A comprehensive landscape and visual impact assessment has been carried out and the findings of this, together with ongoing consultations and appraisals, have guided the development of a structural landscape scheme which has been incorporated within the strategic development proposals.

Assessments have been undertaken in accordance with best practice, both with reference to available published literature and also following site investigations.

The landscape appraisal identifies areas of potential change associated with the proposal and concludes that, on balance, there would be beneficial impacts on the landscape character of this part of Tetbury in the context of the wider area of the AONB. The essential landscape features that contribute to local character would be retained and new landscape proposals would be introduced to enhance character.

The visual appraisal concludes that the majority of anticipated visual impacts associated with development of the site as proposed lie close to the site and range in magnitude from substantial to slight. Where negative impacts are identified mitigation is proposed to substantially reduce adverse effects. Middle distance and distant views would largely be screened by existing landform, built form and vegetation.

The scheme incorporates a range of elements that would enhance the local landscape. There is provision for a significant new area of open space incorporating allotments, informal recreation and new habitat creation to the southern boundary of the site and the continued northern expansion of Tetbury is consistent with the historic development pattern of the town. The sensitive development of the site would provide an opportunity to create an improved urban edge to the northern boundary of Tetbury including substantial new woodland planting and an enhanced northern approach to the town along the A433.

Over the longer term these proposed new landscape elements would more than make up for any short term losses and because of this the proposed development has the potential to bring landscape benefits at both a local level and also in terms of the wider AONB.

It is concluded that the study area has the landscape capacity to accommodate new development providing development is of a suitable type and detailed proposals are developed within the identified landscape framework in a way that is compliant with Policies 42 and 45 of the adopted Cotswold District Plan.

Please click on an image below to view a bigger version

• 

  Site view

• 

  Site view

Site view