appendix 14-4 – published character assessment · wheelabrator harewood waste-to-energy facility...

Wheelabrator Harewood Waste-to-Energy Facility

Prepared for: WTI/EfW Holdings Ltd. AECOM

Appendix 14-4 – Published Character

Assessment


Prepared for: WTI/WfE Holdings Ltd. AECOM

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Appendix A Published Landscape Character Assessments

Appendix 14-4 – Published Character Assessments Wheelabrator Harewood Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Facility Preliminary Environmental Information Report (PEIR)

WTI/EfW Holdings Ltd.

October 2019



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Contents

1. National Level ...................................................................................................................... 5

National Character Area 130: Hampshire Downs, 2014 ......................................................................... 5

National Character Area 129: Thames Basin Heaths, 2014 ................................................................... 6

National Character Area 125: South Downs, 2014 ................................................................................. 6

National Character Area 132: Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs, 2014 ................................... 8

2. County Level ........................................................................................................................ 9

Hampshire Integrated Character Assessment, 2011 .............................................................................. 9

HLCT A: Open Downs ............................................................................................................................. 9

HLCT B: Chalk Scarp .............................................................................................................................. 9

HLCT C: Downland Mosaic Large Scale .............................................................................................. 10

HLCT D: Downland Mosaic Small Scale ............................................................................................... 10

HLCT E: Lowland Mosaic Medium Scale .............................................................................................. 11

HLCT F: Lowland Mosaic Small Scale .................................................................................................. 11

HLCT G: River Valley Floor ................................................................................................................... 12

HLCT H: Wooded Downland Plateau .................................................................................................... 12

HLCT: Settlement .................................................................................................................................. 13

HLCA 2H: Lockerley Wooded Farmland ............................................................................................... 13

HLCA 2N: Wellow and Awbridge Heath Associated Wooded Farmland ............................................... 13

HLCA 3B: Test Valley ............................................................................................................................ 13

HLCA 3C: Itchen Valley ......................................................................................................................... 14

HLCA 6A: East Hampshire Wooded Downland Plateau ....................................................................... 14

HLCA 7A: North West Hampshire Downs ............................................................................................. 15

HLCA 7B: Hannington and Dummer Downs ......................................................................................... 15

HLCA 7D: Bighton and Bramdean Downs ............................................................................................ 16

HLCA 7E: South West Hampshire Downs ............................................................................................ 16

HLCA 7F: West Winchester Downs ...................................................................................................... 16

HLCA 7G: Owslebury and Corhampton Downs .................................................................................... 17

HLCA 8A: Willesley and Litchfield Dipslope Open Downs .................................................................... 17

HLCA 8B: Basingstoke Open Downs .................................................................................................... 18

HLCA 8C: North East Hampshire Open Downs .................................................................................... 18

HLCA 8D: Andover Open Downs .......................................................................................................... 18

HLCA 8E: Mid Hampshire Open Downs ............................................................................................... 19

HLCA 8F: Candover Valley ................................................................................................................... 19

HLCA 8G: East Winchester Open Downs ............................................................................................. 20

HLCA 8H: East Dean Open Downs ...................................................................................................... 20

HLCA 13A: Clere Scarp and Greensand Terrace ................................................................................. 21

Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment, 2005 .............................................................................. 21

WLCT 2: Wooded Downland ................................................................................................................. 21

WLCA 2B: Chute Forest ........................................................................................................................ 22

WLCA 2C: Witherington Wooded Downland ......................................................................................... 22

WLCT 3: High Chalk Plain .................................................................................................................... 22

WLCA 3B: Salisbury Plain East ............................................................................................................ 23

WLCA 3C: Porton Down ........................................................................................................................ 23

WLCT 14: Forest Heathland Mosaic ..................................................................................................... 23

WLCA 14A: Farley Forest-Heathland Mosaic ....................................................................................... 24



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WLCT 15: Greensand Vale ................................................................................................................... 24

WLCA 15A: Vale of Pewsey .................................................................................................................. 25

Berkshire Landscape Character Assessment, 2003 ............................................................................. 25

BLCT D: Chalk Scarp ............................................................................................................................ 25

BLCA D1: Walbury Hill .......................................................................................................................... 25

3. District Level ...................................................................................................................... 26

Test Valley Borough Landscape Character Assessment, 2018 ............................................................ 26

TVLCA 5B: Middle Test Valley Floor ..................................................................................................... 26

TVLCA 5C: Upper Test Valley Floor ...................................................................................................... 27

TVLCA 5G: River Dever Valley Floor .................................................................................................... 28

TVLCA 5H: Pillhill Brook Valley Floor .................................................................................................... 30

TVLCA 5J: Lower River Anton Valley Floor ........................................................................................... 30

TVLCA 6B: Compton with Parnholt and Michelmersh Woods .............................................................. 31

TVLCA 6C: Little Somborne Wooded Downs ....................................................................................... 31

TVLCA 6D: Harewood Forest Wooded Downs ..................................................................................... 32

TVLCA 6E: Amport Wooded Downs...................................................................................................... 33

TVLCA 6F: Rushmore Wooded Downs ................................................................................................ 34

TVLCA 6G: Faccombe Wooded Downs ................................................................................................ 34

TVLCA 7A: Ashley Downs ..................................................................................................................... 35

TVLCA 7C: Linkenholt Downs ............................................................................................................... 35

TVLCA 8A: Tangley and Doles Wood ................................................................................................... 36

TVLCA 9A: North Andover Plateau ....................................................................................................... 37

TVLCA 10B: King’s Somborne Chalk Downland................................................................................... 37

TVLCA 10C: Thruxton and Danebury Chalk Downland ........................................................................ 38

TVLCA 10D: Leckford and Chilbolton Downs ....................................................................................... 39

TVLCA 10E: Drayton Chalk Downland ................................................................................................. 40

TVLCA 10F: Andover Chalk Downland ................................................................................................. 41

Winchester District Landscape Character Assessment, 2004 .............................................................. 42

WNLCA 1: Hursley Scarplands ............................................................................................................. 42

WNLCA 2: Sparsholt Woodlands .......................................................................................................... 44

WNLCA 3: Crawley Downs ................................................................................................................... 45

WNLCA 4: Wonston Downs .................................................................................................................. 46

WNLCA 5: Dever Valley ........................................................................................................................ 48

WNLCA 6: North Dever Downs ............................................................................................................. 49

WNLCA 7: Stratton Woodlands ............................................................................................................. 51

WNLCA 8: North Itchen Downs ............................................................................................................. 52

WNLCA 9: Upper Itchen Valley ............................................................................................................. 53

WNLCA 10: Bighton Woodlands ........................................................................................................... 54

WNLCA 12: East Winchester Downs .................................................................................................... 56

Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Character Assessment, 2001 ...................................................... 57

BDLCA 7: The Clere Scarp ................................................................................................................... 57

BDLCA 8: Great Litchfield Down and Willesley Warren ........................................................................ 58

BDLCA 9: Ashmansworth and Binley Down .......................................................................................... 58

BDLCA 10: Litchfield Down ................................................................................................................... 59

BDLCA 11: Wyke Down ........................................................................................................................ 59

BDLCA 12: Test and Bourne Valley ....................................................................................................... 60

BDLCA 13: South Test Down ................................................................................................................ 60

BDLCA 14: Oakley/Steventon Down ..................................................................................................... 61

BDLCA 15: Hannington Down ............................................................................................................... 61

BDLCA 17: Dummer and Popham Down .............................................................................................. 62

BDLCA 20: Candover Valley ................................................................................................................. 62



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4. Designated Landscapes ................................................................................................ 64

North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Integrated Landscape Character

Assessment, 2002 ................................................................................................................................. 64

NWDLCT 7: River Valleys ..................................................................................................................... 64

NWDLCA 7C: Bourne Valley ................................................................................................................. 64

NWDLCT 2: Downland with Woodland ................................................................................................. 65

NWDLCA 2D: Walbury Hill – Watership Down Scarp ........................................................................... 66

NWDLCA 2E: Chute Forest - Faccombe .............................................................................................. 67

NWDLCA 2F: Litchfield Downs ............................................................................................................. 68

NWDLCA 2G: Hannington Downs ........................................................................................................ 68

South Downs National Park Integrated Landscape Character Assessment, 2011 ............................... 69

SDLCT A: Open Downland ................................................................................................................... 69

SDLCA A5: East Winchester Open Downs ........................................................................................... 71

SDLCT E: Chalk Valley Systems .......................................................................................................... 72

SDLCA E4: Itchen Valley ....................................................................................................................... 73



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1. National Level

National Character Area 130: Hampshire Downs,

20141

1.1 The Site is located within National Character Area (NCA) 130: Hampshire Downs.

1.2 NCA 130 is described as a rolling, elevated, chalk downland landscape with an open and exposed

character that provides long-distance views. The NCA is predominantly in arable use with a large-scale

field pattern. There is some variance between elevated upper valley slopes that have extensive, open,

low-hedged fields and shelterbelts, and the sheltered valleys that often have networks of hedgerows

interspersed with woodland that creates a strong sense of enclosure. The NCA landscape is crossed by a

number of chalk rivers and streams.

1.3 The key characteristics of NCA 130 are:

• “The rolling, elevated, chalk arable downland has an open, exposed character that provides open

skies and long-distance views.

• Elevated plateaux and upper valley slopes are characterised by extensive open tracts of large, low-

hedged fields with thin chalky soils, shelterbelts, and ancient semi-natural woodland blocks on clay-

withflint caps on some of the steeper slopes.

• In contrast, within the sheltered valleys and to the east of the area, the network of hedgerows,

interspersed by numerous areas of oak/ash or hazel woodland coppice and smaller meadow fields,

gives a strong sense of enclosure.

• The rivers and streams of the Test and Itchen catchments are internationally significant, and

distinctive chalk rivers, running in deep valleys, cut into the Chalk.

• A network of distinctive and ancient droving roads and trackways is a particular feature across the

Downs.

• There is widespread evidence of prehistoric settlement on the open downlands, including burial

mounds with visually prominent ironage hill forts. In the valleys, there is evidence of Roman estates

and nucleated medieval village settlement patterns, and fieldscapes and farmsteads across the

downlands evidence the gradual and planned enclosure from the medieval period.

• The area’s distinctive appearance derives from the use of chalk cob (in the west), weatherboarded

timber frame and small, handmade local brick with flint in traditional rural buildings and walls

surrounding farm courtyards, with thatch surviving in many places.

• The settlement pattern varies between the relatively dense strings of villages along the lower river

valleys and the very low-density, nucleated settlements in the upper reaches of the rivers and on

the Downs.

• The ancient city of Winchester is located at the heart of this landscape and at the centre of the

Itchen Valley, and the more modern, rapidly expanding towns of Basingstoke and Andover are on

downland sites at the head of the Loddon and Test valleys.”

1.4 The NCA identifies the following relevant Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEO):

• “SEO 4: Encourage woodland management regimes that: ensure good condition of priority habitats

and species; maximise the potential ecosystem benefits of woodland such as carbon sequestration,

water quality and regulation, timber provision, recreation and biomass potential; and enhance the

landscape visually.”

1 Natural England. (2014). National Character Areas. (Online). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-character-area-profiles-data-for-local-decision-making/national-character-area-profiles

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-character-area-profiles-data-for-local-decision-making/national-character-area-profiles




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National Character Area 129: Thames Basin Heaths,

20142 1.5 The key characteristics of NCA 129 are:

• “Plateaux of Tertiary sands and gravels in the London Basin, with intervening river valleys floored

by London Clay. In the far west, Chalk forms the Hampshire Downs escarpment and the river beds

of the Kennet and Pang.

• High woodland cover, offering an array of colour in the autumn. Conifers and large plantations on

former heathland are dominant features in the east, while the west is scattered with small, semi-

natural woodlands on ancient sites.

• Acid, leached soils mean that farming on the plateaux is limited to rough pasture, and that

alternative land uses (such as forestry, golf courses and horse paddocks) have emerged. Heather,

gorse, oak and birch all thrive here. Arable land and improved pasture are found in the valleys, on

alluvium.

• Beyond the large areas of heathland and woodland, there is a patchwork of small to medium-sized

fields with woods. The legacy of historic hunting forests includes veteran trees, ancient woods,

ancient hedgerows and parklands. Historic meadows remain as fragments along watercourses.

• Prehistoric earthworks such as barrows and hill forts mark promontories on the plateaux.

Archaeology is well preserved on historic heathland. Mosaics of open heathland and grassland with

scrub, secondary woodland and plantation. Valley bogs, ponds and streams enhance diversity.

Large, continuous mosaics are found in the east: they include Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and

Chobham Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and Chobham Common National Nature Reserve

(NNR).

• Historic commons offer tranquillity and unenclosed views, while other rights of access are enjoyed

across farmland, canals and downland. Ministry of Defence ownership restricts (but does not

entirely prevent) public enjoyment.

• ‘Churring’ nightjars, dragonflies and purple heather are all readily identified with heathland. The

Thames Basin Heaths SPA protects internationally important populations of woodlark, nightjar and

Dartford warbler.

• Valley floors are wet with ditches, numerous watercourses, ponds, waterfilled gravel pits, reedbeds

and carr. Historic features include mills, relict water meadows, and canals such as the River Wey

Navigations.

• 20th-century conurbations, including Camberley, sprawl along the Blackwater Valley, with

associated roads (including the M3) dissecting heathland and woodland into blocks. Elsewhere,

there are winding lanes and historic dispersed villages and farmsteads of traditional, locally-made

brick and tile.”

1.6 There are no SEO of relevance to the Site and Proposed Development.

National Character Area 125: South Downs, 20143 1.7 The key characteristics of NCA 125 are:

• “A broad elevated east–west chalk ridge with a predominantly steep northfacing scarp slope and a

gentle southerly dip slope, breaking into a series of hills in the west and terminating in distinctive

chalk cliffs in the east.

• Cliffs between Beachy Head and Seaford Head are part of a Geological Conservation Review

(GCR) site of international importance for its landscape and for research into coastal

geomorphology.

2 Natural England. (2014). National Character Areas. (Online). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-character-area-profiles-data-for-local-decision-making/national-character-area-profiles 3 Natural England. (2014). National Character Areas. (Online). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-character-area-profiles-data-for-local-decision-making/national-character-area-profiles







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• The principal rivers – the Arun, Adur, Cuckmere and Ouse – slice through the eastern half of the

downs as wide U-shaped valleys with steep sides and flat alluvial flood plains with intensive

dairying and crops, and characterised by criss-crossing ditches and meandering river channels.

The meanders of the River Cuckmere by Seven Sisters chalk cliffs are particularly significant.

Remnant wetland habitats including flood plain grazing marsh, fens and reed beds.

• Chalk streams running off both the north- and south-facing scarp slopes providing a key habitat for

the scarp and the flood plain landscape, supporting species such as the brown trout.

• Woodland a feature of the central downs and, to a lesser extent, the western downs, also

concentrated on the steep scarp slopes, consisting of both broadleaved, mostly ancient, woodland

with beech, veteran trees, ash and sycamore, and conifers, with some large plantations. Kingley

Vale National Nature Reserve (NNR) contains a wealth of yew woodland.

• Several different types of heathland habitat, including wet heath, wooded heath and chalk heath

dependent on loess soils. Lullington Heath NNR near Eastbourne is one of the largest areas of

chalk heath in the UK.

• The eastern downs characterised by large open arable and grassland fields, mostly enclosed by the

16th century, with a general absence of woodland and hedgerow boundaries, creating an open,

exposed landscape. To the west of the River Arun, where holdings were smaller and ‘sheep-and-

corn’ farming less important, hedgerows enclose medium to large irregular fields between the

woodlands and designed parkland landscapes, the latter a particular feature of the central areas.

• Poor soils on the north-west area of the downs with patches of birch woodland, conifer plantation,

bracken and rough grassland. The Gault Clay forms shallow, gently rolling lowland crossed by

many streams flowing northwards. On the chalk hills, the infertile soils are generally thin, well

drained and rich in calcium.

• Distinctive fragments of semi-natural chalk grassland dotted with chalk springs on scarp and combe

slopes, with important associated habitats including rare chalk heath and species-rich chalk scrub.

• A vast array of wildlife such as otters and barn owls; lesser known species such as the barbastelle

bat, the chalk carpet moth, sundews (carnivorous plants) and the round-headed rampion, the

county flower of Sussex; threatened species include the bee orchid, small blue butterfly and

nightjar.

• Roads and villages concentrated in the river valleys, the more elevated areas sparsely settled with

scattered farmsteads. The eastern end of the Downs is squeezed against the coastal plain

conurbations of Brighton and Hove, and Worthing, which contain a wealth of architecture and give

the area a strong sense of identity. There is also an almost continuous string of seaside towns:

Rottingdean, Saltdean, Peacehaven, Newhaven and Seaford.

• Flint, brick and timber frame conspicuous in the built environment in walls, buildings, churches and

barns, while roofs are of tile, slate or traditional thatch. The South Downs was once lined with

windmills, some of which survive.

• Bronze-age round barrows and prominently sited iron-age hill forts, such as Cissbury Ring and Old

Winchester Hill, are notable prehistoric features of the scarp and hill tops, especially in the west, as

well as Mount Caburn in the east, and further bronze-age barrows and a causewayed camp at

Willingdon (most of which are designated as Scheduled Ancient Monuments).

• The Long Man of Wilmington – a large hill figure located on the steep slopes near Eastbourne. One

of only two extant human hill figures in England, it is 69 metres tall and is designated as a

Scheduled Ancient Monument. Current archaeological research suggests that it dates from the 16th

or 17th century. Others believe it to be more ancient, perhaps contemporary with the nearby

Neolithic flint mines and barrows, or the work of medieval monks from Wilmington Priory.

• Public rights of way following drove roads and ancient routes along the accessible downland tops,

benefiting from panoramic views across the downs and the Low Weald NCA. Roads and lanes

striking across the downs perpendicularly and following historic tracks that originally brought

livestock to their summer grazing.”

1.8 The NCA identifies the following relevant Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEO):



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• “SEO 4: Manage, enhance and integrate recreational opportunities and public enjoyment with

conservation of the natural environment and tranquillity, reflecting the ambitions of the South Downs

National Park.”

National Character Area 132: Salisbury Plain and

West Wiltshire Downs, 20144 1.9 The key characteristics of NCA 132 are:

• “Salisbury Plain, an extensive and open rolling chalk plateau and one of the largest remaining areas

of calcareous grassland in north-west Europe.

• Many small, sheltered river valleys, such as the Wylye, with narrow flood plains and meandering

river courses.

• Woodland generally confined to valley slopes, with scattered copses and shelterbelts (usually of

beech or conifer) found on the high downs, and occasional ancient oak woods on the ridgetops.

• Large arable fields predominate, with generally very few hedgerows or obvious boundary features;

there are often wide grass buffer strips.

• Rare flora and fauna of national significance, associated with a chalk landscape, from stone curlew,

hobby and corn bunting to dropwort, early gentian and slender bedstraw.

• Outstanding prehistoric ritual landscape, with many Scheduled Ancient Monuments and earthworks

prominent in the open landscape, notably Stonehenge.

• Distinctive chalk-cut figures – generally large horses – post-dating the medieval period.

• A sparsely settled landscape, with few settlements of any size, and notable for nucleated villages at

the foot of the scarp along the springline. Large-scale farmsteads are a prominent feature.

• Abundant use made in older buildings of local stone such as flint, Chilmark stone and clunch,

together with timber frame and chalk cob.

• Large parks and estates found in the valleys, with related groups of estate housing in common

style.

• Salisbury, an ecclesiastical centre since the early medieval period and now a tourist and local

administration centre, with a well-preserved historic core, and a cathedral whose spire has long

been a feature in the surrounding landscape.

• Military tracks, airfields and structures reflecting a major land use. Visually prominent modern

military housing and supporting development are found in the eastern side of the NCA.”

1.10 There are no SEO of relevance to the Site and Proposed Development.

4 Natural England. (2014). National Character Areas. (Online). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-character-area-profiles-data-for-local-decision-making/national-character-area-profiles





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2. County Level

Hampshire Integrated Character Assessment, 20115

HLCT A: Open Downs

2.1 The Site is within the Open Downs LCT.

2.2 The key identifying characteristics and boundary definitions for this LCT are:

• “Large scale open rolling landscapes, with dry valleys often but not exclusively in elevated areas

and typically with low hedges few woodlands resulting in commanding long distance views and a

perception of big skies.

• Strongly associated with major scarps landscape type – often includes smaller scale scarp and dip

slopes of escarpments.

• Shallow soils over chalk with less clay content than other downland landscape types.

• Strong and discrete association with the pattern of Neolithic and Bronze Age settled and farmed

landscapes. Barrows and hillforts crown the summits and sites with commanding visual prospect.

• Often associated with areas of late formal enclosure, and 20th C prairie fields over former common

downland.

• Fragments and isolated areas of species rich chalk downland and occasional chalk heath can still

be found together with scrub and woodland confined to steeper, remoter areas and often with SSSI

status.

• Strong visual seasonal variation because of predominance of arable crops from bright yellow oil

seed rape in Spring to golden fields of wheat and barley to bare soil and flints and green flush of

winter wheat.

• Sparse settlement, with occasional isolated farms and barns. Blocks of modern farm buildings and

large scale sheds, punctuate the open landscape. At more detailed level flint sheepfolds, barns and

shepherd’s cottages are a visual reminder of the former extent of sheep grazing.”

HLCT B: Chalk Scarp


• “The highest and steepest slopes in Hampshire and predominantly open but with significant areas

of ancient and semi natural woodland.

• Precipitous upper slopes with grazing land, scrub or clothed in dense hanger woodland.

• Linear relatively narrow landscapes.

• Almost exclusively very shallow rendzina soils.

• Key landscape type for chalk grassland creation opportunity.

• Associated with important public access assets such as open access areas, long distance PRoW.

• Narrow and deeply sunken lanes.

• Small spring line settlements at the foot of the scarp otherwise no development on the scarp face.

• Extremely prominent skylines, of remarkably consistent height.

• Panoramic views across lowland mosaic landscapes”

5 Hampshire County Council. (2012). Hampshire Integrated Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/environment/landscape/integratedcharacterassessment

https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/environment/landscape/integratedcharacterassessment



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HLCT C: Downland Mosaic Large Scale


• “A Downs landscape which has moderately heavy soils and more clay soil content than in Open

Downs landscapes.

• Can have mini scarps which are individually identified in some local assessments.

• Large scale character influenced by rolling topography, medium to large size fields, fewer wooded

hedges than the small-scale type and can have large woodland blocks.

• Large blocks of ancient woodland and varied height hedgerow network which contrasts with areas

of more open predominantly arable fields.

• Deeply rural quiet landscapes with sense of space and expansiveness uninterrupted by

development the large woodland blocks add to the sense ruralness and of an undeveloped

landscape.

• Low density road and lane network where this type occurs in mid and west Hampshire –higher

density further east.

• A mosaic of land uses and management; arable dominated but also with permanent pasture, sites

managed for biodiversity objectives, public access, woodland and field margins managed for game.

• Association with open access areas under CRoW Act on small scarps, downland and woodland.

• Generally the archaeological evidence suggests these are peripheral landscapes to farmed and

settled areas pre Roman with the odd exception as in the South East Hampshire Downs.

• Greater proportion of regular pattern late enclosure medium to large fields than the Downland

Mosaic Small Scale landscapes apart from East Hampshire.

• Possible association with historic parks and garden and large estates.

• Mixed age of farmsteads with a higher proportion of 17th C / medieval than the Open Downs but

not as high as the Small Scale Downland type.

• Constantly changing views with panoramas from high points across undulating downs to river

valleys and more constrained along dry valleys.”

HLCT D: Downland Mosaic Small Scale


• “Frequently undulating chalk and clay downland with fairly steep slopes and occasional small

scarps which can be a mix of wooded and open downland.

• A well wooded, some of ancient origin and strong hedgerow network which contrasts with areas of

more open predominantly arable fields.

• Numerous, small woodlands and mature and well treed mixed hedgerows, indicative of assarting

and small fields with wavy boundaries suggesting informal enclosures.

• Assart woods and fields tend to be most numerous and intact in these landscapes compared with

other downland types.

• Few late parliamentary enclosures.

• Falls almost exclusively within AONB boundaries suggesting high degree of aesthetic qualities.

• Low density road and lane network where this type occurs in mid and west Hampshire –higher

density further east.

• A mosaic of land uses and management; arable dominated but also with permanent pasture, sites

managed for biodiversity objectives, public access and, woodland and field margins managed for

game.

• Association with open access areas under CRoW Act on small scarps and downland.



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• Settlements outside the river valleys are mainly small hamlets and church and manors in dry valley

bottoms where this type occurs.

• Higher proportion of older (17th C and before) farmsteads than other downland types.

• Constantly changing views with panoramas from high points across undulating downs to river

valleys and more truncated ones constrained by woodland strips and high hedges and along dry

valleys.”

HLCT E: Lowland Mosaic Medium Scale


• “Undulating predominantly clay soils with sandy gravely outcrops

• Clay soils low lying - seasonally wet and not particularly good agricultural grade.

• High biomass and moderately high heathland creation opportunity

• Associated with small chalk fed streams.

• Large Ancient woodlands, blocky shaped woodland and thick hedgerows

• Proportion of grazing land slightly more than arable but less permanent pasture than most other

Lowland Mosaic Types.

• Low built up percentage compared with other Lowland Mosaic Types

• Significant association with common land and open access

• Surprising sense of remoteness as often close to large centres of population.

• Rich in wildlife designations and BAP priority habitats particularly Ancient semi natural woodlands,

hedgerows, neutral and acid grassland, heath associated habitats, freshwater associated and wet

woodland.

• High proportion of assarting

• Numerous cultural associations from the medieval period and Royal hunting forests, including deer

parks and lodges and woodpasture. Little intensive exploitation pre Saxon period and less

intensively post disafforestation than most lowland mosaic types.

• Few settlements and development.

• Particular association with Common Edge settlement type.

• Low density dispersed settlement pattern where this type occurs in North and South Hampshire and

South of New Forest National Park.”

HLCT F: Lowland Mosaic Small Scale


• “Low lying silty clay, but not sandy soils, that are seasonally wet and waterlogged in parts but also

with better drained areas.

• The soils support predominantly permanent pasture land use.

• Less marginal farmed areas than the lowland mosaic medium scale and lowland mosaic heath

associated types.

• Often small enclosures, small areas of woodland and undulating topography which produces the

sense of a small scale landscape.

• Associated mostly with small chalk fed streams apart from where they border the New Forest

perambulation where they are more acidic.

• Generally, high to very high density of dispersed small farmsteads and hamlets and associated with

nucleated spring line settlements in the south and north Hampshire lowlands.

• Small semi natural and ancient woodland copses and hedges of varying character.



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• Frequently a high density of public rights of way and winding lanes.

• Varying periods and types of enclosure but generally small scale but has some of the earliest

enclosures out of all the lowland mosaic types – perhaps indicating less marginal and richer soils.

• Particular association with hamlets and villages of medieval and Saxon origin often associated with

wood and wood clearance.”

HLCT G: River Valley Floor


• “The extent roughly follows possible flooding extents but is drawn on boundary features and breaks

in contour spacing.

• Mapped where the river valley floor is perceived to be of a significant visual feature of the valley -

upper reaches where the valley fades out to a dry valley is not mapped.

• Single channels becoming braided and divided in lower reaches of the chalk and the lowland

setting sometimes with man-made canals or remains of waterways such as the Itchen navigation

and Titchfield Canal.

• Pasture dominated landscape with field boundaries often orientated to maximise accessibility to the

water’s edge.

• Smooth flowing crystal clear waters – of international reputation for fishing.

• The larger chalk rivers of the Meon, Itchen, Test and Avon are important for relic water meadows

with their ripple pattern fields, of varying complexity with surviving banks, carriers, sluice and small

bridge structures.

• Varied availability of waterside access with limited or no use of the watercourse itself for access -

until the lower reaches of the Itchen at Southampton.

• Road and lane bridge crossings are low to the water and often with white parapet railings Modern

large roads are also relatively low to the water.

• Numerous watermills often converted to residential use.”

HLCT H: Wooded Downland Plateau


• “Elevated gently undulating plateau deep clay over chalk, resulting in poorly drained heavy soils.

• Single extent of this landscape type at the County scale.

• A landscape, unusually with chalk geology, dominated by pasture and horse grazing and few areas

of arable.

• High proportion of biodiversity interest is associated with Ancient woodland and survival of small

areas of pre 1700 woodland connected by a strong often treed hedgerow network.

• There are few streams.

• Varied periods of field enclosures from irregular wavy boundary and early formal enclosure from the

early 17th century – particularly fields bounded by tracks and lanes to 18th and 19th century formal

enclosure.

• Very little evidence of pre medieval archaeology and sense that this has always been marginal

land.

• Historical associations with clay pits and brick kilns.

• Settlements tend to be small, often hamlets and small villages located at the edge of the character

area or in elevated locations within the area with prominent church spires marking settlement

location amongst the wooded landscape.

• A landscape of contrasting views, from panoramic and far reaching to very enclosed, but always

heavily wooded.”



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HLCT: Settlement

2.10 Character assessment is not provided for areas identified as the Settlement LCT.

HLCA 2H: Lockerley Wooded Farmland

2.11 The key characteristics of this LCA are:

• “An inlier of London Clay and Reading Beds surrounded by Upper Chalk giving rise to a gently

undulating landform;

• International designation Mottisfont Woods SAC supports a rare breeding population of Barbastelle

bats within a mixed woodland habitat;

• Meadow habitats support rare species of butterflies;

• A well wooded enclosed landscape with extensive areas of coniferous and broadleaved native

woodlands throughout the area;

• Landuse comprises a mixture of pasture and woodland with some areas of arable;

• Field pattern is generally small to medium scale defined by thick hedgerows;

• Infield trees and veteran parkland trees are a notable feature along with the parkland landscape

and mansion associated with Lockerley Hall;

• Pattern of well dispersed farmsteads and linear settlement fringing former common areas; and

• North-south road pattern comprising rural shady lanes, sometimes sunken.”

HLCA 2N: Wellow and Awbridge Heath Associated Wooded

Farmland


• “Undulating wooded landscape dissected by tributaries of the River Test;

• Mixture of soil types from sandy Reading Beds to London Clay;

• Biodiversity value from ancient woodlands (locally designated), and pockets of heathland, wetland

and grassland;

• Designed parklands and associated landscape features exert a strong influence;

• Small scale field pattern – especially associated with the stream valleys, defined by thick well treed

hedgerows supporting a mixed farming economy with significant stands of ancient semi-natural

woodland and some conifer plantations;

• Settled character with dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets with more recent linear expansion

or housing areas;

• Areas of gravel and clay extraction; and

• High density of leafy green lanes.”

HLCA 3B: Test Valley


• Chalk geology in the north changing to lower lying Tertiary Clays/Plateau Gravels in the south;

• Steep abrupt valley sides becoming gentler further south, long tributaries extending deep into the

chalk hinterland;

• Clear alkaline nutrient rich spring water supporting a rich biodiversity and nationally designated

riverine, wetland, grassland, and woodland habitats;

• Generally meandering and braided river course boarded by luxuriant riverine vegetation, reedbeds,

marshes and former water meadows;



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• Unimproved grazed floodplain meadows, arable production on valley terraces, pasture and arable

on valley sides;

• Floodplains with no obvious field pattern and overlapping vegetation comprising individual trees,

remnant hedgerows and small carr woodlands;

• Valley sides have a range of different enclosure patterns and scales with fields define by hedgerow

and hedgerow trees;

• Generally unspoilt, remote and tranquil except for urban influences and noise intrusion close to

major towns and roads;

• Generally winding roads and lanes following the edge of the valley floor;

• Intact historic village morphology little altered by 20th C development and significant concentration

of use of cob as a building material;

• Small settlements in main valley and tributaries and very lightly populated chalk surroundings

contrast in the south with the urban setting beyond the valley edge of Totton and Southampton; and

• Views limited to valley floor but good views across and along the valley from open parts of the

valley sides.

HLCA 3C: Itchen Valley


• “The Itchen is a classic chalk stream, running through an area of soft permeable rock, supplied by

underground aquifers;

• A valley of contrasts from a small stream to a fast flowing river and then deep estuary but the

largely undeveloped floodplain is a unifying feature;

• The stream and some of floodplain is internationally designated as a SAC because of its chalk

stream habitat, rich in plants, invertebrates and fish;

• Important concentration of remnant water meadows;

• The valley floor is mainly neutral grassland, a complex mosaic of fen species rich meadow and

improved meadows, considered to be the largest assemblage of species rich neutral grassland in

England;

• The small villages and scattered farms sit comfortably within the valley;

• An extremely rich built heritage and setting to Winchester and developed valley sides in lower

reaches;

• Frequent minor crossing points marked by white parapets to bridges;

• The upper reaches support the most important watercress industry in the country;

• There is fairly good access to the valley by rights of way, and the Itchen Valley path follows the

former towpath from Cheriton to Southampton;

• Internationally renowned as a fly fishing river especially for wild brown and rainbow trout.”

HLCA 6A: East Hampshire Wooded Downland Plateau


• “An elevated plateau landscape, mainly fairly flat but with dry chalk valleys, creating gentle

undulations, capped with a deep layer of clay;

• Characterised by being one of the most wooded downland areas in the County, comprising large

woodland blocks to small copses and ancient hedgerows which are well connected;

• A landscape dominated by pasture but also with some arable fields, including considerable areas

managed for horse grazing;

• Few streams, but spring-line settlements along the LCA boundary;



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• A landscape that appears to have had little pre medieval exploitation and human activity;

• There is strong survival of early enclosure field systems and particularly fields bounded by tracks

and lanes;

• Abundance of 18th and 19th century farmsteads connected by a dense rights of way network

including byways open to all traffic;

• Historical association with clay pits and brick kilns and distribution of early brick buildings from

locally sourced clay. Some evidence of dew ponds;

• Settlements tend to be small, often hamlets and small villages located at the edge of the character

area or in elevated locations within the area; and

• A landscape of contrasting views, from panoramic and far reaching to very enclosed, but always

heavily wooded.”

HLCA 7A: North West Hampshire Downs


• “Varied landform comprising high rolling hills cut by steep sided, long, sinuous dry valleys, scarps

and dramatic combes;

• Biodiversity value from remnant areas of chalk grassland and ancient woodlands;

• Repeating pattern of woodland with long sinuous hangers on steep dry valley sides and extensive

woodland blocks on clay capped summits;

• Strong hedgerow structure defining arable fields, sometimes with hedgerow trees;

• Mosaic of arable farmland between woodland with some pasture on steep slopes, former downland

and valley bottoms;

• A concentration of celtic origin field systems in the northwest of the character area still traceable in

today’s landscape;

• Varied field pattern including assart enclosures with wavy field boundaries and some areas of more

large scale parliamentary enclosure;

• Low density, dispersed pattern of nucleated ridge top and valley villages/hamlets and isolated

farmsteads;

• Generally inward looking and contained landscape as a result of topography and vegetation; and

• Unspoilt character, tranquil, rural and of high scenic quality (designated AONB).”

HLCA 7B: Hannington and Dummer Downs


• “High elevated open chalk plateau covered by a thick and continuous clay with flints cap giving rise

to a gently undulating topography;

• Large open arable farmland enclosed with low hedgerows, trees and extensive woodland blocks;

• Contains part of the BOA Longparish Important Arable Plans Area, providing habitats for rare plants

and farmland birds;

• Varied field pattern with medieval assarted fields in association with woodland, and formal

enclosures set between older origin ladder system of droveways and tracks;

• Varying intervisibilty due to areas of extensive semi-natural woodland blocks and small linear

plantations on more open slopes;

• Historically, a frontier landscape between the more intensively farmed downs to the west and the

less intensively exploited landscape to the east;

• Notable areas of parkland landscape;



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• Settlement consists of nucleated, small hamlets and scattered farms located on hilltops or within

valleys;

• Intricate network of narrow winding lanes contrasts with major transportation corridors; and

• Quiet and unspoilt rural character with a sense of openness and space, the northern part of which

is designated AONB.”

HLCA 7D: Bighton and Bramdean Downs


• “Upland area of chalk downland comprising upper chalk geology overlain with clay with flints;

• Undulating topography comprising series of ridges and dry valleys;

• Heavy although free draining soils with significant areas of woodland;

• Mixed Land uses including arable, pasture, parkland and woodland, with resultant biodiversity of

habitats and species;

• Fields are defined by hedgerows to create a mixed scale pattern;

• Significant areas of ancient woodland (some assarted) particularly on higher areas with some

replanted;

• Well settled landscape with notable parkland areas often associating with small nucleated

settlements, and more linear dispersed settlement along rural lanes in the Ropley area; and

• Southern part of the area is within the South Downs National Park, and has high natural beauty.”

HLCA 7E: South West Hampshire Downs


• “Upper Chalk geology overlain with clay with flints on hilltops and ridgelines;

• Simple, rolling landform of pronounced ridges and valleys;

• Semi-enclosed arable farmland with well defined hedgerow network and small woodlands, copses

and linear shelterbelts;

• Predominately arable land use with pockets of improved pasture notably in the west and around the

villages to the south;

• Field sizes vary, defined by strong pattern of hedgerows particularly in the south;

• Visual containment as a result of topography and vegetation except on scarp where there are long

distance views;

• Sparse settlement with occasional linear villages in the south and dispersed farmsteads elsewhere;

• A secluded and undisturbed area.”

HLCA 7F: West Winchester Downs


• “A landscape of mixed downland scale, dominated by the main west – east South Downs chalk

ridge, with small escarpments and dry valley spurs off this feature;

• Very undulating landscape often with far reaching views over adjoining downs and lowland

landscapes, but also more visually enclosed landscapes in dry valleys and woodland;

• Substantial tracts of interconnecting ancient and semi-natural woodland blocks which are located

on higher and steeper ground as small hangers to the north and west;

• Strong time-depth, including prehistoric barrows on open downland, a range of enclosure

processes and drove routes reflecting historical corn-sheep farming practises;

• Valley side settlements, nucleated villages and dispersed farmsteads; and



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• Hung tiles are a prevalent decorative feature on buildings.”

HLCA 7G: Owslebury and Corhampton Downs


• “Large scale, frequently undulating, rolling landform characteristic of the chalk dipslope, dissected

by dry valleys, with a localised secondary escarpment and mini scarps between Tywford and

Droxford;

• Thin calcareous soils overlain in places with heavier clay soil with flints;

• Strong pattern of woodland cover, from small copses and spinneys to large mixed woodland and

ancient woodland of national importance, and hedgerows providing a sense of enclosure;

• Occasional areas of remnant downland with areas of unimproved chalk grassland and associated

wooded scrub, and occasional wooded hangers;

• Predominately arable farmland with some pasture on steeper slopes;

• Large areas of early assarted enclosures and informal enclosures resulting in varied field size and

patterns defined by thick hedgerows;

• Low density dispersed pattern of villages, hamlets and farmsteads;

• Scattered distribution of manor parks and high proportion of medieval and 17th C origin farmsteads

linked by sinuous lanes;

• Evidence of Bronze Age activity in the form of round barrows and ring ditches, particularly in the

large scale downland mosaic and better drained soils;

• Well established public rights of way and long distance routes, with drove links to the adjoining

valley landscapes of the Itchen and Meon and to the Forest of Bere to the south; and

• Rural, remote and secluded character occasionally commanding long distance views,

predominantly to the south.”

HLCA 8A: Willesley and Litchfield Dipslope Open Downs


• “Dramatic sweeping chalk downland forming a dip slope with elevation falling in a southerly

direction;

• Smooth rounded summits and dry chalk valleys which have a visual simplicity;

• Sense of elevation and openness with uninterrupted views;

• Arable land use predominates with some remnant areas of chalk grassland which increase the

biodiversity of the area;

• Woodland is sparse but includes scattered remnants of ancient semi-natural woodlands and linear

plantations;

• Fields are very large, open and regular and include ladder fields and some wavy boundary fields in

the west;

• Weak pattern of low hedgerows enclose large fields;

• A palimpsest landscape with significant time depth since the Neolithic – early woodland clearance

and long history of human exploitation with varying intensity;

• Significant concentration of cropmarks associated with Iron Age and Roman period;

• Lack of settlement and sparse population – settlement comprises dispersed pattern of occasional

large farms; and

• Quiet and rural character with a strong sense of openness and space, within the North Wessex

Downs AONB.”



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HLCA 8B: Basingstoke Open Downs


• “Rolling chalk landform with broad sweeping undulations, forming a bowl around the head of the

River Loddon and north facing slopes which extend down to the lower lying heaths;

• Extensive tracts of intensive arable cultivation defined by well-trimmed hedgerows or ancient tracks

and footpaths;

• Visible framework of winding ancient lanes and tracks which formed boundaries to extensive open

field systems and lead up to higher ground;

• Generally low woodland cover with scattered blocks of woodland and stronger hedgerow structure

in southern parts of the area;

• An archaeologically significant area, with settlement and exploitation going back to prehistoric

times;

• Extensive areas of mid to late 20thC. urban development of Basingstoke which is visible, mainly

from within the character area;

• Major transportation routes include a Roman road, Basingstoke Canal, railway and M3;

• Remote and quiet landscape outside of built up areas;

• Beyond the major settlement of Basingstoke the landscape is lightly populated with low density

nucleated villages and occasional farmsteads; and

• Sense of openness, space and emptiness, especially when climbing up out of the bowl shape

landform where Basingstoke sits.”

HLCA 8C: North East Hampshire Open Downs


• “Rolling chalk landform with broad sweeping hills and ridges and dry valleys;

• Northern areas slope northwards towards the lower lying heaths while southern areas form a gently

undulating plateau;

• Extensive tracts of intensive arable cultivation defined by well-trimmed hedgerows;

• Patches of improved and semi-improved grassland and wetlands add biodiversity value;

• Scattered blocks of woodland habitats and stronger hedgerow structure in southern parts of the

area;

• Springs occur along the northern fringe of this landscape where the chalk meets the clay;

• Remote and quiet landscape which is lightly populated with dispersed nucleated villages (including

spring line villages at the foot of the chalk) and occasional farmsteads;

• Sense of openness, space and expansiveness;

• Generally, formal enclosures in the north and informal enclosures in the south; and

• Nucleated settlement pattern of springline villages along the northern boundary, and small hamlets

and villages in dry valleys to the south on higher ground.”

HLCA 8D: Andover Open Downs


• “Plateau downland with gentle undulating ridges and dry chalk valleys;

• Occasional prominent hills within the downland create visual features;

• Open, expansive landscape with long distant views across downland and the river valleys which

dissect the plateau;



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• Biodiversity value from Harewood Forest, and dispersed areas of chalk grassland, including

internationally-designated sites;

• Predominately arable land use with limited pasture in the west and south on the fringes of Salisbury

Plain and Boscombe Down East;

• There is little woodland cover creating a simple composition of landscape elements except where

there are notable deposits of clay with flints - here woodland cover becomes dominant e.g.

Harewood Forest;

• A landscape with significant time depth and important archaeology particularly from prehistoric and

Roman periods, especially associated with the areas of open dowland and higher areas -, including

burial mounds and hill forts such as Danebury;

• Very regular formal enclosure pattern dates predominately from the 19th century. Defined in places

by a weak hedgerow structure or no boundaries at all and particularly in the open downland tends

to overwrite earlier field boundary patterns;

• Occasional parkland landscapes provide visual diversity;

• Urban edges of Andover extend into this character area;

• Dispersed pattern of nucleated villages and farmsteads; and

• Tranquil and remote away from Andover and particularly in the south were there is little settlement.”

HLCA 8E: Mid Hampshire Open Downs


• “A sense of elevation, space and expansive views;

• A landscape of straight edges and sense of planned countryside on a large scale;

• Straight and direct fast roads, some of Roman origin;

• Large farm holdings dominated by cereal crops with little grazing;

• Woodland is rare and largely consists of 19th century shelterbelts – apart from assart woodland in

the Downland Mosaic Small Scale landscape;

• Important arable plants supporting farmland bird populations;

• Historic drove routes survive as prominent hedgerow lines in the landscape. These provided the

framework for the ladder field systems which serviced the open field system and downland prior to

formal enclosures;

• A landscape of considerable perceptual time-depth and an early focus for farming. Extensive crop

marks visible, especially on higher ground associated with the east-west ridge between the Itchen

and Test valleys; and

• Very few settlements. Most are farmsteads, often with large modern storage sheds.”

HLCA 8F: Candover Valley


• “Distinctive river valley comprising a narrow valley floor and gently sloping valley sides which create

a shallow ‘bowl’;

• Diverse pattern of arable, pasture, woodland and parkland has high visual quality and biodiversity

value;

• Predominant land use is arable in large-scale open fields on the valley sides defined by low hedges

and few hedgerow trees;

• Smaller fields occur on lower valley’s slopes and valley floor supporting pasture and distinctive

riparian vegetation;

• Scattered blocks of ancient semi-natural woodland;



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• Parkland landscapes along the valleys floor giving rise to a well-managed character;

• Small nucleated settlements along the valley floor and lower slopes; and

• Many barrows and archaeological sites on upper slopes overlooking valley.”

HLCA 8G: East Winchester Open Downs


• “Topographically varied and striking rolling landscape including steep scarps, extensive branching

dry valleys systems which produce deep, narrow, rounded combes for example at Chilcomb and

the Devil’s Punchbowl;

• Dominated by large 18th and 19th century fields of arable and pasture, bounded by sparse thorn

hedgerows, creating an open landscape;

• Tracks surviving from the earlier manorial downland landscape are important historic landscape

features;

• Occasional areas of species rich unimproved chalk grassland occur, for example at Cheesefoot

Head and St Catherine’s Hill along with patches of scrub and woodland on steeper slopes, and

game coverts, linear tree features and visually distinctive beech clumps on hill tops (notably at

Cheesefoot Head and Beacon Hill);

• A strong sense of remoteness and tranquillity away from the major transport routes (M3, A31, A272)

which cross the landscape;

• Large number of prehistoric and later earthworks, long barrows and round barrows, providing a

strong sense of historical continuity;

• Good public access with a network of public rights of way, including the South Downs Way national

trail, and open access land at Magdalen Hill Down and St Catherine’s Hill;

• Sparse settlement including medieval village of Chilcomb and isolated farmsteads of 18th-19th

century, with more modern buildings along the B3404 on the edge of Winchester;

• Panoramic views from Cheesefoot Head and from St Catherine’s Hill across the Itchen Valley;

• Large open skies ensure that weather conditions are a dominant influence creating a dynamic,

moody landscape, particularly on higher ground; and

• The area forms an important eastern setting to Winchester.”

HLCA 8H: East Dean Open Downs


• “Elevated chalk upland, dominated by Upper Chalk;

• Strongly rolling landform with gently domed hill tops, dry valleys and scarps eroded into rounded

spurs and combes;

• Wide open views over rolling downland and arable farmland and panoramic views from scarp

slopes and valley sides;

• Remnant chalk grassland is an important habitat on the steep slopes of the scarps and also at

Critchell’s Green;

• Field pattern dominated by large rectangular fields typical of 18th and 19th century enclosure with

some remnant small scale medieval patterns in the east;

• Little development – settlement mainly comprising a dispersed pattern of isolated farmsteads;

• Varied vernacular built form includes red brick, flint, stone and render with roofs of tile and thatch

accessed by narrow lanes; and

• A peaceful, tranquil and secluded rural landscape.”



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HLCA 13A: Clere Scarp and Greensand Terrace


• “Distinct escarpment formed by the Middle Chalk an a narrow belt of Upper Greensand;

• Visually prominent dramatic steep scarp marking the change from lowland heaths to the chalk

upland and forming a smooth, flowing open skyline;

• Landscape of contrasts comprising open rolling downland and enclosed wooded steep slopes;

• Pastoral land use on steep slopes with predominantly arable on shallower slopes interspersed with

woodland (broadleaved and plantation);

• Diverse woodland cover including beech hangers, coombe woodland and areas of scrub

regeneration;

• Nationally-designated habitats, including floristically-rich grassland and ancient woodland contribute

to the biodiversity of the area;

• Highly visible archaeological remains including Bronze Age tumuli and Iron Age hillforts;

• Sparse settlement including Old Burghclere and Sydmonton and isolated farm buildings;

• Narrow lanes climb slopes orientated mainly north-south and sometimes sunken (reflecting historic

drove roads);

• Wayfarers Walk long distance route and open downland provide access;

• Areas of historic parkland and gallops; and

• Quiet, rural, empty character with high scenic quality designated AONB and with memorable long

distance views.”

Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment, 20056

WLCT 2: Wooded Downland

2.31 The key characteristics of this LCT are:

• “Elevated chalk upland, dominated by Upper Chalk with a capping of Clay-with-Flint with

escarpments of Upper, Middle and Lower Chalk.

• Strongly rolling landform with gently domed hill tops, dry valleys and dramatic scarps eroded into

rounded spurs and deep combes.

• Contrasts between wide open views of rolling downland, to large scale ‘rooms’ of arable farmland

enclosed by woodland, to panoramic views of the valleys and plateaus from the scarp slopes and

valley sides.

• The steeply rising scarp slopes are visually dominant in the surrounding lowland areas, enriched by

highly visible historic features such as the Fovant badges and Neolithic hill forts and barrows.

• Varying mix of two dominant land cover elements – the open arable fields and the woodland blocks

and belts, which are linked and unified by the network of hedgerows and hedgerow trees.

• Tree cover includes shelterbelts, copses and ancient and secondary semi-natural woodland,

wooded pasture and parkland, much of it founded on the Royal Hunting Forests of Savernake,

Cranborne Chase and Chute.

• Remnant chalk grassland is an important habitat on the steep slopes of the scarps and valley sides.

• Field pattern dominated by large rectangular fields typical of eighteenth and nineteenth century

enclosure with some remnant small scale medieval patterns close to villages.

• Historic parks and designed landscapes, many originating as medieval deer parks or as parts of the

Royal Hunting Forests.

6 Wiltshire Council Council. (2005). Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/planning-landscape-conservation

http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/planning-landscape-conservation



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• Low density scattered settlement of farmsteads and occasional villages often sheltering in the

valleys.

• Varied vernacular built form includes redbrick, flint, stone and render with roofs of tile and thatch.

• Network of lanes often rising up the dry valleys linking the high downs to the lowlands, with sunken

shady lanes in some more wooded zones plus a few main roads crossing the areas.

• Frequent Bronze Age and Iron Age monuments such as hill forts and barrows situated on scarps

and hill tops forming very visible and distinctive features.

• A peaceful, tranquil and secluded rural landscape, with sheltered enclosed woodland areas

contrasting with more open, remote downland and steep uninhabited scarps.”

2.32 The strategy for the LCT is identified as:

“The strategy for the Wooded Downland is to conserve the highly rural, peaceful character of the type with

its highly distinctive and varied topography with landcover of woodland and arable mix, grassland scarps

and valleys with small sheltered villages and sparse scattered farmsteads. Elements requiring restoration

are field boundaries and hedgerow trees.”

WLCA 2B: Chute Forest

2.33 The LCA is described as follows:

“Chute Forest is underlain by the Upper Chalk, capped by clays and with varied topography of high rolling

hills cut by steep sided dry valley, scarps and dramatic combes. Extensive woodland cover is associated

with the Clay-with-Flint covered summits with large blocks of woodland on the higher areas and long

sinuous hangers clinging to the slopes of the steep combes where they are intermixed with pasture. The

farmland woodland mosaic also includes areas of arable land, and parkland and estate farmland provide

further variation as at Conholt Park. The woodlands range from areas of ancient woodland to more recent

mixed plantations and shelterbelts with ash/field maple dominating the more calcareous soils, whilst the

acidic clays support birch/pedunculate oak. Hedgerows with hedgerow trees link the woodland blocks and

vary from strong and full to low, flailed and gappy in places. The area is sparsely populated, with small

villages and hamlets sheltering in the folds of the chalk topography particularly on the south facing slopes,

for example the Chutes, as well as scattered isolated farmsteads and mansions (Conhault). Buildings in

the area are predominantly of brick and flint, roofed with tile. Harder chalk was sometimes used in walls,

and some older buildings retain timber framing, chalk cob and thatch. An intricate network of rural lanes

winds across the area and there are few main roads so that the Chute Forest retains a tranquil rural

character despite its proximity to Andover and Tidworth.”

WLCA 2C: Witherington Wooded Downland


“Witherington Wooded Downland is founded on Upper Chalk, with its rolling landform of hills and dry

valleys descending to north and west to the valleys of the River Dun and River Avon. The area is known

locally as the Pepper Box. To the east of the area the chalk is capped in places by Clay with Flints and

here woodland blocks such as Gatmore Copse and Mean Wood together with smaller sinuous woodland

blocks and variable hedgerows create a more enclosed character contrasting with the large scale open

arable fields to the north of the area. Amidst the woodland farmland mosaic the scarp slopes of Dean Hill

and Brickworth Down (SSSI) retain areas of chalk grassland, scrub and woodland of ash, oak and yew of

high nature conservation value. The centre of the area is sparsely settled with just a few scattered

farmsteads while the edge of the area contains the margins of villages set in the adjacent valleys such as

West Dean and Downton with their brick, stone and flint buildings. Just a small number of lanes and the

A36 cross the area and the Witherington Wooded Downland retains a peaceful, highly rural character

away from this one main road.”

WLCT 3: High Chalk Plain


• “Very large scale and open, exposed landscape.



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• Rolling plateau land form with panoramic views over the surrounding lowlands creating a sense of

elevation.

• Large regular arable fields are bounded mainly by ditches or fences with occasional hedgerows.

• Steep and incised slopes down to the surrounding river valleys.

• Extensive areas of chalk grassland and scrub occur on the northern and central parts of the area

under military ownership with arable farmland around the periphery.

• Copses and woodland belts, at various stages of growth occur throughout the area with sinuous

older plantations contrasting with more recent tree planting in geometrical blocks.

• Proliferation of military signage and posts along the numerous tracks that cross the area.

• Rich ecology particularly the numerous extensive and intact areas of chalk grassland.

• Archaeological remains and sites of historic importance, particularly the Neolithic monuments of

Stonehenge and Old Sarum.

• Settlement limited to a scattering of small villages and military installations including camps and

abandoned or specially constructed villages used by the army for training operations.”


“The management strategy for the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type is to conserve the open and isolated

character of the plain along with the vast areas of calcareous grass land and sites of historic interest.”

WLCA 3B: Salisbury Plain East


“Salisbury Plain East is an area of High Chalk Plain rising up from the river valleys to the east and west.

As with other areas within the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type, a vast proportion of the area is MOD

land and has not been cultivated for many years, allowing for large scale calcareous grassland

recolonisation of high ecological value. Juniper scrub is frequent throughout the area, as are clumps of

trees and some more extensive areas of woodland, such as Everleigh Ashes. In recent years however,

there has been some extensive tree clearance particularly in connection with the Life project to restore

and manage the calcareous grassland. Settlement is more apparent in this area than the other areas of

the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type. Two large military camps at Bulford and Tidworth extend up out of

the Nine Mile and Bourne Valleys. There is also a group of settlements to the east of the area including

Ludgershall and Tidworth. Other military sites include rifle ranges and Boscombe Down Airfield which

occupies a large area of flat ground to the south of the area. Sites of historic and archaeological interest

are frequent throughout the area, including the Iron Age fort on Sidbury Hill. Despite the settlement and

areas of woodland which create some more intimate areas, Salisbury Plain East retains its vast scale and

sense of isolation and exposure.”

WLCA 3C: Porton Down


“The smallest area within the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type, Porton Down is an area of High Chalk

that straddles the Wiltshire border to the west of the county. The area is effectively divided into two by the

A30. North of the A30 the MOD land is predominantly calcareous grassland with some scattered clumps

of trees and is relatively inaccessible. South of the A30 the land is generally in private ownership and is

arable with a more formal network of hedgerows and trees creating a more intimate and less exposed

landscape.”

WLCT 14: Forest Heathland Mosaic


• “Gently undulating landform based on London and Reading Clay Formations and Bagshot Sand.

• A peaceful enclosed landscape of extensive woodland cover with intermittent views though to more

open areas.



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• Complex landscape comprising broadleaved and coniferous woodland, wood-pasture, heath,

grassland and farmland offering a range of habitats.

• Pastoral and arable fields are bounded by full hedgerows and hedgerow trees.

• Substantial areas of woodlands of diverse and rich ecological value including ancient woodland,

beech, high oak and wet woodland.

• Fragments of lowland bog and formerly extensive heath survive.

• Presence of mansions and historic parklands particularly former deer parks.

• A settled landscape with large villages, frequent small clusters of buildings along roads and a

distinctive pattern of dense linear settlement fringing commons to the south.

• Buildings of red brick, tile and thatch.

• Shaded lanes, sometimes sunken, wind their way though the wooded areas, plus the busy A36

passes though the type.”


“The landscape strategy is to conserve the peaceful rural and enclosed nature of the area and its rich

diversity of woodland, wood pasture, parkland, heathland and pastoral and arable farmland along with the

settlement pattern of scattered farmsteads, roadside cottages, villages and dwellings alongside commons

linked by rural roads.”

WLCA 14A: Farley Forest-Heathland Mosaic


“Farley Forest-Heathland Mosaic forms a patchwork of woodland and medium sized geometric fields. The

area contains part of the ancient forest of Clarendon which was centred on Clarendon Palace, the remains

of which sit at the north west of the area. Although some areas of ancient woodland survive, the extensive

areas of woodland are now predominately 19th century and post war plantations. There is also parkland

with the remnants of the deer park of Clarendon Palace and the later parkland associated with Clarendon

House. Fields are generally pastoral, although some are in a grass/arable rotation, and are bounded by

thick hedgerows with numerous hedgerow trees. The village of Alderbury merges with Whaddon to form a

large linear settlement while to the north east of the area there is the substantial village of Middle

Winterslow linked by scattered roadside settlement to nearby East and West Winterslow. Elsewhere

settlement is limited with small nucleated villages occurring in clearings. Buildings are generally traditional

in style and built of red brick although there has been modern infill. A network of rural roads and shady

sunken lanes wind through the area connecting the villages and farmsteads.”

WLCT 15: Greensand Vale


• “Underlain by Upper Greensand with a series of low undulating foothills of Lower Chalk flanking the

vale sides.

• Broad, low lying, level vale, becoming gently undulating as it narrows to the east.

• Contained and enclosed by the dramatic escarpments of chalk upland to either side.

• Varied land cover with pasture along tributaries and arable in medium to large fields enclosed by

hedgerows.

• Chalk foothills in arable land use with very open large scale fields.

• Weak hedgerow structure with few hedgerow trees and boundaries replaced by fencing.

• Threaded by numerous minor streams draining to the headwaters of the River Avon, lined by

riparian vegetation with strips of alder and willow and some important wetland habitats - meadow,

marsh and wet woodland.

• A settled landscape with compact small towns, clustered villages, hamlets and many dispersed

residential and farm buildings.



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• Built form includes soft red brick and flint, often used in decorative styles, limestone, sarsen, cob

and timber frame, with roofs of thatch or clay tile.”


“The overall strategy for the Greensand Vale Landscape Type is to conserve and improve the rural,

agricultural character of the vale, maintaining the pattern of discrete small villages set within a quiet rural

landscape. This includes the pattern of hedgerows, streams, and remnant waterside pastures, wet

meadows and woodlands and historic features such as parkland and the traditional structures associated

with the Kennet and Avon canal corridor. There are opportunities for creation of new riparian woodlands,

hedgerow planting and restoration of waterside pasture. The clear skylines and backdrop of the

surrounding slope should be maintained.”

WLCA 15A: Vale of Pewsey

2.44 The Greensand Vale LCT consists of this single LCA, and the description of the LCA is therefore provided

above.

Berkshire Landscape Character Assessment, 20037

BLCT D: Chalk Scarp


• “Dramatic steep chalk scarp landform, including Walbury Hill – the highest point in Berkshire.

• Remote and exposed ridgeline with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

• Prominent local landmark.

• Numerous features of historical and archaeological importance.

• Distinctive pattern of land use with sheep-grazed pasture on the scarp slope and steep combe

valley sides and arable on the combe valley floors and base of slopes.

• Varied field pattern with large-scale Parliamentary fields at base of scarp, in contrast to more

irregular-shaped fields on steeper valley sides.

• Woodland cover including beech hangars, blocks of oak woodland, combe woodlands and

coniferous plantation.

• Important floristically-rich chalk grassland habitat.

• Relatively unsettled with scattered and isolated farmsteads.

• Recreational routeways and visitor facilities located along the ridge-top.”

2.46 The landscape strategy for the LCT is identified as:

“The landscape strategy for the Chalk Scarp is to conserve and restore the special qualities of this upland

landscape. In particular this will necessitate conservation of the diversity of the landscape with its mosaic

of woodland, biodiversity, archaeological interest, clear skyline, panoramic views and special sense of

remoteness.”

BLCA D1: Walbury Hill

2.47 The Chalk Scarp LCT consists of this single LCA, and the description of the LCA is therefore provided

above.

7 Berkshire County Council. (2003). Berkshire Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: https://info.westberks.gov.uk/lca

https://info.westberks.gov.uk/lca



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3. District Level

Test Valley Borough Landscape Character

Assessment, 20188

TVLCA 5B: Middle Test Valley Floor

3.1 The key valued characteristics of this LCA are:

• “Multi braided water channels of clear spring water with even flows all year;

• Valley floor dominated by pasture, rough grassland and small woodlands;

• Variable density of trees alongside the river providing areas of enclosure as well as semi openness;

• Frequent patches of broadleaved woodland including carr woodland with alder and willow;

• Linear settlements located on first river terrace on the valley sides with road system that follow the

gravel terraces which define the transition from valley floor to valley sides;

• Traditional styles of built form include brick walls with thatch or clay tile roofs, and white render or

chalk cob walls. Larger older properties in Stockbridge include stone detailing;

• Settlements have a strong rural character with mainly hedgerows and low walls as property and

garden boundaries creating inter-visibility through the settlements

• A predominantly undeveloped valley floor, except for the distinctive historic settlement of

Stockbridge which provides a bridging point over the River Test;

• As a part of the River Test valley system, this area is of particular local importance and the area

most often referred to for its tranquillity and scenic, pastoral and cultural interest. Of particular note

are Romsey, Mottisfont, Stockbridge, the Mayfly pub at Leckford and Leckford Gardens, the trout

fishing and water birds, and the clean river and streams;

• The occasional single historic property within a simple open natural setting is located on the valley

floor and acts as a focal feature;

• Test Way (located on redundant railway line), sometimes within a wooded corridor, provides access

along valley side;

• Undeveloped valley sides enhance remote rural character of this LCA;

• Large country houses on valley side with designed grounds partly on valley floor including areas of

parkland i.e. Bossington and park pales;

• Mottisfont a largely mid to late 20th century garden, although with 18th century origins and 19th

century additions, with formal features designed by Geoffrey Jellicoe and Norah Lindsay, which

surrounds an 18th century house formed from the buildings of a 13th century priory;

• Surviving common land within braided streams of the River Test, including Stockbridge Marsh;

• Surviving remains of bedwork water meadows upon the floodplain;

• Limited number of crossing points with narrow single rural lanes with no kerbs and small humped-

back bridges;

• Limited views across area, with strong sense of isolation and enclosure; and

• A landscape with a strong remote small scale undeveloped rural character.”

8 Test Valley Borough Council. (2018). Test Valley Borough Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: https://testvalley.gov.uk/planning-and-building/treesandlandscape/landscape-character-assessment-documents

https://testvalley.gov.uk/planning-and-building/treesandlandscape/landscape-character-assessment-documents



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3.2 The landscape strategy and guidelines for the LCA are:

• “The Middle Test Valley Floor remains strongly pastoral, undisturbed by modern development. The

area also retains a high level of tranquillity. This LCA contains an important part of the River Test

chalk stream SSSI and with nationally significant water meadows. The overall strategy is to

conserve the small scale traditional character of Middle Test Valley Floor and to protect and

enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 5C: Upper Test Valley Floor


• Multi braided water channels of clear spring water with even flows all year;

• Narrow, flat valley floor enclosed within rising valley sides creating a strong sense of intimacy and

tranquillity;

• Intimate pastoral with small scale water meadow landscape;

• Frequent patches of broadleaved woodland including carr woodland with alder and willow

• Remote rural character, with valley floor devoid of settlements;

• Occasional close views of River Test from adjacent road creates intimate relationship with river.

Also views from parallel valley roads across valley floor also maintains the awareness of the river

valley where the change in vegetation, and texture is particularly apparent against adjacent LCAs;

• Fords as river crossings, however sometimes unusable for vehicles;

• Well treed character of valley side roads;

• Simple character of cross valley roads with unmade edges and grass verges with key discreet

Humpback bridges;

• Occasional traditional building acts as focal feature, framed within natural landscape of the valley

floor;

• Settlements have a strong rural character with mainly hedgerows and low walls used as property

and garden boundaries creating inter-visibility through the settlements;

• As a part of the River Test valley system, this area is of particular local importance and the area

most often referred to for its tranquillity and scenic and pastoral interest. Of particular note is the

public access to the waterside via the pubs and villages that line the river;

• The older buildings are commonly timber, cob and thatch, with brick and flint. Both tiled and slate

roofs are used. Boundary walls are often brick and flint, or chalk cob with thatch or tile capping;

• Open setting and views of St Nicholas Church spire at Middleton;

• Open drainage ditches within Chilbolton adds to its river valley context;

• A mix of vegetation types adjacent the river providing areas of enclosure as well as openness;

• Dispersed linear settlements, including Wherwell, Chilbolton and Longparish, located on the first

river terrace on the adjacent valley sides. The village of Wherwell (a small part of which lies within

LCA5C), is a popular attraction and is considered particularly scenic;

• Road system that follows gravel terraces which define the transition from valley floor to valley sides;

• Surviving common land enclosed by the braided streams of the River Test and River Dever as at

Chilbolton Common and Bransbury Common;

• Surviving remains of catchwork water meadows upon the floodplain; and

• Test Way, sometimes within a wooded corridor, provides access along the valley.”

3.4 The key detractors of this LCA are:

• “Visual and noise intrusion from the A303;

• Amalgamation of fields with loss of field boundaries and replaced with arable fields;



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• Extension of domestic curtilage (gardens) causing loss of undeveloped valley floor riparian

landscape;

• Urban treatment of property boundaries, including gateways, degrading the rural quality of the area;

• Disused chalk pits perceived as wasteland;

• New large farm buildings visible on predominantly development free valley sides within adjacent

LCAs;

• Loss of some of the valley floor pastures, with their grazing cattle, into arable use and horse

paddocks with post and rail fencing, field stables and other equestrian structures;

• Creation of artificial lakes and ponds from areas of marshland for fishing, with lake sides and large-

scale buildings which are visually out of character within the predominantly undeveloped valley

floor;

• Overdevelopment of farmsteads, mills and detached properties with elaborate gateways reflecting a

more enhanced urban character;

• Engineered bank edges, rather than the typical loose natural water’s edge; and

• There is a general perception of a lack of opportunity to access the countryside. Even the Test Way,

which passes through the area, is not perceived as providing access to the river which is seen as

for a privileged few.”


• “The Upper Test Valley Floor is a particularly intimate landscape, with important historic and

ecological features forming an important part of the River Test chalk stream SSSI and containing

nationally significant water meadows. The overall strategy is to conserve the remote small scale

pastoral character of Upper Test Valley Floor and to protect and enhance the key valued

characteristics.”

3.6 The LCA notes that all the Borough wide and Landscape Character Type land management guidelines

apply to the LCA, as well as the following specific land management guidelines:

• “Maintain the largely development free stretches of the valley floor and its riparian vegetation

pattern;

• Management of the pollards and lines of poplar, which characterise some sections of the valley

floor;

• Where appropriate encourage new areas of woodland planting to mitigate visual detractors in

particular the A303(T) although without losing all of the views from the road itself;

• Conserve, enhance and manage riparian and associated habitats along the River Test and side

channels as guided by Natural England’s SSSI condition assessment;

• Protect the setting of historic settlements including the uninterrupted views of church spires

(Middleton church) and key buildings across the valley floor;

• Conserve the existing settlement form and settlement free character of the valley floor;

• Avoid increased suburbanisation arising from introduction of highway measures, which conflict with

the predominant rural character; and

• Improve the visual and acoustic containment of the A303.”

TVLCA 5G: River Dever Valley Floor


• “Small scale valley floor dominated by woodland and pasture creating a strong sense of enclosure,

contrasting with the open arable valley sides;

• Mosaic of carr woodland and pasture with dense hedgerow structure;

• Occasional water meadow – rare feature;



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• The varied perceptual experience along the River Dever; the valley floor of marshland (rough

texture) with parallel and more open fields of pasture set slightly higher on drier land, and

occasional enclosed woodland;

• Predominantly undeveloped valley floor, except for a number of properties and the dispersed

historic settlements of Bransbury and Lower Bullington;

• Roads across valley floor simple in character and predominantly single carriageways with soft

verges and humpback bridges;

• Valley roads are narrow single carriageways characterised by robust hedgerows and single mature

trees;

• Church at Lower Bullington provides village entrance feature, characteristically set on the first

gravel terrace up from valley floor;

• Traditional building style includes brick or brick and flint walls with clay tile and slate roofs;

• Intimate relationship with river, with the road running close to the river bank at a number of places in

particular at Bransbury; and

• Disused railway viaduct provides a striking structure which crosses the river at a number of points.”


• “Visual and noise intrusion from the A34 at the eastern end;

• Extension of gardens resulting in the loss of pastoral valley landscape;

• New buildings on the valley floor intruding into the undeveloped valley floor landscape;

• Fishing, with the loss of marshland to amenity grass river banks and artificial lakes. Also, the impact

of car parking areas and signage on the rural landscape character; and

• Spread of equestrian activity into simple areas of pasture with over use of post and rail fencing and

visually intrusive location of field stables.”


• “The River Dever Valley Floor is valued for its quiet seclusion in contrast to the surrounding open

arable landscape. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve the small-scale pastoral and

wooded character of the River Dever Valley Floor and to protect and enhance the key valued

characteristics.”



• “Reinforce existing local features of value and restore small scale field pattern;

• Retain extensive tracts of woodland;

• Maintain the contrast of a pastoral and wooded valley within the open arable valley sides;

• Conserve, enhance and manage mosaic of aquatic, riparian and associated wetter habitats along

the valley floor;

• Encourage management to reverse the decline in condition of the neutral grassland elements of the

SSSI;

• Protect the open setting of historic buildings especially Saint Michael and All Angels Church;

• Limit development in order to conserve the existing settlement form and largely settlement-free

character of the valley floor;

• Protect the historic focus around the Church, Church Farm and Bullington Manor; and

• Encourage appropriate measures to reduce the visual and noise impact of the A34.”



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TVLCA 5H: Pillhill Brook Valley Floor


• “Shallow valley, with a small scale intimate riparian landscape character;

• Mixed vegetation character with predominantly undeveloped areas of woodland, scrub, pasture and

marsh grassland;

• Poplar, willow and alder lined watercourses;

• Upper reaches contain a seasonal winterbourne set within a predominantly open pastoral

landscape;

• Middle reaches of Pillhill Brook characterised by riverside vegetation;

• A high density of roads/lanes allowing views across valley floor to river and valley floor;

• Some areas have good public access, by means of Public Rights of Way to Pillhill Brook;

• Traditional buildings are commonly half-timbered and thatched, or brick and tile;

• Small scale traditional watercress cultivation and associated beds;

• Evidence of water meadows as at Fyfield and miscellaneous enclosures, watercress beds and the

partial enclosure of land within parliamentary field systems;

• Enclosure by landform and undeveloped valley sides (outside this LCA) creates areas of rural

simplicity away from the close urban conurbation of Andover;

• Settlements located at crossings points, i.e. Monxton and Abbotts Ann;

• Historic rural settlements with single carriageways and soft road verges, soft boundary treatment

(i.e. hedgerows) allowing inter-visibility and humped back bridges;

• An occasional traditional small property on valley floor creates attractive focal feature within

traditional valley floor landscape;

• The small open green at Amport, with traditional buildings around periphery orientates itself towards

Pillhill Brook; and

• Frequent views to village churches adjacent river floodplain.”


• “The Pillhill Brook Valley Floor is noted for its varied pattern of riverine landscapes which contrast

with the adjacent open arable farmlands and separate the settlements along its course. The overall

strategy is therefore to enhance and restore the small scale riverine landscape features and

maintain the separation and identity of the villages within the Pillhill Brook Valley Floor and to

protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 5J: Lower River Anton Valley Floor


• “Braided river, with the main tributary meandering across the valley floor;

• Open valley floor dominated by pasture creating a strong rural character;

• Land use predominantly pasture or meadow grassland;

• Poplar, willow and alder lined watercourses;

• Visible from adjacent LCA and seen as an area of contrast in texture, plants and overall landscape

character;

• Settlements centred on crossing points as at Goodworth Clatford, with historic village cores

straddling the River Anton;

• Crossing points have a simplistic rural character for example east of Upper Clatford the road

includes a single carriageway, narrow humped back bridge. Another crossing point at Goodworth

Clatford includes a ford and pedestrian bridge;



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• Villages have a strong rural character, with hedgerows, low walls and railings used as property

boundaries allowing an inter-visibility across the area;

• Older properties are commonly half-timbered and thatched but the most widespread materials are

brick and flint. Clay tiles and chalk cob are also common features;

• Open setting for All Saints Church within floodplain;

• Survival of valley floor enclosures and water meadows, which are nationally rare features;

• Tranquillity and a sense of remoteness, can be experienced on the Public Right of Way, north of the

river; and

• Although this LCA is in close proximity to Andover it has a strong sense of a rural character which is

very separate from the Andover’s urban character.”


• “The Lower River Anton Valley Floor contains nationally rare water meadows and is noted for its

strong pastoral character with scattered settlement. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve

the intimate pasture and water meadow landscape and its contrast with the adjacent open arable

farmlands and to protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 6B: Compton with Parnholt and Michelmersh Woods


• Undulating chalk downland topography;

• Distinctive dry valleys;

• Large incidence of woodland, semi - natural and plantation, often sinuous following the line of

steeper slopes;

• Pockets of unimproved calcareous grassland;

• Variety of shelter belts and hedgerows;

• Good covering of Public Rights of Way;

• There is a clear distinction between the upland assarted field systems (the result of forest

clearance) and the valley side landscape where parliamentary and prairie fields abound. This

difference represents historically different approach to farming within the topography of the Test

Valley;

• Well-dispersed farmsteads and little settlement;

• Narrow winding lanes;

• Far-reaching views;

• Enclosure and remoteness;

• Quietness and tranquillity away from A3057; and

• Traditional building styles are brick walls with clay tile roof.”


• “The Compton with Parnholt and Michelmersh Woods is most important for the extent and quality of

its woodlands. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve the existing pattern of woodland and

open fields within Compton with Parnholt and Michelmersh Woods whilst enhancing other habitats

and extant historic features and to protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 6C: Little Somborne Wooded Downs


• “Undulating chalk downland topography rising to local landmark at Stockbridge Down and Woolbury

Hill;



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• Popular area of open access land with characteristic chalk downland at Stockbridge Downs

(National Trust);

• Far-reaching panoramic views from Stockbridge Downs;

• Sense of enclosure created by large areas of woodland; semi-natural and plantation and relatively

intact hedgerow structure;

• Long sinuous wooded scarps;

• Open pasture;

• Thick shelter belts and hedgerows of varying thickness;

• Extensive parliamentary enclosure of fields;

• Survival of prehistoric landscape elements upon Stockbridge Down;

• Sparsely-settled landscape with a winding network of rural lanes;

• The sense of quiet remoteness and tranquillity;

• Farmsteads and large houses associated with the River Test valley;

• Dispersed farmsteads on higher ground;

• Traditional building styles are brick and brick and flint walls with clay tile roofs; and

• Marsh Court.”


• “The area is valued for its quiet and tranquillity, which is threatened by its increasing popularity for

recreational use. The overall strategy is to conserve the quiet and undisturbed combination of

woodland and open pasture of the downs at Little Somborne Wooded Downs and to protect and

enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 6D: Harewood Forest Wooded Downs


• “Dry valleys of mixed chalk and flint aligning towards the Test Valley;

• Mainly covered with woodland;

• Wood pasture;

• Large arable fields enclosed by woodland or hedgerows mainly in the form shelter belts and

spinneys;

• Sparsely settled landscape;

• Strong feeling of enclosure with high levels of tranquillity in areas away from the A303;

• Good access with Public Rights of Way, including the Test Way;

• The character area is dominated by a large expanse of pre-1810 woodland which probably in

places dates back to medieval period;

• Limited assarting has taken place principally focused around the valley slopes above Longparish;

• Roman Road thought to extend through Harewood Forest;

• Middleton House parkland; and

• Traditional building styles are brick walls with clay tile roofs.”


• “Intrusion from busy A303.”




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• “The Harewood Forest Downs is both locally valued and also an important feature of the Test Valley

Borough landscape. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve and enhance the wooded

character and hedgerow structure of Harewood Forest Downs and protect and enhance the key

valued characteristics.”



• “Maintain the extent and dominance of Harewood Forest;

• Encourage retention and restoration of historic field patterns;

• Maintain hedgerow pattern;

• Care to be taken in woodland management to avoid damage to archaeological features;

• Maintain and enhance the pattern of spinneys and shelterbelts;

• Encourage replanting of coniferous plantations with native broad-leaved trees;

• Conserve, and enhance remnants of chalk grassland and explore opportunities for reversion of

improved pasture / arable land to more species-rich calcareous habitats;

• Manage woodland where appropriate to encourage restoration of conifer plantations to native

broadleaved woodland, particularly within areas of plantations on ancient woodland sites (PAWS);

• Encourage woodland and hedgerow management and restoration to conserve and enhance the

local population of hazel dormouse;

• Maintain and enhance landscape setting to historic features and buildings;

• Retain medieval boundary to Harewood Forest;

• Maintain the existing form and character of the eastern edge of Wherwell;

• Ensure new and replacement residential buildings employ locally characteristic materials;

• Improve the visual and acoustic containment of the A303; and

• Seek opportunities to increase the recreational potential of Harewood Forest where this is not in

conflict with the protection of ecological or archaeological features.”

TVLCA 6E: Amport Wooded Downs


• “Relatively flat landscape;

• Large blocks and belts of woodland;

• Medium to large scale arable fields;

• Parkland estates;

• Good hedgerow structure;

• Generally unsettled landscape except where it abuts the Pilhill Brook valley;

• Isolated rural character;

• Rural roads;

• Pockets of unimproved calcareous grassland;

• Pilhill Brook and associated ecology;

• Unbroken skyline around Amport enhancing appearance of surrounding high ground;

• Roman road;

• Brick and flint buildings;

• Remote and tranquil away from A343; and

• Historic landscape around Amport Park.”



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• “The area is distinguished by the higher woodland and hedgerow cover, in contrast with the

adjoining open chalklands. However, these qualities are being eroded and therefore the overall

strategy is to enhance and restore the woodland and hedgerow landscape structure of Amport

Wooded Downs and protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 6F: Rushmore Wooded Downs


• “Interesting chalkland scenery including coombs, ridges and dry valleys;

• Wooded sinuous scarps and small woodland copses;

• Remnants of unimproved calcareous grassland;

• Areas of rough grassland;

• Thick hedgerows with hedgerow trees;

• Mixed farming with field sizes ranging from medium to small;

• Settlements limited to well-dispersed farmsteads;

• Remnants of assarting within the north-western portion;

• A landscape with a good time depth. The downland is occupied by woodland and late

medieval/early post-medieval field systems. Only the lower valley slopes have been the focus of

19th century parliamentary enclosure;

• A particularly tranquil and remote area;

• A sheltered landscape with a diverse range of woodlands including shelterbelts, wooded pasture,

hangers, parkland, copses and ancient and secondary semi-natural woodland;

• A landscape with a great diversity with experiences ranging from intimate and enclosed to dramatic

and open;

• An intricate network of rural lanes; and

• Far-reaching views.”


• “The Rushmore Wooded Downs is typical of the wooded areas of the North Wessex Downs AONB

scarp landscape. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve and enhance the sense of intimate

seclusion and mix of woodland, hedgerows with trees and rough grassland within the Rushmore

Wooded Downs and protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 6G: Faccombe Wooded Downs


• “Dramatic topographical variation with scarps and dry valleys;

• Long sinuous wooded hangers on coomb slopes;

• Woodlands mainly small copses and spinneys except at Faccombe Wood;

• Extensive and connected woodland cover with intact hedgerows;

• Small winding lanes with an intimate remote character;

• Open ridges of arable land;

• Sparsely settled with very small villages and farmsteads found on higher ground;

• Extensive assarting of what appears to have been an extensively wooded landscape during the

later medieval and early post-medieval period;

• Survival of replanted assarted pre-1810 woodland at the southern limit of this character area;



35


contrasting with more open, remote summits;

• Intricate network of winding rural lanes including characteristic sunken lanes overhung by deep

grassy banks and woodland;

• Small areas of unimproved chalk grassland;

• Faccombe Manor parkland;

• Presence of possible prehistoric field systems or settlement within Faccombe Wood; and

• The built form includes harder chalk sometimes used in walls, brick and flint, chalk cob and thatch,

with some older buildings retaining timber.”


• “The Faccombe Wooded Downs is typical of the wooded areas of the North Wessex Downs AONB

scarp landscape on the edge of open downland. It is noted for its woodland seclusion within a

varied topography. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve and enhance the wooded slopes

and farmland mosaic of Faccombe Wooded Downs and protect and enhance the key valued

characteristics.”

TVLCA 7A: Ashley Downs


• “Small but dramatic wooded scarps, with remnants of unimproved chalk grassland;

• Remote steep dry valleys;

• Large tracts of open arable fields;

• Patches of woodland linked by hedgerows;

• Remote rural and tranquil landscape;

• Narrow single-track rural winding lanes, sometimes sunken;

• Distinctive mature Yew tree standards in hedgerows;

• Well-dispersed farmsteads and small settlement of Ashley, otherwise built form is limited;

• Landscape generally displays extensive areas of parliamentary enclosure although some evidence

of assarting and pre-1810 woodland survives;

• A Roman road extends through the area with evidence fossilized in the road network and also does

survive as upstanding earthworks in Combe Bottom;

• Key views include far-reaching views from high ground and views to undeveloped skylines and

wooded scarps;

• Clarendon Way runs through the area; and

• Traditional building styles include brick, white rendered and brick and flint walls with clay tile and

thatched roofs.”


• “The Ashley Downs is distinguished by its wooded scarp slopes and open arable landscape. The

overall strategy is therefore to enhance the landscape structure of the arable areas and conserve

the pattern of woodland on the scarps within Ashley Downs and protect and enhance the key


TVLCA 7C: Linkenholt Downs


• “Varied downland topography of steep valleys with softer ridges, dry V-shaped river valleys and few

scarps;



36

• Small copses and spinneys are linked together across the landscape by thick hedgerows and, in

places, shelter belts;

• Remnants of unimproved calcareous grassland;

• Large tracts of open arable land with smaller fields close to settlements;

• Small hedged arable fields in the west;

• A remote landscape, with a number of inaccessible valleys;

• Well-dispersed farmstead pattern;

• Formal and informal open spaces within and on the edges of Vernham Dean provide attractive leafy

recreation areas and contribute to the rural setting of the village;

• Historic landscape features associated with Manors including parkland trees;

• Network of rural single-track lanes often bound by hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees;

• Long-reaching rural views to wooded ridges; and

• Predominantly medieval settlement pattern only modified at Linkenholt.”


• “The Linkenholt Downs is typical of the delicate balance between woodland and open arable land

found within the North Wessex Downs AONB. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve this

balance and to enhance the woodland and hedgerow structure of Linkenholt Downs and protect

and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 8A: Tangley and Doles Wood


• “Soft ridges of clay and flints overlaying the chalk;

• Intricate patchwork of smaller arable and pasture fields with linking hedgerows and shelterbelts in

the west;

• Open arable landscape allows open views across the landscape including long uninterrupted views

from exposed areas of high ground;

• Extensive blocks of woodland in the east;

• Complex network of narrow and winding rural lanes;

• Large tracts of secluded and remote countryside, which have high levels of tranquillity away from

the main roads;

• Regular fields with wavy boundaries dominate the area to the east of the Roman Road and south of

Hatherden House;

• A Roman road crosses this area in a north west - south east direction clearly influencing the pattern

of the local landscape;

• Parkland landscape of Tangley Park and Hatherden Park;

• Distinctive regular ladder fields appear to be associated with Tangley Park;

• Local vernacular buildings are typically brick and flint with tile, but also include timber framing and

chalk cob and thatch;

• Low ridges provide a backdrop to the villages;

• The villages are often characterised by open green spaces, hedge boundary treatments and trees

within public spaces and gardens which blend with, and provide an important contribution to, the

wider landscape character; and

• Separation between Andover and Enham Alamein.”




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• “Tangley and Doles Wood is valued for its strong sense of tranquillity away from the main roads and

for its extensive woodland cover. The overall strategy is to conserve and enhance the quiet rural

character and distinctive variety of Tangley and Doles Wood and protect and enhance the key


TVLCA 9A: North Andover Plateau


• “Complex plateau landscape with dry river gravel valleys and gentle ridges;

• Contrasting open areas of arable farmland with shelter belts on higher ground;

• Well hedged mix of mainly pasture associated with settlements;

• Important countryside gaps between Andover and other settlements;

• Mixed historic landscape displaying good survival of early post-medieval field systems along the

southern border of this character area and also through its central portion;

• Significant influence from the country houses and associated parklands and woodlands present

within this character area;

• Numerous small woodland copses;

• Close relationship between parkland and settlements;

• 19th century parliamentary enclosure in the east of this character area;

• Pre-1810 woodland survives close to Bourne Park in the north eastern portion of this character

area;

• A Roman Road extends through this area for a short distance;

• Distinction of farmstead distribution varying from east to west;

• A tranquil landscape away from Andover;

• Local buildings are typically brick and flint with clay tile roofs;

• Extensive views from the network of public rights of way and lanes running through the area

including to undeveloped skylines of ridges and wooded horizons;

• Village greens and village playing fields with mature trees such as at Appleshaw Village; and

• Rural character of lanes criss-crossing the landscape linking the settlements and farmsteads.”


• “The proximity of North Andover Plateau to Andover and the openness of the landscape make this

character area particularly vulnerable to visual intrusion from any urban expansion or new urban

fringe development. The overall strategy is to enhance the varied landscape structure and rural

character of North Andover Plateau and seek opportunities to create a stronger edge treatment to

the settlements through appropriate planting and protect and enhance the key valued

characteristics.”

TVLCA 10B: King’s Somborne Chalk Downland


• “Typical chalk downland with big skies, long open views, uninterrupted skylines and a simple

character;

• Gently undulating landform with dry ‘V’ shaped valleys and smooth ridges including a number of

smooth domed hills;

• Additionally, contained areas with views to local smooth ridges further characterised by woodlands

and individual trees;

• Some well hedged pasture fields and mature trees which form a feature of the periphery of

settlements and adjacent farmsteads;



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• New woodlands are a feature within the north of this LCA, providing interest within this

predominantly open arable landscape;

• Dispersed compact farmsteads, characterised by mature trees which sit neatly within the

landscape;

• Traditional building style includes brick and white rendered walls with clay tile roofs;

• Simple single carriageways with soft grass verges enclosed by native managed hedgerows; and

• Good network of Public Rights of Way, including the Clarendon Way.”


• “King’s Somborne Chalk Downland is distinguished by its openness and more limited vegetation

cover. The overall strategy is therefore to conserve the openness whilst restoring a pattern of

hedgerows and small woodland copses across the downs at King’s Somborne Chalk Downland and

to protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 10C: Thruxton and Danebury Chalk Downland


• “An elevated gently undulating area of very open chalk downland, dominated by arable farming;

provides opportunities and experiences for long views with big expansive skies and wide views,

which also provides a development free backdrop and contrast to the adjacent LCT5: River Valley

floors;

• Enclosed, historic routeways, e.g the public right of way leading south from Broughton Road to

Houghton Down Farm;

• Small hills including Danebury Hill, Bury Hill and Chattis Hill create interest on the skyline, as well

as opportunities for viewing across the landscape as many have good public access;

• Danebury Hill Fort is recognised as a key landscape feature of the area and the Borough;

• Broughton is noted for its distinctive ‘town like’ character of narrow streets and dense but varied

housing styles. The good architectural mix is valued;

• Local buildings are predominately brick and flint with clay tiled roofs;

• A few isolated woodlands and shelter belts which traverse the landform;

• Woodlands within adjacent LCAs create wooded horizons;

• Disused chalk pits often overgrown forming small woodland copses within the open arable

landscape;

• Properties found in commanding positions on elevated ridges, characterised and framed by mature

trees;

• Some areas of pasture and hedgerows on the periphery of older settlements reduce their visibility

within the open landscape;

• The lack of visibility of settlements within the southern section of this LCA, creates a strong feeling

of remoteness;

• Parklands occasionally found on the edge of settlements provide diversity;

• Longstock Park a rich area of parkland;

• Good network of public rights of way;

• Largely a landscape dominated by 19th century parliamentary enclosure;

• Number of large villages in the north of the area associated with dry valleys; and

• Several popular and attractive villages and focal points including Amport, Abbotts Ann, Broughton,

Bury Hill, Danebury Hill Fort, Goodworth Clatford, Upper Clatford, and the Wallops.”



39


• “The Thruxton and Danebury Chalk Downland is an open homogenous area of national importance

for its unimproved grassland and woodland habitats and extant historic features. The overall

strategy is therefore to conserve the open views and its historic and ecological value whilst

restoring some of the landscape structural features of the downs at Thruxton and Danebury Chalk

Downland and to protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”

TVLCA 10D: Leckford and Chilbolton Downs


• “An elevated gently undulating area of very open chalk downland dominated by arable farming,

sloping down through a number of dry valleys to the River Test;


• Isolated small woodlands, sometimes associated with farmsteads;

• Shelter belts some of which are linked together provide some enclosure;

• West Down Nature Reserve;

• Elevated with ‘big skies’ and long views to clear ridges and skylines with the occasional wooded

horizon;

• Large areas of countryside development free, creating impression of remoteness;

• Individual farmsteads characterised by mature trees;

• Straight roads characterised by straight cut native hedgerows and individual mature yew trees;

some on the original alignment of Roman roads;

• Occasional seasonal winterbourne feeding into adjacent River Test or River Dever;

• Single-track lanes and lack of engineered edges maintains undeveloped rural landscape character;

• Villages characterised by mature trees; and

• Traditional building styles include brick and brick with flint walls with clay tiled roofs.”


• “Weak hedgerow structure within the arable landscape;

• Radio telescope at Chilbolton is visually prominent on horizon;

• Noise from A303 and firing range;

• Large scale industrial sheds at Leckford Diaries and located on local ridgelines;

• Visibility of development within the open landscape, with agricultural sheds intruding into skyline;

• Visibility of shooting range and associated buildings, signage, structures, masts and in particular

the artificial earth-bunds;

• Detached farm sheds away from farmsteads dilutes undeveloped surrounding landscape character;

and

• Ribbon development leading out of Barton Stacey is particularly urban in character and visible.”


• “The Leckford and Chilbolton Chalk Downs are valued for their open views and big skies. The

overall strategy is therefore to conserve the open rural character of Leckford and Chilbolton Chalk

Downs and to protect and enhance the key valued characteristics.”



• “Maintain sense of remoteness and tranquillity;

• Protect significant open vistas from visual intrusion;



40

• Protect the natural alignment and character of the winterbournes and their seasonal flow;

• Maintain the hedgerows, woodland structure and landscape features of value within the new areas

of vineyards;

• Protect the distinctive yew trees within the roadside hedgerows;

• Maintain the existing trees around isolated farmsteads, look for additional areas to further plant

trees around other isolated buildings, structures and clusters within the open downland landscape;

• Conserve and enhance the biodiversity of West Down;

• Protect and enhance the straight roads (Roman Roads) and elevated long views which can be

appreciated from them;

• Maintain the large swathes of development free areas as development free;

• Careful consideration to be given to the environmental impact of alternative uses for any redundant

MOD land;

• Propose improvements to the boundaries of existing MOD sites to reduce their influence on

surrounding undeveloped areas;

• Careful consideration to be given to the further expansion of Barton Stacey on the adjacent open

downland and its visual impact on the surrounding landscape character;

• Improve the existing settlement edge treatment of Barton Stacey with the use of tree planting and

hedgerows to help integrate and reduce the visual prominence of buildings on the adjacent open

undeveloped rural landscape;

• Any structures etc. associated with the potential oil or gas exploration, appraisal or extraction at

Crawley Down for oil and gas, should not impact on the surrounding rural landscape character. All

tall structures which are potentially visible from a wider area and areas of public access should be

avoided within this open landscape without appropriate mitigation;

• Seek opportunities to enhance roadside planting and minimise visual and noise intrusion;

• Avoid intrusive development of tall and large structures except where they can be successfully

integrated into the landscape;

• Maintain the single-track lanes with soft verges and hedgerows or grassy banks; and

• Avoid the introduction of pavements within the village settlements and other urbanising proposals.”

TVLCA 10E: Drayton Chalk Downland

3.45 The Site is located within this LCA.


• “An elevated downland landscape sloping down towards the River Test valley with views across the

River Test valley and beyond;

• Woodlands, often isolated. New woodlands, rectilinear in shape frequent in the north of this LCA;

• Eastern area characterised with hedgerows and a high density of hedgerow trees;

• Robust boxed hedgerows with mature yew trees aligning single carriageways;

• Traditional building styles include brick and brick with flint walls with clay tiled roofs;

• Redundant railway line demarcated within landscape as long woodland feature;

• Scheduled Monument – Andyke demarcated by a belt of trees;

• Iron Age hill fort (Tidbury Ring) present within the eastern portion of this character area; and

• Largely a landscape dominated by 19th century parliamentary enclosure.”


• “Weak hedgerow structure within arable landscape;



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• Large redundant army base with associated areas of disused hard standings (i.e. south of A303(T))

with semi wasteland character and now semi occupied by a mix of new land uses (e.g. shooting

school and driver training);

• Dominant road corridors of the A303(T) and A34, with large junction, noisy and in places visible

from adjacent landscape;

• Recycling/scrap facility on junction of A34 and A303(T);

• Telecommunication mast;

• Visible fields of solar panels; and

• Visible sewage works, with new taller structures.”


• “The Drayton Chalk Downland is a more disturbed area of open downland as a result of major

changes. The overall strategy is therefore to restore and create a pattern of woodland and

hedgerows, integrating both existing and any future development to help re-establish a quiet open

rural character to Drayton Chalk Downland and protect and enhance the key valued

characteristics.”



• Protect and enhance views to valued local landscape features and views from valued local features

to the surrounding landscape, e.g Tidbury Ring (west of A34);

• Enhance and manage the woodland structure across the redundant army base to create a

landscape of value;

• Maintain and manage the existing hedgerow trees and encourage the planting of Yew trees as

specimens;

• Collectively conserve, enhance and manage the mixed habitats across the redundant army base

camps;

• Explore the extent of existing rare arable plant populations and seek and implement opportunities to

secure the local viability of these species through the creation of and more sensitive management

of arable field margins and uncultivated strips;

• Protect the landscape setting to historic features such as Tidbury Ring and Andyke;

• Careful consideration to be given to the environmental impact of alternative uses for redundant

MOD land;

• Propose planting to help screen and integrate the sewage works and other visible detractors within

the open landscape;

• Seek opportunities to enhance roadside planting and minimise visual and noise intrusion from both

A34 and A303(T) considering valued views;

• Avoid intrusive development of tall and large structures except where they can be successfully

integrated into the landscape;

• Seek to minimise the visual intrusion and suburbanising effect arising from highway infrastructure;

and

• Look for opportunities to improve access, and the landscape setting for Tidbury Hill.

TVLCA 10F: Andover Chalk Downland


• “An elevated downland landscape sloping down towards the River Anton and Andover, with far

reaching views towards wooded horizons and to Danebury Hill;



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• Development free roads: Romsey Road and Winchester Road descending down to the River Test

valley. With long views across the River Anton valley to partially wooded horizons and Danebury

Down visible to the west;

• Rural lanes with single-tracks, thick hedgerows with mature trees and soft un-engineered verges;

• Traditional building styles include brick and brick with flint walls with clay tiled roofs;

• Two Roman roads, the Ickneild Way and Portway, extend through this area, characteristically

straight;


• Disused pits marked in the landscape as small woodland copses;

• Woodland copses located on ridges;

• Good public access from southern side of A303(T) out to countryside and Harewood Forest;

• Mackrel’s Down, typical downland landform; and

• Undeveloped character of Goodworth Clatford retains historic integrity.”


• “The Andover Chalk Downland is a fragmented and open landscape, with exposed views of the

edge of Andover. The overall strategy is therefore to enhance and re-create a landscape structure

of small woods and hedgerows within Andover Chalk Downland and to create new appropriate

landscape features to contain and integrate Andover into its landscape and protect and enhance

the key valued characteristics.”

Winchester District Landscape Character

Assessment, 20049

WNLCA 1: Hursley Scarplands


• “Distinctive topographical variation ranging from an east-west ridge in the north reaching 178m at

Farley Mount, falling to lower lying land in the south. In between there are a number of ridges,

scarps and valleys creating a topographically complex landscape;

• Upper Chalk geology, giving rise to thin calcareous soils, particularly to the north. To the south and

west it is overlain by some areas of clay with flints particularly on dip slopes where there is a

greater presence of tree cover;

• Predominance of arable fields influenced by informal enclosure of the 17th and 18th Centuries with

some parliamentary type enclosure of the 18th and 19th Centuries situated around villages such as

Compton & Shawford. Some later boundary loss in the 20th Century has also resulted in ‘prairie’

type fields at Pitt Down;

• Strong landscape structure provided by numerous small areas of ancient woodland, plantation

woodland, tree belts, hangers and hedgerows;

• Wooded beech and yew scarps and beech shelterbelts;

• Numerous historic features including Hursley Park, an 18th Century deer park (with its associated

estate type village of Hursley), Merdon Castle and Farley Mount;

• Important ecological habitats include calcareous grassland and juniper scrub associated with

scarps and numerous semi-natural ancient woodlands, many of which are designated SINC’s,

including the butterfly reserve at Yew Hill;

• Network of narrow winding and often sunken lanes to the south, lending an historical character to

the area;

9 Winchester City Council. (2004). Winchester District Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: https://www.winchester.gov.uk/planning/landscape---countryside/landscape-character-assessment

https://www.winchester.gov.uk/planning/landscape---countryside/landscape-character-assessment



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• Varied visual enclosure, ranging from the distinctive open fields to the north, to the more enclosed,

treed, undulating landscape of the south, all with a backdrop of woodland;

• Settlements concentrated close to main transport routes; the Hursley Road and the Otterbourne

Road. Other routes tend to be narrow and winding with the exception of Roman roads, for example

Sarum Road to the North; and

• Panoramic rural views from Farley mount, Farley church, Merdon castle. Views from Compton

Down to Winchester Cathedral.”

3.53 The landscape strategies for the LCA are:

• “Conserve and enhance downland pockets;

• Conserve and enhance juniper scrub. Survey and monitor regeneration rates;

• Conserve and enhance the structure and condition of woodlands, through appropriate traditional

woodland management, such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and edge management and

the restoration of plantations on ancient woodland sites to semi-natural communities;

• Restore and replant fragmented hedgerows in areas where there is a strong hedgerow network,

particularly to the southern and western parts of the area;

• Create and appropriately manage substantial expanses of permanent chalk grassland to reduce

threat to farmland birds, including the stone curlew, particularly to the north of the area;

• Restore and enhance the biodiversity of arable farmland by encouraging the retention of

conservation headlands, wildlife strips and grass strips around fields, and the increased use of

spring sown arable crops and retention of winter fallow fields;

• Monitor distinctive key species of chalk grassland (e.g. Juniper and butterflies) and declining

farmland birds to measure success of biodiversity strategy;

• Manage roadside verges which support chalk grassland appropriately;

• Encourage environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural practices, to minimise

fertiliser and soil run-off for example, which could lead to the pollution of watercourses and the

chalk aquifer;

• Conserve and enhance historic archaeological sites and their setting, such as Farley Mount,

Merdon Castle and Hursley Park;

• Conserve and restore the landscape and built features of Hursley Park as appropriate, in particular

through continued replacement tree planting, woodland management and the restoration of

pasture; and

• Conserve important long views to Winchester Cathedral, and other long views from high points.”

3.54 The built form strategies for the LCA are:

• “Resist visually intrusive development on elevated ridges, including large-scale farm structures and

telecommunications masts;

• Plant locally indigenous species to minimise the impact of visually intrusive buildings;

• Conserve local building materials such as red brick, white colour-washed brick, flint, clay tiles and

thatch, and promote their use in any new development;

• Conserve the distinct form and architectural character of Hursley in relation to the Hursley Park

Estate;

• New development should respect the existing building character in terms of materials and

architectural detail;

• Conserve the well-treed rural setting of village;

• New development should respect the traditional location of settlements within valleys and along and

the base of scarps;

• New development should respect the historic linear form of existing settlements.”



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WNLCA 2: Sparsholt Woodlands


• “High ridge to the south with land generally falling to the north-west (towards the Test Valley) and to

the north-east (to the Itchen Valley);

• Undulating well-drained chalkland landscape to the north-west of Winchester, forming part of the

setting of the City;

• Medium-scale arable landscape with a strong hedgerow network;

• Strong rural character, dominated by woodlands, in particular Crab Wood and West Wood (Farley

Mount Country Park);

• Medium-sized fields with straight boundaries to the north of the area created by formal agreement

at the time of parliamentary enclosures of the late 18th and 19th Centuries. Fields to the south have

less regular boundaries, associated with enclosure from the late medieval period and 18th Century;

• Influence of parkland landscape visually evident within central part of character area, dominated by

Lainston House;

• Important ecological habitats include a large block of mixed woodland including Crab Wood (SSSI),

with hazel coppice, rich ground flora, woodbanks and remnants of wood pasture with old pollarded

beech. Other woodland SINC’s including smaller ancient woodlands are found throughout the

northern part of the character area;

• A large area of calcareous grassland at Teg Down (SINC), now the Royal Winchester Golf Course,

including some species-rich areas on the scarp slope in the middle of the golf course;

• Fairly visually enclosed landscape due to the strong woodland and hedgerow structure;

• Littleton Stud, with its small enclosed paddocks; the dominant military character of Sir John Moore

Barracks and Teg Down golf course to the east of the character area have all modified a proportion

of the landscape in this area;

• Network of footpaths and narrow winding, often sunken, lanes lends an historical character to the

area;

• Numerous historical features, including Lainston Park and the ruins of St. Peters Church within its

grounds; Northwood Park; a roman villa in West Wood and numerous tumuli, many of which are

Scheduled Ancient Monuments; and

• The two main settlements at Sparsholt and Littleton are Saxon in origin and nucleated in form,

although the 20th Century development in Littleton is more linear.”


• “Conserve and enhance the structure and condition of woodlands and wood pasture, through

appropriate traditional woodland management, such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and

edge management, in order to conserve key species;

• Restore locally appropriate semi-natural communities through the replacement or enhancement of

plantations on ancient woodland sites;

• Restore and enhance hedgerow structures through replanting and appropriate management, using

locally indigenous species, to link existing semi-natural habitats;

• Monitor and minimise the impacts of modern non-agricultural land uses on the landscape and

enhance through appropriate siting and planting;

• Monitor key ancient woodland and woodland ride species to measure the success of the

biodiversity strategy;

• Conserve and enhance Historic Park landscapes through appropriate management plans, returning

arable to pasture and resisting inappropriate development;

• Restore and enhance the biodiversity of golf courses and arable farmland, by encouraging the

retention of conservation headlands, wildlife strips and grass strips around fields, and the increased

use of spring sown arable crops and retention of winter fallow fields; and



45

• Encourage environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural practices to reduce potential

for adverse effects on the underlying aquifer and the River Itchen and River Test.”


• “Conserve and respect the rural hill top locations of settlements in the area, set within their structure

of mature trees;

• Conserve and respect the nucleated form of Sparsholt and the linear form of Littleton;

• Integrate new development into the surrounding landscape through the use of locally indigenous

planting and appropriate siting and detailing;

• Conserve and promote the use of local building materials such as red brick, white colour-washed

brick, flint, clay plain tiles and long straw thatch; and

• Conserve and promote the use of traditional garden and parkland boundaries such as brick and flint

walls, palisade fencing, railings and non-coniferous hedging.”

WNLCA 3: Crawley Downs


• “A wide, open, gently rolling dry valley on a west-east alignment and forming part of catchment area

of a tributary of the River Test;

• Largely shallow, well-drained calcareous soils with a dry valley associated with gravel;

• Predominantly medium to large-scale arable fields with straight boundaries of low trimmed hedges.

Historically this was an area of downland that was enclosed by formal agreement at the time of

parliamentary enclosure in the 18th and 19th Centuries, followed by boundary loss in the 20th

Century;

• Woodland confined to the northern edge of the district, consisting largely of 19th Century

plantations (including Crawley Forest) and roadside shelterbelts;

• Historic 18th Century park of Crawley Court lies at the north-western extremity of the village of

Crawley;

• Key ecological habitats of nature conservation concern; declining farming birds, arable field margins

and a small group of semi-natural ancient woods in the west of the area, centred on Whiteberry

Copse;

• Visually contained to the north and south by the generally higher topography and higher proportion

of trees and woodland;

• Visually exposed landscape, with much of the area particularly visible from Sparsholt College;

• Distinctive straight roads with direct routes, such as the A272, which follows the course of a Roman

road;

• Crawley is the only settlement within the character area. The only other buildings are farmsteads

and associated cottages; and

• Crawley is situated in a sheltered dry valley and consequently has a linear form. It has a rural

character with the majority of buildings constructed using traditional construction methods and

materials such as flint, brick and long-straw thatch.”


• “Extend and reconnect links between existing isolated woodland and hedgerows, whilst retaining

the open character of the downland;

• Manage over-trimmed hedgerows and neglected leggy hedgerows appropriately and replant gaps

with locally indigenous species. Encourage the planting of new hedgerow trees and retention of

self-sown hedgerow saplings;

• Conserve and enhance the structure and condition of ancient semi-natural woodlands, through

appropriate traditional woodland management, such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and

edge management;



46

• Restore and enhance the biodiversity of arable farmland, by encouraging the retention of



• Restore over-mature shelter-belts;

• Create new broad-leaved woodlands on lower grades of agricultural land using locally indigenous

tree and shrub species;

• Create and appropriately manage substantial areas of permanent chalk grassland to reduce threat

to farmland birds, including the stone curlew;

• Monitor declining farmland birds to measure the success of the biodiversity strategy;

• Manage, appropriate, roadside verges which support chalk grassland; and


fertiliser and soil run-off for example, which could lead to the pollution of watercourses and the

chalk aquifer.”


• “Conserve the open rural character of the landscape by locating agricultural buildings close to

existing farm groups and on lower lying land avoiding skylines;

• Reduce the impact of modern agricultural buildings by using traditional materials or dark colours

and careful siting;

• Conserve the sheltered linear form of Crawley by encouraging residential dwellings to respond to

local character in terms of location, materials, built form and detailing;

• Local building materials such as red brick, white colour-washed brick, flint, clay tiles and long straw

thatch should be conserved, and their use promoted in new development;

• Traditional garden and parkland boundaries such as brick and flint walls, palisade fencing, railings

and non-coniferous hedging should be conserved, and promoted in any new development; and

• Conserve the intimate rural character of the narrow winding lanes and tracks by ensuring they are

not altered through inappropriate road improvements. Conserve the soft road verges.”

WNLCA 4: Wonston Downs


• Gently sloping and undulating topography, forming a relatively low-lying area of downland (50-110m

OD);

• Well-drained upper chalk geology, with minor deposits of clay with flints;

• Arable farmland predominates within the area, consisting of medium to large fields, many with

straight boundaries enclosed by formal agreement in the 18th and 19th Centuries, followed by 20th

Century boundary loss. These field patterns also include an area of regular ladder fields south of

Sutton Scotney;

• The habitats and species of greatest importance in this character area are associated with the

arable farmland, including the stone curlew;

• Woodland within the landscape character area is sparse and largely consists of 19th Century

plantation and shelterbelts, except for Bazeley Copse which is semi-natural ancient woodland,

typically consisting mainly of oak, ash, hazel and field maple;

• The remnant downland at Worthy Down, south west of South Wonston is diverse calcareous

grassland, supporting a distinctive vegetation community;

• A visually open and expansive landscape with long, panoramic views over the downs. Key views

are towards Winchester and over the Dever Valley;

• The South Wonston water tower is a key landmark within the character area;



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• A widely spaced network of straight roads, lanes and tracks providing access to the farms, together

with a limited rights of way system and public access. Some busy routes pass through the area,

including the Andover Road and the A34, originally Roman roads, and the railway;

• The area itself is relatively sparsely populated; the main settlement being South Wonston. However,

the influence of Winchester and Kings Worthy to the south and the intrusion of the main roads

create a more populated feel;

• South Wonston has a strong linear structure originating from the turn of the 20th Century, when the

local farmland was sold for development in one-acre plots. Other settlements consist mainly of

farmsteads and associated cottages; and

• The most notable historic features of this character area are the drove roads, which predominantly

run in an east west direction and connected Salisbury with Alresford and Alton, for moving animals

and more latterly as a route for gypsy hop-pickers. Also, numerous pre-historic barrows are

characteristic of the area.”


• Conserve the large and generally regular field pattern and wide panoramic views;

• Restore biodiversity throughout the extensive areas of intensive arable farming, for example by

returning some areas to calcareous downland, and planting indigenous species in shelterbelts;

• Conserve the structure and condition of the hedgerows and isolated woodlands and trees, which

contribute to the biodiversity and character of the landscape, through the use of indigenous tree

and shrub species and appropriate management;

• Conserve and enhance the isolated areas of ecological importance through appropriate

management plans, in particular Worthy Down chalk grassland and Bazeley Copse ancient

woodland and the surrounding land;

• Encourage environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural practices, to minimise use of

fertiliser, for example, which could lead to the pollution of watercourses and the chalk aquifer;



spring sown arable crops and retention of winter fallow fields, in particular to encourage arable

fields and restore populations of declining farmland birds;

• Restore areas of arable farmland to permanent chalk grassland, to achieve major biodiversity

benefits;

• Manage semi-natural roadside verges to maximise biodiversity;

• Conserve the historic drove roads;

• Conserve archaeological sites and their settings, from damage by ploughing; and

• Monitor presence of distinctive key species in seminatural grassland and farmland birds to measure

success of biodiversity strategy.”


• “Enhance views within the area through careful siting and use of appropriate materials for modern

farm buildings;

• Conserve the historic rural character of lanes, footpaths and drove roads throughout the area by

resisting any road improvements which would threaten these features;

• Retain the linear and compact form of South Wonston and integrate its edges where it is open to

the landscape, by planting with indigenous tree and hedge planting;

• Conserve the sparse scattered pattern of rural farm settlement; and

• Conserve and promote the use of traditional garden boundaries such as non-coniferous hedging.”



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WNLCA 5: Dever Valley


• “Distinctive enclosed valley topography, with sloping valley sides and relatively narrow valley floor,

located in a chalk downland setting;

• Alluvium and valley sand and gravel along valley floor, with loamy soil and upper chalk on valley

sides and beyond;

• Meandering watercourse in narrow, often braided channels, with associated ponds, watercress

beds and ephemeral headwaters;

• Valley floor generally consists of small pasture fields, with occasional remnants of historic water

meadows and a high proportion of woodland;

• Arable fields along upper valley sides, contiguous with surrounding arable downs;

• A number of small historic parks and associated houses on the south-facing valley side at the

western end of the Landscape Character Area. These are particularly associated with pasture and

ornamental tree species;

• The rivers rise in chalk with clear spring water supporting rich aquatic flora and fauna. Rich and

diverse habitats along floodplains including fen/carr/swamp/reedbed, and unimproved neutral

grassland/fen;

• Open river valley landscape with views out over open arable landscape and views of the river from

the valley sides, including either the watercourse or its associated vegetation;

• Valley-side lanes to north and south of river with regular cross-valley lanes. Footpaths connect

settlements;

• A well-treed railway embankment bisects the character area, carrying regular trains between

London & Southampton;

• Remote, tranquil character to the centre of the character area, although this is reduced by the A34

at its western end and the A33 and M3 at its western end;

• A relatively high concentration of small villages along the southern valley side, having developed at

river crossing points, often Anglo-Saxon in origin. Some, such as Wonston have developed in a

linear form, while others such as Sutton Scotney are nucleated. All villages retain a rural historic

character; and

• Scattered hamlets, historic parks and their associated farms are characteristic along the northern

valley side.”


• “Conserve and restore the loose structure of trees and woodland in the area, through appropriate

management, such as thinning, coppicing and replanting. Replanting should use locally indigenous

species, such as ash, willow and poplar on the valley floor, and oak and beech on the valley side.

This would also be an area suitable for the reintroduction of native black poplar, Populus nigra;

• Restore the field network through appropriate management and replanting of hedgerows.

Replanting should use locally indigenous species such as hawthorn, blackthorn and hazel;

• Encourage the retention and traditional management of watercress beds, to ensure that they

remain a characteristic feature of this area;

• Conserve the predominantly remote and quiet rural character of the parts of the area away from the

A34 and A33;

• Conserve the varied nature of views throughout the area including semi-enclosed views of the river

as well as long views out to the surrounding downs;

• Conserve and restore the landscape and built features of the historic landscape as appropriate, in

particular through continued replacement tree planting and the restoration of pasture;

• Conserve the rich bio-diversity associated with the clear spring water;



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• Restore and appropriately manage areas of neutral and calcareous grassland/wetland, to enhance

biodiversity;


chemical fertiliser and soil run-off for example, which could lead to the pollution of the River Dever

and the chalk aquifer;




• Restore areas of arable farmland to permanent chalk grassland, which could achieve significant

biodiversity gains;

• Restore the use of the valley for livestock farming to provide the mixed farming necessary for many

species;

• Improve opportunities for public access to the riverside for activities such as walking and fishing;

and

• Conserve the open and glimpsed views into and out of the valley through appropriate vegetation

planting and clearance.”


• “Resist road improvements which would threaten the historic narrow valley-side and cross-valley

rural lanes which characterise this area;

• Conserve and respect the traditional forms and scales of settlement in this area which are generally

small, linear and strongly relate to the river and valley;

• Promote the use of local building materials such as red brick, white colour-washed brick, flint, clay

tiles and thatch, in any new development;

• Promote the use of traditional garden and parkland boundaries such as brick and flint walls,

palisade fencing, and non-coniferous hedging in any new development;

• Integrate new development with the surrounding treed landscape, through the use of native planting

and careful siting; and

• Carefully position and screen new agricultural buildings to avoid visual intrusion.”

WNLCA 6: North Dever Downs


• “Rolling, relatively low lying, chalk downland, rising from levels of 80 m in the south to 140 m OD to

the north;

• Well-drained open farmland with dry valleys, forming part of the catchment basin of the River Dever

to the south;

• Predominantly arable farmland together with some cattle and pig pasture farms. Historically an area

of sheep rearing;

• Small number of small assarted semi-natural ancient woodlands to the north;

• Good populations of declining farmland birds;

• Rare arable weeds and calcareous grassland plants on Michldever Spoil Heaps and railway

embankment;

• Relatively large fields with straight, surveyed boundaries predominantly associated with enclosure

by formal agreements in the 18th and 19th Centuries followed by further boundary loss through

20th Century field rationalisation. Includes examples of ‘ladder fields’ extending from the Dever up

onto the chalk. Evidence of prehistoric field systems to north;

• Strong field boundaries, with tall, thick hedges and a relatively high proportion of hedgerow trees,

giving a degree of visual enclosure;



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• Long panoramic views of open farmland, contained by distant woodland to the east and north;

• A well spaced network of straight minor rural roads and lanes, together with the A303 trunk road;

• Historic drove roads running in a north –south direction, often lined with yew trees;

• Well-treed railway embankment running in a north-south direction, carrying regular trains between

London and Southampton, which provides an important ecological habitat and a visually prominent

feature within the area;

• Remote, rural character, although the A303 and railway detract from this to the north of the area;

• Sparsely settled, with one small village, Micheldever Station and scattered farms; and

• Evidence of a long history of settlement, including the site of an Iron Age camp at Norsebury Ring,

Bronze Age tumuli and Celtic field systems.”


• “Conserve and restore the structure and condition of ancient woodlands, through appropriate

traditional woodland management, such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and edge

management and the removal of alien species;

• Conserve and enhance the existing hedgerow network to maximise biodiversity, restore ecological

networks and provide visual enclosure. The impacts of any proposed new hedgerow planting on

declining farmland birds should be discussed with the RSPB prior to provision of grants;

• Conserve and enhance areas of mature trees through appropriate management and replanting as

appropriate. These include the avenue of lime trees along Larkwhistle Farm Road, and the wooded

railway embankment;

• Protect the setting and routes of historic drove roads and replant specimen yew and pine trees

along their length as they become over-mature;



spring sown arable crops and retention of winter fallow fields, to sustain important arable weed flora

and seed-eating birds, and especially halt the rapid decline of the stone curlew;


fertiliser and soil run-off for example, which could lead to the pollution of the River Dever and River

Test SSSI and the chalk aquifer, and to sustain important arable weed flora and seed-eating birds,

and especially halt the rapid decline of the stone curlew;

• Seek opportunities for the restoration of arable farmland to permanent chalk grassland;

• Conserve the open panoramic views throughout the area; and

• Protect from ploughing and enhance the setting of, prehistoric sites such as Norsebury Ring,

through improved agricultural practices for example.”


• “Conserve and respect the visually remote character of the area through sensitive location and

design of new development;

• Conserve and promote the use of local building materials such as red brick, flint and slate in any

new development;

• Integrate new development into its rural setting with appropriately located indigenous planting;

• Carefully position new agricultural buildings to avoid prominent locations; and

• Resist road improvements which would threaten the narrow and rural character of the lanes in this

area.”



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WNLCA 7: Stratton Woodlands


• “Strong presence of assarted woodland cover, associated with clay deposits. These include

Micheldever Wood (replanted ancient woodland, formerly part of Pamber Forest) Black Wood,

Itchen Wood, Dodsley Wood, Rownest Wood, Shroner Wood (ancient semi-natural and replanted

woodland), College Wood, Embley Wood, Biddles Wood and part of Thorny Down Wood;

• High biodiversity value of woodland; especially associated with ancient woodland. Part of

Micheldever Wood is a wildlife reserve;

• Medium to large assarted fields, that are predominantly used for arable production, are particularly

found in the north-east of the character area;

• Variety of topography (altitudes range from 80-145m OD);

• Variety of enclosure from heavily wooded to fairly exposed;

• Visually very rural, but M3 noise affects perception of tranquillity;

• Rural roads are generally quite narrow, one exception being the avenue at Cowdown;

• Archaeological remains, including barrows and Iron Age settlement;

• Presence of the extended (12th-14th Century) historic deer park at Stratton Park and its influence

on the formation of East Stratton, which was partially relocated to make way for the estate;

• East Stratton is a good example of an ‘estate’ village, with many Grade II Listed buildings;

• Woodmancott is an isolated settlement with a small business park based on converted traditional

farm buildings; and

• Characteristic buildings include 19th Century brick and thatch estate cottages and 17th Century

timber framed thatched cottages within East Stratton, together with a flint church with clay tile roof.

The majority of other dwellings are brick with clay tiles.”


• “Conserve the generally high degree of enclosure and seclusion created by the numerous

woodlands and hedgerows within chalk and clay areas;




• Encourage hedgerow infill and hedgerow tree planting on open arable areas, providing there is no

adverse impact on declining farmland birds. Take advice from RSPB before giving grants for

hedgerow planting to avoid potential adverse effects on declining farmland birds;

• Conserve and restore the structure and condition of the woodlands and hedgerows, which

contributes to the bio-diversity and character of the landscape, through appropriate management

such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and edge management and the removal of alien

species. Replanting should use locally indigenous species, including oak, beech, hazel, ash and

field maple;

• Conserve and improve public access to the woodlands;

• Encourage take up of Forest Authority grants for the restoration of non-native plantations on ancient

woodland sites to native trees and shrubs;

• Conserve the character of various archaeological sites within the woodland and historic field

patterns; and

• Restore Stratton Park, using an appropriate strategy.”


• “Conserve the rural character and pattern of East Stratton and Woodmancott;

• Conserve the form and character of other isolated dwellings associated with farm complexes;



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• New development should respect the traditional built form and materials typical of the character

area;

• Respect the small-scale nature of existing dwellings;

• Enhance the rural character of the area through appropriate garden boundaries avoiding high brick

walls and fences, which are not characteristic of the area; and

• Conserve the rural character of the lanes and tracks.”

WNLCA 8: North Itchen Downs


• “Stretch of well-drained rolling chalk downland running in an east-west direction and forming the

upper slopes of the northern side of the Itchen Valley between Winchester and Alresford;

• Medium and large regular fields with straight surveyed boundaries, enclosed during the 18th and

19th Centuries by formal agreements, followed by further boundary loss through 20th Century field

rationalisation. Predominantly arable, with some pasture to the west;

• Clipped, often-fragmented hedgerows with few hedgerow trees;

• Small, sparsely scattered areas of woodland, including some ancient semi-natural woodland;

• Open, often-exposed feel, giving panoramic views across the Itchen valley and beyond, from

heights of up to 125m OD;

• Well distributed network of minor narrow lanes and drove roads together with a short stretch of the

M3 motorway;

• Evidence of long history of settlement, with tumuli, and the sites of Iron Age settlements and a

Roman Villa; and

• Sparsely settled, containing just one main settlement, Kings Worthy, and scattered farms. Kings

Worthy originated in association with the river but has expanded northwards into the downs.”


• “Conserve and restore the structure and condition of woodlands through appropriate management

such as thinning, coppicing, replanting and removal of alien species;

• Encourage replanting of neglected hedgerows to connect habitats, whilst respecting the historic

open downland character of the area. Take advice from RSPB regarding potential impacts on

farmland birds before giving hedgerow planting grants;


fertiliser and soil run-off, which could lead to the pollution of the River Itchen SSSI and the chalk

aquifer, and to promote the growth of arable weeds in field margins and habitats for declining

farmland birds;

• Conserve the open, unenclosed nature of the area;




and declining farmland birds;

• Seek opportunities for the restoration of arable to chalk downland;

• Conserve the historic routes of the ox droves from agricultural change and development;

• Conserve the open panoramic views throughout the area through the appropriate management of

hedgerows and avoiding inappropriately located woodland planting;

• Conserve archaeological sites and their settings, from damage by ploughing; and

• Monitor declining farmland birds to measure success of biodiversity strategy.”




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• “Conserve the visually remote character settlement within the area by avoiding inappropriately

located or prominent buildings;

• Integrate new development into the landscape with appropriate native planting;

• Minimise the impact of intrusive structures such as telecommunications masts and new agricultural

buildings through sensitive siting and screening; and

• Conserve the narrow, rural character of lanes.”

WNLCA 9: Upper Itchen Valley


• “Distinctive river valley topography with sloping valley sides and relatively narrow valley floor,

located in a chalk downland setting;

• Alluvium and valley sand and gravel along valley bottoms with loamy soil and upper chalk on valley

sides and beyond;

• Clear alkaline spring water in meandering narrow channels, which are often braided, together with

associated lakes, ponds, mill chases, springs and ephemeral headwaters and supporting a thriving

watercress industry;

• Valley floor generally consists of small pasture fields, with occasional remnants of historic water

meadows. Valley sides generally consist of medium fields used for arable production following

informal parliamentary type enclosure;

• A significant number of ornamental historic parks and associated houses, mostly dating from the

18th Century. These feature ornamental species including lime, horse chestnut and cedar;

• High biodiversity value, with habitats including the chalk river, fen/carr/swamp/reedbed, unimproved

neutral grassland, calcareous grassland, standing open water, ephemeral headwaters and ancient

semi-natural woodlands;

• A number of long views across the river valley gained from the open valley sides, including the

open flood plains in the upper reaches and more enclosed/settled valley floor nearer Winchester;

• Riverside routes such as the B3047 the B3046 and footpaths such as the Itchen Way. Also railway

lines such as the disused railway line and the Watercress line. Also, regular connections between

the river and adjacent downland via drove roads and lanes. Long distance footpaths follow the river

and cut across the area;

• Numerous river crossings, via lanes, fords and footbridges;

• A long history of occupation, with numerous archaeological remains, including iron age lynchets,

ancient tracks and the sites of an iron age settlement (Itchen Stoke) and three deserted medieval

villages (Abbotstone, Northington and Swarraton);

• Remote feel away from the main roads;

• A high concentration of small villages often Anglo-Saxon in origin. These have developed at river

crossing points and generally developed in a linear form along the valley side. Where topography

has allowed, a few settlements such as New Alresford have also become more nucleated. Estate

villages and Parkland, such as Tichborne and Avington, are also characteristic;

• Traditional building features & methods, including timber frames, brick, flint, wheat-reed thatch,

slate and clay tiles; and

• River-associated structures, including mills, dams and weirs.”


• “Conserve the integrity of the cSAC by seeking advice from English Nature on all planning

applications in this character area;



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• Conserve and restore hedgerows and wet woodlands, through appropriate management such as

coppicing, thinning, replanting and the removal of alien species, to retain the existing landscape

pattern. Replanting should use locally indigenous species, such as ash, willow and poplar on the

valley floor, and oak and beech on the valley side. This would also be an area suitable for the

reintroduction of native black poplar, Populus nigra;




• Conserve archaeological sites such as the deserted villages and ancient field systems, and their

settings;

• Conserve and enhance the water meadows and areas of unimproved pasture;

• Encourage the retention and traditional management of watercress beds;

• Conserve the predominantly visually remote and quiet rural character of the area;

• Conserve the variety and rural nature of views throughout the area, including short, enclosed views

of the river valley floor as well as long views to and from the surrounding downs;

• Conserve and restore the landscape and built features of historic parks through continued

replacement tree planting, woodland management and the restoration of pasture and lakes;

• Conserve the rich bio-diversity associated with the clear spring water; and

• Encourage environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural practices to minimise fertiliser

and soil run-off, which could lead to the pollution of the River Itchen and the chalk aquifer.”


• “Conserve the small and linear pattern of settlements and respect the traditional form and scale of

existing buildings;

• Conserve and promote the use of local building materials such as red brick, white colour-washed

brick, flint, clay tiles and thatch in any new development;

• Conserve and promote the use of traditional garden and parkland boundaries such as brick and flint

walls, palisade fencing, railings and non-coniferous hedging;

• Encourage the use of indigenous planting as appropriate, in order to integrate new development

with surrounding landscape, particularly within the countryside;

• Retain the historic character of the narrow valley-side and cross-valley rural lanes, fords and

footbridges by resisting any road improvements which would threaten these; and

• Minimise the impact of intrusive structures such as telecommunications masts through sensitive

siting.”

WNLCA 10: Bighton Woodlands


• “Varied, undulating topography, rising up from the Itchen Valley to the north-east, forming one of the

highest points in the district;

• Mixed geology consisting of freely draining Upper Chalk, with areas of overlying Clay with Flints,

and areas of loamy soils, which is reflected in the mixed land cover of arable agriculture and

woodland;

• Well-treed area with strong field boundaries and large areas of woodland. Scattered remnants of

assarted ancient woodland, many reduced by clearance in the 19th and 20th Centuries;

• Medium to large fields with relatively straight boundaries generally formed through the enclosure of

medieval open field systems, and subsequent 19th and 20th Century formal enclosure and field

rationalisation;

• Remnant downland at Abbotstone Down;



55

• Long panoramic views from higher land, with open views elsewhere, enclosed by distant trees and

hedgerows;

• Ancient, narrow, indirect lanes, often with hedgebanks, together with a large number of drove

roads, tracks and footpaths, including the Wayfarer’s Walk;

• Evidence of long history of settlement, including Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age field systems and

an Iron Age settlement;

• Tranquil and remote with no major roads and sparse settlement pattern, consisting of scattered

farms, several small historic parks, two hamlets, Gundleton and Lower Lanham and the small

village of Bighton; and

• Traditional building construction and materials including red brick, colour-washed brick, timber-

frame, thatch, flint, and clay tiles.”


• “Conserve and restore the structure and condition of the woodlands through appropriate

management such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and edge management and the removal

of alien species;

• Conserve and restore the tall, wide hedgerows and tree belts in the area, through appropriate

management and planting, to retain the existing landscape pattern and link existing areas of

woodland and outlying hedgerows;

• Conserve the character of various archaeological sites, particularly within woodland and ploughed

fields;

• Conserve the predominantly remote and quiet rural character of the area;

• Conserve the varied open and panoramic views throughout the area;


fertiliser and soil run-off for example, which could lead to the pollution of the River Itchen and the

chalk aquifer;




and seed-eating birds, and especially halt the rapid decline of the stone curlew;

• Restore areas of arable farmland to permanent chalk grassland; an

• Monitor declining farmland birds to measure the success of the biodiversity strategy.”


• “Conserve the linear form and rural character of Bighton;

• Conserve the sparse scattered pattern of rural farm settlement;

• Respect the small-scale nature of existing dwellings;

• Integrate new development into the well-treed rural setting through the appropriate use of locally

indigenous tree and hedge planting;

• Conserve and promote the use of local building materials such as brick, colour-washed brick,

longstraw and combed wheat read thatch, flint and clay tiles;

• Conserve and promote the use of traditional rural garden boundaries including palisade fencing,

brick and flint walls, railings and hedgerows; and

• Conserve the historic rural character of lanes, footpaths and drove roads throughout the area and

resist any road improvements that would threaten these features.”



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WNLCA 12: East Winchester Downs


• “Topographically varied landscape with high open expansive areas of arable farmland at Longwood

Warren, Gander Down and Twyford Down for example, punctuated by steep escarpments, with a

distinctive wide low vale at Chilcomb;

• Upper Chalk geology, apart from the Vale of Chilcomb which lies on eroded softer Lower Chalk,

enclosed by long winding escarpments of hard Middle Chalk;

• Free-draining area with no obvious surface water bodies and channels other than occasional dew

ponds and sewage works’ ephemeral lake. Forms part of the River Itchen catchment area;

• Intensive arable farmland occasionally broken by shelterbelts and beech clumps. A field pattern

strongly influenced by informal and formal enclosure followed by subsequent boundary loss and

rationalisation, resulting in regular medium to large fields. In particular, this has resulted in the

extensive prairie fields of Longwood Warren, returning the area to its former downland openness;

• Woodland is largely confined to the north-eastern corner of the character area, and includes semi-

natural and replanted semi-natural ancient woodland and 19th Century plantations;

• Although there are no historic parks within the area, the ancient driveways to Avington Park in the

Itchen Valley (Duke’s Drive and Temple Drive) form strong features within the local landscape;

• Important ecological sites include the calcareous grassland at St Catherine’s Hill and Cheesefoot

Head (SSSI’s), and ancient semi-natural woodland at Magdalen Hill Down, Deacon Hill and

Hampage Wood (SINC’s). These remnants of the pre-enclosure landscape provide reservoirs of

biodiversity in an otherwise highly intensively farmed landscape;

• The variety in landform and tree cover within the character area has given rise to differing senses of

enclosure throughout the character area, from the exposed, panoramic nature of the Downs, to the

more sheltered intimate feel of Chilcomb, nestled at the base of Deacon Hill;

• Numerous historic features, including the prehistoric hillfort on St Catherine’s Hill, and the

enclosures south of Twyford Down and south of Avington Park. Drove roads are also a common

feature, such as the Dongas at St Catherine’s Hill;

• Routes, such as the Morestead Road and Alresford Road are generally fairly straight and direct,

reflecting their Roman origins. The A272 follows the upper chalk ridgeline;

• Footpaths including sections of the South Downs Way and Wayfarers Walk give good access to the

countryside; and

• A sparsely populated area, the only settlements include the small nucleated Domesday villages of

Chilcomb and Avington.”


• “Conserve and enhance the restored chalk downland on land adjoining Magdalene Hill. This in

compensation for loss of species-rich grassland due to development elsewhere in the district and

should be monitored, so that similar opportunities to extend existing areas of wildlife interest can be

taken with minimum risk;

• Restore and enhance existing hedgerow structures through replanting (where appropriate) and

management, whilst retaining the openness of the downland;

• Encourage appropriate management of chalk grassland roadside verges;

• Conserve and restore the structure and condition of the ancient woodland through appropriate

management such as thinning, coppicing, replanting, ride and edge management and removal of

invasive alien species;

• Encourage any new woodland planting to use locally indigenous species and to respond positively

to the contours and landform;


fertiliser and soil run-off for example, which could lead to the pollution of watercourses;



57




• Restore scarps to semi-natural grassland, by removal of plantation trees or restoration of

appropriate management; and

• Monitor the chalk grassland and invertebrates on restored grassland on the land adjoining

Magdalene Hill, so that similar opportunities to extend existing areas of wildlife interest can be

taken with minimum risk.”


• “Sensitively locate new development to avoid prominent ridgelines and plant locally indigenous

species where appropriate;

• Conserve traditional construction details and local building materials such as flint, brick, clay plain

tiles and either long straw or combed wheat reed thatch, and promote their use in any new

development where appropriate;

• Conserve the nucleated form and rural character of Chilcomb, and important open views of the

village (and its landmark church) from surrounding escarpments and from Winchester;

• Conserve the scattered pattern and sparsely populated rural character of the area;

• Retain the rural character of the villages, roads and lanes throughout the area, avoiding and

removing insensitive improvements and signage where possible. Encourage the use of traditional

flint walling or indigenous hedged garden boundaries;

• Conserve the routes and character of the historic tracks and drove roads; and

• Minimise the impact of intrusive structures (eg. telecommunications masts) through sensitive siting

and screening with planting.”

Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Character

Assessment, 200110

BDLCA 7: The Clere Scarp


• “Dramatic steep chalk scarp face, forming an impressive backdrop to the lowland landscapes to the

north, and affording long views from points such as Beacon Hill. The landform and semi-natural

character of the vegetation which clothes parts of it creates a strong sense of place;

• Predominantly open pasture with small areas of encroaching scrub and occasional woodland

blocks on the steep scarp slopes, with arable fields present on more shallow slopes;

• Lies within North Wessex Downs AONB, generally possessing an unspoilt character. Landform

restricts extent of built form or roads. There is limited intrusion from people, traffic and noise, except

in particular locations, for example Beacon Hill, and near the A34 and A343. Radio mast at

Cottington’s Hill is a landmark;

• Generally large, open parliamentary arable fields below the scarp. Slightly more enclosed fields to

the west with greater woodland cover and stronger hedgerow structure;

• Many examples of nationally scarce habitat types including six SSS1s. Areas of valuable remnant

unimproved chalk grassland on the scarp face, from Sydmonton to the east, and also at Beacon

Hill, although scrub encroachment is threatening its extent and quality. Scattered remnants of

ancient semi-natural broadleaved woodland;

• Parkland at Sydmonton bringing a more managed element to the central area;

10 Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. (2001). Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/ENV07

https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/ENV07



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• Generally high intervisibility within and outside the area, particularly from the top of the scarp and

the open arable fields to the north;

• Low settlement density with only a small scattering of farm buildings. Roads are relatively straight

and direct; and

• Significant number of extant prehistoric monuments along the edge of the scarp, including the

dramatic landscape feature and Iron Age hillfort of Beacon Hill, plus numerous barrows and

earthworks.”

BDLCA 8: Great Litchfield Down and Willesley Warren


• “Dramatic sweeping landform and smooth curves of open chalk downs, with a sense of elevation

and expansiveness and open, uninterrupted views, giving a distinctive sense of place;

• Generally remote rural character, lying within the North Wessex Downs AONB, with limited intrusion

from people, traffic and noise, except in west of area where the A34 disturbs the quietness;

• Very large, open and regular arable fields, reflecting high ground parliamentary fields of the late

18th – 19th centuries, 17th and 18th century ‘ladder fields’ and, in western part, large wavy fields;

• Infrequent woodland blocks, including scattered remnants of ancient semi-natural broadleaved

woodland, and other fragments of broadleaved woodland and coniferous plantation;

• Examples of scarce habitat types such as small remnants of unimproved chalk grassland, in

addition to the fragments of ancient woodland, which are particularly valuable due to the area’s

otherwise low ecological diversity;

• Open, exposed character and high intervisibility within and outside the area, due to low or absent

hedgerows and infrequent woodland. More confined views within the dry valleys;

• Long-standing small-scale settlement pattern of scattered farmsteads and infrequent roads,

engendering sense of remoteness;

• Typically straight, direct roads, including the Roman road running south-west from Calleva

Atrebatum which is marked by the distinct linear wooded feature of Robley Belt; and

• Important ancient hill fort site at Ladle Hill, with many barrows, earthworks and other archaeological

features (and extant prehistoric monuments) elsewhere on the chalk.”

BDLCA 9: Ashmansworth and Binley Down


• “Varied landform, consisting of a steep, relatively enclosed, valley system in the north around

Ashmansworth and, in the south, a series of shallow ridges and valleys running parallel to each

other into the Bourne valley;

• Dominated by rolling chalkland and unifying pattern of woodland blocks which (combined with open

farmland, frequent hedgerows, trees and occasional parkland) form a landscape with a distinctive

sense of place;

• Lies within North Wessex Downs AONB and generally possesses an unspoilt, quiet and rural

character, with a sense of remoteness and limited intrusion from people, traffic and noise;

• Predominantly medium to large-scale arable fields reflecting 17th/18th century informal enclosure in

the centre and, in the north, later parliamentary enclosure, bounded by intact hedgerows and

frequent woodland blocks. Smaller fields, mainly under pasture, lie within the steeper valley slopes;

• Slightly more enclosed assarted land to the north on the steeper slopes of the clay plateau, with a

higher proportion of hedgerow trees and a denser vegetation pattern;

• In the south, 17th and 18th century small wavy-edged fields and ladder fields. The range of field

types throughout the character area indicates historic time-depth in the landscape;



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• Examples of scarce habitat types, especially small remnants of unimproved calcareous grassland in

the far north, and frequent scattered blocks of ancient woodland, including Sidley Wood (an SSSI

containing ancient hornbeam coppice, with no comparable stands known elsewhere in south central

England);

• Moderate to low intervisibility within the area with the high proportion of vegetation cover limiting the

extent of views;

• Low settlement density, with isolated villages, hamlets and scattered farmsteads along the narrow

roads that wind through the area; and

• Earthworks in Danegrove Copse (SM 450) and a long barrow (SM 12084) within Litchfield and

Woodcott parish.”

BDLCA 10: Litchfield Down


• “Rolling chalkland, falling towards the River Test and Bourne Rivulet in the south, with a discernible

sense of place, strengthened by its unifying pattern of large woodland blocks;

• Patchwork of arable fields interspersed with woodland blocks, creating a semi-enclosed landscape.

One area of contrast exists to the south-west with more open, arable fields and low, trimmed

hedgerows;

• Lies within North Wessex Downs AONB and generally possesses an unspoilt, remote, quiet and

rural character, with few detracting influences. An exception is within the vicinity of the A34, which

cuts through the area north-south, bringing noise intrusion and limiting east-west movement;

• Generally large-scale fields, predominantly reflecting 18th and 19th century parliamentary

enclosure and, in the west (where there are large wavy-edged fields), 17th and 18th century

informal enclosure, enclosed within a relatively strong hedgerow structure;

• Fields bounded by tracks and roads, resulting from post-medieval informal enclosure;

• Examples of scarce habitat types, especially small fragments of unimproved chalk grassland

(mainly associated with roadside verges along the A34) and a number of large blocks of ancient

semi-natural woodland to the north and west of the area;

• Moderate to low intervisibility within the area, confined by the woodland and hedgerow structure.

More extensive views within the more open, south-western section of the landscape;

• Isolated farmsteads and villages/hamlets scattered throughout the area interconnected by narrow,

winding roads; and

• Three Scheduled Ancient Monuments, including a length of Roman road in Bradley Wood, barrows

and Egbury Camp.”

BDLCA 11: Wyke Down


• “Gently undulating landscape of rolling chalkland and a unifying pattern of large woodland blocks,

lending a discernible sense of place;

• Medium to large-scale mosaic of arable farmland with a semi-enclosed or enclosed character,

resulting from small broadleaved woodland blocks and relatively strong hedgerow structure with

hedgerow trees;

• Area lies within North Wessex Downs AONB, except south of the railway, having few detracting

influences, and a remote, quiet, rural character;

• Medium to large-scale farmland, the mix of parliamentary fields, track-bound fields and large wavy-

edged fields indicating historic time-depth;

• Small fragments of ecologically valuable woodland habitat;



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• Moderate intervisibility within the area, although often confined by woodland blocks, strong

hedgerow structure and hedgerow trees;

• Sparse settlement pattern with isolated farmsteads and hamlets scattered through the area, many

accessed by relatively straight, narrow roads running southwest to north-east; and

• Devil’s Ditch (SM 26791) in St Mary Bourne parish.”

BDLCA 12: Test and Bourne Valley


• “Two distinct river valleys, merging south-west of Whitchurch, with flat floors, abrupt sloping valley

sides and a strong sense of place;

• Narrow valley floors, dominated by pasture ,with linear woodland belts in upper reaches and with a

distinctive riparian vegetation and pastoral character, widening south-west of Whitchurch and

developing a more open character;

• Patchwork of predominantly medium to large-scale parliamentary fields, with intact hedgerows

under mixed farmland, and with small woodland blocks along valley sides;

• Area west of Whitchurch lies predominantly within the North Wessex Downs AONB, generally

possessing an unspoilt, intimate character, with limited intrusion from people, traffic and noise. A

sense of remoteness pervades some of the less accessible parts of the river valley;

• Semi-enclosed nature to the 17th-18th century informally enclosed ladder fields, and small wavy-

fields on the slopes of the Bourne, due to their strong hedgerow and tree structure, in contrast to

the slightly more open slopes of the Test;

• Valuable aquatic and wetland habitats along the river valleys (the whole of the Test being an SSSI

and Environmentally Sensitive Area), including East Aston Common (SSSI), supporting extensive

fen communities and riparian habitats associated with one of Britain’s finest chalk stream systems;

• Areas of water meadow and unimproved grassland habitats, including Bere Mill Meadows (SSSI), a

damp, unimproved herb-rich neutral grassland in the Upper Test Valley;

• Scattered remnants of ancient semi-natural woodland along the valley sides, the larger examples

associated with parkland;

• Nationally important historic parklands including the Grade II Hurstbourne Park and Grade II*

Laverstoke Park, contributing a well-managed character to the landscape;

• Intervisibility varying with location, minimised significantly by vegetation and landform within the

valley floor and lower slopes, with more open views across the valley system obtainable from

higher ground;

• Fairly high settlement density, particularly along the Test valley, with towns, villages and hamlets

developing along the lower valley sides and valley floor, bringing an urbanised character in places.

Main routes through the landscape running along the lower valley slopes and valley floor, except for

the A34 dual carriageway that crosses the Test Valley; and

• Medieval settlements of Overton and Whitchurch.”

BDLCA 13: South Test Down


• “Rolling chalkland and pattern of large woodland blocks giving a discernible sense of place. Its

gently undulating topography and degree of diversity contrasts with adjacent character areas;

• Pattern of farmland, woodland, hedgerows and trees;

• Generally unspoilt, rural character, but occasional detracting influences from built development and,

on the western edge, visual and noise intrusion from the A34;



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• Large open arable fields (reflecting late 18th-19th century parliamentary enclosure) adjacent to the

A34, bounded by low, insignificant hedgerows and infrequent woodland blocks, and with geometric

shelterbelts;

• Semi-enclosed arable land (comprising both parliamentary fields and ladder fields) in the centre of

the area between Brickkiln Wood and Laverstoke Wood (and, south of Overton, large wavy fields)

with more woodland blocks and tree-lined hedgerows. Area opens up around White Hill creating a

general overall open character;

• Examples of valuable habitat types, especially several large blocks of ancient semi-natural

woodland, mainly assarted on the southern edge;

• Generally high intervisibility within the area, although woodland and undulating landform inhibits

views from certain locations;

• Sparse settlement pattern, with only a small number of isolated farmsteads/properties scattered

through the area accessed along narrow roads;

• A number of Scheduled Bronze Age barrows in Overton parish.”

BDLCA 14: Oakley/Steventon Down


• “Rolling chalkland with unifying pattern of large woodland blocks, trees and hedgerows, giving a

discernible sense of place;

• Mosaic of arable farmland, managed parkland and mixed woodland. The latter brings semi-

enclosure to much of the area and, where more extensive in the south, creates a more enclosed,

intimate landscape;

• Unspoilt, rural and remote character, with limited intrusion from people, traffic and noise, the

northern third of the area lying within the North Wessex Downs AONB;

• Generally medium to large-scale arable fields enclosed within a generally intact, well-managed

hedgerow and woodland structure, the range of assarts, parliamentary fields and large wavy-edged

fields reflecting enclosure from early medieval to 19th century times;

• Examples of valuable habitat types comprising frequent, sometimes large, scattered remnants of

ancient semi-natural woodland, some of it assarted;

• Pre-1810 Ashe Park, Deane Park and Oakley Park bringing an ornamental and well-managed

element to the landscape;

• Generally low to moderate intervisibility within the area, with frequent woodland blocks and strong

hedgerow structure minimising long or panoramic views;

• Dispersed settlements within the area, ranging in size from the large village of Oakley to the smaller

villages, many hamlets, and scattered individual properties, linked by a network of narrow roads;

and

• Important archaeological features, including an Iron Age settlement and the Micheldever Spoil

Heaps (SSSI), a site of quite exceptional botanical importance made from 19th century spoil

heaps.”

BDLCA 15: Hannington Down


• “High open plateau in the north, from which surrounding landform slopes quite steeply, becoming

gentler to the south-east;

• Pattern of open and semi-enclosed farmland with woodland blocks, hedgerows, trees and well-

managed formal parkland;

• Lies within the North Wessex Downs AONB (except for south-eastern corner), generally possessing

an unspoilt, rural character, with a sense of remoteness and limited intrusion from people, traffic

and noise;



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• Large, open arable fields bound by low hedgerows and infrequent woodland blocks to the north and

east of Hannington and south of Ibworth, reflecting both 17th and 18th century informal enclosure

and late 18th and 19th century parliamentary enclosure. Slightly greater enclosure on chalklands to

the east, where hedgerow structure is stronger;

• Generally small woodland blocks, a limited amount assarted, varying in frequency between the two

landscape types that this area encompasses;

• Examples of valuable habitat types, especially several blocks of ancient semi-natural woodland and

small remnants of unimproved calcareous grassland;

• Two parklands, adding an ornamental and managed character to the surrounding farmland

landscape;

• Intervisibility varying with location, with long, panoramic views from the open plateau at Hannington,

but significantly reduced views in lower, more enclosed areas; and

• Scattered small villages, hamlets and farmsteads linked by a network of narrow, often winding

roads.”

BDLCA 17: Dummer and Popham Down


• “Well defined dry valley running through, and unifying, the landscape;

• Varying landscape pattern comprising open farmland, semi-enclosed fields and road network;

• Some unspoilt areas, but others suffer significantly from the visual and noise intrusion of three

major roads (M3, A30 and A303) which run through the valley;

• Predominantly large-scale arable fields reflecting late 18th-19th century parliamentary enclosure

and, through the northern large wavy-edged fields, 17th-18th century informal enclosure, bounded

by low hedgerows and infrequent woodland blocks, creating an open character;

• Degree of enclosure created by woodland blocks close to the M3 and A30/A303 corridor,

particularly at junction 8 where the complexity of the roads creates small pockets of land;

• Very occasional blocks of ancient semi-natural woodland contributing some ecological value;

• Varying intervisibility within the site, generally being high but impeded by woodland blocks and

landform;

• Scattered farmsteads and the villages of Dummer and North Waltham, linked by a network of

narrow lanes; and

• Popham Beacons group of barrows, located in Overton parish on the southern edge of the Borough

(SM 31151).”

BDLCA 20: Candover Valley


• “Distinctive river valley with narrow bottom, sloping valley sides and a discernible sense of place;

• Diverse pattern of arable, pasture, woodland and parkland;

• Typically quiet, unspoilt rural character, with a sense of remoteness and limited intrusion from

people and traffic;

• Generally arable, large-scale open fields on higher ground, the assarts, large wavy-edged fields,

ladder fields and parliamentary fields reflecting enclosure from early medieval to late 19th century

times, with limited woodland blocks and hedgerows that are low or with few hedgerow trees;

• More enclosed landscape on lower valley slopes and bottom, with smaller fields, stronger hedgerow

structure, greater proportion of pasture and distinctive riparian vegetation;

• Examples of valuable habitat types, comprising a few scattered blocks of ancient semi-natural

woodland (some of it assarted), and remnant areas of unimproved pasture within the river valley;



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• Many parklands along the valley floor giving a sense of a well-managed landscape;

• Intervisibility varying with location, linear views possible within the lower valley slopes, contained by

landform and the strong tree and hedgerow structure, and more extensive across the valley from

higher ground;

• Small settlements developed along floor and lower slopes of the valley through which B3046 runs;

and

• Many barrows of Scheduled Ancient Monument status.”



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4. Designated Landscapes

North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Integrated Landscape Character

Assessment, 200211

NWDLCT 7: River Valleys


• “The river valleys incised into the chalk uplands are one of the defining features of the AONB

landscape with enclosure, pastoral land cover and settlement contrasting strongly with the ‘remote’

open arable uplands;

• Typically the valleys have short, relatively steep sides with a narrow, flat floodplain;

• Clear fast flowing waters and important chalk river habitats;

• A diverse and rich mosaic of land cover and habitats including wet woodlands, former ‘floated’ water

meadows, watercress beds, grazed pasture and calcareous fen;

• Field pattern of characteristically small hedged enclosures which may reflect medieval strips and

furlongs;

• Riparian woodlands, lines of poplar along ditches and willow pollards are distinctive features;

• concentration of settlement including tiny hamlets clustered around a church, many small villages

and the two market towns of Marlborough and Hungerford;

• Significant recreational opportunities including several promoted linear routes as well as the Kennet

and Avon Canal which provide opportunities for boat trips and watersports. The chalk rivers are a

prime location for salmon fishing;

• The river valleys have been a focus for occupation reflected in the range of archaeological sites and

artefacts from the prehistoric period onwards. Continuity of settlement including numerous manors

and villages, many of which are recorded in the Domesday Survey of 1086; and

• Attractive villages plus accessibility makes the river valleys a popular location, reflected in a

considerable population increase. Many settlements are now predominantly ‘commuter villages’,

with associated traffic impacts on the rural lane network.”

4.2 The following key management requirements are identified for the LCT:

“The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the River Valley landscapes with their

intimate, pastoral and tranquil character. This includes:

• the chalk streams and rivers with their characteristically clear, fast-flowing waters;

• the adjacent seasonal flood meadows, grazed pastures, fen, marsh, damp woodlands and historic

parklands.

The small-scale character of the valleys mean that they are potentially sensitive to any development,

including large scale farm buildings, new housing and communication infrastructure. The aim should be to

maintain the distinctive pattern of settlement with discrete villages, hamlets and two market towns.”

NWDLCA 7C: Bourne Valley


• “A flat, narrow floor, enclosed by relatively steep valley sides, creating a small scale intimate

landscape;

11 North Wessex Downs Council of Partners. (2002). North Wessex Downs AONB Integrated Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: http://www.northwessexdowns.org.uk/publications-resources/landscape-2.html

http://www.northwessexdowns.org.uk/publications-resources/landscape-2.html



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• The valley is initiated at the spring at Upton where the River Swift issues, disappearing into the

chalk further downstream and emerging at Hurstbourne Tarrant as the Bourne Rivulet flowing to the

Test (beyond the AONB);

• Narrow floodplain predominantly under pasture set in small fields enclosed by hedgerows and

punctuated by small woodland copses, which pick out the course of the river;

• Lower valley sides are mainly in arable use with thin linear beech plantations being a particular

characteristic of these slopes;

• Parkland is an important feature, with Hurtsbourne Park incorporating a medieval deer park and an

early designed landscape park;

• Operational watercress beds south of St. Mary Bourne are a distinctive feature;

• Varied field pattern. Some fields are small and irregular and may represent late medieval or post-

medieval enclosure, with the more regular, straight-edged fields resulting from formal Parliamentary

enclosure;

• Numerous small settlements - some extend in a linear form along the valley, and others cluster on

the valley side above crossing points. Buildings are largely of the local vernacular brick and tile; and

• Distinctive pattern of roads, lanes and byways - many branching from the principal valley road

creating a grid-like pattern.”

4.4 The following key management requirements are identified for the LCA:

“The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the intimate, secluded character of the

Bourne Valley. This will include maintenance of key features including permanent pasture, wet grassland,

the field pattern, woodland copses and historic features including the lane network, watercress beds and

historic parkland. There are opportunities for restoration of waterside pastures, replanting and

management of hedgerows and limited native tree planting/regeneration.

The small-scale intimate character of the Bourne Valley is potentially sensitive to any new development.

The aim should be to maintain the distinctive pattern of settlement, with the string of discrete hamlets and

villages.”

NWDLCT 2: Downland with Woodland


• “Elevated chalk upland, distinguished by a thick capping of Clay-with-Flint. The reddish brown clay

creates heavier sticky loams in comparison with the light, freely draining, calcareous soils found on

the chalk;

• A strongly rolling landform with gently domed hill tops, dry valleys and notable scarp and dipslope

topography;

• Arable farmland dominates, although enclosure is provided by hedgerows and a mosaic of

woodland cover, notably on the clay summits and as sinuous hangers along steep slopes;

• A sheltered landscape with a diverse range of woodlands including shelterbelts, wooded pasture,

parkland, copses and ancient and secondary semi-natural woodland;

• Remnants of chalk grassland survive, including two of the largest areas of protected chalk

grasslands in the AONB;

• Characterised by Bronze Age and Iron Age hill forts situated on prominent hill tops forming very

visible and distinctive features;

• A wide range of field patterns present - a landscape of assarted fields, large wavy sided fields and

fields bounded by tracks and roads, all typical of medieval enclosure, set against a more open

landscape dominated by Parliamentary enclosure fields;

• Numerous historic parks and designed landscapes, many originating as medieval deer parks;

• Small villages nestled in sheltered valleys with widespread scattered farmsteads and hamlets, the

latter being typical of a wood pasture landscape. Varied vernacular built form includes redbrick, flint

and render, weatherboard, plus roofs of tile and thatch;



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• Intricate network of rural lanes, including characteristic sunken lanes overhung by deep grassy

banks and woodland;

• Recreational opportunities characterised by a high density of footpaths, bridleways and byways,

which provide access to the attractive villages, woodlands, archaeological sites, and historic

houses;

• Small, attractive settlements with good accessibility popular with commuters. Poor levels of service

provision suggest high car ownership and high traffic levels on the rural lane network; and


contrasting with more open, remote summits.”

4.6 The following key management requirements are identified for the LCT:

The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the secluded rural character of the

Downland with Woodland landscape type and its special qualities of peacefulness and tranquillity. Key

features to be conserved and enhanced are:

• Chalk grassland habitats with opportunities for habitat restoration and enhancement;

• The pattern and character of woodland and hedgerows, through appropriate and sustainable

management, including reintroduction of coppicing and hedgerow management and restoration of

hedge boundaries;

• Archaeological sites, historic field patterns, historic parkland, and the historic lane network,

including the characteristic sunken lanes;

• The distinct character and pattern of settlement of small hamlets and villages assimilated within the

landscape and scattered farms; and

• The downland summits, strong skylines and open panoramic views, which are particularly

vulnerable to large scale/tall infrastructure.

NWDLCA 2D: Walbury Hill – Watership Down Scarp


• “A distinct escarpment formed by the Middle Chalk with a narrow belt of sand and sandstone

protruding as undulating foothills in front of the scarp in the east between Kingsclere and

Burghclere;

• Dramatic steep scarp - a prominent and highly visible feature signalling the beginning of the

southern block of chalk upland;

• Landcover is mainly pastoral on the steep slopes, with some arable on the shallower slopes

intermixed with extensive blocks of semi-natural broadleaved woodland.

• Diverse woodland cover including beech hangers and coombe woodlands plus blocks of oak

woodland and substantial areas of scrub regeneration;

• Rich in chalk grassland, which survives in abundance on the steep slopes (6 SSSI’s);

• Highly visible archaeological remains, including the Neolithic long barrow of Combe Gibbet and Iron

Age hillforts and earthworks along the top of the scarp at Beacon Hill, Ladle Hill and Walbury Hill,

are a defining feature of the area;

• Settlement is virtually absent with the exception of Old Burghclere, Sydmonton and occasional

isolated farm buildings;

• Narrow lanes climb the slopes, sunk deeply into the landform with steep earth banks and overhung

by woodland;

• Access across the area is limited but includes the scarp top Wayfarers Walk and the archaeological

sites from which spectacular views may be gained;

• A distinct sub-area is created by the apron of sandstone which forms the foothills west of Kingsclere

which is characterised by its arable farmland, ornamental parkland at Sydmonton and horse

gallops; and



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• Overall a quiet, rural character, but with dramatic and far reaching views from the elevated scarp

top summits.”


“The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the character of the Walbury

Hill/Watership Downs Scarp, with its mosaic of woodland and chalk grassland, absence of

settlement/development, open skyline and spectacular views.

Key features to be conserved and enhanced are the smooth clean scarp skyline, which is particularly

vulnerable to any form of development, chalk grassland and the archaeological features notably the Iron

Age hillforts. The pattern and character of the landscape with its woodlands, pasture and narrow sunken

lanes and absence of settlement should be maintained. There are opportunities for reintroduction of

management (coppicing) to the ancient and semi-natural woodlands, restoration of hedgerows and

restoration of the chalk grassland to extend and link the existing grassland sites along the scarp. There

are particular opportunities to promote improved management of land that is no longer managed as part of

the farming system, for example currently being used for horse-grazing.”

NWDLCA 2E: Chute Forest - Faccombe


• “Part of the southern block of chalk upland, capped by clays and presenting a varied landform of

high rolling hills cut by steep sided dry valleys, scarps and dramatic combes;

• Landscape framework created by the repeating pattern of woodland with long sinuous hangers on

steep dry valley sides plus extensive woodland blocks on the clay summits, interconnected by a

thick hedgerow structure;

• Varied woodland mix including areas of ancient woodland, possibly remnants of the Saxon Royal

Forest of Chute, as well as more recent mixed plantations and shelterbelts;

• A farmland-woodland mosaic including areas of enclosed arable land on high ground and more

open arable land on the slopes dropping down towards the valleys of the River Bourne. These

contrast with small scale assarted pasture fields with woodlands around Chute and Faccombe;

• Presence of large manor houses and parkland with medieval origins, subsequently refashioned in

the 18th century, plus estate farmland;

• Important areas of chalk grassland retained on steep slopes;

• Varied field pattern including medieval assarts, 17th and 18th century informal enclosure and the

regular fields of 19th century formal Parliamentary enclosure;

• Sparsely populated with a low settlement density comprising small villages and hamlets generally in

folds of the chalk topography on south facing slopes, as well as ridge top settlements and scattered

isolated farms and mansions;

• Built form includes harder chalk sometimes used in walls, brick and flint, chalk cob and thatch, with

some older buildings retaining timber framing;

• An intricate network of rural lanes winds through the area linking settlements, often following the

lines of dry valleys. Alignments of Roman roads are preserved in modern thoroughfares; and

• A landscape with a great diversity with experiences ranging from intimate and enclosed to dramatic

and open. The area retains an ‘unspoilt’ tranquil rural character.”


“The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the unspoilt, tranquil character of the

Chute Forest/Faccombe character area with its varied landscapes from intimate and enclosed to dramatic

and open.

Key features to be conserved and enhanced include open and wooded horizons and skylines, historic field

patterns and hedgerow boundaries, historic parks, and archaeological features including prehistoric

earthworks. There are specific opportunities for hedgerow planting. The distinctive pattern of woodland

cover including hilltop woodlands and long sinuous hangers on the dry valley slopes is a distinctive feature

of the area. There are significant opportunities for re-introduction of appropriate management (coppicing)



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to the ancient and semi-natural woodlands and diversification of the more uniform commercial plantations

in favour of broadleaves in order to maintain the character of the woodlands. The settlement pattern

comprising scattered farmsteads, isolated villages and hamlets and the character of the rural lane network

should be maintained. Areas of herb rich chalk grassland should be conserved and opportunities exist for

habitat restoration to link and extend sites.”

NWDLCA 2F: Litchfield Downs


• “Strong sweeping chalkland topography forming part of the dipslope with smooth rounded summits

cut by long sinuous dry valleys;

• Varied land cover with arable farmland enclosed by hedgerows, shelterbelts and woodland in the

west. The east is characterised by very large open arable fields, a comparatively weak hedgerow

structure and absence of woodland;

• Numerous isolated round barrows on ridges and hilltops which are subtle features in the landscape;

• Woodlands include a mix of ancient semi-natural woodland, plantations, and small hangers on

steep slopes. In the east planting is limited to occasional small regular shelterbelts;

• Linear tree planting of Caesar’s belt, marking the line of the Portway Roman Road is a distinctive

feature;

• Varied field pattern including irregular assarts is characteristic of medieval enclosure in the west,

plus 17th and 18th century informal enclosure and large regular Parliamentary enclosures.

Boundary loss and large modern prairie fields are common in the east;

• A sparsely populated area with settlement concentrated in small hamlets and scattered farms in the

west. To the east the settlement is even sparser with infrequent, but generally large scale,

farmsteads dispersed across the area; and

• The area retains a quiet and rural character, with a sense of openness and space.”


“The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the quiet rural character of the Litchfield

Downs, with its sense of openness and space. Key features to be conserved and enhanced are the

open/wooded skylines and views, archaeological features and the historic field pattern. The wooded

pattern and character of the landscape is a key characteristic and there are opportunities for reintroduction

of management (coppicing) to the ancient and semi-natural woodlands and hedgerow restoration. In the

eastern part of the area there is an opportunity for woodland creation and hedgerow restoration to provide

a stronger landscape framework. The pattern of settlements with scattered villages and small hamlets and

interconnected network of rural lanes should be maintained.”

NWDLCA 2G: Hannington Downs


• “A distinctive area distinguished by a thick and continuous clay capping forming a high plateau with

landform dropping away to either side. Elevated points provide panoramic views;

• Large open arable farmland on the plateau top, becoming more enclosed with hedgerows, trees

and woodland on the slopes;

• Varied field pattern with medieval assarted fields in association with woodland, and piecemeal

enclosures between droveways and tracks;

• Extensive semi-natural woodland blocks on the slopes to the south and east, with small linear

plantations on the more open slopes to the west, resulting in a changeable degree of intervisibility;

• Isolated round barrows, located on prominent ridges and hilltops are a subtle feature;

• Settlement consists of the nucleated medieval plateau top village of Hannington and a number of

small hamlets with scattered farms;

• An intricate network of narrow winding lanes; and



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• A quiet and unspoilt rural character, with a sense of openness and space.”


“The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the quiet rural character of the

Hannington Downs, with its sense of openness and space.

Key features to be conserved and enhanced are the open plateau and long views, archaeological features

and the field patterns. The woodland pattern on the lower slopes is an important characteristic and should

be maintained. There are opportunities for woodland creation and hedgerow restoration to link isolated

small sites. The sparse settlement pattern comprising the nucleated hill top village and a small number of

scattered hamlet and farms connected by a network of rural lanes should be maintained.”

South Downs National Park Integrated Landscape

Character Assessment, 201112

SDLCT A: Open Downland


• “Large scale open elevated landscape of rolling chalk downland, with dry valleys and scarp slopes.

Secluded dry valleys are a special feature;

• Dominated by the solid chalk geology with very occasional surface clay capping and wind blown

sand creating local pockets of variation in the landscape;

• Large scale geometric arable fields, resulting from 20th century field reorganisation, in Sussex with

fields of 18-19th century origin in Hampshire;

• Visually permeable post and wire boundaries. Few visible hedgerow boundaries and woodland

cover limited to small deciduous woodland blocks and distinctive hilltop beech clumps;

• Ploughed arable fields on chalk dotted with flint contrasting with swathes of arable crops create

strong seasonal variation in the landscape;

• General absence of water; the ephemeral winterbournes and distinctive dew ponds are an

exception;

• Fragments of chalk downland turf and rare chalk heath, together with associated scrub and

woodland habitats are confined to steep slopes where arable cultivation has proved difficult;

• Extensive use of the land for sport (shooting and game rearing) in some part of the Open Downland

creating a distinct land cover pattern of open downland interspersed with small woodlands;

• Ancient earthworks and flint mines, including visually dominant Iron Age hillforts, crown the highest

summits. Ancient chalkland track – now the South Downs Way National Trail follows the northern

ridgeline;

• Sparse settlement, with occasional isolated farms and barns. Blocks of modern farm buildings

punctuate the open landscape. At a more detailed level flint sheepfolds, barns and shepherds

cottages are a visual reminder of the former extent of sheep grazing;

• Large open skies and distant panoramic views – creating a dramatic and dynamic landscape

changing according to prevailing weather conditions;

• A tranquil landscape, often seemingly remote and empty, with a windswept exposed character.

Views to the sea from panoramic viewpoints in the east;

• Strong artistic and literary associations;

• Urban development, beyond the designated area apparent in views from this landscape; and

• Good access opportunities associated with areas of chalk downland plus extensive areas of land in

public ownership – with high recreational use, including sports such as paragliding.”

12 South Downs National Park Authority. (2011). South Downs National Park Integrated Landscape Character Assessment. (Online). Available at: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/planning/planning-advice/landscape

https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/planning/planning-advice/landscape



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4.16 The following key landscape sensitivities are identified for the LCT:

• “The open uninterrupted skylines and exposed undeveloped character resulting from the rolling

topography and absence of enclosing or vertical features. These are especially vulnerable to

interruption by development or clutter;

• Strong sense of tranquillity and remoteness and areas of deep ‘remoteness’ associated with the

hidden dry valleys. This quality is being affected by traffic pressure on the roads and tracks that

cross the downs and development on the edge; the night time glow of the adjacent urban areas is

already discernable, and prominent in some places;

• The vast, open character and long views across the landscape resulting from the uniform land

cover of grassland and crops, visually transparent post and wire field boundaries and sparse

hedgerow/woodland cover. This means that any landscape change or development has the

potential to be highly visible;

• Areas of unimproved chalk grassland, chalk heath, and pasture land cover, which are vulnerable to

changes in management and require consistent grazing regimes;

• The mosaic of habitats, including arable land and pasture that supports arable weeds and farmland

birds and could be vulnerable to further intensification of farming methods;

• The sense of unity and cohesion given by the repeated use of flint, brick and clay tile building

materials. It is vulnerable to unsympathetic additions, extensions or conversions, which would

disrupt the intact built character. The distinctive isolated barns are especially vulnerable;

• The high number of historic monuments and earthworks that form significant landmarks and a

strong sense of historical continuity, and their historic landscape settings;

• The more subtle features of the historic landscape, such as hedgerows and tracks, ancient field

systems and tumuli, which are not protected and are vulnerable to change and loss;

• The very open character and long views means there are few screening opportunities making this

landscape type highly sensitive visually. Areas that appear hidden from one viewpoint are likely to

be exposed from another. The steep dry valleys provide some secluded locations which are hidden

from view, and these are especially valued for their strong sense of remoteness; and

• The elevated landform typical of this landscape type means there is little intervisibility with adjacent

landscape types, except on its edges (although it should be noted that tall structures could be

visible over long distances). For example, the downland that forms the crest of the escarpment

permits long views to and from a wider area beyond the South Downs. The landscape is also

visually sensitive to changes beyond the South Downs boundary, for example within the adjacent

urban areas.”

4.17 The following development considerations are identified:

• “Maintain the essentially open undeveloped character. Opportunities for built development are

severely restricted in this remote and tranquil landscape;

• Conserve the open skylines are particularly sensitive to any type of built development. The crest of

the northern escarpment is especially important in relation to long views from the low lying

landscape beyond;

• Encourage sympathetic re-use of any traditional farm buildings that may become redundant (such

as the flint barns) so as to maintain their external fabric, appearance and setting. Refer to guidance

contained in the Historic Farmsteads study;

• Consider opportunities for planting to soften the existing urban fringes. Planting should recognise

and reveal the subtleties in the landscape and avoid a standardised approach. Woodland is usually

confined to lower slopes while isolated woodland clumps are features of some ridgetops;

• Manage recreational use and ensure recreational facilities and signage are well integrated into the

landscape by means of siting, materials and design; and

• Consider effects of any development beyond the designated area on the South Downs landscape.

In addition to being visible in views from the South Downs, secondary effects such as light spill,

noise and increased traffic will all have an impact on the special qualities of remoteness and

tranquillity associated with the Open Downs.”



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SDLCA A5: East Winchester Open Downs


• “Open rolling upland chalk landscape of rolling Downs reaching 176m at Cheesefoot Head;

• Furrowed by extensive branching dry valley systems which produce deep, narrow, rounded coombs

– for example at Chilcomb and the Devil’s Punchbowl;

• Dominated by large 18th and 19th century fields of arable and pasture, bounded by sparse thorn

hedgerows creating a very open landscape supporting a range of farmland birds;

• Modern fields at Longwood Warren indicate late enclosure of this area that was set apart from the

surrounding fieldscape (for the farming of rabbits);

• Hedgerows and tracks surviving from the earlier manorial downland landscape are important

historic landscape features;

• Occasional areas of species rich unimproved chalk grassland occur, for example at Cheesefoot

Head and St Catherine’s Hill;

• Occasional scrub and woodland on steeper slopes, and game coverts, linear tree features and

beech clumps on hill tops (notably at Cheesefoot Head and Deacon Hill) contribute to biodiversity

and provide visual texture in the landscape;

• A landscape managed for country sports (game shooting) which preserves the shape and form of

the landscape and creates a distinctive landcover including small woodlands and game cover plots;

• Large open skies ensure that weather conditions are a dominant influence creating a dynamic,

moody landscape, particularly on higher ground e.g. at Cheesefoot Head;

• A strong sense of remoteness and tranquillity away from the major transport routes (M3, A31, A272)

which cross the landscape;

• Large number of prehistoric and later earthworks, long barrows and round barrows, providing a

strong sense of historical continuity. St Catherine’s Iron Age hillfort occupies a commanding position

overlooking Winchester;

• Good public access with a network of public rights of way, including the South Downs Way National

Trail, and open access land at Magdalen Hill Down and St Catherine’s Hill;

• The typical settlement form is relatively late in origin, and comprises isolated farmsteads of 18th-

19th century with more modern buildings along the B3404 on the edge of Winchester;

• Chilcomb village is located in a dry valley, surrounded by an area of small scale irregular

enclosures dating back to the Medieval period; and

• Panoramic views from Cheesefoot Head and from St Catherine’s Hill across the Itchen Valley.”

4.19 Sensitivities specific to the East Winchester Open Downs are described as:

“All of the landscape and visual sensitivities listed in the landscape type evaluation apply to this character

area, although there may be a greater potential for mitigation of change due to some existing woodland

cover. Of particular sensitivity is the remote and tranquil character of the East Winchester Open Downland

which is threatened by its proximity to Winchester and numerous transport routes. The intact 18th-19th

century planned enclosure landscape is relatively rare within the Open Downs landscape type and is

sensitive to change. The historic landscape of Avington Park, which extends into this area, is also

sensitive to change, as is the hill fort at St Catherine’s Hill. The chalk grassland habitats at Cheesefoot

Head and St Catherine’s Hill are also sensitive features specific to this character area.

Given the proximity to, and views over, Winchester, this area is also sensitive to changes in the urban

area and on the urban fringe beyond the South Downs study area. Also of particular sensitivity are the

prominent scarps and open undeveloped skylines.”

4.20 The following development considerations specific to the East Winchester Open Downs are identified:

• “Prevent further fragmentation of the East Winchester Downs by roads and development;



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• Seek opportunities to reduce the visual impact of existing visually intrusive elements such as the

infrastructure and traffic associated with the M3, A272, and A31, and prominent built elements on

the edge of Winchester;

• Consider use of whisper tarmac on major routes such as the M3 to reduce traffic noise;

• Maintain the open and undeveloped scarps and skylines – avoid siting of buildings,

telecommunication masts, power lines and wind turbines on the sensitive skyline;

• Encourage use of traditional building styles and materials when expanding/ modernising farm

buildings and encourage sympathetic re-use of any traditional farm buildings that may become

redundant (such as the flint barns) so as to maintain their external fabric, appearance and setting.

Refer to guidance contained in the Historic Farmsteads study; and

• Take account of views from this area when considering change in adjacent areas beyond the study

area, such as in Winchester. Pay particular attention to popular viewpoints at Cheesefoot Head and

St Catherine’s Hill.”

SDLCT E: Chalk Valley Systems


• “Broad, branching valleys carved from the chalk downs and indented by dry valleys and coombes to

produce smoothly rounded valley sides;

• On the valley sides the chalk soils support intensive arable cultivation on shallower slopes, with

pasture, calcareous grassland, scrub and woodland on steeper slopes;

• Valleys are often winterbournes in their upper reaches – wells and springs are features;

• Lower valley floors contain clear, chalk rivers that flow within a flat, narrow floodplain characterised

by permanent pasture, wet woodland, water meadows, and open water, all of which are of great

ecological interest;

• Historically, meadowland alongside the river was integral to the medieval sheepcorn husbandry

regime, providing valuable winter and spring grazing for the extensive communal sheep flocks;

• The valleys have provided important routeways from prehistory – today, they often contain a road or

winding lane connecting a string of regularly spaced nucleated flint villages. Stone built medieval

bridges are located at historic river crossing points;

• Farms, including distinctive flint barns, are located on lower valley sides, sheltered by trees and

forming a visual focus. Gentry houses and landscape parks provide evidence of the wealthy

population of the past;

• Extensive blocks of early enclosure occur throughout the valleys, notably around settlements,

indicating survival of late medieval landscape;

• Rivers were used to power watermills in the past – weirs, mill ponds and mills, as well as fish farms,

trout lakes, and watercress beds are distinctive features of the landscape; and

• Away from transport corridors the valleys retain an unspoilt and tranquil pastoral character.”

4.22 The following key landscape sensitivities are identified for the LCT:

• “The smooth form of the intact valley sides which reveal dramatic chalk landforms;

• Areas of pasture, plus calcareous grassland on the valley sides which contribute to biodiversity;

• The courses of the chalk rivers, including their springs, meanders, pools, and riffles, and the clear

alkaline spring water, with associated rich biodiversity;

• The pastoral character of the valley floors and floodplain habitats including wet woodland,

unimproved river valley grassland, bank edge vegetation, and water meadows which have a high

biodiversity value;

• The nucleated villages of Anglo-Saxon – medieval origin on the valley floors, each clustered around

a distinctive church tower or spire;



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• The setting of, and uninterrupted views to churches tower/spires, which are often seen against the

rising downland backdrop of the valley sides are also important;

• The extensive blocks of early enclosure, notably around villages, which indicate survival of late

medieval landscapes;

• Historic bridges which provide minor crossing points over the river;

• Fragments of watermeadows and watercress beds which are particularly distinctive cultural and

historic features;

• Mills, weirs and mill ponds which provide evidence for past use of the river;

• Designed landscapes which provide evidence of gentry houses and landscape parks of the wealthy

population of the past; and

• The woodlands and hedgerows generally limit visual sensitivity of these valley landscapes.

However, the visibility of the chalk valleys from the adjacent downs increases their visual sensitivity.

From within the valleys, the valley crests are seen against an open sky and are particularly visually

sensitive.”

4.23 The following development considerations are identified:

• “Maintain the nucleated form of medieval villages, each with a distinctive church tower or spire, and

consistent palette of building materials;

• Conserve the setting of the villages, with their medieval pattern of enclosures and views to key

features such as church towers/spires;

• Ensure that any built development reflects the local vernacular – seek to resist suburban style

garden boundaries, kerbs, and lighting, through provision of appropriate guidance. Conserve key

vernacular features such as the flint walls that characterise the villages;

• Monitor the effects of incremental change to buildings and land, and minimise such change by

providing design guidance and encouraging applicants to enter into discussions at an early stage in

the preparation of their proposals;

• Consider using planting that blends with the existing valley woodlands and hedgerows to mitigate

the impacts of any built development on the lower valley sides; and

• Conserve the open skylines of the valley crests which are particular sensitive in views from the

valleys. Consider views from the adjacent downs in relation to any change in the chalk river

valleys.”

SDLCA E4: Itchen Valley


• “Broad, branching valley carved from the chalk downs and indented by dry valleys and coombes to

produce smoothly rounded valley sides;

• The character area flows through and provides a landscape setting for Winchester;

• Shallow well drained, calcareous silty soils support intensive arable cultivation on shallow slopes of

the valley sides. Pasture and paddocks occur on the valley floor;

• Springs, including the main source of the Itchen, south of Cheriton, are located on the chalk;

• The clear, chalk river flows in a relatively narrow floodplain in the upper reaches with a wider

floodplain south of Winchester. Pasture and paddocks occur on the valley floor;

• The watercourse and banks of the Itchen are designated as a SAC incorporating a diversity of

habitats including the clear alkaline river, fen/marsh/swamp, neutral grassland and pockets of

woodland;

• Historic features associated with the presence of the River and the Itchen Navigation are apparent

today. Remnant features relating to water management and agricultural/industrial use of the river,

including fragments of watermeadows, weirs and mill ponds, fish farms, trout lakes, and watercress

beds;



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• Extensive blocks of early enclosure survive throughout the valley. Downstream of Itchen Abbas the

landscape is of recent enclosure, comprising regular field systems with very little woodland;

• Crossed by the M3 and A roads which interrupt the otherwise tranquil landscape. A sequence of

settlements occur along the lower valley sides;

• Frequent minor river crossing points are marked by white bridges; and

• One of the most renowned fly fishing rivers in the world with populations of wild brown and rainbow

trout.”

4.25 Sensitivities specific to the Itchen Valley are described as:

“All of the landscape and visual sensitivities listed in the landscape type evaluation apply to this character

area. Specific to this character area is the historic course of the Itchen Navigation and the watercress

beds which are` particularly distinctive cultural features. The panoramic viewpoints over the valley from St

Catherine’s Hill also increase the sensitivity of the landscape to change.”

4.26 The following development considerations specific to the Itchen Valley are identified:

• “Conserve the distinctive white bridges which provide river crossing points;

• Ensure that any future traffic regulation and road upgrades associated with the M3, A34 and A31

are integrated into the rural valley landscape and ensure any signage is sensitively detailed;

• Maintain the nucleated form of villages and avoid extending linear development along roads.

Minimise light spill from settlements;

• Pay particular attention to the varied nature of views throughout the area and in particular the

panoramic views from St Catherine’s Hill (in adjacent character area) in relation change within the

Itchen Valley;

• Seek to limit further encroachment of suburban influences (such as fencing) around village

properties and conserve areas of flint walling which are particularly distinctive features of a number

of settlements;

• Seek opportunities to reduce the impact of existing trout lakes, fish farms and their associated

development through appropriate tree planting; and

• Seek to minimise extraction of sand and gravel within the Itchen Valley and ensure sensitive

restoration of on-going schemes.”

appendix 14-4 – published character assessment · wheelabrator harewood waste-to-energy facility...

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