Landscape and Visual Harm The Developers own viewpoint visualisations confirm that the proposed development will result in significant adverse visual impacts , particularly from public footpaths and nearby residential properties. Even after 10 years, mitigation planting does not fully screen the industrial character of the site, and in winter, impacts are likely to be worse. This level of harm conflicts with NPPF and local policy, which seek to protect the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside and to minimise the impact of renewable energy projects on landscape and visual amenity.
The developer’s own assessments confirm that the proposed development will result in moderate adverse harm to the Ash-Cum-Ridley Settled Downs character area and significantly reduce the tranquillity and openness of this highly valued rural landscape. Public rights of way will become more enclosed, diminishing recreational and amenity value. Reliance on mitigation planting assumes optimal growth and maintenance over decades, which cannot be guaranteed . The industrial character and spatial harm introduced by the scheme outweigh its claimed benefits 17