landscape and visual impact appraisal proposed …...landscape and visual impacts are a function of...

Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisal

Proposed solar farm

at Morfa Pingett, near Kidwelly

Carmarthenshire

Prepared

by

Mackley Davies Associates Ltd

May 2019

Solar Farm, Morfa Pingett : Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisal v1

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Solar Farm

Morfa Pingett

Carmarthenshire

Version v2

May 2019

Approved by: Wyn Davies and Gill Mackley

Position: Directors

Date: 28.05.2019

Prepared by:

Mackley Davies Associates Ltd

Ffynnon yr Eirin

Crickhowell Road

Gilwern

Monmouthshire

NP7 0EH


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INDEX

1.0 BACKGROUND page 4

2.0 METHOD OF ASSESSMENT page 4

3.0 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT page 5

4.0 OVERALL LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL BASELINE page 6

5.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER page 10

6.0 PLANNING CONTEXT page 12

7.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACTS page 15

8.0 VISUAL ANALYSIS page 17

9.0 LANDSCAPE MITIGATION MEASURES page 19

10.0 CONCLUSION page 21

APPENDIX 1 : Method of assessment


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LIST OF PLANS

PLAN 1 LOCATION AT 1: 50,000

PLAN 2 LOCATION AT 1:25,000

PLAN 3 AERIAL PHOTO

PLAN 4 HISTORIC CONTEXT

PLAN 5 HERITAGE ASSETS

PLAN 6 LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT

PLAN 7 PLANNING CONTEXT

PLAN 8 EXISTING SITE & PHOTO LOCATIONS

PLAN 9 PROPOSALS

PLAN 10 LANDSCAPE MITIGATION

PHOTO SHEETS 1 - 7


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1.0 BACKGROUND

1.1 This study has been undertaken to assess the potential landscape character and visual

impact effects associated with a full planning application for a small scale solar farm near Pinged,

south of Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire. The report has been prepared by Gill Mackley (CMLI) of Mackley

Davies Associates Ltd, a registered practice of the Landscape Institute.

1.2 ‘The site’ refers to a full planning application for a circa 2.5 ha ground mounted solar panels

and associated work at National Grid Reference SN 41303 04977. The post code is SA16 0JE.

2.0 METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

2.1 The appraisal has been produced in line with the published ‘Guidelines for Landscape and

Visual impact Assessment’ (referred to as GLVIA) produced by the Landscape Institute (2103 3rd

edition).

2.2 The GLVIA publication defines landscape and visual impacts as changes to the fabric,

character and quality of the landscape as a result of development and is based on a mix of desk

based study and field work.

The impact assessment is principally concerned with:

− Direct impacts upon specific landscape elements

− Effects on the overall pattern of components that give rise to landscape character and

regional and local distinctiveness

− Impacts on acknowledged areas of special landscape value such as designated

landscapes, site of conservation interest or sites of cultural interest

− Direct intrusion or obstruction on views within the landscape

− The effect on specific visual receptors

− The overall impact on visual amenity

The GLVIA produces an evaluation of landscape effects and visual effects:

− Landscape effects: consist of the changes in the fabric, character and quality of the

landscape which is predicted would result from the construction and operation of the

proposal.

− Visual effects: the predicted effects on views available from publicly accessible areas,

residential dwellings ie. visual receptors and public general visual amenity, and heritage

assets.

2.3 Assessment of impact

Landscape and visual impacts are a function of sensitivity combined with the magnitude of change.

This is a subjective judgement, but one that is based on robust, transparent and professional


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judgement. The categories for significance used are detailed in Appendix 1 and are used whether the

impact is negative, neutral, beneficial, short or long term.

2.4 Survey work

Following a desk top review of existing maps and documents, a driving and walking tour of the study

area was undertaken mid-February 2019, in reasonable weather conditions.

A selection of photographs on photo sheets 1-7 show views from and towards the site taken from

key points, locations are shown on Plans 2 and 8.

2.5 Limitations

The assessment is based on views from publicly accessible locations but does not necessarily identify

all locations from where the proposals are potentially visible from. Where there is likely to be an

impact on private views this is noted and assessed where possible.

3.0 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

3.1 The site is located on a portion of the former MOD radar/radio communications station,

locally known as The Pen, Pembrey. The location is shown on Plans 1-3 and layout is shown on Plan

9.

3.2 The site is circa 2.5h of semi-improved pasture with scattered shrubs. Natural Resources

Wales and Carmarthenshire County Council recognise the site as used land.

3.3 The proposed development is classified as major development, although deemed a small

scale Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy generating station being under 5MW.

3.4 The proposal is to erect 152 number ground mounted, pile driven, galvanised steel mounting

systems housing 4256 photovoltaic panels with string inverters fixed to the supporting frames,

generating a maximum 1.6 MWp.

3.5 The panel height will be to a maximum 2.2m, set out in south-facing rows, with 4.2m

between rows. Panels are blue-black non-reflective to the front, light coloured laminate on the back,

set within a grey galvanised steel frame. The panels are tilted to an angle of 20 degrees and set

750mm above ground level.

3.6 The extent of panels has been off-set from the vegetated site boundaries by approximately

10m to facilitate access.

3.7 The panels will be connected by underground cabling to the MV station, continuing

underground along the C2203 verge to an underground grid cable connection point at the western

verge adjacent the C2003-A484 junction.

3.8 The MV station enclosure is located near the site entrance for access purposes. The DNO

cabinet will be green coloured GRP on a concrete base, measuring approximately 3.1m length x 2.2m

width x 2.3m height. Transfomers may be located within the cabinet or alongside. A switchgear

cabinet (to be sized by the Distribution Network Operator will be placed on the same concrete base.


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3.9 Security fencing will enclose the MV station and substation to comply with health and safety

regulations. A 1.2m high stock proof fence will segregate the building complex. No additional fencing

is proposed.

3.10 No surfaced tracks are proposed. Access will be from the C2203 as existing, with an informal

mown grass track along the east boundary.

3.11 No foundations are required for the panels which are mounted on a steel frame that is

pushed into the soil.

3.12 On completion, the site field will be converted to a neutral grassland flower meadow.

3.13 The construction period is assessed as 6-12 weeks duration.

3.14 The panels will be delivered by HGV’s but any other site traffic will be minimal, and will be

small scale machinery. There is good headroom clearance along the A484 and C2203 south boundary

road.

3.15 A passing point for site traffic on the C2203 verge has been requested by CCC, the precise

location is to be confirmed as the land is in CCC proprietorship but will not affect existing hedges.

This may remain in place post construction for local and tourism use.

3.16 The PV panels will have an expected viable life of around 35 years. The proposal is a

reversible development.

3.17 The panels are static and maintenance activity at the site will be minimal, generating

occasional tradesman vehicles in daylight hours for maintenance, component failure replacement

and cleaning.

3.18 Night sensitive CCTV is proposed to allow surveillance of the south boundary.

3.19 The proprietorship boundary including the site extends to 8.5ha. Beyond the site to the

north, groundcover includes wetland and reeds and has more ecological value which maybe further

enhanced with the requested post construction habitat management plan. Given the limited land

ownership and proposed extent of the scheme there are no viable alternative sites.

4.0 OVERALL LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL BASELINE

4.1 Landscape Setting

Sited within the Gwendraeth Levels, near the boundary with the coastal saltmarsh, Pembrey Airfield

and Pembrey circuit for motor sports.

The coastal town of Kidwelly lies over 1km to the north.

The underlying geology of the site and context is uniformly of the South Wales Coal Measures

Formation, overlain by tidal flat deposits of sand, silt and clay.


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The soil type of the site and context is uniformly loamy and clayey of moderate fertility, typical of

coastal flats with naturally high groundwater. The soil type is found across only 1.3% Wales often

supporting wet brackish coastal flood meadow habitat.

The A484 lies 55m from the west boundary, connecting Kidwelly to Llanelli.

In the same land ownership is:

the intervening land to the west which is classified as reed swamp (NVCS4)

land to the north of the site which is a more extensive reed swamp (NVCS21)

small area of scrub to the south east beyond the site boundary watercourse

Extensive tree and shrub planting has recently been undertaken as part of the Glastir agri-

environment scheme, within the northern reed swamp along the watercourses, and along the site

boundaries. A wide variety of species has been planted.

Views out from the site are available to the north and east, but are closed off to the south and west

by hedges and trees both within and outside the site. Views out are over 1km, to the elevated slopes

of the Gwendraeth Valley: the east edge of Kidwelly, and further east towards Trimsaran.

4.2 The Site

The site is semi-improved pasture, but has not been recently grazed and scrub and ruderal species

are encroaching.

Near the centre of the site is an existing concrete building slab with chimney that until recently

supported a timber framed barracks, this was removed in 2017 due to a damaged asbestos roof in

preparation for replacement. Nearby is an extant pre-fabricated concrete Stanton Shelter, plus other

structures and radio mast foundations. The buildings date from the Second World War and were

constructed to assist Pembrey Airfield.

The site is bounded by an unclassified highway to the south (C2203) which links the A484 to Pinged.

The site lies within the remnant historic hedge lines to the west and north (refer to aerial Plan 3)

although these are difficult to read on the ground due to their gappy nature and recent coppicing of

remnant tall outgrown hedges. The site is bounded to the east by a watercourse.

Generally hedges around the site are species poor, with outgrown sections and significant gaps.

Considerable vegetation clearance and coppicing has occurred.

South boundary

West boundary


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North boundary

9m south of the original hedge line which in 2017 was

replanted along with the intervening strip; occasional

outgrown small trees towards A484

East boundary

Additional streamside hedge planted in 2018

[remnant hedge with occasional outgrown small tree,

lies outside ownership boundary]

The scale of recent tree and shrub planting undertaken as part of the Glastir agri-environment

scheme, in and around the site is shown below. Planting is within rabbit proof shelters and all site

boundaries are protected by sheep proof fencing.

Recent planting

South boundary – looking east

South boundary – looking west

Reedbed beyond north boundary

South-East corner

4.3 Public access network

There is no ‘Open Access’ land or public rights of way shown within 1km radius (refer Plan 1) other

than the Wales Coast Path, which follows the A484 south and turns west to the estuary along the

lane shown below near to the site.


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The site lies over 1km from any of the Kidwelly promoted routes.

The Glan yr Afon Local Nature Reserve (LNR) lies around 2km to the north.

The minor road C2203 along the south boundary is also the route of Sustrans Route 4 which joins the

A484 and heads north to Kidwelly.

4.4 Designated and non-designated heritage

Mapping from Historic Wales (Plan 5) shows there are no designated man-made heritage assets near

the site.

Ordnance Survey mapping (Plan 4) shows the landscape is little changed from 1880 to 1915. This is

unsurprising as the land is wet/marshy, but there is slightly more enclosure shown by 1915. The

buildings at the centre of the site are likely to date from World War II.

There are two designated conservation sites within 2km of the proposed development:

Carmarthen Bay and Estuaries Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Pembrey Coast Site of

Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Gwernydd Pembre SSSI (2km South of the site)

4.5 Site Ecology

Reference is made to the Extended Phase 1 Ecology Survey Report by Aderyn Ecology July 2018.

The ownership boundary includes the following habitats: pasture, swamp, ditches, ponds

and hedgerows, in a landscape that is predominantly pasture.

The site pasture was formerly classified as semi-improved for agriculture (CCW Phase 1

survey 1993).

Habitat changes undertaken as a part of Glastir agri-environmental improvements include

the planting of a small woodland, the restoration of two ponds, the coppicing and gapping-

up of hedgerows and planting of new hedgerows.


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5.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

5.1 In addition to the landscape baseline described in section 4.0, additional information on

broader scale landscape character is drawn from the Natural Resources Wales.

5.2 The site lies within Area 45 of the NRW National Landscape Character, NLCA45 ‘Taf, Twyi

and Gwendraeth Estuaries’.

5.3 The more detailed NRW LANDMAP information for Carmarthenshire published by Natural

Resources Wales describes and evaluates five aspects of the landscape, the key aspect for this type

of proposal is the Visual and Sensory aspect.

5.2 The extract below is from the Carmarthenshire LANDMAP for the Visual and Sensory aspect

for the site location – refer to Plan 6. Note that evaluation criteria range from Low, Moderate, High

through to Outstanding and that the descriptions cover a much wider geographic area than the site

and its setting.

Gwendraeth Levels CRMRTVS279 Lowland/Flat Lowland/Levels/Flat Lowland Mosaic – containing

the site

Summary description

Coastal and flood plain levels - low lying and often flooded in the winter months. Largely

agricultural, fields are broken up often by wide tall hedges and drainage ditches. These tall

hedges restrict the openness of the area. Few dwellings, few road, other than the main road,

and where these occur they tend to be straight. A variety of wetland habitats, ponds, fens

etc. Largely un-spoilt, the area remains rural in character.

Evaluation Criteria: Overall Evaluation High (High on account of its integrity, character and rarity.)

Justification of overall evaluation A relatively un-spoilt example of a landscape that is rare in the county (and across Wales)

Evaluation Criteria: Scenic quality Moderate (An open and sometimes exposed landscape of moderate scenic importance, not always appreciated or understood.)

Evaluation Criteria: Integrity High (Little interrupts this rural landscape.)

Evaluation Criteria: Character High (Distinct character with similar elements repeated across this landscape.)

Evaluation Criteria: Rarity High (A relatively large and un-spoilt levels landscape, rare in the county, only small areas now around Llanelli and Carmarthen, and some areas near Pendine.)

Recommendations

Define the key qualities that should be conserved:

Conserve the un-developed rural quality of this area.

Define the key qualities that should be enhanced:

N/A.

Define the key qualities that should be changed:

N/A.

Define the key elements that should be conserved:

Conserve the visual elements that contribute to this landscape - the variety of vegetation, the wetland habitats and the traditional buildings.

Define the key elements that should be enhanced:

Where opportunities arise enhance the landscape alongside the main road where there has been a tendency for development, enhance the


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more natural vegetation in these areas and the traditional buildings.

Define the key elements that should be changed:

If opportunities exist improve any parts of this landscape that have been adversely affected by dumping of materials, and other in-appropriate developments.

Principal management recommendation:

Manage to conserve and enhance the various visual elements associated with this landscape particularly the wetland habitats that add character and diversity to this landscape. Also the traditional buildings and their settings.

Guidelines

Medium Term (Ensure the conservation and enhancement of the visual elements associated with this landscape - habitats and traditional buildings.)

Immediate (Resist agricultural intensification within this area.)

Immediate (Resist inappropriate development within this area that would detract from this distinct rural levels landscape.)

The site lies within Cadws Register of Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest in Wales, ‘Taf and

Twyi Estuary’ (HLW D 9). The following is copied from the Historic Aspect of LANDMAP to explain the

interest in more detail.

Pinged Marsh CRMRTHL40188 Rural environment/Non agricultural/Reclaimed

land/Reclaimed Wetland

Evaluation Matrix

Evaluation Criteria: Integrity Outstanding (Outstanding - Landscape is 'complete' with little modern development/intrusion to hinder the visibility of the overall landscape and its patterns.)

Evaluation Criteria: Potential High (High - There is high potential for future study and for interpretation. The recreational amenity value of this area is potentially high.)

Evaluation Criteria: Rarity Outstanding (Outstanding - although this type of landscape is not unique in Carmarthenshire, it is relatively rare and includes elements of national importance.)

Evaluation Criteria: Survival Outstanding (Outstanding - most landscape elements survive.)

Evaluation Criteria: Condition Outstanding (Outstanding - The majority of individual elements survive in very good condition.)

Recommendations

Existing management Unassessed

Existing management remarks: major farm buildings in poor condition

Principal management recommendations

maintenance of drainage ditches and hedges

Guideline Long Term (maintenance of ditch and hedges) Immediate (Do not remove WWII features)


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LANDMAP summary of the aspects at the site:

Aspect Description Evaluation

Visual and Sensory Gwendraeth Levels

CRMRTVS279

Lowland/Flat Lowland/Levels/Flat

Lowland Mosaic

High

Landscape Habitats Gwernydd Penbre

CRMRTLH092

Dry (Relatively) Terrestrial

Habitats/Grassland & Marsh/Mosaic

High

Historic Landscape Pinged Marsh

CRMRTHL40188

Rural environment/Non

agricultural/Reclaimed land/Reclaimed

Wetland

Outstanding

Geological Landscape Pembrey Marsh

CRMRTGL214

Coastal/Estuary

Moderate

Cultural Landscape Rural Carmarthenshire

CRMRTCL061

Influences/Material expressions/Rural

High

In summary, the key characteristics of the area to retain are:

tall hedges

drainage ditches

wetland habitats

rural character

traditional buildings and World War II features

6.0 PLANNING CONTEXT

Refer to Plan 7.

6.1 A number of national policies from the revised Planning Policy Wales (edition 10) are

relevant in addition to Technical Advice Note (TAN) 8 Planning for Renewable Energy.

PPW paragraph 5.9.17 states:

Planning authorities should give significant weight to the Welsh Government’s targets to

increase renewable and low carbon energy generation, as part of our overall approach to

tackling climate change and increasing energy security. In circumstances where protected

landscape, biodiversity and historical designations and buildings are considered in the

decision making process, only the direct irreversible impacts on statutorily protected sites

and buildings and their settings (where appropriate) should be considered. In all cases,

considerable weight should be attached to the need to produce more energy from

renewable and low carbon sources, in order for Wales to meet its carbon and renewable

targets.


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6.2 Relevant landscape policies from the Carmarthenshire County Council Local Development

Plan (adopted 2014) are:


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6.3 Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance ‘Wind and Solar Energy’ section 6.6 Landscape

Sensitivity and Capacity, section 6.7 Landscape and Visual Impacts, section 6.8 Landscape and Visual

Impact Assessment and 6.9 Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment were considered

and particular attention given to the referred sections in the design development process.

6.4 The linked document Draft ‘Carmarthenshire Solar PV Development Landscape Sensitivity

and Capacity Study’ section 5 Guidance on Solar Energy Development, and specific guidance for Unit

032 Gwendraeth Levels were also considered and are reviewed in 7.10 below.


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7.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACTS

7.1 This section looks at the ability of the landscape to accommodate development change from

the construction of the proposed PV panels without detriment to the key landscape characteristics

relevant to the site which are:

tall hedges

drainage ditches

wetland habitats

rural character

traditional buildings and World War II features

7.2 The proposed development will introduce a new and distinctively modern feature into the

landscape. There is no directly comparable predecessor to PV Panels other than field-scale use of

farm plastics or glass for example in market gardening of which there are no examples in the

immediate area. The nearest PV farm is at Ffos Las, Trimsaran, 4km to the east and not visible from

the site.

7.3 The development does not necessarily constitute a permanent landscape change as at the

end of the viable life of the panels (cited as 35 years) the land could all be returned to pasture or

other habitat. Light grazing or topping will continue during the operational period.

7.4 The proposal is a small scale solar farm at 2.5ha (as defined in the Draft SPG small scale is

between 1-5ha). The access point from the minor road C2203 will remain. The panels are located to

fit within the field pattern.

7.5 The footprint of the proposals will be sufficiently set back from adjacent hedgerows and

small trees to allow their retention.

7.6 The field pattern made from drainage ditches and tall hedges which are important historic

features will not be affected.

7.7 The proposals will not impact on a designated built heritage or biodiversity site.

7.8 The proposal will not impact on the key physical characteristics of this area of the

Gwendraeth Levels.

7.9 Views are explored in section 8. In summary the site is fully screened from the A484 heading

north and reasonably screened from the A484 heading south by on and off site tree and hedgerow

cover, even in winter months. Views are open from the adjacent C2203 minor road. The very

occasional public views, and views from private dwellings on elevated land to the north and east are

at distance (over 1km) and are partially screened by existing tree and hedgerow cover.

7.10 More difficult characteristics to assess are feelings of remoteness, tranquillity, and

openness. It is accepted that large man-made elements in the landscape will change the landscape

and visual impact character of the area. The magnitude of these changes depends on the scale and

location of the proposals and the sensitivity and capacity of the receiving landscape.


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7.11 The Draft ‘Sensitivity and Capacity Study’ (SCS) has identified Landscape Units of similar

character, the site lies within SCS Landscape Unit 32 : ‘Gwendraeth Levels’. The sensitivity and

capacity for PV development at the site is reviewed below.

SCS aspect SCS detail LVIA response for small scale

PV farm

Landscape Capacity and Guidance Objective is to

Maintain landscape character

Proposals and mitigation measure

aim to achieve this

Susceptible features Sustrans Route 4

Wales Coast Path

Gwendraeth Levels SLA

Taf and Tywi Estuary RHLI

Adjacent Carmarthen Bay and

Estuary SLA

Views from Kidwelly Castle

Refer section 8

Wales Coast Path runs along A484

and site is largely screened in

winter by intervening vegetation

SLA and RHLI physical features are

conserved

Not visible from Estuary SLA or

Kidwelly Castle

Baseline 2016 No solar PV planned or built No cumulative impacts

Indicative capacity Some capacity for small scale

where some enclosure provided by

hedgerows

Meets indicative capacity

Sensitivity Low to medium for a small scale

PV farm

Agreed

Landscape value High value SLA Agreed

Historic value High value RHLI Agreed

Scenic quality and character High susceptibility based on

LANDMAP

Agreed

Remoteness and tranquillity High susceptibility based on

LANDMAP

Agreed

Site is impacted by noise/cars on

A484

Skylines and settings Low susceptibility – flat landscape Agreed

Visibility, key views, vistas Medium susceptibility based on

LANDMAP; views in from elevated

north and east

Agreed

Views in from elevated north and

east are at distance (>1km) and

mainly screened in winter by

intervening vegetation

Intervisibility, associations with

adjacent landscapes

High susceptibility based on

LANDMAP

No inter-visibility with adjacent

SLA

Types of receptors High susceptibility – Sustrans

Route 4, Wales Coast Path,

residential

Agreed

Wales Coast Path runs along A484

and site is largely screened in

winter by intervening vegetation

Views to/from cultural heritage

features

High susceptibility – within SLA

and RHLI

Agreed

Scale Low – large scale landscape Agreed

Landform Low – flat landscape Agreed

Landcover Low – mosaic of pasture fields and

wetland, overgrown hedges and

ditches, A484 along western edge

Agreed

Built environment High – strong sense of place, small

scale, residential, farm buildings,

scattered, generally inappropriate

materials used

Agreed


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7.12 The small scale of the proposals is appropriate for the receiving landscape providing the

mitigation measures outlined in section 9 are followed.

8.0 VISUAL ANALYSIS

8.1 The following outlines the key likely impacts on views and amenity.

8.2 Visual assessment has been undertaken in mid-February when deciduous trees and

hedgerows are not in leaf.

8.3 Photos looking into and out from the site are shown on sheets 1 – 7. The key potential

viewpoints are described in the table below.

Table 1 - Key view points from where the site could be seen

View point Glimpsed/Open/

Oblique views

Distance to

closest point

of the site

Site at

<5mAOD

Potential for mitigation Residual

issues once

mitigation

measures

established

1 South boundary

minor road C2203

also Sustrans Route

4

Refer photo 10, 14,

and 15

Short range viewpoint

Existing open view onto

derelict buildings and

overgrown pasture, with

reed beds beyond, and

rising land further north

View of site will be an

open view to front face of

PV panels

15m

Level with site

Limited in the short term

Existing remnant hedging

and regrowth from coppice

will provide some screening

Views will remain open until

new planting establishes

Views will

remain but

softened by

established

hedges and

small trees

2 A484 heading south

also Sustrans Route

4 and Wales Coast

Path

Refer photo 11


Existing glimpsed view

through intervening tall

hedges and reeds

View of site mainly to the

rear of panels will be

glimpsed at openings in

vegetation cover

100m+

Level with site




Views will remain glimpsed

until new planting

establishes

Potential for

gaps to be

filled and

views

reduced to

occasional

glimpses

3 A484 heading south

also Sustrans Route

4 and Wales Coast

Path

Refer photo 12


Existing partially screened

view through intervening

tall hedges and reeds

View of site to side of

panels will be seen at

openings in vegetation

cover

55m

Level with site




Views will remain partially

screened until new planting

establishes

Potential for

gaps to be

filled and

views

reduced to

glimpses


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View point Glimpsed/Open/

Oblique views

Distance to

closest point

of the site

Site at

<5mAOD

Potential for mitigation Residual

issues once

mitigation

measures

established

4 A484 heading north

Refer photo 13


Existing view is fully

screened in winter by

intervening tall hedges

50m

Level with site

Not required None

5 View at gap in

hedgerow on

B4308 linking

Kidwelly to

Trimsaran

Representative of

long range views

from elevated

private dwellings

Refer photo 6

Long range viewpoint

Existing panoramic view

over a pastoral landscape

with very few detractors

View to rear of panels

[non reflective surface]

will be screened in winter

months by intervening

vegetation from public

view

View to rear of panels

[non reflective surface]

will be partially screened

in winter months by

intervening vegetation

from private dwellings at

the edge of Kidwelly and

occasional dwellings

further east but at a

distance of over 1km

1200m

20m AOD


Intervening vegetation will

provide some screening

Views may remain glimpsed

until new planting

establishes

Potential for

gaps to be

filled and

views

reduced to

glimpses or

fully

screened

Definitions:

Short range viewpoint up to 0.5km

Mid range viewpoint 0.5-1km

Long range viewpoint >1km

8.4 The main impact will be on users of the minor road C2203, this includes residents, and

Sustrans Route 4 users. Cyclists are more likely to be accepting of this type of development which is

contributing to sustainable energy targets.

8.5 There will be a lesser impact on users of the A484 as views are oblique for drivers and

unlikely to be noticed. Sustrans Route 4 users and Wales Coast Paths users will be travelling slower

and are more likely to notice the change in the view.

8.6 Views from private dwellings are more difficult to assess although these are all at a distance

of over 1km, and as view 5 illustrates there is intervening vegetation which will partially screen views

even in winter months.


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8.7 Summary

− Level of sensitivity: the sensitivity of visual receptors is High given the quality of the

landscape (although not formally designated) and the expectations from those visiting the

area using the Wales Coast Path or Sustrans Route 4, although note that the site is not in a

key location and is not visible from any key cultural assets.

− Size & scale: the scale of development is small but there will be a noticeable change to the

existing view from adjacent view points affecting the site characteristics and qualities.

− Geographic extent: the impacts on views are generally localised, and where longer range

views are possible the site will be a small part of the wider view.

− Magnitude of landscape change is assessed as Medium, a noticeable change but localised in

extent.

Overall the visual effect is assessed as Minor, the development will be a localised visual intrusion but

with good scope for mitigation (given the level ground and the low height of the proposal) by

restoring and strengthening the tall hedges characteristic of this part of the Gwendraeth Levels.

9.0 LANDSCAPE MITIGATION MEASURES

Mitigation measures are derived from the need to: conserve the key qualities of the area identified

in Section 5; meet the policies identified in Section 6; take the opportunity to enhance landscape

and biodiversity interest.

All new planting will be locally native, using species which are appropriate to the local landscape and

are appropriate to the site layout, including the following species identified in the site Ecological

Survey.

Alder Alnus glutinosa

Beech Fagus sylvatica

Blackthorn Prunus spinosa

Common Ivy Hedera helix

Dog-rose Rosa canina

Elder Sambucus nigra

Grey Willow Salix cinerea subsp. cinerea

Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna

The following mitigation measures will be undertaken, for locations refer to Plan 10.

1. South boundary hedge along C2203 (was coppiced and gapped up 2018) – retain

occasional tall hedge trees. Restore historic frontage boundary with mix of hedge

species and small trees in informal groups. Nursery stock sized to provide immediate

impact. Allow to grow on to 3m height in line with hedge opposite as shown below:


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2. West boundary hedge - retain scrub growth. Manage encroachment to retain valuable reed

habitat.

3. West boundary – ensure retention of reed beds as useful screen and valuable habitat.

4. West boundary hedge – remnant hedge line. Gap up historic boundary with mix of hedge

species and small trees in informal groups. Allow to grow on to 3m height.

5. North boundary hedge – (remnant hedge line was coppiced and gapped up 2017). Continue

mangement to ensure establishment. Consider introducing feathered trees in informal

groups. Allow to grow on to 3m height.

6. North boundary – ensure retention of reed beds as useful screen and valuable habitat.

7. East boundary hedge (outside ownership) – already provides a good screen. New hedge

planted 2018 – continue management and allow to grow to 3m height.

8. South-east corner – retain scrub growth and new planting and allow to grow on.

9. South-east corner – plant up gap with tree and shrub species.

10. MV Station and fence surround – plant up to provide screening from road.

11. Retain existing trees and shrubs – manage to ensure they provide a useful screen by allowing

to grow on to 3m.

12. Recent planting – continue to manage new planting to ensure establishment.

13. Lighting – minimise to reduce light pollution in a rural area.

14. CCTV – locate to minimise visual impact while maintaining functionality.

Mitigation measures during the Construction Phase:

1. Keep the construction period to a minimum.

2. Keep ground disturbance area to a minimum.

3. Provide an adequate construction exclusion zone to ensure existing hedges and trees are

adequately protected in line with BS5837: 2012.


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4. Ensure none or minimal hedge disturbance for installation of underground cabling to the

grid connection point.

Mitigation measures during the Operational Phase:

1. Undertake planting and seeding in the first planting season following construction.

2. Maintain, replace any failures/failing areas the following season for a period of 5 years.

3. Management of the grassland within the solar panel area – grazing or mowing at a low

intensity with no added fertiliser may result in a flower-rich hay meadow. To specifically

benefit pollinators, grazing should not take place between mid-April and August to allow

flowering species to reach maturity.

10.0 CONCLUSION

10.1 The proposals are for circa 2.5 ha of ground mounted photovoltaic panels, classified as a

‘small’ solar farm as defined in the Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance ‘Wind and Solar Energy’.

10.2 The site is a field parcel of semi-improved pasture with scattered scrub and derelict

buildings, with existing access to public highway, a minor road (C2203) to Pinged.

10.3 The site lies within the Gwendraeth Levels Special Landscape Area and within Cadws

Register of Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest in Wales, ‘Taf and Twyi Estuary’ (HLW D 9).

10.4 The proposals have been offset from the historic boundaries. No boundary trees, hedges or

ditches will be removed under the proposals.

10.5 The overall landscape effect has been assessed by reviewing the Carmarthenshire ‘Solar PV

Development Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study’. The site lies within Landscape Unit 32 :

‘Gwendraeth Levels’, which has ‘some capacity for small scale PV development where some

enclosure provided by hedgerows’.

10.6 The small scale of the proposals is concluded as appropriate for the receiving landscape

providing the mitigation measures outlined in section 9 are followed.

10.7 A range of viewpoints have been analysed. The site is not in a key location and is not visible

from any key cultural assets. Overall the visual effect is assessed as Minor, the development will be

a localised visual intrusion, with some intrusion possible from long distance private views, but there

is good scope for mitigation given the level ground and the low height of the proposal.

10.8 Mitigation measures will include restoration of tall hedges, a characteristic of this area of the

Gwendraeth Levels, management of new establishing planting through Glastir, and management of

two types of reed bed which are an important habitat.


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APPENDIX 1: METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

The generic method is set out below but has been adapted for this LVIA to incorporate the

Carmarthenshire Solar PV Development Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study.

1.0 Establishing the landscape baseline:

To be able to assess the effects of a proposed development or change, the landscape baseline must

be established. This informs the identification of landscape receptors and the effects of the

proposed changes on the receptors can be assessed. The following aspects are considered within

this landscape baseline study:

• Landscape fabric – the physical landscape elements including landform, land cover

boundaries, trees & woodland.

• Landscape character – the distinct pattern of elements occurring consistently in a particular

landscape type, reflecting geology, landform, soils, vegetation and land use together with

the aesthetic and perceptual qualities.

• Landscape designation – used to enable judgements when assessing effects within

particularly valued sites.

Sensitivity: The sensitivity of landscape receptors to the type and scale of the proposed

development is determined by consideration of the susceptibility and value of the receptor

which informs the professional judgement.

• Susceptibility:

− High – undue negative consequences are expected

− Medium - undue negative consequences may arise

− Low - undue negative consequences are unlikely

• Value:

− High – landscapes with national or international designations

− Medium - landscapes with local value subject to additional protection

− Low - landscapes not subject to designation but valued at the community or

local level

− Minimal - landscapes that are degraded with little/no community or local value

Judgements made on susceptibility & value are combined to inform the level of sensitivity which

are:

• Very High sensitivity – a landscape of international importance that might be affected by the

proposal, ‘Outstanding’ evaluation in LANDMAP for characteristics that may be affected by

the development, a landscape vulnerable to disturbance or deterioration in character due to

the proposals, no / little potential for substitution or replacement.

• High sensitivity – a landscape of national importance that might be affected by the proposal,

‘High’ evaluation in LANDMAP for characteristics that may be affected by the development,

many landscape elements sensitive to disturbance or deterioration in character due to the

proposals, no / limited potential for substitution or replacement.


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• Medium sensitivity – a landscape of regional importance that might be affected by the

proposal, ‘Moderate’ evaluation in LANDMAP for characteristics that may be affected by the

development, some features sensitive to disturbance or deterioration in character due to

the proposals, potential for substitution or replacement.

• Low sensitivity – a landscape of local importance that might be affected by the proposal,

‘Low’ evaluation in LANDMAP for characteristics that may be affected by the development,

few features sensitive to disturbance or deterioration in character due to the proposals,

good potential for substitution or replacement.

It is considered sufficient to describe the ‘level of sensitivity’ only; with susceptibility & value not

always recorded in the assessment.

Other general observations regarding the condition and quality of the landscape are used to support

the overall narrative and judgement of the sensitivity (including distinctiveness, management,

detractors, unity, structure, function, aesthetic value and sense of place).

Magnitude: The effects on landscape receptors are assessed in terms of ‘magnitude of change’

based on a combination of size, scale, geographic extent of influence, duration and reversibility of

the impact.

• Size & scale:

− Large – major change to the existing landscape including key elements,

characteristics and qualities.

− Medium – partial or noticeable change to the existing landscape including key

elements, characteristics and qualities.

− Small – some discernible but minor change to the existing landscape including

key elements, characteristics and qualities.

− Negligible – very minor, virtually imperceptible change to the existing landscape

including key elements, characteristics and qualities.

• Geographic extent:

− Wide – influencing several landscape types / areas (>5km)

− Medium – generally within the local character area (1-5km)

− Local – the site & immediate surrounds (up to 1km)

− Site – within 750m of the site

• Duration:

− Long term (>10 years)

− Medium term (2 – 10 years)

− Short term (<2 years)

Judgements made on the scale of magnitude of landscape change (a product of size/scale, extent &

duration) which are:

− Large – notable long term change or loss of landscape components or characteristics

over an extensive area or a very intensive, long term change over a more limited area.


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− Medium – moderate short term change or loss of landscape components or

characteristics over a large area or moderate long term change in a localised area.

− Small – minor long term or moderate short term change or loss of landscape

components or characteristics.

− Negligible – no discernible loss of landscape components or characteristics.

It is considered sufficient to describe the ‘magnitude of change’ only; with the size, scale and extent

not always recorded in the assessment.

2.0 Establishing the visual baseline:

Visual effects relate to how the development may affect the available views to ‘receptors’ (ie. people

who experience the view) and the impact on visual amenity. Visual receptors are identified through

desk & field studies and the type, relative numbers and activities of potential receptors are

documented together with the nature, composition and characteristics of the existing views.

Sensitivity: The sensitivity of visual receptors is assessed by the susceptibility of the receptor

and value of the view.

• Receptor activities – (leisure & sporting activities, dog walking, working, at home).

• Movement / Duration – (stationary or moving).

• Orientation – (position of receptors in relation to the development).

• Purpose / expectation of receptors

• Context – (quality of the landscape)

• Importance of view / location

The level of sensitivity is assessed as a combination of susceptibility & value which is:

• Very high sensitivity – a view from residential/community properties experienced by

many viewers (especially open/direct views). Daily/prolonged or sustained views

over a long period, where view of the landscape is an important attractant, or where

the development is an important element of the view. A view from a valued

landscape, or an internationally important recreation facility.

• High sensitivity – an oblique / interrupted view from residential/community

properties experienced by many viewers. Frequent open views where view of the

landscape is an important attractant, or where the development is an important

element of the view. A view from a valued landscape, or a nationally important

recreation facility, or a promoted long distance route.

• Medium sensitivity – a view from moderate numbers of residential/community

properties experienced by moderate numbers of viewers, or where the

development is not an important element of the view. Open views available

intermittently and the view of the landscape is an attractant. A view from a valued

landscape, or a regionally important recreation facility (especially open/direct

views).


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• Low sensitivity - a view from a small number of residential/community properties

experienced by few numbers of viewers. Occasional open views available, viewers

pursuing activities such as outdoor sports/work, glimpsed/passing views to vehicles.

A view from a low valued landscape, or a locally important recreation facility, or

where the view of the landscape is not the reason for visiting.

Magnitude: The effects on the visual receptors are assessed in terms of ‘magnitude of change’ based

on a combination of size, scale, geographic extent of influence, duration and reversibility of the

impact.

The size and scale impacts on the relative change in the elements, features, qualities and

characteristics that make up the view.

• Size & scale:

− Large – major change to the existing view including key elements, characteristics

and qualities.

− Medium – partial or noticeable change to the existing view including key


− Small – some discernible but minor change to the existing view including key


− Negligible – very minor, virtually imperceptible change to the existing view

including key elements, characteristics and qualities.

• Geographic extent:

− Wide – influencing most of a view or receptor (>50%)

− Medium – generally between 25-50% of a view or receptor

− Small – generally <25% of a view or receptor

− Site – generally affecting only a small part of the receptor

• Duration:

− Long term (>10 years)

− Medium term (2 – 10 years)

− Short term (<2 years)

Judgements made on the scale of magnitude of visual change (a product of size/scale, extent &

duration) which are:

− Large – the majority of viewers are affected, great change in view or loss of the view.

− Medium – many viewers affected, noticeable change in the view.

− Small – few viewers affected, discernible change in the view if looked for.

− Negligible – barely perceptible change.

It is considered sufficient to describe the ‘magnitude of change’ only; with the size and scale not

always recorded in the assessment.


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3.0 Assessment of Landscape & Visual Effects:

In order to determine the scale of effects, the sensitivity and magnitude of change are assessed for

the both the landscape or visual receptor. The scale of effects can be classified as beneficial, neutral

or adverse (see indicative criteria tables below).

Landscape Receptors:

• Adverse landscape effects: Adverse effects occur when features or key landscape

characteristics are lost, or where new development is out of scale or character.

• Neutral landscape effects: when there is no discernible improvement or deterioration to the

landscape intrinsic landscape character of the area.

• Beneficial landscape effects: when repair, replacement or maintenance occurs to derelict

buildings / poorly maintained landscape features

Indicative criteria for assessing Landscape Effects:

Landscape

Effect:

Indicative Criteria:

Great: Landscape character completely degraded; important components or characteristics lost

(especially in highly sensitive landscape); little/no scope for mitigation.

Great improvement – sufficient to upgrade overall landscape character

Major: Large or medium adverse change to the components or characteristics, or overall

character; large change to a high or medium sensitivity landscape; limited scope for

mitigation.

Large improvement to the landscape, or improvement over a wide area sufficient to alter

perceptions; larger changes in a landscape of lower sensitivity, smaller changes in a very

highly sensitive landscape.

Moderate: Medium adverse change to components or characteristics, or overall character of

medium-high sensitivity landscape; scope for mitigation; discernible improvements to

landscape character.

Larger changes in a landscape of lower sensitivity, smaller changes in a landscape of higher

sensitivity.

Minor: Localised or small adverse change to the existing components or characteristics or overall

character; considerable scope for mitigation.

Localised improvement to the existing landscape, or to components or characteristics of

the landscape.

Negligible/None: Little or no perceived change to the existing landscape character.

The change is difficult to discern.


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Visual Receptors:

• Adverse visual effects: when the proposed development introduces new non-characteristic,

discordant or intrusive elements into views.

• Neutral visual effects: where the change proposed results in no discernible improvement or

deterioration to views or visual amenity.

• Beneficial visual effects: when the proposed development would enhance the quality of the

receptors view.

Indicative criteria for assessing Visual Effects:

Visual Effect: Indicative Criteria:

Great: Large change or visual intrusion experienced by highly/very highly sensitive viewers or

from highly/very highly sensitive public view points; many viewers affected. The

development would cause a large deterioration in the existing view; little or no scope for

mitigation.

Large improvement in the view, sufficient to upgrade overall visual amenity.

Major: Large or medium change or visual intrusion experienced by highly sensitive viewers or

from highly sensitive public viewpoints; relatively many viewers affected. The

development would cause considerable deterioration in the existing view; limited scope

for mitigation.

Appreciable improvement in the existing view; lesser degree of change for very highly

sensitive viewers, greater for less sensitive viewers.

Moderate: Medium change or noticeable visual intrusion experienced by moderately sensitive

viewers or from moderately sensitive public viewpoints; relatively few viewers affected.

The development would cause a noticeable change in the existing view; scope for

mitigation.

Lesser degree of change for more highly sensitive viewers, greater for less sensitive

viewers.

Minor: Small or localised visual intrusion in the existing view; relatively few viewers affected, good

scope for mitigation.

Localised reduction in visual intrusion or improvement in the view

Negligible/None: The change in the view is imperceptible or difficult to discern

Mackley Davies Associates Ltd landscape architecture . environmental planning pensaerniaeth tirwedd . cynllunio amgylcheddol

OS licence no. 100043966 1:50000 series

Morfa Pingett

Location Plan 01

1km radius


OS licence no. 100043966 1:25000 series

Refer Plan 8 for other photo locations

Photo Locations(see photo sheets)7 Morfa Pingett

Location Plan 02

0.5km radius

Sustrans Route 4

Gwendraeth Fawr

B4308Kidwelly6


Morfa Pingett

Aerial Plan 03

A484


Morfa Pingett

Historic Context Plan 04

1915

1880


Source: Historic Wales

Cadw Listed buildings

Cadw Scheduled Ancient Monuments

OS licence no. 100043966

Source: Magic.gov designated nature conservation sites

Morfa Pingett

Heritage Assets Plan 05

SAC Carmarthen Bay & Estuaries

Morfa PingettLANDMAP aspect layers Plan 06

Mackley Davies Associates Ltd landscape architecture . environmental planning pensaerniaeth tirwedd . cynllunio amgylcheddol OS licence no. 100043966

Visual Sensory layer Landscape Habitats layer

Historic Landscape layer Cultural Landscape layer Geological Landscape layer

CRMRTVS279Gwendraeth LevelsFlat lowland mosaicOverall evaluation: high

CRMRTCL061Rural CarmarthenshireOverall evaluation: high

CRMRTHL40188Pinged MarshReclaimed wetlandOverall evaluation: outstanding

CRMRTGL214Pembrey MarshOverall evaluation: moderate

CRMRTLH092Gwernydd PenbreMosaicOverall evaluation: high


Extract from Carmarthenshire County Council Local Development Plan [adopted 2014]


Morfa Pingett

Planning Context Plan 07

Application site

Morfa Pingett

Existing site & photo locations 08



Refer Plan 2 for wider photo locations

Photo Locations

(see photo sheets)7

A484

2

1

3

4 5

78

9

10

11

12

13

14

15


Morfa Pingett

Proposals Plan 9

Solar panels

Informal grass access track

Existing sheep net fencing

MV Station

Mackley Davies Associates Ltd landscape architecture . environmental planning pensaerniaeth tirwedd . cynllunio amgylcheddol OS licence no. 100043966

Morfa Pingett

Mitigation Plan 10

7. East boundary hedgeOutside ownership. Already provides a good screen.New hedge planted 2018, continue management and allow to grow to 3m.

5. North boundary hedgeRemnant hedge line. Coppiced and gapped up in 2017. Continue management to ensure establishment. Consider introducingfeathered tree groups. Allow to grow on to 3m height.

4. West boundary hedgeRemnant hedge line. Gap up historic boundary with mix of hedge speciesand small trees in informal groups. Allow to grow on to 3m height.

2. West boundary including hedgeManage mosaic of scrub and reed forscreening and biodiversity.

8. South east corner Retain scrub growth & new planting. Allow to grow on. 10. MV Station

Plant up to provide screeningfrom road.

11. Retain existing trees and hedgesManage to ensure they provide a useful screen

12. Recent planting Continue to manage new planting to ensureestablishment.

13. Lighting Minimise to reduce light pollution in a rural area.

14. CCTVLocate to minimise visual impact while maintainingfunctionality.

3. West boundary Ensure retention of reed bedsas useful screen and valuable habitat.

6. North boundary Ensure retention of reed bedsas useful screen and valuable habitat.

1. South boundary hedgeRetain occasional tall hedge trees. Restore historic frontage boundary with mix of hedge species and small trees in informal groups. Nursery stock sized to provide immediate impact. Allow to grow on to 3m height.

9. South east corner Plant up gap with tree & shrub species.

2. West boundary including hedgeManage mosaic of scrub and reed forscreening and biodiversity.

landscape and visual impact appraisal proposed …...landscape and visual impacts are a function of...

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