Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Dinah's Hollow

1.0.1 Nicholas Pearson Associates was appointed by Dorset County Council (DCC) to undertake a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) of a proposed road stabilisation scheme for the C13 road at Dinah’s Hollow near Melbury Abbas, Dorset. The scheme proposed by DCC comprises the road and parts of the adjacent slopes of Dinah’s Hollow and its location is illustrated on Figure 1. The LVIA has been prepared in accordance with good practice and to accompany an application to undertake the relevant work to the trees within Dinah’s Hollow which are covered by a Woodland Tree Preservation Order (TPO).

1.0.2 The purpose of the LVIA is “to identify and assess the significance of and the effects of change resulting from the proposed development on both the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity” (LI and IEMA 2013: 4 Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge)

2.1 Overview

2.1.1 As far as possible, the content of this assessment follows guidance set out in ‘Guidance for Landscape and Visual Assessment2’ (LI and IEMA 2013 3rd Ed. - Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge). Further guidance also considered is provided within ‘An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment’ (2014) (An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment (2014) Christine Tudor, Natural England), produced by Natural England.

2.1.2 The selection of viewpoints and the taking of photographs for inclusion in the assessment and for the photomontage images will be undertaken with consideration of the Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11 - Use of Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Assessment (Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11 – Use of Photography and Photomontage In Landscape Assessment, February 2011).

2.1.3 The documents referenced above are not intended as a prescriptive set of rules or an exhaustive manual of techniques, but are accepted as establishing certain principles that help to achieve consistency, credibility and effectiveness in the landscape and visual impact assessment process.

2.1.4 Landscape character is defined by Article 1 of the European Landscape Convention (Council of Europe 2000, European Landscape Convention), as “…an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interpretation of natural and/or human factors” (2000). Landscape character therefore draws upon the distinct and recognisable patterns of elements in the landscape that give a locality its sense of place, and which makes it different from its neighbouring areas. Taken together these patterns of elements form a collective ‘landscape character area’ which can be used to define the locality. An evaluation of these character areas is made in the LVIA to identify the qualities, values and inherent sensitivities as perceived by people, which could potentially be affected by the proposed development. Character Areas and unique features of the landscape which may be impacted by a development are considered as Landscape Receptors within this study.

2.1.5 Visual considerations relate specifically to the views of a landscape afforded by people in the context of the sensitivity of those views – influenced by a number of factors which may include location of the view, the susceptibility of the view to accommodate change, the activity of the viewer, the extent of view, or duration (static or transient, permanent or temporary). Sensitivity also takes into account any values attached to views, such as might relate to cultural references.

2.1.6 Groups of people whose visual experience of the landscape may be affected by a development are considered as Visual Receptor Groups within this study.

2.1.7 The LVIA report summarises a 3-stage assessment process, leading to an overall conclusion, as follows:

• baseline description of receptors and their sensitivity: landscape receptors and visual receptors 
• appreciation of scheme design and mitigation and enhancement measures
• assessment of potential effects on receptors; including the magnitude of impact, and a judgement of the level of effect resulting from the proposed scheme

2.2 Study area and Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)

2.2.1 The extent of the study area is determined by the anticipated visual envelope of the proposed development options and of the existing site. The visual envelope is defined as the area in which the site and proposed scheme options are potentially visible. To determine this field of visibility a Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) is calculated using QGIS specialist computer software, via the Viewshed Analysis plugin. The ZTV is prepared using a ‘digital surface model’ (DSM) with a resolution of 2m. A random sample of elevations were taken from the top of the tree canopy in the study area to act as input values to calculate the ZTV. The ZTV maps potential areas which theoretically may have wider inter-visibility with the site, based on known development details. These are used to inform the selection of potential visual receptors which are checked through site survey.

2.2.2 The ZTV for the proposals is illustrated in Figure 7. This indicates that views towards the site could potentially be gained from a maximum distance of approximately 3km. The study area for the assessment, verified through site visits, is therefore limited to a 4km radius from the centre of the site.

2.3 Landscape planning policy context

2.3.1 Desk studies are undertaken to identify relevant landscape planning policies which may affect the proposed development site; these may include formal designation and other planning policy which are intended to protect landscape and visual aspects.

2.3.2 For the purposes of this LVIA the relevant landscape related designations are shown on Figures 2 and 3 but the review of landscape related planning policy has been restricted to that which relates to the AONB and the published national and local landscape character assessments, as it is understood that the proposals constitute a form of permitted development.

2.4 Baseline conditions and receptor

2.4.1 Desk studies are undertaken to review international, national or local landscape designations and existing landscape character assessments at a national and local administration level. Following verification by a site visit, appropriate landscape character areas are described and, where necessary, supplemented with a description of site-level landscape elements where these combine to form a unique landscape character. In addition to designated landscapes, each landscape character area is considered as a landscape receptor which may theoretically be affected by the proposed scheme. Where no effects can reasonably be anticipated, these receptors are scoped out from further assessment.

2.5 Representative and specific viewpoints

2.5.1 The ZTVs are appraised through desk study and field survey, and different receptor groups identified. A proportionate number of viewpoints will be selected from within the ZTV, and verified during site visits, to illustrate the range of views afforded towards the site. Viewpoints will be selected wherever possible to be representative of different visual receptor groups. The viewpoints selected are based on those identified through correspondence with the DCC Landscape Officer and the AONB Landscape Adviser and verification through field surveys.

2.5.2 Visual receptor groups are identified in the first instance by a review of the ZTV to determine groups of people who may experience common views within the study area, including the proposed development. Whilst it is acknowledged that every person will have an individual relationship with views towards the site, the assessment combines visual receptors into groups that may reasonably be expected to share common experiences with the landscape in order to form a manageable process of assessment. These typical groups are categorised as follows:

• recreational users of public rights of way or accessible landscapes. E.g. Walkers, horse riders
• residents and visitors of/ to settlements
• road users
• visitors to specific viewpoints of recognised value
• visitors to tourist attractions of heritage assets valued for their visual setting

2.5.3 It is acknowledged however that visual receptor groups are likely to experience a varying degree of exposure to views (duration and extent) and that a view from one location may be very different from another in close proximity. Where relevant therefore, groups may be further sub-divided so that the assessment relates to commonly-shared visual experiences, either through geographic or topographic consistency.

2.5.4 Representative viewpoints from publically accessible land are selected for key visual receptor groups. Such viewpoints, where selected, are intended to provide an illustration of a typical view. By contrast, specific viewpoints, such as panoramic vantage points or vistas of recognised value may be selected where relevant and assessed as a specific visual receptor.

2.5.5 For each viewpoint the extents of the existing site are annotated on the viewpoint photos.

2.6 The proposed development

2.6.1 A description of the anticipated development, is provided for all elements of the scheme options which may have the potential to have an effect on the landscape character or visual receptors.

2.6.2 A description of likely construction activities that may have an impact on the landscape are also described, where considered to be relevant.

2.6.3 Any potential design measures that may help to eliminate, reduce or mitigate against potential landscape and visual effects are also described where these have been discussed in advance with the Client and therefore have genuine scope for inclusion within the scheme design.

2.7 Assessment of potential effects on receptors

2.7.1 For each of the landscape and visual receptors identified by the baseline studies, an assessment is made on the level of effects arising from the proposed development options.

2.7.2 The process for appraising potential effects is set out within the diagram below, adapted by NPA from Figure 3.5 of GLVIA3 (Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge) (LI and IEMA 2013: 39).

Diagram 1: Assessment of the level effect on receptors

 

2.7.3 The level of effect is determined through an understanding of both the nature of the receptor, Sensitivity; and the nature of the (impact or) effect, Magnitude. Sensitivity is determined by consideration of both the susceptibility to change and the value placed on the resource.

2.7.4 The LVIA will present a reasoned summary of the overall effects on the landscape character and visual receptors from the specific development proposal options.

2.8 Criteria for Assessing Potential Effects - Landscape Sensitivity

2.8.1 Landscape sensitivity is determined by consideration of both the susceptibility to change and the value placed on the landscape resource, as follows.

2.8.2 Value of a landscape receptor depends on a variety of considerations including international, national or local designation, its contribution to a community or its cultural significance e.g. landscapes reflected through literature, poetry, art etc.

2.8.3 Susceptibility of landscape receptors is defined as “the ability of the landscape receptor… to accommodate the proposed development without undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline situation”7 (LI and IEMA 2013: 88-9) (Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge). Susceptibility is recorded on a verbal scale of High, Medium and Low.

2.8.4 The level of sensitivity of the landscape receptor is determined through professional judgement in balancing together the value described and the susceptibility to change. Sensitivity is recorded on a verbal scale of High, Medium, Low and Negligible. Where intermediate ratings are given, e.g. “Medium-Low”, this indicates a sensitivity that is both less than Medium and more than Low.

2.9 Criteria for assessing potential effects - visual sensitivity

2.9.1 As with Landscape sensitivity, visual sensitivity is determined by consideration of both the susceptibility to change and the value placed on the view or visual resource.

2.9.2 The Value of views experienced by a receptor group depends on a variety of considerations including the extent to which the viewer’s attention or interest may be focused on the view. The value of views may be formally recognised through international, national or local designation or it may be considered to contribute to the visual amenity of a community or its cultural significance e.g. views recognised through the arts etc.

2.9.3 The Susceptibility of visual receptors is considered to be a ‘’ function of the occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at particular locations; and the extent to which their attention or interest may therefore be focused on the views and the visual amenity they experience at particular locations’’ (LI and IEMA 2013: 113).

2.9.4 Value and Susceptibility are considered together to provide a reasoned judgement on the overall level of sensitivity of the visual context and views from the visual receptor group. This is set out on a verbal scale of High, Medium, Low and Negligible. Higher sensitivity is more likely to occur with increasing value and/or susceptibility to change. Lower sensitivity is more likely to occur with reduced value and/or susceptibility to change.

2.9.5 Where intermediate ratings are given, e.g. “Medium-Low”, this indicates a sensitivity that is both less than Medium and more than Low.

Magnitude of Change

2.9.6 The nature of the impact, magnitude, on each receptor is appraised through an understanding of the changes to the landscape character and visual context, resulting from the proposals. These are described for each receptor.

2.9.7 Consideration is given to the size or scale of change arising from the development (either directly to the landscape receptor or to views and the general visual setting for visual receptors), the geographical extent over which the change is experienced as well as the duration, for example temporary or permanent, and reversibility of effects.

2.9.8 The size/ scale, geographical extent of influence and the duration/reversibility of effects on receptors are taken together to form a reasoned assessment of the magnitude of change on a scale of High, Medium, Low, Negligible. Higher magnitude is more likely to occur with increasing scale and duration. Lower magnitude is more likely to occur with reduced scale and/ or duration. Where intermediate ratings are given, e.g. “Medium-Low”, this indicates a magnitude of change that is both less than Medium and more than Low.

2.9.9 The magnitude of impact on each receptor is appraised primarily for the anticipated Operational stage of the development although separate consideration is made of likely construction stage impacts, where relevant.

2.9.10 Following the assessment of the sensitivity of each receptor and the magnitude of change, it is possible through professional judgement to determine the potential level of effect from the development. Due to the level of judgement required in determining the level of an effect, it is important to recognise that defined terms are not absolute and that any scale of levels is a continuum. The levels of effect are judged as Substantial, Moderate, Slight and Negligible as set out in Tables 1 and 2, below.

Table 1: Descriptors for Levels of Effect on the Landscape Receptors

Level of effect	Definition
Substantial (adverse)	The development would: be at considerable variance with the character of the landscape degrade or lose the integrity of characteristic features or elements damage or lose the sense of place or local distinctiveness of the area in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to all or very large parts/ areas or extent of the receptor in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect receptors deemed to be of higher value or very susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term and may be permanent
Moderate (adverse)	The development would: conflict with the character of the landscape have a negative impact on some characteristic features or elements diminish the sense of place or local distinctiveness of the area in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to some parts/ areas or extent of the receptor in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect receptors deemed to be of moderate value or moderately susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term but moderated by smaller scales of change or may be short term but with larger scales of change
Slight (adverse)	The development would: not wholly fit with the character of the landscape be at variance with the existing characteristic features or elements detract from the sense of place or local distinctiveness of the area in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to small parts/ areas or extent of the receptor – ‘small scale’ in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect receptors deemed to be of lower value or low susceptible to this form of development effects may be long term but of negligible size/ scale or short term and of a larger scale of change
Negligible	The development would: maintain the character of the landscape complement/ blend in with the existing characteristic features or elements enable the sense of place or local distinctiveness of the area to be retained
Slight (beneficial)	The development would: complement the character of the landscape maintain or enhance the existing characteristic features or elements enable some of the sense of place or local distinctiveness of the area to be restored in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to small parts/ areas or extent of the receptor – ‘small scale’ in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect receptors deemed to be of lower value or low susceptible to this form of development effects may be long term but of negligible size/ scale or short term and of a larger scale of change
Moderate (beneficial)	The development would: cause a noticeable improvement in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to a moderate proportion of range of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to a large proportion of each of those views – ‘medium scale’ in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of more moderate value or to receptors and their views considered to be have a medium level of susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term but moderated by smaller scales of change or may be short term but with larger scales of change
Substantial (beneficial)	The development would: cause a large improvement in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to the majority of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to all or very large extents of each of those views in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of higher value or to receptors and their views considered to be very susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term and may be permanent

 

Table 2: Descriptors for levels of effect on the visual receptors

Level of effect	Definition
Substantial (adverse)	The development would: cause a large deterioration in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to the majority of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to all or very large extents of each of those views in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of higher value or to receptors and their views considered to be very susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term and may be permanent
Moderate (adverse)	The development would: cause a noticeable deterioration in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to a moderate proportion of range of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to a large proportion of each of those views – ‘medium scale’ in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of more moderate value or to receptors and their views considered to be have a medium level of susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term but moderated by smaller scales of change or may be short term but with larger scales of change
Slight (adverse)	The development would: cause a barely perceptible deterioration in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to a small proportion of range of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to a small proportion of each of those views – ‘small scale’ n terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of more lower value or to receptors and their views considered to be have a low level of susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term but moderated by smaller scales of change or may be short term but with larger scales of change effects may be long term but of negligible size/ scale or short term and of a larger scale of change
Negligible	The development would: cause no discernible deterioration or improvement to the existing view being experienced
Slight (beneficial)	The development would: cause a barely perceptible improvement in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to a small proportion of range of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to a small proportion of each of those views – ‘small scale’ in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of more lower value or to receptors and their views considered to be have a low level of susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term but moderated by smaller scales of change or may be short term but with larger scales of change effects may be long term but of negligible size/ scale or short term and of a larger scale of change
Moderate (beneficial)	The development would: cause a noticeable improvement in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to a moderate proportion of range of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to a large proportion of each of those views – ‘medium scale’ in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of more moderate value or to receptors and their views considered to be have a medium level of susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term but moderated by smaller scales of change or may be short term but with larger scales of change
Substantial (beneficial)	The development would: cause a large improvement in the existing views in terms of magnitude, would likely relate to the majority of views afforded by the receptor group and/ or to all or very large extents of each of those views in terms of sensitivity, would likely to affect views afforded by receptors which are deemed to be of higher value or to receptors and their views considered to be very susceptible to this form of development effects are likely to be long term and may be permanent

 

3.1 International/national landscape planning context

3.1.1 The National Planning Policy Framework 2012 (Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework. London; DCLG) (NPPF) sets out the Government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. One of the core principles in the NPPF is that planning should recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside. Local plans should include strategic policies for the conservation and enhancement of the natural environment, including landscape. This includes designated landscapes but also the wider countryside.

3.1.2 Paragraphs 113-116 of the NPPF state that:

“Local planning authorities should set criteria based policies against which proposals for any development on or affecting protected…. Landscape areas will be judged. Distinctions should be made between the hierarchy of international, national and locally designated sites, so that protection is commensurate with their status and gives appropriate weight to their importance”

3.1.3 The proposed site is located wholly within the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a ‘Protected Landscape’ as classified by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). AONBs are designated by Natural England (NE) through the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949 in order to conserve and enhance their natural beauty, now, and for future generations.

4.1 Overview

4.1.1 Existing Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) studies help to establish a baseline for landscape receptors within the 4km study area. Such LCAs may be of varied scales, ranging from broad national character area studies to detailed local authority assessments. GLVIA3 recognises that LCAs “adopted and published by competent authorities are usually the most robust and considered documents” (GLVIA3; 77) although consideration needs to be given as to their usefulness in informing the LVIA process where this was not their original intent.

4.1.2 For the purposes of this assessment existing National Character Area studies are described to provide context only, whilst character areas described by studies at a more local level are taken forward as landscape receptors to be assessed in Chapter 7. Where relevant, other specific features may be considered as landscape receptors and appraised with regards to the wider character impacts. These may include landscape assets specifically recognised through designation.

4.1.3 For the proposed development site, a number of existing character areas are described within LCA studies and these are summarised below.

4.2 National character areas

4.2.1  Published by the Countryside Agency (now Natural England) in 1999, the Character of England Map, Volume 8 (South West) set out landscape character areas on a national scale. The site lies within Character Area 133, ‘Blackmore Vale and Vale of Wardour’. The key relevant characteristics of this strategic character area are as follows:

• a complex mosaic of mixed farming: undulating, lush clay vales dissected by a broken limestone ridge and fringed by Upper Greensand hills and scarps
• small villages and hamlets forming nuclei within a patchwork of fields, hedges, woods and trees, mostly derived from medieval settlement and land use

4.2.2 Approximately 0.5km to the east and approximately 1km to the south of the site lies Character Area 134, ‘Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase’.

4.2.3 The attributes of the area defined by the NCA profiles have become nested in a more detailed level by the Landscape Character Assessments undertaken by North Dorset District Council. Therefore, whilst noted here for reference, the NCAs (illustrated on Figure 3) within the study area are not considered as landscape receptors in their own right for further assessment. This report will instead consider the potential impacts of the development on the local character areas (landscape receptors), summarised as follows and illustrated on Figure 4.

4.3 Local landscape character areas

4.3.1    At a regional/district level the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB Landscape Character Assessment (CCWWD AONB LCA) was prepared in 2003. This publication divides the AONB into a number of landscape character areas which are then further divided into more localised character areas. An extract of the AONB Landscape Character Areas plan is shown on Figure 5. The site falls within the ‘Melbury to Blandford Chalk Escarpments’ section of the ‘Chalk Escarpment’ Landscape Character Area. This character area has the potential to be impacted by the proposals. This landscape character area is summarised as follows, based on the relevant AONB LCA descriptions:

Area 1A: Melbury to Blandford Chalk Escarpments

4.3.2 The site is wholly located within the northern part of this character area.

4.3.3 The topography is characterised by a dramatic chalk escarpment on the western edge of the AONB with rounded spurs and deep combes. Hanging woodland and sunken lanes are features of the steep, enclosing chalk combes. The elevated and uninterrupted landform provides panoramic views over adjacent landscapes.

4.3.4 The drama of the scarp is underlined by the sharp changes in gradient along its crest and at its foot. Smooth, broad spurs such as France Down become the steep, narrow ridges which are typical of Fontmell Down and Melbury Hill in the north. Intervening valleys become dramatic chalk combes; long, narrow and steep sided valleys. The most dramatic of these contains the settlement of Melbury Abbas.

4.3.5 To the north of the character area, between Fontmell Magna and Melbury Abbas, much of the escarpment is owned by the National Trust, offering good public access and parking places. Spread Eagle Hill forms part of this National Trust land from where there are panoramic views over the Blackmore Vale and the River Stour beyond the AONB boundary.

4.3.6 At a district level the North Dorset District Council Landscape Character Assessment (NDDC LCA) was compiled on behalf of North Dorset District Council in 2008. This document represents the most detailed landscape character assessment for the area encompassing the site and has therefore been selected for the purposes of this assessment in conjunction with the AONB Landscape Character Assessment described above.

4.3.7 Figure 4 illustrates that parts of three landscape character areas, are located within the study area. Of these three areas it is considered that only two have the potential to be impacted by the proposals. The site is wholly contained within one of these character areas (North Blackmore Rolling Vales) with the potential for elevated, panoramic views towards the site possible from the area immediately to the south (North Dorset Chalk Escarpment). These character areas have therefore been included as landscape receptors within this assessment.

These landscape character areas are summarised as follows, based on the relevant NDDC LCA descriptions:

Area 7: North Blackmore Rolling Vales

4.3.8 The site is wholly located within the eastern part of this character area.

4.3.9 This character area comprises a varied undulating series of clay and greensand farmland hills which forms a transition zone between the Blackmore Vale proper and the main chalk escarpment to the east which forms an important backdrop to the area. In the east part of the area there are rolling, twisting and folded foothills adjacent to the chalk escarpment which form a distinctive landform, with a well treed and wooded feel. The lanes in the foothills follow the tight folds and bends in the landform and the picturesque settlements, such as Melbury Abbas, Compton Abbas, Waldron, Cann and Child Okeford are typically found at the very foot of the escarpment along the spring line.

4.3.10 The A350 is a busy north-south road through the area but, because of the landform, has a reduced impact on the character of the area. The C13 also runs north-south through the area via Melbury.

4.3.11 The field pattern across the whole area is more irregular than the Vale and the fields are bounded by reasonably thick, tall hedgerows and some mature trees.

Area 8: North Dorset Chalk Escarpment

4.3.12 The site is located approximately 0.5km to the north of the northern part of this character area at its closest point.

4.3.13 The North Dorset Chalk Escarpment is a dramatic and imposing landscape which dominates and provides a backdrop to the Blackmore Vale below. It has a steep, twisting and incised landform with extensive views.

4.3.14 Figure 4 also illustrates that there are parts of three landscape character areas included within the Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment within the 4km study area, however these are considered to be too remote from the site to have the potential to be impacted on by the proposals and are shown for context only.

4.4 The character of the site and Its immediate surroundings

4.4.1 The site and the area immediately around it is generally typical of the North Blackmore Rolling Vales LCA (Area 7), as assessed by the NDDC LCA. The site comprises the majority of a locally distinctive holloway called Dinah’s Hollow located within the Upper Greensand geological formation and situated approximately 3km south-east of Shaftesbury. The holloway has been formed by the passage of vehicles over time and comprises a single carriageway road, which forms part of the C13, with steep, densely vegetated slopes on either side. The slopes contain a mixture of mature and semi-mature trees together with an understorey of hazel, holly and elder together with a variety of ground flora including ivy, ground elder, ferns, nettles, brambles and wildflowers. Many of the more notable mature trees are located on the middle and upper slopes. The holloway runs in a north-south direction and the section affected by the proposals extends for approximately 270 metres. The topography varies from approximately 120m AOD at the site’s southern extent to approximately 150m AOD at its northern extent. To the south of the site the valley bottom lies at approximately 115m AOD where a stream runs perpendicular to the road and is crossed by a bridge. Photographs of the holloway are included on Figures 8 and 9.

4.4.2 Two farms are located close to the south of the site, namely Parham’s Farm to the west and Grove Farm to the east. These farms sit on the northern fringe of the historic village of Melbury Abbas which is itself located some 200m south of the site. North of the site the incline slackens considerably from where the land attains a height of 155m AOD from where it continues to rise gently in a northerly direction. The narrow roadway surrounded by the steeply sloping and densely vegetated sides lends the holloway a highly enclosed nature.

4.4.3 Immediately to the north of the site there are a number of residential properties with their main angle of orientation running north-south, parallel to the C13 road. To the north again lies the village of Cann Common, most of which is arranged in a linear fashion along both sides of the B3081 road from its junction with the C13. A public footpath extends from the eastern side of the CI3 in a northerly direction to the southern edge of Cann Common at the B3081. This road continues in an easterly direction climbing the steep, wooded lower slopes of Zig Zag Hill before ascending to the top of the chalk escarpment at Breeze Hill.  The chalk escarpment wraps around the area surrounding the site to the east and south from Breeze Hill to Melbury Down and continuing to Compton Down and Melbury Hill. These chalk upland ridges form a backdrop to the site area and afford elevated viewing locations towards the site and across the surrounding vale landscape from a series of public rights of way, areas of Open Access land and minor roads. Photographs of the vale landscape when viewed from the chalk uplands are included on Figures 11 and 12. The topographical context of the site surrounds are illustrated on Figure 6.

4.4.4 Immediately to the east of the site are a number of arable fields, one of a considerable size which extend east from the upper wooded slopes of the holloway to a local valley containing the hamlet of East Melbury on its upper slopes along White Pit Lane. This valley is well wooded along its margins.

4.4.5 The C13 road extends from Melbury Abbas up the steep scarp slopes via the wooded road edges of Spread Eagle Hill to the top of the chalk ridge at Compton Down. Two lanes run in a westerly direction from this road to the A350 at West Melbury. These lanes are narrow and enclosed by a network of hedgerows.

4.4.6 To the west of the upper western margins of the holloway the land contains a vineyard and a number of variously sized fields bordered by a linear network of mature trees. Further again to the west are situated two shallow local valleys.

4.4.7 The landscape of the immediate area around the site is typified by its undulating landform and well established network of linear groups of mature trees which the wooded slopes of Dinah’s Hollow sit within. The chalk escarpments enclose the site area to the east and south.

4.4.8 Being typical of the wider character area, the local attributes of the area immediately around site will be assessed as part of that landscape receptor. However, in appraising the potential impacts on the North Blackmore Rolling Vales as a landscape receptor, consideration will be given to the specific attributes described above, which are representative of the wider landscape character.

4.4.9 The site itself is considered to contain a number of locally distinctive landscape features (outlined in paragraph 4.4.1) and will be assessed as a landscape receptor in its own right.

Table 3: Summary of landscape receptors considered for assessment

LCA	Name
LCA 1A	Melbury to Blandford Chalk Escarpments - CCWWD AONB LCA
LCA 7	North Blackmore Rolling Vales – NDDC LCA
LCA 8	North Dorset Chalk Escarpment - NDDC LCA

5.1 Visual context and illustrative viewpoints

5.1.1 The Zone of Theoretical Visibility (refer to Figure 7) provides an indication of the extent of potential inter-visibility with the proposals from the surrounding landscape. The ZTV is prepared using a ‘digital surface model’ (DSM) with a resolution of 2m. A random sample of elevations were taken from the top of the tree canopy in the study area to act as input values to calculate the ZTV. Utilising the DSM data takes into consideration most of the potential visual screening implications of existing built form (including embankments) and vegetation. Therefore, the ZTVs should provide a good visual impression of the potential visual envelope of the scheme.

5.1.2 The ZTV illustrates that the potential visibility of the developed site is reasonably well contained to an area within approximately 2-3km of the site locally. The ZTV is most comprehensive along the elevated areas of chalk escarpment to the south, south-east and east. In reality, and having been confirmed through field surveys, the views of the site from within the area indicated by the ZTV are highly variable due mainly due to the screening effect of intervening mature vegetation and the subtle variations of local topography. The topographical context for the site and surrounding area is illustrated on Figure 6.

5.1.3 To the north and west of the site, the visual envelope is generally limited by the subtle variations in local topography and the presence of intervening mature hedgerows and linear belts of trees.

5.1.4 To the east of the site views are restricted very locally by the undulating nature of the local landform together with the presence of linear groups of mature trees, notably around East Melbury. White Pit Lane that connects East Melbury with Melbury Abbas is generally enclosed by hedgerows and trees which curtail views west to Dinah’s Hollow for users of this road. Views to Dinah’s Hollow from the public footpath that extends from East Melbury to Melton Abbas are curtailed by adjacent and intervening vegetation and its location at the bottom of a local valley. Further to the east and south-east views are contained by the chalk escarpments and partly wooded slopes of Zig Zag Hill, Breeze Hill and Melbury Down. The furthest extent of views afforded are to the south east and these are contained by the downland ridge and adjacent woodland near Compton Abbas airfield.

5.1.5 Views of the site from the south and south-west are limited by the ridges of land stretching from Compton Down to Melbury Hill.

5.1.6 Within the site-verified areas of the ZTVs a number of visual receptor groups can be identified which may be impacted by the proposals. These groups and the typical views towards the site which are experienced by them are described below. A number of viewpoints were visited and from these representative/selective views have been identified to assist with the assessment process. These views were selected through a combination of reviewing the ZTV, correspondence with the Dorset County Council Landscape Officer and the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire AONB Landscape Adviser and via field survey verification. Field surveys were carried out during June 2015. The selected viewpoints are indicated on Figure 7.

Table 4: Summary of viewpoints

Viewpoint	Description
VP 001	View looking south of the northern edge of Dinah’s Hollow from the point where the public footpath joins the C13 road.
VP 002	View looking south of the northern part of Dinah’s Hollow site proposals from the C13 road.
VP 003	View looking south of the central and southern parts of Dinah’s Hollow site proposals from the C13 road.
VP 004	View looking south of the northern end of Dinah’s Hollow from the public footpath adjacent to Cann Common.
VP 005	View looking south-west from the public right of way to the north-east of Cann Common.
VP 006	View looking south west from the public right of way adjacent to the B3081 near the top of Zig Zag Hill.
VP 007	View looking west from the Open Access land on the western slopes of Breeze Hill.
VP 008	View looking north-west from public footpath between Compton Down and Compton Abbas airfield.
VP 009	View looking north-west from the outdoor area of the café at Compton Abbas airfield.
VP010	View looking north from the junction of Public Rights of Way within Open Access land between Compton Down and Melbury Hill.
VP011	View north east from public footpath within Open Access land near the top of Melbury Hill.
VP012	View looking east from the car park of the Melbury Abbas and Cann Village Hall.
VP013	View looking north from the C13 road on the northern edge of Melbury Abbas.
VP014	View looking north from the C13 road near the top of Spread Eagle Hill.

5.2 Visual receptor groups

5.2.1    Visual receptor groups with the potential to be impacted by the proposed development are identified as follows within Table 5 and descriptive text for the individual viewpoints is included adjacent to the viewpoint photographs on Figures 8-14:

Table 5: Visual receptor groups identified for assessment

A. Settlements and isolated dwellings/farms:

Visual receptor	Representative user groups	Representative/selective viewpoints
A1. Cann Common	Residents	Viewpoint 4
A2. Melbury Abbas	Residents	Viewpoint 13

B. Roads:

Visual receptor	Representative user groups	Representative/selective viewpoints
B1. C13 to the north of Dinah’s Hollow	Road Users (drivers,cyclists)	Viewpoint 1
B2. C13 within the northern part of Dinah’s Hollow	Road Users (drivers,cyclists)	Viewpoint 2
B3. C13 within the central part of Dinah’s Hollow	Road Users (drivers,cyclists)	Viewpoint 3
B4. C13 to the south of Dinah’s Hollow	Road Users (drivers,cyclists)	Viewpoint 13
B5. C13 at Spread Eagle Hill	Road Users (drivers,cyclists)	Viewpoint 14

C. Public rights of way/open access land:

Visual receptor	Representative user groups	Representative/selective viewpoints
C1.	Pedestrians	Viewpoint 4
C2. Bridleway to north-east of Cann Common	Pedestrians/horse riders	Viewpoint 5
C3. Bridleway at Zig Zag Hill	Pedestrians/horse riders	Viewpoint 6
C4. Open Access Land at Breeze Hill	Pedestrians	Viewpoint 7
C5. Footpath between C13 and Compton Abbas Airfield	Pedestrians	Viewpoint 8
C6. Public Rights of Way between Compton Down and Melbury Hill	Pedestrians/horse riders	Viewpoint 10
C7. Footpath on Melbury Hill	Pedestrians	Viewpoint 11

D. Specific viewpoints

Visual receptor	Representative user groups	Representative/selective viewpoints
D1. Café at Compton Abbas Airfield	Visitors	Viewpoint 9
D2. Melbury Abbas and Cann village hall	Visitors	Viewpoint 12

 

6.1 Scheme proposals

6.1.1 Following landslips on the slopes of the hollow investigations were undertaken regarding the stability of the slopes which concluded that there was a risk of large quantities of material slipping onto the road. As a result the stretch of the C13 that passes through the hollow has been closed since April 2014. Parsons Brinkerhoff conducted a geotechnical investigation and produced an options report based on providing a slope stabilisation scheme with an anticipated design life of 120 years. Extensive discussions have taken place between the arboricultural, ecological and landscape officers within Dorset County Council and the engineering consultants in order to provide a slope stabilisation scheme that minimises the amount of slope re-grading required and the consequent removal of the minimum number of trees to achieve the required result.

6.1.2 As part of the design process an extensive arboricultural survey was carried out on 690 trees located on the slopes of the hollow. The scheme details which form the basis of this assessment are illustrated on Drawing BS4958/610 (Treeworks Plan) and the accompanying Tree Works Schedule with the engineering proposals shown on Drawing 285400AF-HLT-SN- 201 and Drawing 3513638E-HLT-SK/001 and include:

• the construction of a masonry stone faced reinforced concrete retaining wall along the toe of the slopes adjacent to the carriageway where the slope angle exceeds 60 degrees. This stone faced wall would vary in height along the edges of the carriageway but is proposed to attain a maximum height of 2m for a length of 15m, with a 1.5m high section extending for 10 m and the remainder attaining a maximum height of 1m. These structures would provide the facing for the soil nailing of this lowest portion of the slopes
• the incorporation of soil nails with a flexible metal mesh facing where the slope angle is less than 60 degrees to the vertical. The length of the soil nails proposed varies from 7-9m and these are spaced 2.4m horizontally and 1.2m vertically in a staggered pattern. The mesh surface facing comprises a regular diamond shaped patterned mesh with a standard inscribed circle diameter of 65mm. This mesh is secured to the soil nail anchors using galvanised spike plates measuring 330mm x 190mm x 10mm. An erosion control mat will be placed under the mesh
• some localised re-profiling will be necessary to some parts of the slopes as indicated on Drawing 285400AF-HLT-SN-201 which will require the felling of a number of trees
• carriageway drainage will be installed through the roadway section of the hollow including gullies and a new carrier drain

6.2 construction works

6.2.1 During construction, activities which may affect the landscape character or visual amenity/ views are likely to comprise: the delivery of plant, equipment and materials to the site and the felling and coppicing of the selected trees. Construction activity is likely to involve the movements of lorry traffic, however during this phase the C13 will be closed to through traffic whilst during the operational phase the road will re-open. For the purposes of this assessment the construction and operational phases of the scheme are combined as the effects of both phases on the various receptor groups are likely to be similar.

6.3 Mitigation

6.3.1 Potential impacts on the landscape character and views/ visual amenity have been recognised by DCC from the outset and measures to help in the mitigation of these impacts have been included within the scheme design. Specifically, mitigation is assumed to comprise:

• the retention of as many trees as practicable without compromising the integrity of the slope stabilisation measures
• as the existing topography will be unchanged, trees near the existing crest lines can potentially be retained, thus reducing the visual impact of the proposals when viewed from surrounding viewpoints
• trees of particular amenity, ecological and landscape significance identified on the upper slopes are to be retained
• where localised re-profiling of the slopes is necessary the existing topsoil will be retained to facilitate the re-growth of ground flora and understorey woody species. In areas where re-profiling is not required the existing topsoil and its seedbank would be left in situ to allow the regeneration of the plant species
• on the upper slopes, where it is not practicable to retain trees, it is proposed that trees are coppiced to ground level in line with good woodland management practice and will allow the potential for some re-growth through the mesh
• the metal surface mesh will incorporate a range of planting holes. These planting holes would include approximately 150 of a small size to accommodate species such as ferns, approximately 80-100 of a medium size to facilitate the re-growth of small sized woody plants such as hazel, holly and hawthorn, field maple and mountain ash. The biggest diameter of planting holes will be used to accommodate the retained trees on the slopes. In addition to these a further 15-20 large planting holes would be incorporated within the mesh within which new tree planting could take place. Within the mesh itself fine leaved ground flora species such as grasses will be able to regrow through the loose weave of the erosion control matting and the mesh itself 
• two potential areas of mitigation planting have been proposed on the crests of the slopes of the hollow (as indicated on the Treeworks Plan-BS4958/610). A large potential area has been identified on the crest of the eastern slopes with a much smaller area on the crest of the western slopes. A bund and associated pond have been indicated (on the Treeworks Plan) above the crest of the eastern slope for the alleviation of identified surface water drainage issues. It is understood that the creation of the bund and pond will not impact adversely on the rooting zones of nearby trees
• the proposed retaining walls at the foot of the slopes at the road edge will be limited to a height of 1m for the majority of their length with only very limited sections extending to 1.5 and 2m in height. Drawings SN/200 and SK/001 indicate this and the rustic nature of the proposed wall. These two factors should both limit the imposing effect of the walls and help assimilate them into the landscape of the local area

6.3.2 It is estimated that out of the 690 trees surveyed on both slopes of the hollow approximately 17 trees will be felled on the eastern slope of which 8 will be between 8-13m in height with the other 9 trees ranging in height from 3m-6m. Approximately 50 trees will be retained on this side of the hollow. On the eastern slopes it is estimated that approximately 35 trees will be coppiced with the majority of these being smaller species such as holly, hazel, hawthorn and field maple, many of which have previously been coppiced. On the eastern side of the hollow approximately 21 groups of small trees (stem diameter less than 8cm at height of 1.5m) will be subject to some form of tree work, with half being re-coppiced and half felled.

6.3.3 On the western slopes it is estimated that approximately 18 trees will be felled with 9 of these will be between 13-18m in height with the other 9 trees ranging in height from 4m – 7m. Approximately 32 trees will be retained on this side of the hollow.

6.3.4 On the western slopes it is estimated that approximately 14 trees will be coppiced with the majority of these being smaller species such as holly, hazel, hawthorn and field maple, many of which have previously been coppiced. On the western side of the hollow approximately 25 groups of small trees (stem diameter less than 8cm at height of 1.5m) will be subject to some form of tree work, with 19 being re-coppiced 5 felled and 1 crown lifted.

6.3.5 A number of the retained trees on both sides of the hollow will be subject to a combination of crown lifting, re-pollarding and crown reduction.

7.1 Overview

7.1.1 The landscape receptors identified in Chapter 4 for assessment and summarised in Table 3 are assessed for their sensitivity by consideration of their susceptibility to change from the proposed development options and the value of the landscape receptor. The sensitivity to change is then assessed within a sliding scale of High, Medium, Low or Negligible.

7.1.2 For each landscape receptor an assessment will also be made on the magnitude of effect based on the scale of effect and the duration/ reversibility of effects resulting from each site option.

7.1.3 Together, the Sensitivity to Change and the Magnitude of Change will be used to make an assessment of the Level of Effect on each landscape receptor (Substantial, Moderate, Slight, Negligible) and whether this change would be beneficial or adverse.

7.2 Assessment of effects

Area 1A: Melbury to Blandford Chalk Escarpment (CCWWD AONB LCA)

7.2.1 The proposed site lies within this landscape receptor and therefore has the potential to cause direct impacts on the unique characteristics of the landscape.

7.2.2 The value of this landscape receptor is National as it forms part of the nationally designated AONB landscape. The existing attributes of the landscape receptor are considered to have a High susceptibility to the proposals as the proposed work is likely to result in negative consequences for an identified feature of this landscape character area. The combination of this High landscape value and High susceptibility to change is considered to result in a High sensitivity.

7.2.3 The scale of change would include the loss of a number of mature and semi-mature trees and the introduction of a number of retaining structures which will alter the character of the hollow. However as the majority of the trees, particularly those of a notable height and spread will be retained the overall pattern of the landscape is not considered to be fundamentally affected and the influence of the development on the wider character area would be limited to the local level. The most pronounced changes would be experienced in the immediate aftermath of the tree works as the selected trees are felled and coppiced and the existing ground flora is removed to ground level to facilitate the implementation of the ground stabilisation mesh and associated spike plates. However over time (5-10 years) the wooded slopes would start to re-generate as the coppiced trees regrow and the canopies of the retained and coppiced trees start to fill the spaces in the woodland canopy created by the felling of some of the trees on both sides of the hollow. The lightening of the woodland canopy may also allow a greater diversity of ground flora species to become established through the metal mesh. The part of the hollow affected by the proposals constitutes a small part of the landscape receptor as a whole. Overall therefore the magnitude of change to the landscape receptor as a whole would be Low.

7.2.4 The overall level of effect from the proposals on this landscape receptor is considered to be Slight Adverse - Negligible immediately following the implementation of the engineering works and the felling and coppicing of the selected trees. For the majority of the character area, there is expected to be no change at all. Although locally, the scheme will affect the character of a locally distinctive feature immediately following the proposed works with the effects reducing to Negligible over a long term period (after 10 years) as the woodland vegetation regenerates. This is reinforced by the small scale of these changes within the overall area of the landscape character area.

Area 7: North Blackmore Rolling Vales (NDDC LCA)

7.2.5 The proposed site lies within this landscape receptor and therefore has the potential to cause direct impacts on the unique characteristics of the landscape.

7.2.6 The value of this landscape receptor is National as part of it is located within the nationally designated AONB landscape. The existing attributes of the landscape receptor are considered to have a High susceptibility to the proposals as the proposed work is likely to result in relatively limited negative consequences for a feature of this landscape character area. The combination of this National landscape value and High susceptibility to change is considered to result in a High sensitivity.

7.2.7 The scale of change would include the loss of a number of mature and semi-mature trees and the introduction of a number of retaining structures which will alter the character of the hollow. However as the majority of the trees, particularly those of a notable height and spread will be retained the overall pattern of the landscape is not considered to be fundamentally affected and the influence of the development on the wider character area would be limited to the local level. The most pronounced changes would be experienced immediately following the works as the selected trees are felled and coppiced and the existing ground flora is removed to ground level to facilitate the implementation of the ground stabilisation mesh. However over time the wooded slopes would start to re-generate as the coppiced trees regrow and the canopies of the retained and coppiced trees start to fill the spaces in the woodland canopy created by the felling of some of the trees. The lightening of the woodland canopy may also allow a greater diversity of ground flora species to become established through the metal mesh. Overall therefore the magnitude of change to the landscape receptor as a whole would be Low.

7.2.8 The overall level of effect from the proposals on this landscape receptor is considered to be Slight Adverse-Negligible. For the majority of the character area, there is expected to be no change at all. However, locally, the scheme will affect the character of a locally distinctive feature in the short-medium term with the effects reducing to Negligible over a long term period as the woodland vegetation regenerates. This is reinforced by the small scale of these changes within the overall area of the landscape character area.

Area 8: North Dorset Chalk Escarpment (NDDC LCA)

7.2.9 This landscape receptor is close to the proposed site but separate from it and therefore the potential for direct impacts on the area’s unique character are limited to considerations of setting of this receptor. The baseline description of the landscape receptor does identify that views from it are a recognised feature of the character area. Since the proposals are likely to result in perceptible changes to the panoramic views from some locations within this landscape it is considered that there is limited potential for the scheme to impact on the visual context of the landscape character area.

7.2.10 The value of this landscape receptor is National as part of it is located within the nationally designated AONB landscape. The existing attributes of the landscape receptor are considered to have a Low susceptibility to the proposals as the proposed work is likely to result in only indirect negative consequences for a feature of this landscape character area and the panoramic views will not be lost as a result of the proposals. The combination of this National landscape value and Low susceptibility to change is considered to result in a Medium sensitivity.

7.2.11 The magnitude of change is judged to be Negligible as the panoramic views affected by the proposals will only form a minor change to the recognised features of this landscape receptor and will be experienced at a local level only and within a relatively small part of the overall receptor and the overall level of effect can be summarised as being Negligible as a result of the proposals.

Proposed site

7.2.12 The value of the proposed site is considered to be Regional/Local as the holloways are a recognised landscape feature at this level. The susceptibility to change is considered to be High as the scheme proposals are likely to result in limited opportunities for accommodating the changes without the hollow’s key characteristics being detrimentally altered. The combination of this Regional/Local landscape value and High susceptibility to change is considered to result in a High sensitivity.

7.2.13 The magnitude of change is judged initially to be High as the scheme proposals will result in very noticeable changes to the landscape character of the hollow in the period immediately following the works with the addition of new engineering features such as retaining walls and extensive areas of ground stabilisation mesh with associated soil nails and spike plates together with the felling and coppicing of a large number of trees. The installation of the ground stabilisation mesh will require the short term removal of the ground flora within the affected areas and some of the retained trees will be subject to crown lifting, crown reduction or re- pollarding. However it is noted that a greater number of the larger trees will be retained when compared to those identified for felling and there is the potential for some replanting of trees and woody vegetation within the areas affected by the works and also the potential for a large area of mitigation planting to be implemented along the crest of the eastern slopes of the hollow as indicated on Drawing BS4958/610. The changes to this landscape receptor would however be noticeable at a local level only. Over time, after a period of 5-10 years the magnitude of change is likely to reduce to Medium-Low as the ground flora, woody understorey and coppiced trees will have regenerated and the canopies of the retained trees will have started to extend into the space created by the felled trees. After 10-15 years the areas of mitigation planting will have become established which will help to strengthen the tree line, particularly along the crest of the eastern slopes where the largest area of additional native tree and shrub planting is proposed. The proposals are likely to result in a Moderate –Substantial Adverse level of effect immediately following the implementation of the engineering features and the felling and coppicing of the trees, reducing to Slight Adverse in the longer term when the engineering features have become assimilated into the local landscape, the new tree planting has become established and the ground flora and woody understorey has regenerated.

Table 6: Level of effect on landscape receptors

Landscape receptor	Level of effect
LCA 1A: Melbury to Blandford Chalk Escarpment	Slight (adverse) - negligible
LCA 7: North Blackmore Rolling Vales	Slight (adverse) - negligible
LCA 8: North Dorset Chalk Escarpment	Negligible
Proposed site	Moderate - substantial (adverse)

 

8.1 Overview

8.1.1 The visual receptor groups identified in Chapter 5 for assessment and summarised in Table 5 are appraised for their sensitivity to changes from the proposed development on a sliding scale of High, Medium, Low and Negligible.

8.1.2 For each visual receptor group an assessment will also be made on the magnitude of effect on the views, based on the scale of effect, the geographical extent of the influence of the changes and the duration/ reversibility of effects. Again, this will be described using a sliding scale of High, Medium, Low and Negligible.

8.1.3 Together, the Sensitivity to Change and the Magnitude of Change will be used to make an assessment of the Level of Effect on each visual receptor group (Substantial, Moderate, Slight, Negligible) and whether this change would be beneficial or adverse.

8.2 Assessment of effects

A. Settlements and Isolated Dwellings/ Farms
A1. Cann Common
Representative Viewpoints: Viewpoint 4

8.2.1 The village of Cann Common is located approximately 300m to the north of the site and is arranged in a broadly linear pattern along the B3081 road which extends in east-west direction.

8.2.2 The majority of the residential properties within the village have their views of the site at Dinah’s Hollow curtailed by roadside vegetation and other intervening groups of trees in conjunction with the screening effect of other adjacent properties. The land gradually falls away from the southern edge of the village towards Dinah’s Hollow which further limits views. A small number of residential properties at the western end of the village may be afforded views of the trees at the very northern end of the Holloway from upper storey windows. The group of houses located along the western side of the C13 to the north of Dinah’s Hollow are orientated perpendicular to the holloway and are therefore unlikely to experience views of the woodland affected by the proposals.

8.2.3 Views from the village of Cann Common are generally considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is recognised by the fact that they include part of the AONB. As the receptors of this view are residents of nearby properties whose outlook forms a key component of their daily lives, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.4 As the views towards the hollow are likely to be experienced by a small number of residents from upper storey windows and the views gained are of the very northern end of the hollow which will undergo barely perceptible changes it is considered that the magnitude of change will be Negligible resulting in a Negligible level of effect.

A.2 Melbury Abbas
Representative Viewpoint: 13

8.2.5 Due to the location of this village within the bottom of a local valley and the presence of groups of mature trees within the village the number of properties that are likely to experience views of the proposals will be restricted to those located near the southern edge of the hollow. These properties are orientated perpendicular to the orientation of the hollow which further limits their views of the proposals. The sizeable, mature trees located at the southern end of the hollow are due to be retained and will effectively screen most of the proposals for the nearest residents.

8.2.6 Views from Melbury Abbas are considered to have a National value due to their recognised scenic quality. As the receptors of this view are residents of nearby properties whose outlook forms a key component of their daily lives, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.7 As the views towards the hollow are likely to be experienced by a small number of residents and the views gained are of the very southern end of the hollow which will undergo barely perceptible changes it is considered that the magnitude of change will be Negligible resulting in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

B. Roads
B1. C13 to the north of Dinah’s Hollow
Representative Viewpoints: Viewpoint 1(Sequential view in association with Viewpoints 2 and 3)

8.2.8 Views from the C13 north of Dinah’s Hollow are considered to have a Regional/Local value since the view corridor is restricted to the road itself and the surrounding vegetation. The susceptibility is judged to be Medium-High as the stretch of the road that passes through the hollow is appreciated for its scenic qualities by motorists and cyclists but will be experienced fleetingly. Overall, the sensitivity to changes in views experienced by this receptor group is considered to be Medium.

8.2.9 As the proposed ground stabilisation works start at the very southern edge of this view it is likely that the changes to this view will be just discernible from this location. The changes to the view will be mainly limited to the crown lifting and coppicing of a small number of trees. The magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Low resulting in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

B2. C13 within the northern part of Dinah’s Hollow
Representative Viewpoints: Viewpoint 2 (Sequential view in association with Viewpoints 1 and 3)

8.2.10 Views from the C13 within the northern part of Dinah’s Hollow are considered to have a Regional/Local value since the view corridor is restricted to the road itself and the surrounding vegetation. The susceptibility is judged to be Medium-High as the stretch of the road that passes through the hollow is appreciated for its scenic qualities by motorists and cyclists but will be experienced fleetingly. Overall, the sensitivity to changes in views experienced by this receptor group is considered to be Medium.

8.2.11 The proposals will be clearly visible within this view with stone faced retaining walls replacing ground flora at the toe of the slopes on the eastern (left) side of the road up to an average height of 1m. Above this on the eastern slopes a number of the trees will be coppiced and the soil stabilisation mesh will extend from the top of the stone retaining walls to near the top of the slopes within the further reaches of this view.  In the period immediately following the implementation of the engineering features the stabilisation mesh and associated soil nail spike plates will be visible due to the necessity to cut the ground flora back to lay the mesh. Over time the ground flora including ferns will regrow through the mesh and the woody species will establish through the planting holes, obscuring the mesh and spike plates. Where coppicing of trees is proposed, particularly on the eastern slopes there will be a noticeable lightening of the overall tree canopies and a reduction in the sense of enclosure afforded by the surrounding trees which will lessen over time as coppiced trees regrow and new planting becomes established. However it is noted that the majority of the larger trees will be retained on both sides of the hollow within this view and the variety of sizes of holes within the stabilisation mesh afford the opportunity for new tree and woody understorey planting. The built elements of the proposals will be less discernible on the western (right) side of the hollow as the construction of the retaining walls commence further to the south on this side. It is likely therefore that the ground may remain more intact on this side of the road with a number of trees identified for coppicing.

8.2.12 Overall the magnitude of change to views experienced by this receptor group as a result of the proposals is considered to be Medium. Taken together with the medium sensitivity to change, the medium magnitude of change is considered to result in a Moderate Adverse level of effect on views as a result of the scheme in the short term reducing to Slight Adverse – Negligible in the longer term when the ground flora has re-established, the coppiced trees and the planted trees have grown to a reasonable height and the retaining walls have become assimilated into the view. In the long term the establishment of the extensive area of additional tree and shrub planting along the crest of the eastern slope will also help to provide an enhanced sense of enclosure along the upper reaches of these slopes.

B3. C13 within the central part of Dinah’s Hollow
Representative Viewpoints: Viewpoint 3 (Sequential view in association with Viewpoints 1 and 2)

8.2.13 Views from the C13 within the central part of Dinah’s Hollow are considered to have a
Regional/Local value since the view corridor is restricted to the road itself and the surrounding vegetation. The susceptibility is judged to be Medium-High as the stretch of the road that passes through the hollow is appreciated for its scenic qualities by motorists and cyclists. Overall, the sensitivity to changes in views experienced by this receptor group is considered to be Medium.

8.2.14 The proposals will be clearly visible within this view with stone faced retaining walls replacing ground flora at the toe of the slopes on both sides of the road up to an average height of 1m. Above this on the eastern and western slopes a reasonable number of the smaller trees will be coppiced and the soil stabilisation mesh will extend from the back of the retaining walls to near the top of the slopes on either side of the hollow resulting in the short-term loss of the ground flora and the visibility of the mesh and associated soil nail spike plates within this part of the slopes. This will be combined with the felling of a number of trees on both sides of the hollow which is likely to result in a noticeable reduction in the density of the enclosing tree canopies. This reduction in the density of the woodland canopy will also include the crown reduction and re-pollarding of a number of the retained trees on both sides of the hollow. It should be noted however that the majority of the larger trees will be retained within both slopes of the hollow. Over time the ground flora including ferns will regrow through the mesh and the woody species and new trees will establish through the planting holes, obscuring the mesh and spike plates within the slopes of the hollow. It is also likely that the stone faced retaining walls will become assimilated into the viewing experience of the road users over time.

8.2.15 Overall the magnitude of change to views experienced by this receptor group as a result of the proposals is considered to be Medium-High. Taken together with the medium sensitivity to change, the medium-high magnitude of change is considered to result in a Moderate-Substantial Adverse level of effect on views as a result of the scheme in the short term reducing to Slight Adverse in the longer term when the ground flora has re- established, the coppiced trees have re-grown to a reasonable height and the canopies of the retained trees have grown to partially fill the spaces created by the felling of the selected trees. In the long term the establishment of the extensive area of additional tree and shrub planting along the crest of the eastern slope will also help to provide an enhanced sense of enclosure along the upper reaches of these slopes.

B4. C13 to the south of Dinah’s Hollow
Representative Viewpoints: Viewpoint 13

8.2.16 Views from the C13 south of Dinah’s Hollow are considered to have a Regional/Local value since the view corridor is restricted to the road itself and the surrounding vegetation. The susceptibility is judged to be Medium-High as the stretch of the road that passes through the hollow is appreciated for its scenic qualities by motorists and cyclists. Overall, the sensitivity to changes in views experienced by this receptor group is considered to be Medium.
8.2.17 As the proposed ground stabilisation works start at the very northern edge of this view it is likely that the changes to this view will be just discernible from this location. The magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Low resulting in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

B5. C13 at Spread Eagle Hill
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 14

8.2.18 Views from the C13 near the top of Spread Eagle Hill are considered to have a National value since the view corridor encompasses scenic and far reaching views from within the AONB. The susceptibility is judged to be Medium-High as this stretch of the road is appreciated for its scenic qualities by motorists and cyclists. Overall, the sensitivity to changes in views experienced by this receptor group is considered to be Medium-High.

8.2.19 The central and northern parts of the woodland of the hollow are visible in the middle distance as a transitional view from a limited stretch of this road. It is likely that the reduction in the overall tree canopy would be discernible. However the general outline of the woodland will broadly remain as many of the mature trees along the fringes of the upper slopes are to be retained as part of the proposals. Over time the eastern edge of the woodland will be strengthened by the proposed potential tree planting area along the crest of the eastern slopes of the hollow. The magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Low resulting in a Slight Adverse level of effect in both the short-medium term and in the longer term.

C. Public Rights of Way
C1. Footpath to the north of Dinah’s Hollow
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 4

8.2.20 Views from the footpath between Dinah’s Hollow and the southern edge of the village of Cann Common are generally considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include part of the AONB.

As the receptors of this view will to be walkers engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.21 As the views gained are of the very northern end of the hollow which will undergo barely perceptible changes it is considered that the magnitude of change will be Negligible resulting in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

C2. Bridleway to the north east of Cann Common
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 5

8.2.22 Views from the bridleway which extends to the north east of Cann Common are generally considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include part of the AONB. As the receptors of this view will to be horse riders and walkers engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.23 The trees of Dinah’s Hollow are concealed from view from this bridleway as they are located on land that is lower lying than that on which the village of Cann Common is situated. In addition to this the houses and vegetation within Cann Common also serve to conceal views of Dinah’s Hollow from this bridleway resulting in a Negligible magnitude of change will be Negligible level of effect.

C3. Bridleway at Zig Zag Hill
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 6

8.2.24 Views from the bridleway that runs adjacent to the B3081 road at Zig Zag Hill are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the view. As the receptors of this view will to be horse riders and walkers engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.25 A relatively minor portion of the trees within the southern part of Dinah’s Hollow are just discernible, set against and within other linear belts of trees within the vicinity of the hollow from a limited stretch of this bridleway. As this limited and transitional view of the trees within the hollow does not form a significant proportion of the overall viewing experience it is considered that the magnitude of change will be Negligible and will result in a Negligible level of effect.

C4. Open Access land at Breeze Hill
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 7

8.2.26 Views from the Open Access land that extends along the western slopes of Breeze Hill are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the view. As the receptors of this view will to be horse riders and walkers engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.27 The eastern edge of the woodland of Dinah’s Hollow is visible in the middle distance of the view and viewed against the backdrop of nearby linear belts of trees. It is likely that the proposals will result in a perceptible reduction in the density of the hollow’s woodland canopy but broadly retaining the general outline of the woodland along the eastern edge. This outer edge of the woodland will be strengthened over time by the proposed potential tree planting area along the crest of the eastern slopes of the hollow. It is considered that the magnitude of change will be Low and will result in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

C5. Footpath between the C13 and Compton Abbas Airfield
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 8

8.2.28 Views from the public footpath that extends between the C13 and Compton Abbas Airfield are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the view. As the receptors of this view will to be walkers engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.29 The woodland of Dinah’s Hollow is visible in the middle distance of the view and viewed against the backdrop of nearby linear belts of trees. It is likely that the proposals will result in a perceptible reduction in the density of the hollow’s woodland canopy but retaining the general outline of the woodland. The eastern edge of the woodland will be strengthened over time by the proposed potential tree planting area along the crest of the eastern slopes of the hollow. It is considered that the magnitude of change will be Low and will result in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

C6. Public Rights of Way between Compton Down and Melbury Hill
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 10

8.2.30 Views from the junction of the public footpath and public bridleway between Compton Down and Melbury Hill are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the panoramic view. As the receptors of this view will to be walkers and horse riders engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.31 The woodland of Dinah’s Hollow is visible in the middle distance of the view and viewed in the context of nearby linear belts of trees. It is likely that the proposals will result in a perceptible reduction in the density of the hollow’s woodland canopy but retaining the general outline of the woodland. The eastern edge of the woodland will be strengthened over time by the proposed potential tree planting area along the crest of the eastern slopes of the hollow, although this will be only partly visible from this direction of view. It is considered that the magnitude of change will be Low and will result in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

C7. Footpath on Melbury Hill
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 11

8.2.32 Views from the public footpath within the Open Access land on Melbury Hill are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the panoramic view. As the receptors of this view will to be walkers engaged in an activity within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.33 The woodland of Dinah’s Hollow is visible in the middle distance of the view and viewed in the context of nearby linear belts of trees. It is likely that the proposals will result in a perceptible reduction in the density of the hollow’s woodland canopy but retaining the general outline of the woodland. It is considered that the magnitude of change will be Low and will result in a Slight Adverse level of effect.

D. Specific Viewpoints
D1. Café at Compton Abbas Airfield
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 9

8.2.34 Views from the outdoor area of the café at Compton Abbas Airfield are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the panoramic view. As the receptors of this view will to be people engaged in leisure activities within which the views are likely to be formative and hold their interest, their susceptibility is judged to be High. The combination of these factors leads to a High sensitivity.

8.2.35 The woodland of Dinah’s Hollow is concealed behind the shoulder of land on the local ridge that forms the runway for the airfield and is therefore not visible from this location. It is considered that the magnitude of change will be Negligible and will result in a Negligible level of effect.

D2. Melbury Abbas and Cann Village Hall
Representative Viewpoint: Viewpoint 12

8.2.36 Views from the car park of the Melbury Abbas and Cann Village Hall are considered to have a National value as these views have a widely recognised scenic quality which is emphasised by the fact that they include the AONB within the view. As the receptors of this view will to be people engaged in leisure activities within which the views are likely to be appreciated but not fundamental to the satisfaction of the viewers activity, their susceptibility is judged to be Medium. The combination of these factors leads to a Medium-High sensitivity.

8.2.37 A small section of the western edge of the woodland of Dinah’s Hollow is visible on the horizon set within and between blocks of nearby mature trees. The changes to the view are likely to be very minor due to the restricted portion of the woodland visible. It is considered that the magnitude of change will be Negligible and will result in a Negligible level of effect.

Table 7: Level of effect on visual receptors

Visual receptors	Level of effect
A1: Cann Common	Negligible
A2: Melbury Abbas	Slight (adverse)
B1: C13 to the north of Dinah’s Hollow	Slight (adverse)
B2: C13 within northern part of Dinah’s Hollow	Moderate (adverse)
B3: C13 within central part of Dinah’s Hollow	Moderate-Substantial (adverse)
B4: C13 to the south of Dinah’s Hollow	Slight (adverse)
B5: C13 at Spread Eagle Hill	Slight (adverse)
C1: Footpath to north of Dinah’s Hollow	Slight (adverse)
C2: Bridleway to north-east of Cann Common	Negligible
C3: Bridleway at Zig Zag Hill	Negligible
C4: Open Access land at Breeze Hill	Slight (adverse)
C5: Footpath between C13 and Compton Abbas Airfield	Slight (adverse)
C6: Public Rights of Way between Compton Down and Melbury Hill	Slight (adverse)
C7: Footpath on Melbury Hill	Slight (adverse)
D1: Café at Compton Abbas Airfield	Negligible
D2: Melbury Abbas and Cann Village Hall	Negligible

 

9.1 Impacts on the character of the landscape

9.1.1 Impacts on the character of the landscape, as a result of the proposals, will be predominantly restricted to the hollow itself where stone faced retaining walls will be constructed at the toe of the slopes adjacent to the carriageway. On the slopes above the retaining walls/soil panels the slopes will be soil nailed with a flexible metal mesh surface to provide ground stabilisation. The installation of these engineering features in conjunction with localised ground re-profiling will necessitate the felling and coppicing of a number of trees and the short term removal of existing ground flora to install the metal mesh. This will introduce built elements into the existing character of the hollow which currently comprises steep slopes containing dense woodland vegetation including ground flora. The tree works proposed will reduce the density of the woodland canopy resulting in a noticeable lessening of the sense of enclosure currently experienced, particularly on the middle and lower portions of the slopes. Over time as the ground flora regenerates and the coppiced and re-pollarded trees attain a reasonable level of growth the impacts on the character will reduce. Impacts on the setting of wider landscape will be limited as panoramic views across the vale landscape from the nearby chalk escarpments will not be affected to a large degree. In the longer term the regeneration of the planting within the hollow and the proposed tree planting along its eastern flank will assist in integrating the scheme proposals into the landscape.

9.2 Impacts on people experiencing views of the landscape

9.2.1 Impacts on people experiencing views of the landscape are varied depending on distance, orientation and elevation. In general, views locally towards the site are limited principally by local landform and intervening field boundary vegetation which includes a pattern of linear belts of mature trees. Adverse impacts arising from the proposals are most likely to be experienced from the C13 road where it passes through the hollow and from where the proposals will be experienced at first hand and sequentially with the greatest impacts arising within the period immediately following the works within the central and southern sections of the hollow where the majority of the trees to be felled and coppiced are located and extensive areas of ground stabilisation mesh introduced together with stone faced retaining walls. Views from the road passing through the hollow will however be experienced fleetingly by vehicular users. The proposed retention of many of the existing mature trees on the upper and middle portions of the slopes will help to broadly maintain the overall outer woodland outline of the hollow. In the long term the regrowth of ground flora and coppiced trees together with the establishment of the potential area of tree planting along the eastern margins of the hollow will assist in integration of the proposals into the surrounding landscape.

9.2.2 Views from selected locations along the local ridges to the east and south will be affected to a limited degree by the proposals due to the proposed retention of the majority of the larger mature trees that define the outer edges of the woodland of the hollow when viewed from these elevated viewpoints where the woodland of the hollow generally forms a relatively small part of panoramic views across a landscape containing a series of other linear woodland belts. However, in the short to medium term the reduction in the density of the woodland canopy is likely to be discernible from some of these elevated viewpoints.

9.2.3 In general, the proposed development would result in a level of adverse impact on the landscape character and views/ visual amenity. This is limited by a locally reasonably well- contained visual envelope and the retention of many of the existing mature trees within the upper and outer margins of the hollow. These impacts are likely to become reduced over the longer term as the proposals become integrated into the landscape and the local and wider views.

10.1.1 The proposals for the ground stabilisation works at Dinah’s Hollow have been subject to extensive discussions between the engineering consultants and the arboricultural, ecological and landscape officers at Dorset County Council. This has resulted in the retention of many of the existing mature trees particularly on the upper slopes which will assist in maintaining a degree of enclosure which currently typifies the character of the hollow. One suggestion would be to ascertain whether there is scope for the replanting of trees in appropriate locations on the upper and middle slopes without comprising the integrity of the ground stabilisation measures and utilising the larger dimensioned planting holes within the stabilisation mesh.

10.1.2 Drawing 3513638E-HLT-SK/001 details how the stone faced retaining wall will be limited to a height of 1m for the majority of its length along the foot of both slopes of the hollow. This will help in reducing the imposing nature of the walls for road users. The drawing also illustrates the rustic building style of the proposed walls which help assimilate them into the local landscape. It would also be helpful if the retaining wall could be constructed using locally sourced facing stone which is suitably durable. This would assist in reducing the impacts of this wall on the character of the hollow.

10.1.3 The incorporation of different dimensioned planting holes within the stabilisation mesh as proposed is a positive element as this should allow for the regeneration of a range of the existing vegetation over time. The maximising of the number of medium and large planting holes would be advantageous as this further encourages the re-growth of woody plants and trees within the slopes.

10.1.4 It is suggested that opportunities are explored to retain an additional number of trees that are located near the edges of soil stabilisation mesh. There are four trees that it would appear could potentially be retained by a localised reduction in the extent of the mesh as indicated on Drawing SN/200 on the upper edge of the western side of the hollow and potentially two trees at the northern edge of the mesh on the same side. Similarly there are five trees that are located close to the upper extent of the mesh on the eastern side of the hollow where there may be the option of reducing the extent of the mesh in order to retain them.

Christine Tudor/ Natural England (2014), An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment.

Council of Europe (2000), European Landscape Convention.

Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework. London; DCLG.

http://list.historicengland.org.uk/resultsingle.aspx?uid=1002484

Landscape Institute (2011), Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11 – Use of Photography and Photomontage In Landscape Assessment.

Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge.

The Countryside Agency (2003) Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2003) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.

North Dorset District Council (2008) North Dorset District Council Landscape Character Assessment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 8

Viewpoint 1: View from the C13 road looking south towards the northern extent of Dinah’s Hollow

This view will remain largely unchanged as the proposed tree works are limited to some crown lifting and coppicing of a relatively small number of trees. The ground vegetation adjacent to the roadside will remain intact with the proposed retaining wall just discernible in the distance on the eastern (left) side.

 

Viewpoint 2: View from the C13 road within Dinah’s Hollow looking south

The ground vegetation will be replaced at the roadside on the eastern (left) side with stone retaining wall. A number of the trees on the eastern side will be subject to coppicing with ground stabilisation mesh placed around the base of them.

The trees and ground vegetation on the western (right) side will be less affected within the view as the proposed road stabilisation works commence further to the south on this side of the hollow and the proposals on this side comprise the coppicing of a number of trees.

 

Figure 9

Viewpoint 3: View from the C13 road within the central part of Dinah’s Hollow

As part of the proposals the ground vegetation will be replaced by stone retaining walls at the toe of the slope on both sides with a number of trees either coppiced or felled, particularly the smaller trees on the lower to middle slopes.

Soil stabilisation mesh will be placed around the base of the retained trees between the top of the retaining structure to near the upper portion of the slopes.


 

Viewpoint 4: View looking towards the northern end of Dinah’s Hollow from the public footpath that extends south from Cann Common

The view is unlikely to change perceptibly as the trees within the view are to be retained.


 

Figure 10

Viewpoint 5: View looking south west from the public bridleway extending north east from Cann Common.

The trees of Dinah’s Hollow within the site boundary are set down on lower lying Indicative visible extent of site land to the south west of Cann Common and concealed from view.

 

Viewpoint 6: View looking south west from the public bridleway adjacent to the B3081 road near the top of Zig Zag Hill.

A limited portion of the trees comprising the southern end of the site are visible within layers of nearby trees.The changes to the view are therefore likely to be barely perceptible.

 

Figure 11

Viewpoint 7: View looking west from the open access land on the eastern slopes of Breeze Hill.

The eastern edge of the trees within the site boundary are visible in the middle distance.

Many of the larger trees along this edge will be retained but it is likely that a reduction in the overall extent of the tree canopies will be perceptible, viewed against the backdrop of nearby tree lines located to the west of Dinah’s Hollow. The red outline indicates the extent of view looking north west from the public the tree canopies within the site boundary.

 

Viewpoint 8: View looking north west from the public footpath that extends between Compton Down and Compton Abbas Airfield

The canopies of the trees within the site boundary are visible in the middle distance (indicated with a red outline). The reduction in the mass of the tree canopies as a result of the proposals are likely to be perceptible.


 

Figure 12

Viewpoint 9: View looking north west from the outdoor area at the cafe at Compton Abbas Airfield

The trees within the site boundary are concealed from view behind the shoulder of land comprising the runway of the airfield.

 

Viewpoint 10: View looking north from the junction of the public bridleway and the public footpath within the Open Access Land between Melbury Hill and Compton Down

The canopies of the trees within the site boundary are visible in the middle of the view (indicated with a red outline). There will be a perceptible reduction in the mass and density of the woodland.

 

Figure 13

Viewpoint 11: View looking north east from the public footpath within the Open Access land near the top of Melbury Hill

The canopies of the trees with the site boundary are visible (indicated with a red outline) within the middle of the view. The reduction in the mass and density of the tree canopies will be perceptible.

 

Viewpoint 12: View looking east from the car park of the Melbury Abbas and Cann Village Hall

A small section of the western edge of the woodland within the site boundary is visible between adjacent lines of trees. The change to the view is likely to be relatively small due to the limited extent of the site woodland that is visible.

 

Figure 14

Viewpoint 13: View looking north from the C13 road at Melbury Abbas, adjacent to Spinney Cottage and Spring House

The southern edge of the proposals will just be visible.

 

Viewpoint 14: View looking north from the road near the top of Spread Eagle Hill

The northern and central parts of the woodland within the site boundary are visible (outlined in red) in the middle distance.The density and mass of the woodland will be reduced within the view as a result of the proposals.