H - Sandland Heaths & Farmland Landscape …...Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study Part 4...

Part 4 - Page 168 of 199Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study

H - Sandland Heaths & Farmland Landscape Character Type

The Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands are located between the River Valley Carrlands of the Don, Dun and Torne to the west and north, Thorne and Hatfi eld Moors to the east and the River Idle and Borough’s boundary in the south. The changing landform is closely associated with the glacial sands and gravels overlaying the Sherwood sandstones and Mercia mud stones. The landform gradually fl attens out from a raised sandstone ridge in Bawtry forest in the south, to a fl at and drained fl oodplain area. The intensively farmed arable landscape is typically of semi-regular medium to large fi elds bounded by fl ailed and fragmented hedgerows and a straight geometric network of drains and ditches. There is a regular pattern of straight roads, large straight edged plantations, which refl ect the relatively recent enclosure from the areas of commons and heaths, remnants of which occur in unmanaged pockets and as road side verges with bracken and gorse. Historic parks and estates are still evident but more intact in the south of the LCT than in the west. Mining settlements in the west and north are large and close to merging. However, in rural areas there remain many smaller scattered farms and village settlements with older buildings typically built with red brick and tiles. There are also a few remaining traditional red brick built windmills. There are several major roads, including the M18, which bisects the LCT from south-west to north east and eff ectively divides more urbanised western areas from the more largely arable areas to the east. The major recent and ongoing development of Robin Hood Airport, its emerging and enlarging infrastructure and associated development, is a major force for change in the area. There are many scattered designated nature sites associated with woodland, watercourses and water fi lled gravel pits throughout.

The Sandland Heaths and Farmland character areas are adjacent to each other and the boundary between them is defi ned primarily by the change in landform. They are as follows:

H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandland Heaths and Farmland

H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandland Heaths and Farmland

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H1 - Bawtry to Finningley Sandland Heaths & Farmland

Key CharacteristicsGently rolling raised ridge of sandstone.

Medium to large scale intensive arable farmland with rectangular fi elds.

Fragmented and missing hedges characteristically lined with bracken.

Geometric landscape with straight roads, straight edged conifer plantations and fi elds.

Large scale coniferous forestry plantations and smaller scattered mixed deciduous and coniferous woodlands.

Historic large farmed estates which have changed to educational and institutional uses.

A few large settlements including both market towns and a mining settlement.

Road and rail transport corridor.

Long distance views to lower ground, many wooded skylines, other enclosed views due to landform and woodlands.

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Landscape DescriptionThis LCA consists of the Sherwood sandstone ridge running from south-west to north-east. It is cut into by smaller valleys and hollows and slopes down to the lower areas in the east which are overlain by glacial sands and gravels. The land use consists mainly of medium to large scale arable farmland and woodlands. There is a relatively high proportion of tree cover consisting of large straight-edged conifer plantations along with smaller mixed woodland. There is a geometric form to many landscape elements including a railway line, straight edged fi elds which often have fragmented or missing fl ailed hawthorn hedgerows with bracken and straight roads particularly the A638 which runs along the line of the former Roman Road. Historic farmed estates and parkland ,such as Rossington Hall and Hesley Park built of traditional red brick, are also a feature. Many have since changed their use and become educational establishments or other types of institutions. There are relatively few public rights of way. The few settlements were historically market towns, but deep coal mining has led to the expansion of Rossington into the larger mining settlement of New Rossington. Deep coal mining is a former activity which is evident both within and around the LCA, with views to the remaining collieries and spoil heaps. There are scattered nature sites associated with parkland and woodlands. There are many wooded skylines and longer distance views to lower ground but other views are enclosed by woodland and the local landform.

Recent Landscape ImpactsSpoil heaps and disused collieries are relatively recent changes which on restoration provide a positive opportunity for changes in land use.

Noise from the busy roads causing loss of tranquillity

Opening of Robin Hood international airport just outside of but adjacent to the LCA boundary with increasing noise, traffi c and ongoing development of its infrastructure and services.

Loss of road hedges and trees indicating a continuing change in farming practices.

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Landscape Value and QualityThis landscape is considered to be of moderate quality being fairly distinctive, with the arable areas fairly intact and in good condition, and only a few intrusive elements. There are a many scattered local designated nature sites mainly associated with parkland and scattered woodlands, and the landscape is moderately tranquil and remote in areas. For these reasons the landscape value is considered to be high.

The landscape strategy for H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is to Conserve and Strengthen.

ViewersThere are moderate numbers of residents on the edges of Rossington, New Rossington and Bawtry, and also residents of the estate farms and institutions throughout the LCA who would be considered sensitive viewers. There are not many public rights of way so there will be limited numbers of recreational viewers. There are many less sensitive viewers travelling through the LCA via the roads and airport routes. Those sensitive viewers outside the LCA on the urban fringes of Doncaster have restricted views within the LCA due to separation by major roads.



Broad Landscape Capacity for Housing DevelopmentThis landscape has large fairly intact areas of farmland and woodland with only a scattering of individual residences and a few large settlements. The existing large settlements of Rossington New Rossington and Bawtry are compact and located on sloping ground, with highly visible urban edges. There are existing intrusions of spoil heaps, collieries and busy roads. Housing development would incur a loss of intact arable farmland, but would be in scale with the existing larger settlements. This type of development would fi t well with the scale and shape and size of the rectangular fi elds and also the many existing straight lines in the LCA. Visual impacts would be variable depending upon location with the landform providing enclosure in some areas and long distant views in others.

The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Locate in dips in the landform

Layout to fi t with either with the contours of the landform or the straight edges of surrounding features

Locate adjacent to existing large settlements

Use existing woodland for screening

Add additional screening in the form of new woodland/trees clumps and hedgerows using species characteristic of the LCA.

Scale of development to fi t the scale of local landscape elements such as fi elds or woodlands.

Replace missing trees and hedgerows to help screen and soften the development.

Locate away from existing public rights of way to prevent enclosure and loss of existing views.

Avoid merging settlements as this would disproportionately increases visual impacts and aff ect wildlife corridors.

The landscape capacity for housing in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Housing Survey for South-western & Southern Edges of New RossingtonNew Rossington is a former mining town. The southern edge is well contained and slightly raised above the large gently sloping arable fi elds. The views are relatively open, over the hedgeless fi elds which are bounded by ditches, to occasional farmsteads, parkland and woodlands in the middle distance and longer views to the west outside the LCA. The south-western edge is well contained and partially softened and screened by some trees, and is also slightly enclosed by landform. There are some unmanaged areas overgrown grassy areas on the south western edge along with large scale arable fi elds. The western section of the housing edge itself is run down. It consists of rows of terraces and bungalows fronted onto the arable fi eld with areas of burning at the fi eld entrance, an incomplete concrete post and wire fence and the occasional tree remaining in what was once a row of trees along the fi eld/housing edge. The eastern section of the edge is in better condition but still abruptly bounded by mainly bare panel fencing. The housing is constructed from a mix of materials including brown brick, some rendered, and red or brown roof tiles. Beyond the eastern section is a school with sports fencing and fl oodlights jutting out in to the countryside.

The landscape adjacent to this edge is representative of the large scale arable farmland found within the LCA, with very fragmented and missing hedgerows. Other intrusive elements include the noise from aircraft and the busy B road which reduces the tranquillity on this urban edge. The degraded appearance to the western section of the housing edge and a fi eld to the south-west of the housing edge which appears to be unmanaged and overgrown reduce the quality. Overall the landscape quality and value is considered to be moderate.

Housing development here would cause a loss of relatively intact characteristic farmland. The existing boundary is well contained but could be enhanced and softened with tree and hedge planting in keeping with the nearby woodland. It may encroach into the rural setting for the nearby farmsteads and Hesley Hall Parkland. However, it would fi t with the scale of the existing fi elds and the existing straight urban edge. It could be highly visible due to the slightly elevated location to a few sensitive recreational users of the footpaths and also the residents of the scattered farmsteads. The existing woodland would screen viewers to the south of Hesley College. There will be many less sensitive viewers travelling along the busy road to the south of New Rossington.



Detailed Housing Survey for South-western & Southern Edges of New Rossington (continued)The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Keeping a clear-cut urban edge as currently.

Enhance the existing urban edge, soften and unify it using tree and hedge planting

Retain the public rights of way giving access to the countryside.

Maintain the separation and setting for the farmsteads, nature sites and Hesley Hall Parkland.

Retain the ditches and incorporate them into a sustainable urban drainage scheme which will bring in some of the remaining rural character into the urban edges.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the south-western and southern edges of New Rossington is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Northern-eastern Edge of RossingtonRossington is a compact settlement based around a historic village. The north eastern housing edge forms an irregular line and is made up of modern red brick detached houses with red roofs, along with some hipped roofs and some bungalows. They are well contained and screened by overgrown hedges with many trees. They back onto small to medium sized geometric hay fi elds bound by low fl ailed hawthorn hedges, along with post and barbed wire fencing. The canalised River Torne with its associated riparian vegetation restricts views to the north; Park Wood contains views to the west.

This area has a moderately distinctive character which is diff erent from the LCA as a whole. The whole of Park Wood is a nature site along with other small blocks of wood further east along the edge. There is also a large scheduled monument, the Roman Fort, straddling Sheep Bridge Lane to the east of the edge. The area is aff ected by the constant noise of traffi c from the nearby busy B6463. There are sheds and caravans in a few of the fi elds, farm clutter around Torne farm and rows of pylons just beyond the River Torne. These slightly degrade the appearance of an otherwise intact rural landscape. Overall this area is considered to be of high landscape value and moderate landscape quality.

Housing development would result in loss of a small area and intimate historic pattern of hay fi elds. It would also change and impact upon the experience of the public rights of way users, who currently enjoy a well directed and designed routes through the existing housing edge to this valued area of immediate countryside. The scale of the development is too large for the scale of the fi elds and would fragment the pattern. Visual impacts would be moderate due the existing visual enclosure and the relatively small numbers of sensitive viewers aff ected who could include residents on the existing residential edge and public rights of way users.



Detailed Housing Survey for Northern-eastern edge of Rossington (continued)The loss of small fi eld and consequently pattern and character cannot be mitigated for. The potential for mitigation is limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Use a mix of red bricks and red roofs to match existing materials on housing edge.

Avoid designated nature sites and scheduled monument.

Retain existing public rights of way and create a buff er to the retained route with tree and hedge planting to reduce the urban infl uences.

Retain a buff er zone to the river to maintain a separation between the housing ,the remaining rural countryside and the proposed FARRRS corridor; also to retain a broad green corridor for wildlife.

Maintain the remaining rural setting for Torne Farm.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the north-eastern edge of Rossington is judged to be low to none.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Eastern Edges of RossingtonRossington is a compact settlement based around a historic village. The landform is very gently sloping and rolling. The eastern housing edge forms an irregular line extending from Sheep Bridge Lane to near the railway line in the south. It is made up of an uncohesive mix of housing extending into Church Field and the countryside. There are detached houses, single storey bungalows, two storeys semi-detached with hipped roofs and new three storey terraces. Materials used include red brick both on its own and mixed with white render, stone, red and grey roofs. The more mature housing is generally well screened and softened by mature planting of trees and hedges. The newer housing is much more open to the surrounding countryside with views to the scattered woodland in the middle distance. There is a good network of public rights of way connecting this urban edge to the adjacent countryside and an area of nature sites.

Much of the adjacent countryside remains as intact large scale arable fi elds, with a few small fi elds on the northern sector. Some areas adjacent to existing new developments are rough grassland which may already have been abandoned and possibly earmarked for the next phase of new development. The landscape is representative of the large scale intact arable farmland found within the LCA, with very fragmented or missing hedgerows and scattered areas of mixed woodland. It is fairly tranquil and visually moderately tranquil and remote when looking away from the housing edge. Overall the landscape quality is considered high and value is considered to be moderate.

Housing development in this area would have moderate impacts. It would detract from the existing compact nature of the settlement, reduce an area of intact farmland and encroach on the scattering of nature sites to the east. However further development may be used to enhance this diverse edge by unifying it and possibly incorporating areas of green leisure space into the development to enhance the settlement as a whole. Such a development would also fi t with the scale of the larger fi elds but not the few smaller ones or the scale of the existing settlement edge. Visual impacts would be moderate in view of the current character of the edge and the moderate numbers of sensitive viewers residing on the edge and using the public rights of way. There will be many less sensitive viewers travelling along the busy road to the south west of Rossington and travellers on the railway and using Robin Hood airport.



Detailed Housing Survey for Eastern Edges of Rossington (continued)The potential for mitigation is considered moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Tree and hedge planting to enhance the existing urban edge ,softening and unifying it.

Retain the public rights of way access to the countryside.

Maintain the separation and setting for the farmsteads, nature sites and woodland

Retain the ditches and incorporate them into a sustainable urban drainage scheme which will bring in some of the remaining rural character into the urban edges.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the eastern edges of Rossington is judged to be moderate.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Strategic EmploymentLarge industrial areas are not generally found in this LCA. However there are the exceptions such as Bankwood Lane on the north-western edge of New Rossington, and works at High common Farm west of Tickhill. There are busy main roads, which could support strategic employment development without changing its character. The scale of such a development would be too large for the scale of the fi elds, disrupting any pattern, and the colours would not fi t with the landscape. However, it would fi t with the many existing straight lines found within the landscape, but would further increase the diversity of many views. Depending upon where it was located relative to existing screening it could be highly visible causing major changes in views both within and also possibly outside the LCA.

There is moderate potential for mitigation and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Careful selection of colour to integrate into the background for long distance viewers such as natural colours for fi eld and woodlands or whites and greys when set against skylines.

Locate near existing major roads to avoid creating new roads or changing minor roads, incurring further loss of landscape character

Screen from existing settlements, where possible use existing landform and or trees, hedges and woodland

Avoid enclosing public rights of way.

Use additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands to screen.

Avoid designated nature sites to conserve nature and wildlife habitat

Use green roofs to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

The landscape capacity for strategic employment in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be low to none.

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Detailed Strategic Employment Survey for South-western Edge of Robin Hood AirportThis is an area of intact arable farmland interspersed with woodland which is located to the south west of the airport runways. It is located on the gently rolling edges of Bawtry Ridge which slopes down to the fl at area of the airport. The airport itself is located in LCA H2, adjacent to the boundary of this LCA. To the south of High Common Lane around Partridge Hill Farm the fi elds are fl at, medium scale and thickly hedged with some recent extra planting. Woodlands here are small and scattered. To the north of High Common Lane there are very large open fi elds with no hedges and small to large mostly deciduous woodland. From these elevated, open fi elds there are long views to the fl atter ground to the east; mid range views to scattered areas of woodland in the north and wooded skylines to the south. The infl uences of the existing airport and buildings in this area are fairly minor and not immediately evident.

The intact rural nature of this area with few urban infl uences gives it a high landscape quality. Many of the woodlands in the area are designated nature sites. The area as a whole has tranquil views of the surrounding countryside but suff ers from the noise on the busy High Common Lane, A614 and A638 roads, and has occasional aircraft noise from the airport. Overall the landscape value is considered to be moderate.

Large scale buildings are not found in this area and the impacts of strategic employment development in this intact and rural landscape would be high. The scale would not fi t with the medium sized fi elds to the south of High Common Lane, but would fi t with the scale of the fi elds to the north of the lane. It would add a manmade element to a simple landscape which is currently dominated by planted elements and the colour would stand out against the woodland. If development were to occur to the north of High Common Lane, it would be highly visible from long distances especially to the south east and would be a major change in views.

There is moderate potential for mitigation to the north side of High Common Lane and limited potential for mitigation to the south side of High Common Lane. In addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

To the north of High Common Lane, locate on the lower slopes nearer the runway to reduce visibility.

To the south of High Common Lane develop on a smaller scale to fi t with the fi eld size.

Avoid fragmenting the farmland to help minimise loss of character.

Use the A638 road for access to avoid impacting on the remaining rural character of High Common Lane.

Use natural colours to integrate into the woodland background for longer distance views.

Screen where possible to make use existing landform and or trees, hedges and woodland.

Plant additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands using species characteristic of the area to screen.

Use green roofs and sustainable urban drainage scheme to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

Overall the landscape capacity for strategic employment to the south west of Robin Hood Airport is judged to be low to none.

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Locate where the development will cause the least fragmentation and further loss of intact farmland.

Maintain the quality of the setting for the historic building at Parrots Corner and the Roman remains.

Avoid enclosing public rights of way and locate in areas of existing fi elds not woodland.

Careful choice of colour to integrate into the background for longer distance viewers such as natural colours for fi eld and woodlands or whites and greys when set against skylines.

Screen from existing settlements and lanes using existing landform and or trees, hedges and woodland.

Plant additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands to screen.



In view of the above the landscape capacity for strategic employment in the vicinity of the FARRS corridor from Parrot’s Corner on the A638 to Robin Hood Airport is judged to be low to none.

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FARRRS Corridor from Parrots Corner on the A638 to Robin Hood Airport The FARRRS (Finningley and Rossington Regeneration Route Scheme) is a proposed major strategic route linking the M18 to Robin Hood Airport. The proposals have been developed in consultation with stake holders over several years and are supported by the Regional Development Agencies. For the purposes of this assessment, it is assumed that this route is already in place and impacts of the route on the landscape do not form part of this landscape capacity assessment for strategic employment. The capacity assessments cover the immediately adjacent landscape on either side of the route. The eastern section of the FARRRS runs through LCA E1 and is assessed separately in that part of the report.

Parrot’s Corner is a large and busy junction on the A638 road. At this location there is a historic red brick, red tiled public house and in the vicinity there are Roman remains. From here towards the east, the FARRRS route crosses a landscape which is fairly typical of the LCA of medium to large scale arable and hay fi elds scattered with blocks of mixed coniferous and deciduous woodland, and several abandoned gravel pit water bodies. The landform is gently undulating and there are occasional scattered clusters of farm buildings.

This landscape is considered to be of moderate quality as it is not highly distinctive but the arable areas are fairly intact and in good condition. The main detractor is likely to be the busy FARRRS road. The landscape is less tranquil due to the nearby busy roads and the airport. There are a many scattered locally designated nature sites associated with the woodland and water fi lled gravel pits. For these reasons landscape value is considered to be high.

In general, large scale industrial developments are not found in this LCA. Although there is disturbance from existing busy roads, the character in this area is strongly rural and the impacts of the proposed development would be high. The existing network of busy main roads could support such a development without changing the character further. However the proposed development would not fi t with the scale of the fi elds nor the colours of the landscape, would disrupt the pattern and increase the diversity. However it would fi t with the many existing straight lines found within the landscape. Depending on its location the development could be highly visible causing major changes in views within the LCA and beyond. There are relatively few sensitive viewers who may include limited numbers of public rights of way users and residents on the south west edge of Bessacarr, the edges of Hayfi eld Green, and the scattered farmsteads.



Broad Landscape Capacity for Mineral WorkingsQuarrying for sands and gravels is an ongoing and traditional land use in this LCA as was deep coal mining. The existing major road network already accommodates large trucks and access is good without the need to change it and alter its character. Landform similar to bunding already exists in the form of railway embankments and New Rossington spoil heap. Visual impacts are likely to be moderate as visibility would be very much dependant upon location. Potentially there could be major changes in views for sensitive viewers particularly residents on the edges of the raised settlements of Rossington , New Rossington and Bawtry.


Locate away from existing settlements and public rights of way

Use existing roads for access to reduce loss of character area

Careful choice of location using existing landform and woodland to screen.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts of more sensitive viewers.

Restoration to a suitable ecological habitat to enhance the wildlife value of the area.

Retain or divert existing public rights of way.

Retain existing ditches, woodland and hedgerows and trees, and replace missing ones to enhance screening.

Do not site on or near designated scheduled monuments or nature sites.

The landscape capacity for mineral workings in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be moderate.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Compost Facilities on FarmsThe landscape capacity for compost facilities is largely driven by location relative to major roads and the character of the individual farm rather than by landscape character area. There are a few scattered farms in the LCA, several of which have access to major roads via short lanes or track-ways. In such cases landscape and visual impacts would be minimal, with negligible changes causing little or no impacts on landscape character, aesthetics or changes in views. However if changes to many or long sections of minor roads or lanes were necessary, then there may be impacts on landscape character and some impacts on the scale, pattern and sense of movement in the landscape. Landscape capacity is likely to be higher where the landscape is already disturbed, diverse, larger scale and modern in character; where the agricultural barns and associated farm buildings are medium to large scale and modern not historic in character; and where the farm yard and access roads are well screened.

In addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document, mitigation could be achieved by the following:

Screen any roads with obviously increased levels of traffi c

Screen yards to visual movement and some noise


Replace any hedges trees and ditches removed for road widening

Locate facilities on modern large scale farms.

The landscape capacity for compost facilities in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be dependant on the factors described above. Each proposed facility should be judged individually against these criteria.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for WindpowerWindpower would introduce a new element which would add to the existing diversity but may cause a cluttered skyline in some locations where there are existing elements such as spoil heaps and pylons. The scale of the turbines would be too large for the scale of the smaller and medium sized fi elds and also the smaller scale landform, but would be in scale with the larger woodland blocks. It would fi t with the movement of traffi c on the busy roads. The existing woodland in combination with the rolling landform could give some potential for screening the lower parts of the wind farm. However wind turbines would still be visible from long distances, with many potentially sensitive viewers within and also without in (e.g. Tickhill and also the conurbation of Doncaster in the north), in the simple landscapes of E1 in the west and G2 in the east.

The potential for mitigation is considered limited and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Use of woodland and landform to screen lower built elements.

Smaller scale turbines to reduce visual impacts and in particular the increases in diversity for viewers outside of the LCA.

Avoid locating in designated, scheduled monuments or nature sites to avoid disruption of archaeology or ecology.

Use existing roads for installation and management access.

Use as a potential green landmark.

The landscape capacity for windpower in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for BiomassBiomass has not been observed in this area and is not ecologically suited to raised area of dry sandstone heathland. However, it is ecologically suited to wetland areas which do exist in the form of fl ooded gravel pits. Its use would not aff ect long distance viewers, but it may aff ect closer viewers by increasing enclosure on public rights of way and reducing the pattern of fi elds by hiding fi eld boundaries. However these impacts would be reduced due to the already existing enclosure by woodlands and landform. Introduction of incinerators and chimneys may be more appropriate where existing urban infl uences exist.


Plant behind existing trees, hedgerows or woodland to reduce loss of views.

Plant away from public rights of way and lanes to reduce the eff ects of enclosure where views presently exist.

Avoid designated scheduled monuments or nature sites.

Plant in strips along watercourses or around existing pools to integrate with existing willows and existing patterns of tree planting in the landscape

The landscape capacity for biomass in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be moderate.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Large scale ForestryWoodland is found frequently in this LCA as deciduous, mixed or coniferous blocks which vary in size from small to large. Coniferous trees are ecologically suited to the sandstone heath land which is also a characteristic vegetation of the LCA. Consequently landscape impacts for such a planting is considered low. It would fi t well with already existing aesthetics, especially the straight lines in the landscape. Visual impacts would be low as there would not be large changes in views.

The potential for mitigation is high and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Avoid enclosing existing views; lanes track ways and public rights of way.

Plant adjacent to existing woodland to reduce disruption of remaining fi eld patterns.

The landscape capacity for large scale forestry in H1 – Bawtry to Finningley Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be high.

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H2 - Blaxton to Stainforth Sandland Heaths & Farmland

Key CharacteristicsFlat low lying fl oodplain with Sherwood sandstone overlain by gravel and sand.

Medium to large scale intensive arable farmland with rectangular fi elds and fragmented and missing hedge boundaries and frequently lined with bracken.

Scattered farms with diversifying and recreational land uses.

Network of larger drains and smaller wet ditches.

Numerous sand and gravel extraction sites including restored areas.

Occasional mixed deciduous and coniferous woodlands.

Occasional heathland and small remnants of roadside heath land vegetation including both bracken and gorse.

Small rural settlements scattered in the east, and large former mining settlements in the west.

Major transport routes including motorway and railway.

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Landscape DescriptionThis LCA is a fl at fl oodplain bounded by the Don Navigation Canal in the west; Thorne in the north; Thorne and Hatfi eld Moors in the east and the rising land south-west of Robin Hood Airport. The underlying geology is Sherwood sandstone overlain by gravel and sand drifts, which give rise to sandy stony soils, areas of occasional heathland such as Blaxton Common, and a few remaining roadside patches of heathland bracken and gorse in the drier areas. There are occasional woodlands, short lines of Lombardy poplars and an occasional historic red brick windmill. The LCA is bisected by the M18 motorway; To its west there are larger urban settlements, many of which are almost merging; to its east the landscape is more rural and typifi ed by intensively farmed, large scale arable fi elds drained by a network of geometrically arranged ditches. Diversifi cation of the farming land use includes recreational uses such as fi shing, boating lakes, a miniature railway, caravan and camping sites and a maize maze. Other developments include two large prisons. Restored gravel pits and ongoing sand and gravel extraction is traditional in this area. At the former deep coal mine, Thorne Colliery, the pithead winding gear has now been taken down. There are remnants of parkland between Barnby Dun and Dunscroft. The former Finningley Airport has been redeveloped as Robin Hood international airport with an associated rapidly developing infrastructure. Views are infl uenced by a combination of fl at landform and presence of some trees, woodlands, hedgerows and many wooded skylines. Overall this is a rather diverse and in places rather indistinct landscape area, which is unifi ed by the underlying geology, fl oodplain topography and almost extinct sandy heath land character.

Recent Landscape ImpactsIntensifi cation of farming practices resulting in loss of hedge fi eld boundaries and trees and consequently the texture and pattern in the landscape.

The extension of quarrying into new areas causing further loss of farmed landscape and fi eld patterns.

Merging of the larger settlements particularly in the west and north.

Reclamation of spoil heaps which is a positive sign of landscape in transition

Decline of traditional mining settlements providing the potential for social and economic regeneration.

Increasing traffi c and noise from Robin Hood airport and associated infrastructure.

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Landscape Value and QualityThis landscape is considered to be of moderate quality as its character is diverse and indistinct in areas, but the arable farmland areas are fairly intact and in good condition. There are some scattered locally designated nature sites mainly associated with watercourses, water fi lled gravel pits and scattered woodlands. The landscape is moderately tranquil and remote in areas and the landscape value is considered to be moderate.

The landscape strategy for H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is to Create and Strengthen.

ViewersThere are large numbers of potentially sensitive viewers including the residents on the edges of the larger settlements of, Barnby Dun, Armthorpe, Kirk Sandall, Stainforth, Dunscroft, and Bessacarr within the LCA and also Doncaster and Rossington, New Rossington outside of the LCA. Residents of the many smaller scattered rural settlements, estate farms and scattered houses and institutions throughout the LCA would also be considered sensitive viewers. There are moderate numbers of recreational viewers of the landscape using the recreational facilities and public rights of way. There are many less sensitive viewers travelling through and over the LCA via the many major roads and also aircraft overhead coming in to land at Robin Hood Airport.



Broad Landscape Capacity for Housing DevelopmentThis is a fairly diverse landscape with large intact areas of farmland and some woodland with a scattering of small rural farmsteads and settlements. The existing large settlements occur to the north and west of the LCA and are mainly to the west of the M18. Generally the edges between settlements and the rural landscape are clear cut and some of the larger settlements are almost merging together. Further extensions of housing into the more rural areas would detract from the landscape setting for existing settlements and features. Where there are existing housing edges and larger settlements, the landscape impacts of housing development are likely to be less. However there is a likelihood of merging of settlements especially to the west of the M18 and creating an urban sprawl, even possibly linking with and extending the existing main urban area of Doncaster. In the more rural areas such a development would cause major impacts on the landscape and a loss of landscape character, although there are some smaller scale housing developments on the edges of the smaller rural settlements. Housing development would fi t well with the scale and shape and size of the rectangular fi elds and also the many existing straight lines in the LCA. Visual impacts would be variable depending on the location. The presence or absence of trees, hedgerows and woodland in combination with the fl at landform provide enclosure in some areas and long distance views in others.


Development edges to fi t with the straight edges of surrounding landscape features.

Locate adjacent to existing large settlements

Locate where existing woodland and localised dips in the landform provide screening.

Add additional screening in the form of new woodland/trees clumps and hedgerows.

Scale of development to fi t the scale of local landscape elements such as fi elds or woodland.

Replace missing trees and hedgerows to help screen and soften the development both within and on the edges.

Locate away from existing public rights of way to prevent enclosure and loss of existing views.

Avoid merging settlements.

Use sustainable urban drainage schemes to incorporate developments into surrounding landscape character.

The landscape capacity for housing in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be moderate

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Detailed Housing Surveys for ArmthorpeArmthorpe was originally a rural settlement, which expanded rapidly with the arrival of the local deep coal mine. Traditional materials include red and grey brick with some older buildings being constructed of stone, roofi ng materials vary from concrete slate and traditional red pantiles.

Detailed Housing Survey for Northern Edge of ArmthorpeThis straight housing edge is well contained with panel fencing and fragmented sections of trimmed hedge interspersed with the occasional mature tree. Houses include a mix of red brick and brown roofed bungalows; a redbrick and dark grey dormer roofed houses and two storey yellow brick and grey roofed houses. The busy access B road bisects this edge as it enters from the north; it is slightly raised above the surrounding fi elds and has neat mown edges. Medium scale intact arable fi elds run up to the housing edge with only scattered remnants of hedgerows. Views to the east include the large warehouses of the West Moor Park strategic employment site. Views to the west are enclosed by trees around Grange Farm and views to the north are of the busy unscreened Armthorpe Lane in the mid distance and the farmland and trees beyond. Rows of large pylons and power lines intrude in the foreground and mid distance views.

This area is representative of the large scale arable farmland found within the LCA, with very fragmented or missing hedgerows on fi eld boundaries. It is neither remote nor tranquil with the noise from and views to the busy roads. West Moor Park, large pylons and the housing edge are dominant urban infl uences. Overall, the landscape value is considered low. Landscape quality is considered moderate as the farmland is in good condition and, despite the previously mentioned intrusive elements, is moderately distinctive.

The existing boundary is well contained although it could be enhanced and softened with more tree and hedgerow planting. The area is already disturbed by the busy roads, but it is important to note that any such development here would risk merging Armthorpe with the settlement of Edenthorpe and also result in a further loss of the remaining narrow strip of farmland between the two large settlements. It would incur a further loss of rural setting for Grange Farm and may encroach upon the locally important nature site of Long Plantation. Such a development would fi t with the existing straight lines of the roads, existing edge and geometric fi elds, but would cause a change in views. There is the potential to improve existing views with sensitive incorporation of elements to help to screen the large strategic employment buildings

and busy roads. There are moderate numbers of sensitive viewers on the existing residential edge. There are also a few recreational users of the footpaths at each end of the housing edge. There will be many less sensitive viewers travelling along the busy roads raised slightly above the landscape.


Avoid merging settlements.

Create a buff er zone between the houses and busy roads.

Enhance the existing urban edge: soften and unify it using tree and hedge planting.

Retain the public right of way access to the countryside.

Maintain the separation and setting for Grange Farm and Long Plantation nature site.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the northern edge of Armthorpe is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Survey for Southern Edge of ArmthorpeThis straight housing edge is bisected by the busy B road which is lined by some trees. The houses visible on the eastern section are mainly detached and semi-detached in red brick with red, grey or brown roofs. This part of the edge is well contained, but is not well screened and has a public footpath running along it. On the boundary, panel fencing is interspersed with some ornamental hedge and tree planting. Newly planted hedgerows surround the large arable fi elds to the east, and will soon screen and enclose what is presently a very open view to the housing edge. The western section of the housing edge is well screened with mature trees and hedgerows and the views are contained by Tranmoor Wood a nature site of local importance. The large to medium sized arable fi elds to the west have the remaining fragmented hedgerows and are interspersed with pockets of woodland characteristic of the LCA as a whole.

This area is representative of the large scale arable farmland found within the LCA, with very fragmented or missing hedgerows and scattered pockets of mixed woodland. However it is neither remote nor tranquil with the noise from and the views of the busy B road and nearby M18. Landscape value is considered moderate. Landscape quality is considered moderate as the farmland is in good condition and despite the aforementioned intrusive elements is moderately distinctive.

The existing boundary is well contained and the eastern section will soon be softened by the maturing of the new hedge planting. This area of intact farmland is well connected to the surrounding farmland. Further housing development would fragment the pattern of this intact landscape and cause a signifi cant loss of landscape character. It may erase the remaining rural setting for the farms and nature sites of Tranmoor and Ox Carr woods. It would fi t with the scale of the existing settlement but not the farms, smaller fi elds and woodland blocks. Changes in view against the existing edge would be moderate for a moderate number of sensitive viewers including residents on the existing edge and at Westfi eld and South Moor farms and recreational users of the footpaths around and across the fi elds. There will be many less sensitive viewers travelling along the busy B road.

Loss of landscape character cannot be mitigated for but the potential for mitigation is considered moderate. In addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Creating a new clear cut boundary with addition hedge and tree planting to soften the edges.

Create a buff er zone between the houses and busy roads

Retain woodlands , mature trees and roadside hedges

Use a smaller scale to fi t with the fi elds and woodlands

Use a layout to fi t with the pattern of the fi elds and woodlands


Maintain the separation and setting for Westfi eld and South Moor farms.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the southern edge of Armthorpe is judged to be low to none.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Eastern Edge of ArmthorpeThis almost straight housing edge has some new mainly detached houses to the southern section of red brick with red, grey, and brown roofs. This part of the edge is well contained, but less well screened with new panel fencing lined with a row of newly planted trees. The remaining part of the housing edge is very well screened and is bordered by medium to large sized arable fi elds with some mature hedgerows interspersed with mature trees. There is a small block of woodland which is a nature site of local importance. This land separates the housing edge from the M18 motorway. Intrusive elements include rows of poles, pylons and power lines; noise and views of the traffi c on the M18; and views to the tops of the partially screened large strategic employment buildings at West Moor Park.

This area is representative of the large to medium scale arable farmland found within the LCA, but with thicker and more intact hedges than are normally found, along with a characteristic small pocket of woodland, New Close Wood, which is a designated nature site of local/regional importance.

The housing edge is neither remote nor tranquil with the noise from and the views to the M18. Landscape value is considered moderate. Landscape quality is considered moderate as the farmland is in a slightly degraded condition but despite the aforementioned intrusive elements is moderately distinctive.

The existing boundary is well contained, and screened and softened by mature planting. This area of farmland is isolated by the presence of the M18 and West Moor Park and is just linked to farmland to the south. Any such development would further fragment the pattern of this remaining but slightly degraded area of farmland. Such a development would fi t with the scale of the existing settlement, but not the smaller fi elds and woodland block. Changes in views against the existing edge would be moderate for a few sensitive viewers including residents on the existing edge and a few recreational users of Holme Lane. There are also many less sensitive viewers travelling along the M18.

Loss of landscape character cannot be mitigated for but the potential for mitigation is considered moderate. In addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Creating a new clear cut boundary with addition hedge and tree planting to soften the edges.

Create a buff er zone between the houses and M18 motorway.

Retain woodlands , mature trees and hedges.

Use a smaller scale to fi t with the scale of the existing fi elds and woodland.

Use a layout to fi t with the pattern of the fi elds and woodlands

Retain Holme Lane right of way and access to the countryside beyond M18 motorway.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the eastern edge of Armthorpe is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Old Kirk SandallThe area being assessed is bordered by the River Dun Navigation to the west; the busy B road to Barnby Dun to the north and east; and the old settlement of Sandall Grove to the south. Sandall Grove is a small historic settlement separated from the larger and rapidly expanded settlement of Kirk Sandall by the Great Northern railway line. The landscape of this area comprises medium to small scale irregularly shaped arable fi elds divided by coarsely vegetated ditches with degraded concrete post and barbed wire fences and have many missing hedgerows. The River Dun Navigation tow path has mown grass verges, new post and rail timber fencing and newly planted hedgerows. The canal and towpath are used by boats, fi shermen, walkers and cyclists. On the eastern edge of the survey area are irregular clumps of trees and a small area of mixed woodland, which creates a softened boundary. To the south there is a small recent development of yellow brick, red roof houses; a historic church; a derelict red brick farm; a recreation ground and a line of tall poplars. Intrusive elements include small areas of fl y tipping, and views to power lines and large old industrial buildings with a metal framework carry large pipes over the river.

Views outside of the LCA are to the edges of Barnby Dun to the north, the high embankments between the Rivers Dun and Don, and the Thorpe Marsh Cooling towers beyond. This area is in moderate condition. It is a mix of man-made, natural, old and new landscape elements which makes it rather fragmented and moderately distinctive in character but diff erent from the LCA as a whole. Landscape quality is therefore considered to be moderate. The fi eld pattern may be historic and there are two small nature sites abutting the southern edge. The area feels moderately remote and quiet with some road noise from the busy B road to Barnby Dun. Overall it is considered to be of moderate landscape quality.

Housing development would incur a loss of a small isolated pocket of farmland and historic fi eld pattern. It would not fi t well with many existing aesthetic factors and the scale of the development is too large for the scale of the fi elds. The colours would not fi t with the yellow brick of the existing new houses or the stone church, but could fi t better with the red brick of the ruined farm and of the settlement beyond. It would add another element to an already diverse area and would also alter the experience of the moderate numbers of sensitive recreational users of the River Dun and towpath. Development here would bring the housing edge closer to the settlement of Barnby Dun which is currently a very short distance away. Overall the visual impacts would be moderate due the existing enclosure and screening from the east and north

and the relatively small numbers of sensitive viewers aff ected. These could include very few residents on the edge of Barnby Dun and Sandall Grove, and recreational users.

The potential for mitigation is moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Keep a clear separation between the settlements of Barnby Dun and Kirk Sandall by not extending the development edge north beyond the line the existing edge of Kirk Sandall.

Keep development adjacent to existing housing edges to avoid fragmentation of remaining farmland.

Development outline to follow the outline of the small fi elds.

Avoid disrupting the historic features such as the church and graveyard and their setting.

Avoid designated nature sites.

Retain existing public rights of way and buff er them with tree and hedge planting to reduce the extension of urban infl uences.

Blend in the edge of the development with trees and hedges found on the existing edge.

The landscape capacity for housing development in Old Kirk Sandall is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Western Edge of StainforthStainforth has developed from agriculture and mining. The landform in this area is very gently rolling. The staggered western edge of Stainforth consists of a short section of housing and school and college grounds. The residential part of the edge is well contained by stretches of panel fencing and also mature thick hedgerows. There is a mix of modern bungalows and semi-detached houses built of red brick with brown, red and grey roofs. The fi eld pattern of long rectangular fi elds, some bordered by some thick ancient and species rich hedgerows appears to be disappearing due to intensifi ed farming practices. They are mainly arable fi elds, but some former fi elds are used as allotment sites which are well screened. Mill Field is a mobile home and caravan park, which is separated from the edge of Stainforth by a large fi eld and linked by a well used public track. There are views to the busy B road joining Stainforth to Barnby Dun and the Thorpe Marsh Cooling Towers.

This area is fairly representative of the medium to large scale intact arable farmland found within the LCA, with some fragmented or missing hedgerows and it feels fairly tranquil. Overall the landscape quality is considered high and value is considered to be moderate.

Development in this area would have signifi cant impacts on landscape character by, reducing an area of intact farmland. The current housing edge is well contained and clear cut. It may merge the Mill Field mobile home site with the existing edge and erase the remaining historic fi eld pattern. It would however fi t the straight lines and scale of the existing fi elds and match some of the colours found in the existing housing edge. There would be major changes in views for a moderate number of sensitive viewers including residents on the existing edge where it is not screened, residents of Mill Field and public rights of way users. There are many less sensitive viewers travelling on the fairly well screened busy B road.


Retain a clear cut edge between the urban edge and farmland as currently exists.


Maintain the separation and setting for Mill Field.

Do not extend beyond the allotments site.

Screen with species rich hedge planting as already exists in places.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the western edge of Stainforth is judged to be low to none.

The remaining edges of Stainforth are assessed in LCA E3.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Western Edge of Dunscroft and DunsvilleDunsville and Dunscroft were traditionally agricultural settlements which have since merged with Hatfi eld. The landform in this area is almost fl at and in some areas enclosed by raised embankments. This settlement edge stretches from close to Stainforth in the north to Dunsville in the south. The housing is a mix of modern detached, semi-detached and terraced houses, built of red brick, (some rendered), with brown, red and grey roofs. Most of the edge is bordered by, a mix of large scale pasture and arable fi elds with remnants of former mature parkland trees and some fragmented and some thick ancient and species rich hedgerows along fi eld boundaries. The southern part of the urban edge is well contained by stretches of panel fencing and mature thick hedgerows many of which contain bracken. Where Dunsville and Dunscroft meet there is a restored area that was formerly a quarry which screens much of the edge of Dunsville with scattered clumps of hawthorn and a mix of newer tree planting. The northern part of the edge also has the addition of metal security fencing to the residential edge. Along the northern part of the edge there are three farms set into the farmland adjacent to the housing edge. Also on the housing edge at this point is a community centre with metal security fencing. The northern section from Brightside Manor Farm northwards is a slightly more degraded edge with areas of tipping, small paddocks fenced off , tethered horse grazing and an assortment of sheds and security fencing.

This area is fairly representative of medium to large scale intact arable farmland found within the LCA, with some mature and some fragmented or missing hedgerows. Views to the surrounding countryside are fairly undisturbed, although the tops of Thorpe Marsh cooling towers can be seen in the distance. Overall both landscape quality and value are considered to be moderate.

Development in this area would have signifi cant impacts on landscape character by, reducing an area of intact farmland with some remaining parkland feel and by obscuring the remaining pattern of mature parkland trees. The current housing edge is well contained and clear cut. This development may merge the farms and their remaining rural settings with the larger settlement. It would however fi t the straight lines and scale of the existing fi elds and match some of the colours found in the existing housing edge. There would be major changes in views for a moderate number of sensitive viewers including residents on the existing settlement edge where it is not screened, residents of Middle Park, Brightside Manor and Parks farms, users of the community centre and the public rights of way.



Retain mature trees and integrate them with newer screen planting on the housing edge.

Retain the public right of way access and open views to the countryside.

Maintain the separation and setting for the farms.

Screen with species rich hedge planting as already exists in places.

Use similar materials to that found on the existing edge.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the western edge of Dunscroft and Dunsville is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Housing Survey for Eastern Edge of Dunsville, Dunscroft and Southeastern Edge of Hatfi eld.Dunsville, Dunscroft and Hatfi eld were traditionally agricultural settlements which have since merged The south eastern edges of Hatfi eld are well screened with hedges and mature trees. Traditional buildings including the church are mostly old red brick and red pantile roofs with some stone. The adjacent farmland is slightly rolling with a historic fi eld pattern of small-scale arable land and pasture which is integral with the settlement pattern. It contains a scattering of mature parkland trees and historic features such as the Old Manor House. Intrusive elements include the slightly degraded appearance to the farmland with very fragmented or missing hedgerows and barbed wire fencing. There are also views to the nearby M18 motorway. The landscape adjacent to this part of the edge with the historic fi eld patterns and features is considered to be of high landscape value and moderate landscape quality.

The Lings settlement extends along a minor road from Dunscroft and contains the Lings windmill in old red brick. Dunscroft edge is contained by the A18 and overlooks the large scale geometrically shaped intact arable fi elds with small woodland blocks, which are typical of the LCA as a whole. It has a mix of house types and materials and some intrusive elements including a water tower and the busy A18. The edge of Dunsville is also defi ned by the A18 beyond which there is a row of distinctively styled red brick/white rendered and red roofed semi detached houses which are slightly raised above the adjacent land. Part of this edge is bordered by a sand and gravel quarry and the remainder is adjacent to deeply drained peat arable fi elds on the edge of LCA G1. The landscape on this edge is fairly remote and tranquil being separated from the A18 by a line of houses and located on the edge of West Moor. The edge from Dunscroft to Dunsville, excluding the quarry, is considered to be of moderate landscape value and high landscape quality.

Development in this area would signifi cantly impact on landscape character by reducing an area of intact farmland which is historic in places and obscuring the remaining pattern of mature parkland trees. It may impact on the rural setting of the nearby farms and the Lings settlement by merging them with the existing edge. It would fi t the straight lines and scale of the existing fi elds and some of the colours on the existing housing edge. There would be major changes in views for some sensitive viewers including residents of the existing edges where there is less screening and at Dunsville where the edge is slightly raised above the surrounding land; residents of farmsteads, the Lings and the few public rights of way users.


Do not extend settlement to east side of the A18 road where it does not already exist.


Do not fragment existing farmland.

Retain mature trees and woodland.

Screen with species rich hedge planting as exists in places.

Retain the public right of way access and open views to the countryside.

Maintain the separation and setting for the farms and Lings hamlet.

Use materials found in existing edge.

The landscape capacity for housing development on the eastern edge of Dunscroft, Dunsville and southeastern edge of Hatfi eld is judged to be low to none.

The remaining edges of Hatfi eld are assessed in LCA E3.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Strategic EmploymentLarge industrial development is not characteristic of the LCA as a whole. However, there are some pockets of this development type at West Moor Park and Carr Side. There are also several ongoing developments around the northern side of Robin Hood Airport. This LCA is mostly rural with more urban and manmade infl uences to the west of the M18. Such large scale development would be detrimental to this rural character and would fragment a relative intact although moderately diverse landscape. Landscape impacts may be lower in some of the more disturbed and fragmented areas to the west of the M18. There is an existing network of busy main roads which could support such a development without changing its existing character. However the scale of such a development would be too large for the fi eld size and the colour would not fi t with the greens, yellows and browns of the arable crops and woodland. The landscape patterns would be disrupted but it would fi t with the many straight edges to drains fi elds and roads. It would further increase the diversity of many views. Depending upon where it was located it could be highly visible causing major changes in views both within and also possibly outside the LCA.

There is limited potential for mitigation and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Avoid merging settlements

Colours should integrate into the background for longer distance viewers, for example earthy greens and browns for fi eld and woodlands or whites and greys when set against skylines.

Locate near existing major roads to avoid creating new roads or changing minor roads, incurring further loss of landscape character.

Screen from existing settlements, where possible use existing landform and or trees, hedges and woodland.


Use additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands for screening and softening.

Avoid designated nature sites to conserve nature and wildlife habitat.

Retain existing watercourses and water bodies and incorporate a sustainable urban drainage scheme with locally characteristic wetland vegetation.


The landscape capacity for strategic employment in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be low to none.

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Detailed Strategic Employment Survey on Land South of West Moor ParkThis area is south of the existing West Moor Park employment site and extends from Holme Wood Lane adjacent to the edge of the settlement of Armthorpe and separates this edge from the M18 motorway. This area contains medium to large sized arable fi elds with some mature hedgerows interspersed with mature trees. There is a small block of woodland New Close Wood which is a nature site of local importance. Intrusive elements include a sewage works; lines of pylons; the noise and views of traffi c on the M18; and views to the tops of the existing partially screened large buildings at West Moor Park employment site.

This area is representative of the large to medium scale arable farmland found within the LCA, with thicker and more intact hedges than are normally found and a characteristic small pocket of woodland. It is not tranquil with the noise from and the views to the M18. The farmland is in good condition and despite the aforementioned intrusive elements is moderately distinctive. Landscape value and landscape quality is considered moderate.

The existing edge of West Moor Park is partially screened and softened by mature planting, with additional new planting reinforcing this. This area of intact farmland is isolated by the M18 and West Moor Park and is just linked to farmland to the south. Any such development would further fragment the pattern of this remaining, slightly degraded and moderately tranquil farmland although landscape impacts would be contained within this area. It would fi t with the scale of the existing employment development and motorway but not with Armthorpe or smaller fi elds and woodland block. Changes in view when seen against the existing development edge would be moderate for a few sensitive viewers dependant upon additional screening. It would increase the sense of enclosure for a few recreational users on Holme Lane and bring views of development closer to the housing edge. There are many less sensitive viewers travelling along the M18 and residents of farms on the opposite side of the motorway.


Create a new clear cut boundary with the adjacent landscape.

Create a buff er zone between the development and the existing housing edge.

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Retain woodlands, mature trees and hedges.

Create a layout that fi ts with the pattern of the fi elds and woodlands

Retain Holme Lane public right of way and access to the countryside beyond the M18 motorway.


Colours to integrate into the background for longer distance viewers. For example, earthy greens and browns against fi eld and woodlands or whites and greys when set against skylines.

Use existing roads within West Moor Park employment site for access, not Holme Lane.

Plant additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands to soften the edges and to screen the south side of the development.


Use green roofs and a sustainable urban drainage scheme to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

The landscape capacity for strategic employment on land south of West Moor Park is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Strategic Employment Surveys around Robin Hood Airport.

Detailed Strategic Employment Survey on the Northern Edge of Robin Hood AirportThe small area extends from the settlements of West Barrier to Finningley and from the B road through Blaxton to the north and the existing airport infrastructure to the south.

This is a fragmented area with diverse land uses which include horticultural nurseries with lines of ornamental conifers; sand and gravel quarries; a well screened railway on an embankment; busy B roads and a partially tree screened fuel depot for the airport. Part of this area to the north of the airport is currently under development for large scale strategic employment. Land to the west of the B1396 is currently being developed with new housing. There are isolated remnants of farmland, including pasture for bulls, with no readily identifi able fi eld pattern. These are not easily viewed being surrounded by urban infl uences.

This area is neither tranquil nor remote and is already surrounded and heavily infl uenced by new and existing urban development. It has an indistinct character, is in poor condition and is already isolated from rural infl uences. Therefore the landscape quality and value is considered low.

Due to the existing urban infl uences and the fragmented nature of much of the landscape strategic employment development would have a limited landscape impact. However, it would erase rural remnants which are not large enough to create a pattern. Any such a development would also fi t with existing straight lines and with appropriate treatment of the landscape has the potential to improve and unify this diverse landscape. However it would be very visible locally, such as from the new housing estate to the west of the B1396 and for residents on the southern edge of Blaxton, but may be screened from further away due to existing woodland and the well treed railway embankment. There are many less sensitive travellers on the roads, railway and aeroplanes.


Do not extend to the north of the B road through Blaxton into the area of relatively intact farmland.

Include a buff er zone to maintain the separation of Blaxton and Finningley from the development.

Plant roadside hedges using locally appropriate species to help screen the development from residents.

Access from A614 to avoid further impacts on the already busy B road.

Colour to integrate into the background. For example, earthy greens and browns for fi eld and woodlands or whites and greys when set against skylines.

Where possible use existing trees, hedges and woodland to screen.

Use additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands to screen and soften views of the development.

Use green roofs and sustainable urban drainage scheme to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

The landscape capacity for strategic employment on the northern edge of Robin Hood Airport is judged to be high.

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Detailed Strategic Employment Survey for the Eastern Edge of Robin Hood AirportThis area is a portion of land immediately east of the airport to the south of the settlement of Finningley bounded by the single track Old Bawtry Road and the A614. This is a disturbed area of land with an uneven landform. The area is diverse with many diff erent elements being evident including some industrial use; landfi ll in a disused quarry; horse grazing; arable land; an area of rough unmanaged grassland; and mixed and coniferous woodland. Visually it is very open to the airport, separated only by the single track Old Bawtry Road which is slightly raised and the airport security fencing. Remnant heathland is evident along this roadside with much gorse. The A614 is well screened by large blocks of woodland and hawthorn hedgerows. Intrusive elements include much fl y-tipping along Old Bawtry Road; the infl uences of the existing industrial uses and the adjacent airport; and the lack of pattern. Views to the south east are open.

This landscape is physically disturbed, and fragmented. Presently in areas it appears unmanaged and abandoned. Due to this and its overall indistinct character this landscape is considered to be of low quality. However the large area of woodland, Crows Wood, is a designated nature site of local importance and currently the area feels moderately remote and tranquil, as there were very few planes taking off or landing during the site survey. For these reasons landscape value is considered to be moderate.

Landscape and visual impacts of such development in this area are likely to be low, due to its disturbed and indistinct nature, and the existing screening in the form of woodland and hedgerows. There are opportunities to create a new and improved character and sustainable development for Doncaster. Such a development would be viewed by many travellers coming through the airport. There are a moderate numbers of sensitive viewers, residents on the existing edges of Finningley village, Bancroft farm and Manor House farm. Also there are recreational users of Old Bawtry Road, and other public footpaths, including cyclists, airplane spotters and walkers. There are other potential viewers in adjacent LCAs which overlook the area, in particular from the raised land to the west in H1.



Colours to integrate into the background for longer distance viewers, for example, earthy greens and browns for fi eld and woodlands or whites and greys when set against skylines.

Create a buff er zone to Finningley settlement and Bancroft Farm to separate them from the development.

Where possible use existing landform and or trees, hedges and woodland to screen.

Use additional tree, hedgerows and woodlands to screen.


Use green roofs and a sustainable urban drainage scheme to integrate the development into the landscape and help to create a sustainable image for Doncaster Borough.

In view of the above the landscape capacity for strategic employment on the eastern edge of Robin Hood Airport is judged to be high.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Mineral WorkingsQuarrying for sands and gravels is an ongoing and traditional land use in this LCA. The good existing major road network already accommodates large trucks and alterations are unlikely to be required for access to possible additional mineral workings. Mineral workings would incur a further loss and fragmentation of intact farmland. Landform similar to bunding already exists in the form of railway canal and drain embankments in a few places. Visual impacts are broadly considered to be moderate as visibility would be very much dependant upon location. Potentially there could be major changes in views for sensitive viewers particularly those residents on the edges of the raised settlements of on the raised ground in the adjacent H1 LCA. There may also be noticeable changes in the lorry movements, noise and colour on the roads.


Locate away from existing settlements and public rights of way.

Use existing roads for access to reduce loss of character area.

Careful siting using existing landform and woodland to screen, thereby reducing or eliminating some visual impacts.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts of more sensitive viewers.

Restoration to a suitable ecological habitat which could enhance the wildlife value of the area.

Retain or divert existing public rights of way.


Do not site on or near designated nature sites.

The landscape capacity for mineral workings in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be moderate.

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Detailed Mineral Survey for Land East of Wroot QuarryWroot Quarry is a small quarry situated between the busy Bank End Road and Wroot Road. It is well screened from these roads by existing well vegetated embankments. The roads are raised above the surrounding landscape which is fairly typical of the LCA as a whole with large to medium scale straight edged arable fi elds, bordered by drains, and small blocks of woodland. The area assessed is an area to the east of the existing quarry site.

The existing quarry has an area that is designated as a nature site of local importance, as is the nearby small block of woodland Whin Covert along with woodland immediately to the south of Bank End Road. The area is neither tranquil nor remote due to the operation of the existing quarry and the close proximity to the busy roads. Overall landscape value is considered high and landscape quality is considered moderate.

There is already quarrying in the adjacent area which is well-screened. The potential area of extension is an arable fi eld with fragmented boundary hedges. An extension would fi t with the scale of the existing quarry and the size of the fi elds. It would not fi t with the landform of the fl at fi elds although there are already some landform changes in the landscape due to the slightly raised roads. Overall the visual impacts are minor as there would not be large changes in views due to existing and potential for screening and few sensitive viewers who may include the residents of Old Bank End, Finningley Grange and Ash Holt Farms.

The potential for mitigation is moderate and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:


Using existing and new embankments to screen and blend it by vegetating with characteristic mixed trees and hedgerow species of the local area, thereby reducing or eliminating some visual impacts.

Plant more trees characteristic of the area to help reduce visual impacts on sensitive viewers.

Restore to a suitable ecological habitat which could enhance the wildlife value of the area.


Do not site on or near designated nature sites.

In view of the above the landscape capacity for extended mineral working to the east of Wroot Quarry is judged to be high.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Compost facilitiesThe landscape capacity for compost facilities is largely driven by location relative to major roads and the character of the individual farm rather than by landscape character area. There are a few scattered farms in the LCA, several of which have access to major roads via short lanes or track-ways. In such cases landscape and visual impacts would be minimal, with negligible changes causing little or no impacts on landscape character, aesthetics or changes in views. However if changes to many or long sections of minor roads or lanes were necessary then there may be impacts on landscape character and some impacts on scale, pattern and sense of movement in the landscape. Another consideration is the scale and the size of the farm, some are very small scale and traditional in construction, and these may not be physically or aesthetically suited to large scale composting facility. Landscape capacity is likely to be higher where the landscape is already disturbed, diverse, larger scale and modern in character; where the agricultural barns and associated farm buildings are medium to large scale and modern not historic in character; and where the farm yard and access roads are well screened.

In addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document, mitigation could be achieved by the following:

Screen any roads with obviously increased levels of traffi c

Screen yards to visual movement and some noise


Replace any hedges trees and ditches removed for road widening

Locate facilities on modern large scale farms.

The landscape capacity for compost facilities in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be dependant on the factors described above. Each proposed facility should be judged individually against these criteria.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for WindpowerThere are currently large manmade elements such as pylons and views to cooling towers in some parts of the LCA. Wind was a traditional source of energy in this area in the past which is evident from the scattering of red brick windmills. Modern wind turbines would introduce a new element into a fairly diverse and fl at landscape. The scale would be too large for the scale of the smaller and medium sized fi elds. Wind turbines may clutter areas with more manmade infl uences to the west of the M18 and may sit better where the elements are fewer and simpler. The movement of their blades would fi t with the movement of traffi c on the busy roads and motorways. Visual impacts would be high both across the LCA and outside of the LCA due to the size of the turbines and the high number of sensitive viewers on the edges of many settlements particularly to the east. Views could become more cluttered from the east due to the backdrop of the many urban areas in the west and the rising landform but could be less so when looking from the west due to vast fl at and sparsely populated areas further east.


Locate away from settlement edges.

Locate where there is already signifi cant manmade intrusion but not where views will become cluttered.

Use of woodland and landform to screen lower built elements.

Use smaller scale turbines to reduce visual impacts.

Avoid locating on designated nature sites to avoid disruption of ecology.

Use existing roads for installation and management access.

Consider and avoid visual impacts to the internationally designated wild areas of Thorne and Hatfi eld Moors to the east in LCA G2.

The landscape capacity for windpower in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be low to none.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for BiomassWillow biomass is grown in the wetter areas in the east of this LCA area and is ecologically suited to a fl oodplain. Its use is unlikely to aff ect long distance viewers. As this is a fairly open landscape, biomass planting may aff ect closer viewers by increasing enclosure on public rights of way and also reduce the pattern of fi elds by the hiding the already fragmented fi eld boundaries. The introduction of incinerators and chimneys may be appropriate where existing urban infl uences exist.


Plant behind existing trees, hedgerows or woodland to reduce loss of views.

Plant away from housing edges, public rights of way and roads to reduce the eff ects of enclosure where the landscape is currently open.

Avoid designated scheduled monuments or nature sites.

Locate on the wetter areas where it is more ecologically suited particularly in areas where biomass is grown as a crop currently.

The landscape capacity for biomass in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be moderate.

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Broad Landscape Capacity for Large Scale ForestryLarge blocks of coniferous woodland are not found in this LCA but there are several smaller coniferous plantations. Trees in the LCA consist mainly of small to medium mixed deciduous woodlands which are concentrated towards the south of the LCA and deciduous trees are found along roads and watercourses. Conifers are ecologically suited to the sandstone heath land which is also a characteristic vegetation of the LCT. Consequently landscape impacts for such a planting is considered moderate. It would fi t well with already existing aesthetics, especially the straight lines in the landscape and the scale of fi elds but is slightly larger than the scale of existing woodlands. Visual impacts would be low as there are relatively few sensitive viewers with few public rights of way, although this is increased near to the urban areas to the west of the LCA. However, it would increase enclosure where views are currently open.

The potential for mitigation is high and in addition to the development guidance detailed in part 3 of this document it could be achieved by the following:

Plant on a slightly smaller scale to fi t with the scale of existing woodlands.

Planting a mix of species especially around the edges to blend existing woodland with a more naturalistic nature and style enhancing both visual aesthetics and habitat value.

Avoid enclosing existing views; lanes track ways and public rights of way.

If located near to roads, screen with existing trees or hedgerows.

Plant adjacent to existing woodland to reduce disruption of remaining fi eld patterns.

Fit in with the scattered pattern of woodlands.

The landscape capacity for large scale forestry in H2 – Blaxton to Stainforth Sandlands Heaths and Farmlands is judged to be high.

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Date post:	18-Jul-2020
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H - Sandland Heaths & Farmland Landscape …...Doncaster Landscape Character & Capacity Study Part 4...

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