Possibly not widely known but the landscapes of West Northamptonshire are highly distinctive due to their varied geology, topography, land cover and building form. The uplands contrast with the floodplains of the Rivers Cherwell, Tove and Nene and the underlying ironstone and limestone geology has shaped the character of the many historic settlements. There is development pressure but the planning system requires that valued landscapes are protected and enhanced while sustainable development is enabled.
TEP was appointed by Daventry, South Northamptonshire and Northampton Councils to undertake several studies into landscape character to inform the preparation of the West Northamptonshire Strategic Plan (WNSP). A significant aspect of the study is that West Northamptonshire is at the northern edge of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc and the growth agenda associated with this government ambition.
TEP advised on the suitability of a Special Landscape Area (SLA) designation. Approximately 36% of the land area of West Northamptonshire is designated as SLA and these are landscapes that are considered to have distinctive and special qualities that are renowned at district level and are of local landscape value. TEP also advised on principles for the mitigation of potential strategic development sites and opportunities for landscape enhancement and landscape restoration across West Northamptonshire. Recommendations needed to be in keeping with landscape character while also contributing to natural capital habitat opportunities in respect of woodlands, semi-natural grasslands and wetlands.
The landscape character evidence will inform policies for the forthcoming WNSP and assist with developing a natural capital strategy and plan.
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