Malvern Hills ridges and slopes which lie to the north east: Oyster Hill and Frith Wood screen views of the village from this direction. Carly Tinkler CMLI 55

62 View looking south-west from Malvern Hills However, some of the features which characterise the village are distinctive enough to be seen in views from the Malvern Hills ridgeline, especially British Camp, which lies due east (and which is visible from certain parts of this sector - see photograph in landscape character section above). For those with keen eyesight (or binoculars), the spire of the old school, which lies on high ground at the north-eastern end of the village, appears as a feature in the landscape (see photograph below). View towards Wellington Heath from British Camp (zoom lens) photo courtesy of F. Rozelaar Only the east- and south east-facing slopes in this part of the LSCA study area are visible from middle-distance viewpoints from the PRsoW to the south east (Herefordshire Trail / Geopark Way), Carly Tinkler CMLI 56

63 which run along the west side of Frith Wood. Frith Wood s topography and dense tree cover screen longer-distance views from the east. East to South Although there are views from British Camp which lies due east (see section above), there are no middle- or long-distance views of the village from south east to south due to the screening effect of Frith Wood s topography and dense tree cover (this sector includes Eastnor Castle). South to West From higher parts of the village, there are long-distance views over Gloucestershire, and May Hill is visible on the skyline c. 20km to the south / south west from certain viewpoints in this and the West to North sector. However, due to the distances involved it is unlikely that the village would be readily discernible in long-distance views from this direction There are views from the village across the open landscapes east of Marcle Ridge, which dominates the skyline to the south west. Wellington Heath is visually almost absorbed into the landscape in views towards it from Marcle Ridge, as it sits below the more distant skyline formed by the Malvern Hills. However, the eye is drawn towards the village by the presence of covered polytunnels in the landscape, especially as some of those at Withers Farm have been constructed on rising ground north west of the village. View from northern end of Marcle Ridge looking north east towards Wellington Heath below skyline In the lower-lying middle-distance views from the south west and west, the Malvern Hills disappear from view and the village s distinctive wooded ridgelines form the skyline. These prominent westfacing slopes are particularly open to view. Carly Tinkler CMLI 57

64 View from Bromyard Road near Staplow looking north east towards Wellington Heath on skyline West to North Long-distance views of the village from the north tend to be screened by topography and vegetation (see North to East sector above). However, the assessment noted that British Camp is visible through a thin belt of trees on higher ground north of Church Lane. Local Key Views and Viewpoints Seventeen key viewpoints and views looking towards and away from the village were identified during the early stages of the assessment. During the public consultation process, local residents were asked to select three views which were most important to them, and which they would not want to be affected by new development. The results of the consultation exercise were factored in to the landscape assessment, and a further five key viewpoints were added The location of the viewpoints is shown on Figure 4. All are from publicly-accessible places, mainly roads and PRsoW (see Public and Social Amenity below) The key viewpoints and views are also noted in the individual parcel schedules in Appendix E, where relevant, especially where the parcel has an important landscape and visual function (e.g. village gateway or landscape context and setting ), and where there are likely to be effects on views as a result of certain changes such as new residential or other development Many of the key views are shown in the photographs in the landscape character section above. 3.8 Public and Social Amenity This section summarises the various features which contribute to the public and social amenity of people living in and around the village (many of these are also used by people from outside the area, including tourists). It has also been informed by the findings of a public consultation event held in the village, and the results of questionnaires. For example, local residents were asked to identify which of the footpaths in the parish they used and how often, and which historic and / or landscape features they considered should be protected from development The key features and destinations are shown on the figures, and are also noted in the individual parcel schedules in Appendix E, where relevant, especially where the parcel has an important recreational function (e.g. is crossed by, or is visible from, a PRoW), and where there are likely to be Carly Tinkler CMLI 58

65 effects on public and social amenity as a result of certain changes such as new residential or other development The parish is criss-crossed by a network of PRsoW which connect to the wider area, some of which are probably ancient trackways to and from the Malvern Hills The Herefordshire Trail is a popular long-distance footpath linking the five market towns of Ledbury, Ross-on-Wye, Kington, Leominster and Bromyard, providing a circular route around the county 13. It follows PRsoW and small roads for approximately 150 miles through some of Herefordshire s most beautiful countryside, often passing through characteristic and picturesque villages and hamlets along the way In the wider study area, the Trail runs northwards along Marcle Ridge then turns eastwards towards the Malvern Hills via Ledbury town centre. From Ledbury it turns north, running along the western edge of Frith Wood before zig-zagging west and north through Wellington Heath village centre and on to Coddington via Oyster Hill The Malvern and Abberley Hills Geopark Way is another popular long-distance walking trail in the area 14. It runs for 109 miles between Bridgnorth and Gloucester, enabling people to explore 700 million years of geological history whilst passing through stunning countryside In the study area, the Herefordshire Trail and Geopark Way follow the same route along the west side of Frith Wood, through the village, and north-eastwards to Oyster Hill. At this point, the paths split, with the former heading towards Coddington and Bromyard, and the latter towards Colwall and the Malvern Hills Most of the PRsoW in the study area appear well-managed and well-used, especially close to the village, although some in the wider area were reported as being inaccessible at times, with problems for walkers with small children and dogs due to dense vegetation and stiles The PRsoW are a very valuable community asset, contributing to the health and well-being and quality of life of local people. Some are known by local names such as Harry s Walk and Jack s Lane (the latter is a Byway Open to All Traffic, or BOAT). As many of the paths are also popular with tourists, their use may contribute to the area s economy if visitors want somewhere to eat, drink, stay and / or shop for local produce The lack of traffic contributes to the lanes being relatively well-used for walking, running / keeping fit, horse-riding and cycling, although because most of them are narrow and winding, without footways and few passing places, it can feel quite dangerous at times Carly Tinkler CMLI 59

66 Local road network in use The Malvern Hills AONB Unit and others have published various walking, cycling and driving route maps, and guides to various attractions in the area. The AONB Unit s Visitor Map and Guide 15 identifies several features of interest in and around Wellington Heath. Cycle routes along lanes in north west of parish 15 Carly Tinkler CMLI 60

67 There are no bridleways within the study area, and very few in the wider area either In the village is the Farmer s Arms pub, which is well-placed to receive walkers and cyclists using the Herefordshire Trail, Geopark Way and the other footpaths (including pathways through Frith Wood: an information board with a map of a 4-mile walking route and points of interest can be found at the north and south entrances to the wood). The Farmer s Arms The market town of Ledbury is a popular tourist destination. There is currently a cycle hire shop in the town, and several trails to follow Other popular visitor destinations in the local area include Eastnor Castle and park, and Coddington Vineyard. There is also what is reported to be a well-used Scouts campsite at Warren Oak, off Hollow Lane Other valuable recreational / community assets and / or features in the village include the cemetery off Church Lane, which has been planted with ornamental trees and sown with wild flowers; the village s Memorial Hall on Ledbury Road; the children s play area adjacent to the pub ( The Pool Piece ); the allotments off Burton s Lane; the village s nature reserve (see Biodiversity in section 3.6 above); and Parcel 14, a field on the west side of the village which is, very occasionally, used by the local community for cricket matches. A well-used PRoW linking village to Ledbury also crosses the parcel. Carly Tinkler CMLI 61

68 The Pool Piece Allotments off Burton s Lane Carly Tinkler CMLI 62

69 PRoW crossing Parcel Beside Ledbury Road, at the southern end of Jack s Lane and the eastern end of Harry s Walk, there is a well-kept grass triangle with a bench and a Best Kept Village sign, which provides a focal point near the centre of the village. Village focal point Carly Tinkler CMLI 63