LDP11 Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Assessment for Onshore Wind Turbine Development: SECTION 4: EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE UNITS AND THEIR SENSITIVITY TO WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT

5.1

A total of 42 landscape units were identified across the study area as illustrated in Figure 5. These landscape units are listed below in Table 4.1 together with an overall evaluation of their landscape and visual sensitivity in relation to wind energy development.

Table 4.1: Summary of Sensitivity

Landscape Unit		Assessed Sensitivity	Location	Page no.
Ref	Name	Assessed Sensitivity	Location	Page no.
	LOWLAND AREAS
A3	Lowland Hills	High	CCBC	41
A4	Coastal and Estuarine Flats (Prestatyn to Abergele)	Medium	CCBC/DCC	44
A5	Coastal and Estuarine Flats (Colwyn Bay)	Medium-High	CCBC	47
A6	Vale Farmlands (Vale of Clwyd)	High	CCBC/DCC	50
A8	Coastal Landscape Unit (Penmaenmawr to Llanfairechan)	High	CCBC	53
	LOWER HILLS AND VALLEYS
B2	Deep Valleys (Aled and Elwy)	High	CCBC/DCC	56
B7	Conwy Valley	High	CCBC	59
	LIMESTONE COUNTRY
C4	Limestone Farmlands (Abergele to Denbigh Coastal/Vale Hills)	High	CCBC/DCC	63
C9	Limestone Escarpment and Hills	High	CCBC	66
C10	Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular	High	CCBC	69
	MARGINAL UPLAND
D1	Aled Hiraethog Hills (West)	High	CCBC	73
D2	Hill Forest (Clocaenog Forest)	Low	CCBC/DCC	76
D3	Cerrig Uplands	High	CCBC/DCC	79
D4	Maerdy Hills	High	CCBC/DCC	82
D5	Edeirnion Hills	Medium-High	CCBC/DCC	85
D8	Upland Plateau	Medium-High	CCBC	88
D10	Moorland Plateau (Denbigh Moors)	High	CCBC/DCC	90
D11	Moorland Plateau	Very High	CCBC	93
D15	Moorland Ridge	High	CCBC	95
D16	Marginal Upland (East Conwy Valley)	High	CCBC	98

5.2

The following text (in addition to the methodology) describes the how the sensitivity evaluations have been approached and presented for each strategy area:

A key plan and text describing location, extent and key characteristics are provided upfront as a brief introduction to each landscape unit.
The evaluation of the sensitivity of each landscape unit in relation to wind energy development is broken down into four overarching sensitivity criteria categories, as follows:
- Landscape
- Visual
- Aesthetical, Perceptual and Experiential
- Value
Detailed criteria are included within each of these overarching categories and evaluations of sensitivity (lower, medium and higher) are made against each of these respectively.
Within the ‘Sensitivity Criteria’ column those characteristics which are considered particularly susceptible to wind energy development and therefore have a bearing on the overall assessment of sensitivity are detailed with an asterisk.
LANDMAP¹⁹ has been used as a tool for assisting the evaluations of sensitivity as outlined in the methodology. The text shown in italics within the ‘Characteristics of the Landscape Unit’ column represents LANDMAP evaluations specific to each landscape unit. For example VS4: Levels / Hills/Valleys denotes visual and sensory LANDMAP evaluations of topographic form; the underlined text signifies the evaluation(s) which geographically cover the majority of the landscape unit.
In addition to the LANDMAP evaluations a wide range of data sources have been drawn upon to reinforce / build upon the initial LANDMAP evaluations. These data sources have been listed at the end of each table under the heading Key Reference Sources Used for this Assessment for ease of reference and to point the reader in the direction of more detailed information relevant to each landscape unit should this be required.
Site visits have also been made to verify the evaluations.
The text shown in black represents the key findings of LANDMAP backed up by additional data source research and site visits; text highlighted in bold indicates the main findings that have informed the assessed sensitivity of each criterion.
A summary of sensitivity to wind energy developments is included at the end of each table; this includes an overall assessment of sensitivity together with a summary of justification.
It is important to note again that the overall evaluation of sensitivity of each of the landscape units is not based on any mathematical formula (for example - adding up the individual lower, moderate and higher scores and dividing by the total) but on the professional judgements of two chartered landscape architects through a balanced assessment of all the characteristics which takes into consideration the key criteria and the weight of evidence in relation to sensitivity. As explained in the methodology the overall assessment of sensitivity has been made using a more detailed five point sensitivity scale, low, medium, medium-high, high and very-high.

It is important to note that the sensitivity evaluation sheets must be read in conjunction with the relevant landscape strategy evaluation sheets when considering the appropriateness for wind energy developments within a specific area (refer to Figure 7 for locations of landscape units in relation to strategy areas.)

¹⁹ The LANDMAP data sources relevant to this study area are illustrated on plans of the study area which are contained on a CD within Appendix for reference.

5.3

Location and Extent
This area comprises the coastal fringe and hills between Colwyn Bay and Abergele.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale lowland landscape
Arable and pastoral fields

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium scale landscape. VS8: Small/Medium		Amber
	Landform	Low rolling hills slope northwards towards the coastline and are incised by small valleys. VS4: Rolling/Undulating/Hills/Valleys		Amber
	Landcover Pattern	A farmland mosaic of medium - large fields with field and hedgerow trees and small woodland blocks. VS3: Mosaic Rolling Lowland / Hill & Lower Plateau Mosaic VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic			Red
	Built Environment	Densely dispersed pattern of farms and rural properties distributed along a network of local lanes. VS6: Mixture / Clustered / Scattered Rural/Farm VS27: Fair / Good		Amber
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Skylines are relatively simple, interrupted by occasional mature field and hedgerow trees, wood pole lines and dispersed rural properties.		Amber
	Movement	The presence of occasional road traffic brings some movement to the otherwise relatively still character of this landscape unit. VS18: Infrequent / Frequent			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	This landscape unit is typically enclosed by landform and vegetation, although there are some open views to the sea, coastal fringe and Clwydian Range from more elevated areas to the south. VS9: Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous scattered properties Long distance routes including Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) Open Access Areas (west of Abergele) Local attractions and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	This area has a strong association with adjacent limestone escarpment landscapes and coastal landscapes to the north.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA Open Access Areas (west of Abergele) Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate / High VS47: Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Remoteness / Tranquillity	A tranquil and attractive rural landscape with a relatively small amount of modern development and activity. VS24: Attractive; Sheltered; Settled / Attractive; Tranquil; Sheltered; Safe; Settled; Spiritual			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	The eastern part of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Moderate / High VS49: Moderate / High LH45: Moderate LH42: Low / Moderate / High GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	This landscape unit includes a Registered Park and Garden. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Moderate / High HL35: Low / Moderate HL40: Moderate / High		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The landscape is medium scale with a gently rolling landform. The presence of settlement and other man-made features is relatively limited and the eastern part is regionally designated as the Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA. There is strong association and intervisibility with the SLA landscape and sensitive coastal landscapes further north. These factors and the presence of a number of sensitive visual receptors and important cultural heritage features increase the overall sensitivity.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Lowland Hills
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, Regional Seascape Unit 2, Point of Ayr to Colwyn Bay
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 2 Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.4

Location and Extent
Located on the north Denbighshire coast around Rhyl, Prestatyn and Abergele, this landscape unit is an established holiday destination and recreational area.

Key Characteristics

Large scale open and relatively straight coastal landscape
Highly developed for tourism
Extensive, mostly flat area of coastal farmland

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a large scale landscape. VS8: Large / Medium	Yellow
	Landform	Extensive, mostly flat area. VS4: Levels	Yellow
	Landcover Pattern	Low lying coastal farmland,coastal dunes, golf course, sections of natural coastline and manmade sea defences with the immediate coastal area largely developed for tourism. VS3: Flat Open Lowland Farmland / Urban / Estuary / Dunes & Dune Slack / Intertidal VS5: Development / Mixture / Open Land	Yellow
	*Built Environment	This landscape unit is heavily influenced by modern development within the urban resort towns of Rhyl and Prestatyn and major transport infrastructure, including the A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway. VS6: Urban / Linear / No Settlements (along shoreline) VS27: Poor / Fair / Good	Yellow
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Skylines are less prominent particularly to the north. Offshore wind turbines and the Rhyl Tower interrupt skylines to the north. Upland areas to the south west and south east provide distant uninterrupted rolling skylines.		Amber
	Movement	The A55 tourist route and the North Wales Coast Railway form a major transport corridor within this landscape unit. This coastal landscape is characterised by activity and bustle with some quieter areas where transport routes and tourism development are less prevalent. VS18: Constant / Frequent / Infrequent	Yellow
	*Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Expansive views to surrounding hills, settled lowlands and along the coast. There are open views across farmland to the Clwydian Range to the east and the Rhos Hills uplands to the south west. A large offshore wind farm is prominent in views from Prestatyn. VS9: Confined / Enclosed / Open			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties in and around Rhyl and Prestatyn Long distance routes including Offa’s Dyke Path national trail, Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5), the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) and the Clwydian Way Local attractions including the Gronant Dunes and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway Dense network of local roads Passing ships and ferries			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The level low lying landscape affords a high degree of intervisibility, particularly with the adjacent limestone hills and more distant Clwydian Range. The nearby seascape is highly visible and includes views from ships heading to and from the Port of Liverpool.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Rhuddlan Castle Registered Parks and Gardens, notably Bodelwyddan Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) Registered Historic Landscape The Marble Church (St Margaret’s Church, Bodelwyddan			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Low-Moderate LANDMAP evaluation, VS46: Low / Moderate / High (immediate coastline) VS47: Low / Moderate / High (immediate coastline) VS48: Low / Moderate / High (immediate coastline)	Yellow
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	The settlements and major transport routes give a sense of activity and movement to much of this landscape unit, with the exception of the Gronant Dunes which are much more tranquil and remote. VS24: Unattractive; Noisy; Exposed; Smell / Unattractive; Noisy; Settled / Exposed; Threatening; Wild; Smell	Yellow
Value	Landscape Value	Nationally designated features include Offa’s Dyke Path national trail (running through the urban environment) and Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5). This landscape unit has a typical Low-Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Low / Moderate / High (immediate coastline) VS49: Low / Moderate / High (immediate coastline) LH45: Low / Moderate / High LH42: Low / Moderate / High / Unassessed GL31: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) GL33: Low / Moderate / High (immediate coastline)	Yellow
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	This landscape unit contains important cultural heritage features including some Registered Parks and Gardens. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Low / High / Unassessed HL35: Low / Moderate / High / Unassessed HL40: Low / Moderate / High / Unassessed		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The large scale and mostly flat coastal farmland, which is heavily developed in places lessens the sensitivity of the landscape. However this is partially counterbalanced by the high number of sensitive visual receptors, presence of nationally designated footpaths and high degree of intervisibility with important landscape and cultural heritage features, which together increase the overall sensitivity. The area where the Gronant Dunes are located is particularly scenic and the sensitivity in this locality is therefore considered high.	Medium

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Coastal and Estuarine Flats
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, No: 2 Regional Seascape Unit Name: Point of Ayr to Colwyn Bay
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Area: Rhyl and Prestatyn Coast (Code: D/LC/1)

5.5

Location and Extent
Located along the north coast of Conwy around Colwyn Bay, this landscape unit is an established holiday destination and recreational area.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale, settled landscape
Narrow, low lying coastline backed by steep hills
Highly developed for tourism
Major transport and communication corridor

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Medium scale landscape. VS8: Medium		Amber
	Landform	Narrow, low lying, linear coastline backed by steep sided hills. VS4: Rolling/Undulating		Amber
	Landcover Pattern	Immediate coastal area is largely developed for tourism. VS3: Urban / Road Corridor VS5: Development / Open Land	Yellow
	*Built Environment	Heavily influenced by the urban resort town of Colwyn Bay and major transport infrastructure. VS6: Urban / No Settlements (immediate coastline) VS27: Fair	Yellow
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Skylines to the north focus on offshore wind turbines. To the south the skylines are strongly undulating and mainly uninterrupted.		Amber
	Movement	This coastal landscape unit is characterised by activity and bustle. The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway form a busy major transport corridor. VS18: Constant / Frequent	Yellow
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views to the south are enclosed and filtered by landform, vegetation and modern development. However, to the north there are some expansive views across the sea to offshore wind farms. VS9: Enclosed	Yellow
	*Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties particularly along the coast around Colwyn Bay Long distance routes including the Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) Local attractions and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/ Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	This landscape unit has a moderate association with the adjacent limestone hills and coastal landscapes.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts Pwllycrochan Woods (Local Nature Reserve)		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) VS47: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) VS48: Moderate / High (immediate coastline)		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Urban development and major transport routesbring frequent movement to this landscape unit. VS24: Noisy; Threatening; Unattractive / Attractive; Unattractive; Noisy; Settled	Yellow
Value	Landscape Value	Nationally designated features include Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5). Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) VS49: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) LH45: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) LH42: Low / High (immediate coastline) GL31: Moderate GL33: Low / Moderate / High		Amber
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	This landscape unit includes some Registered Parks and Gardens. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Moderate / High (immediate coastline) HL35: Low (immediate coastline) / Moderate HL40: Moderate		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The medium scale low lying coastal landscape is characterised by development and transport corridors which lessens the sensitivity of the landscape. However these characteristics are counterbalanced by the high number of sensitive visual receptors, presence of nationally designated footpaths and high degree of intervisibility with important landscape and cultural heritage features, which together increase the overall sensitivity.	Medium

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Coastal and Estuarine Flats
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, Regional Seascape Unit No: 2 Point of Ayr to Colwyn Bay and Unit No: 3 Rhos Point to Great Orme Head
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.6

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the Vale of Clwyd which runs from the fringes of Rhyl and Prestatyn south past Ruthin.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale, broad valley landscape
Predominantly pastoral farmland
Cultural heritage interest

Sensitivity Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium scale landscape. VS8: Medium / Small		Amber
	Landform	The river Clwyd meanders along the floor of a broad valley between adjacent upland areas. VS4: Rolling/Undulating/ Hills/Valleys / Levels		Amber
	*Landcover Pattern	Lowland pastoral farmland with some woodlands and historic parkland and the river Clwyd. VS3: Flat Lowland Mosaic / Wooded Rolling Lowland / Flat Open Lowland Farmland VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Development		Amber
	Built Environment	This landscape unit is historically settled. Other than dispersed, scattered farmsteads, settlement is typically concentrated in small villages and hamlets and several small towns of medieval origin. VS6: Mixture / Scattered Rural/Farm / Village / Urban VS27: Poor / Fair / Unassessed			Red
Visual	Skylines and Settings	This landscape unit is rarely seen as a skyline feature. The Clwydian Range and Denbigh - Ruthin Hills form distinctive skylines and backdrops to much of this area. A number of prominent historic landmarks including churches and castles are seen against the skyline in local to middle distance views. To the north of the area, existing pylon lines interrupt skylines.		Amber
	Movement	There is frequent traffic along the road network which has some localised influence and brings visual movement within this landscape unit, whilst to the south this is screened more by valley vegetation. Traffic along the A55 is noticeable and in places intrusive. VS18: Frequent / Infrequent / Constant (towns and villages)		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views within the valley are typically enclosedand filtered by landform and vegetation. There are however some clear views to and from the valley sides, including from the Clwydian Range and tourist attractions. There are also several open long views focussed along road corridors which cross and flank the area. VS9: Enclosed			Red
	*Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties along the valley, both dispersed and concentrated in settlements Long distance routes including Offa’s Dyke Path national trail, Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5), Clwydian Way Open Access Areas along the Clwydian Range Local attractions including historic parks, churches and castles in adjacent landscape units Public rights of way The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/ Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	This area has a strong association with the Clwydian Range to the east and the Denbigh Hills and foothills to the west.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Open Access Areas along the Clwydian Range Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) Registered Historic Landscapes Registered Parks and Gardens Rhuddlan Castle Denbigh Castle The Marble Church (St Margaret’s Church, Bodelwyddan)			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Scenic Quality and Character	The Vale of Clwyd is valued for its high scenic quality and character which is recognised by its typically High LANDMAP evaluation VS46: High / Moderate / Low VS47: High/ Moderate / Low VS48: High / Moderate			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Away from settlements, the Vale’s landscape is perceived to be tranquil. However, the well-developed farmed character and presence of settlement and network of local roads in this landscape gives a reduced sense of remoteness. VS24: Attractive; Safe; Settled; Other / Attractive; Tranquil; Safe; Settled / Attractive; Sheltered; Safe; Settled		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	The western edge of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB lies just inside the south eastern edge of this landscape unit. Nationally designated features also include the Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5). This landscape unit typically has a moderate-high LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: High / Moderate / Low VS49: High / Moderate / Low LH45: High / Moderate / Low LH42: High / Moderate / Low / Unassessed GL31: High / Moderate GL33: High / Moderate / Low		Amber
Value	*Cultural Heritage Value	The southern half of this landscape unit lies within Registered Historic Landscapes, principally Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and also a small part of Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley). This landscape unit also includes Rhuddlan Castle, Denbigh Castle and some Registered Parks and Gardens. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Unassessed / Low / Moderate / High HL35: Unassessed / Low / Moderate / High HL40: High / Moderate / Low			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This is a scenic pastoral valley landscape the western edge of which lies just inside the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB. The historic dispersed settlement pattern, presence of important cultural heritage features and many sensitive visual receptors also increase the overall sensitivity.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Vale Farmlands
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline and 11 Vale of Clwyd
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, areas as follows: 1 The Vale of Clwyd (HLW (C) 1) and 38 Lower Elwy Valley (HLW (C) 4)
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Areas as follows: Rhyl and Prestatyn Coast (Code: D/LC/1); Vale of Clwyd North (Code: D/LC/6); Vale of Clwyd East of Denbigh (Code: D/LC/7); and Vale of Clwyd South (Code: D/LC/8).
Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan 2009/14

5.7

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the immediate coastline and uplands which run west from Penmaenmawr to Llanfairfechan, to the far north west of Conwy.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale coastal landscape
High hills/mountains extend to the coast

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium scale landscape. VS8: Medium / Vast		Amber
	Landform	Gentle coastal slopes interrupted by dramatic rugged mountains along the northern fringes of Snowdonia National Park. VS4: Disturbed / High Hills / Mountains / Levels / Rolling / Undulating			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Rural pastoral landcover with modern development including quarries, coastal settlements and transport corridors. VS3: Intertidal / Urban / Excavation / Upland Grazing / Hillside & Scarp Slopes Grazing VS5: Open Land / Mixture / Development	Yellow
	Built Environment	Urban development along the coast includes settlements and a major road and rail corridor. Urban influences are less evident in the upland areas with the exception of quarrying activities. VS6: Mixture / Urban / No Settlements VS27: Poor / Fair / Good		Amber
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	The northern fringes of Snowdonia National Park form a dramatic backcloth to southerly views. Skylines to the north are also prominent and include Anglesey and the distinctive Great Orme Headland.			Red
	Movement	Frequent traffic on the local road network brings movement into this landscape unit, particularly in connection with the larger settlements.However, in contrast the uplands are more still in character. VS18: Rare / Occasional / Infrequent / Constant		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views are typically open and include expansive views to Snowdonia National Park and the Great Orme Headland. VS9: Open / Exposed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties particularly along the coast Long distance routes including Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway The local road network Passing ships and ferries			Red
	*Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	There is a strong association and intervisibility with Snowdonia National Park, with adjacent coastal landscapes including the Great Orme Headland and more distantly with Anglesey.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park Anglesey Coast AONB Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA Great Orme Heritage Coast Open Access Areas Gogledd Arllechwedd (North Arllechwedd) and Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscapes Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Low / High VS47: Low / High VS48: Moderate / High			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Although the coastline is busy due to modern development and the A55, a short distance inland it rapidly becomes highly remote and tranquil. VS24: Small; Tranquil; Exposed; Remote; Wild; Spiritual, Settled; Tranquil; Noisy; Exposed, Exposed, Unattractive		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	Nationally designated features include Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and Open Access Areas. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation with some areas as Outstanding. VS50: Low / High VS49: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / Outstanding GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Much of this landscape unit lies within the Gogledd Arllechwedd (North Arllechwedd) Registered Historic Landscape. This landscape unit includes a Registered Park and Garden. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation with some areas Outstanding. HL38: Moderate / High / Outstanding HL35: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding HL40: Moderate / High			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The sensitivity of this dramatic coastal landscape is significantly increased by proximity to Snowdonia National Park and by its intervisibility with the Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA and more distantly the Anglesey Coast AONB. The high cultural heritage value of the landscape further increases the overall sensitivity.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, RLCA 6 Snowdonia / Eryri and 7 Conwy Valley
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, Regional Seascape Units, as follows: 4 Conwy Estuary and 5 Great Orme Head to Puffin Island
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register 30 North Arllechwedd (HLW (Gw) 12)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.8

Location and Extent
This landscape unit includes the valleys of the Rivers Aled and Elwy and is a distinct landscape located within the wider area of the rolling uplands of the Rhos Hills.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale
Valley topography with scattered farms

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium scale landscape. VS8: Small/Medium		Amber
	*Landform	Relatively narrow and deep, gently meandering river valleys. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Levels			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Landcover is characterised by a mosaic of woodland, open hillsides, grassland, pasture and scrub. VS3: Hillside Scarp slopes grazing / Open lowland valleys / mosaic lowland valleys VS5: Field pattern/mosaic/Mixture			Red
	Built Environment	Man-made influences are limited to the local road network and dispersed settlement pattern. VS6: Scattered Rural/Farm VS27: Good/Fair			Red
Visual	Skylines and Settings	The lower lying parts of this landscape unit are typically not seen as skyline features. The more elevated parts form prominent undulating skylines.		Amber
	Movement	Occasional road traffic brings infrequent movement to much of this landscape, although in the west the A548 is significantly busier. VS18:Frequent/Infrequent/Occasional		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views to and from the valley floors and lower valley sides are contained by landform and vegetation. By contrast, there are extensive views from the higher valley sides out across the Rhos Hills to Snowdonia National Park and the Clwydian Range. VS9: Open/Exposed/Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors of the following: Dispersed settlements Local attractions and public rights of way The local road network		Amber
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	Intervisibility with surrounding landscape units is dependent on local topography and vegetation cover. There are some views to and from Snowdonia National Park to the west and more limited views to and from the Clwydian Range to the east.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Elwy and Aled Valleys SLA Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) Registered Historic Landscape Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate/High VS47: Moderate/High VS48: Moderate/High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Remoteness / Tranquillity	Typically a tranquil and relatively remote rural landscape with occasional development and human activity, principally minor roads and dispersed settlements. VS24: Attractive; Exposed; Wild; Remote / Attractive; sheltered; Settled; Tranquil / Unattractive; Settled; Attractive; sheltered			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	Much of this landscape unit is regionally designated as the Elwy and Aled Valleys SLA or Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA. Typical High LANDMAP evaluation, with some areas Outstanding. VS50: Moderate/High VS49: Moderate/High LH45: Low/Moderate/High/Outstanding LH42: Low/Moderate/High/Outstanding GL31: Moderate/High/Outstanding GL33:Moderate/High/Outstanding			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Part of this landscape unit lies within Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) Registered Historic Landscape. The area includes a number of Registered Parks and Gardens and a hillfort. Typical High LANDMAP evaluation, with some areas as Outstanding. HL38: Unassessed/Moderate/High/Outstanding HL35: Unassessed/Low/Moderate/High/Outstanding HL40: Moderate/High/Outstanding			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The natural characteristics of these undeveloped, relatively remote and scenic river valleys with their mosaic of pasture, woodland and scrub impart a high degree of sensitivity and have resulted in much of the landscape unit being designated as the Elwy and Aled Valleys SLA or Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA. This sensitivity is further enhanced by important cultural heritage features.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Deep Valleys
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 9 Rhos Hills
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, Area 38 Lower Elwy Valley (HLW (C) 4)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 3 Aled and Elwy valleys
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.9

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the valley of the River Conwy which flows north from the Migneint moor, through the town of Llanrwst to the estuary in Conwy town.

Key Characteristics

Typically small to medium scale
River valley floodplain and valley sides
Cultural heritage interest
Developed coastline

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a small to medium scale landscape. VS8: Small / Medium			Red
	*Landform	Distinctive broad and deep valley with a flat river floodplain and strongly undulating valley sides with gentle coastal slopes to the north. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Levels / Rolling/Undulating			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Landccover within the valley comprises a mosaic of woodland and pasture with a high prevalence of field and hedgerow trees. Modern development is concentrated in the far north of this landscape unit. VS3: Hill & Lower Plateau Mosaic / Open Lowland Valleys / Urban / Hill & Lower Plateau Grazing / Mosaic Rolling Lowland VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Development / Water			Red
	Built Environment	Man-made influences are most evident to the north where the developed coastline includes the town of Conwy, the A55 tourist route and the North Wales Coast Railway. Other man-made influences include the A470 which runs down the valley, and several pylon lines that cross the valley east-west. Elsewhere, settlement is sparser and modern development much more limited. VS6: Clustered / Scattered Rural/Farm / Mixture / Urban / No settlements VS27: Fair /Good		Amber
Visual	Skylines and Settings	The valley sides and bottom of the valley do not form skyline features; however the surrounding valleys sides rise to prominent undulating skylines.			Red
	Movement	Road traffic brings movement into this landscape. This is more frequent along the coast where most of the settlement and transport infrastructure is located. Traffic along the A470 brings movement along the valley. Other, more remote parts of the valley are more still in character. VS18: Occasional / Infrequent / Frequent / Constant		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	There are some long views along the valley floor and from coastal areas. The higher valley sides afford open views to Snowdonia National Park and the Rhos Hills. VS9: Enclosed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties particularly in the north along the coast and including the town of Conwy Long distance routes including Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5), the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) Open Access Areas within Snowdonia Nation Many local attractions both along the coast and inland, including Conwy Castle and Bodnant Garden Public rights of way The A55 & A470 tourist routes to local and regional/national attractions such as Snowdonia National Park The North Wales Coast Railway The local road network Passing ships and ferries			Red
	*Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The Rhos Hills appear as a large scale backdrop in views from the valley to the east. There are some views to and from Snowdonia National Park which lies immediately to the west. Views are afforded to and from adjacent landscape units to the north along the coast including the Creudyyn Peninsular.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park Great Orme Heritage Coast Conwy Castle, Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site Conwy Valley SLA Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA Pen Isaf Dyffryn Conwy (Lower Conwy Valley) and Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscape Registered Parks and Gardens Open Access Areas within Snowdonia National Park Gwydir Castle and Gwydir Uchaf Chapel Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation with some Outstanding. VS46: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding VS47: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding VS48: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	A sense of tranquillity and remoteness develops away from the developed and busy coastline. VS24: Attractive; Tranquil; Sheltered; Safe; Settled; Spiritual / Attractive; Sheltered; Settled / Attractive; sheltered; Settled; Tranquil / Unattractive; Noisy; Settled (to the north)			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	Most of this landscape unit is regionally designated as the Conwy Valley SLA. Nationally designated features also include Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5). Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some Outstanding. VS50: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding VS49: Low / High / Outstanding LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding (immediate coastline) LH42: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding GL31: Moderate / High / Outstanding GL33: Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Large areas of this landscape unit lie within Pen Isaf Dyffryn Conwy (Lower Conwy Valley)and Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscapes. The area also includes Registered Parks and Gardens and parts of the essential setting of Conwy Castle, Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation, with some Outstanding. HL38: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding HL35: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding HL40: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This distinctive valley landscape with its mosaic of pastures, woodlands and individual trees is attractive and for the most part tranquil, which has resulted in its regional designation as an SLA. This, combined with its association with the Rhos Hills and intervisibility with Snowdonia National Park and the Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA, as well as some important cultural heritage features including Conwy Castle, Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site and Pen Isaf Dyffryn Conwy (Lower Conwy Valley) and Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscapes increase the sensitivity to high.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 7 Conwy Valley and 9 Rhos Hills
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, Regional Seascape Unit 4 Conwy Estuary
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register 22 Lower Conwy Valley (HLW (Gw) 4)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 6 Conwy Valley
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.10

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises land which runs from Colwyn Bay and Abergele, south past Henllan, to Denbigh.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale, rolling landscape
Cultural heritage interest

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Medium scale landscape. VS8: Medium		Amber
	*Landform	Typically a rolling landscape with some prominent limestone ridges in the central area. VS4: Rolling/Undulating / Plateau / Levels / Hills/Valleys				Red
	Landcover Pattern	Mosaicof pastures and woodland, including estate woodlands and designed parklands. VS3: Mosaic Rolling Lowland / Urban / Wooded Lowland Valleys VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Woodland / Mixture / Urban				Red
	Built Environment	The coastline along the northern part of this landscape unit around Colwyn Bay and Abergele is densely settled. Man-made influence is evident in the road system, including the A55 tourist route, the North Wales Coast Railway, quarries and pylon lines which punctuate the skyline south of the B5831. Elsewhere the landscape becomes more rural in character with a settlement pattern dispersed along a network of minor lanes. VS6: No Settlements / Scattered Rural/Farm / Village / Urban VS27: Fair / Good / Unassessed		Amber
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	The Clwydian Range forms rolling skylines to the east of this landscape unit. Denbigh Castle is a prominent skyline feature. To the north west, the limestone escarpment and hills at Llanddulas create more complex and distinctive skylines. Skylines in the central section of this landscape unit are interrupted by pylon lines.				Red
	Movement	The presence of traffic on the local road network brings frequent movement into this landscape, particularly around the larger settlements and along the coastline. Away from the settlements and roads movement is less frequent. VS18: Infrequent / Frequent / Constant		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views are typically enclosed by landform and vegetation, although there are some more open and extensive views from areas of higher land and along the coast. VS9: Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties particularly along the coast and including Colwyn Bay and Abergele Long distance routes including the Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5), North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) and the Clwydian Way Open Access Areas to the west of Abergele Local attractions and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway The local road network				Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	Part of this landscape unit comprises a line of hills which are significant in forming the visual backdrop and skyline to the settled coastal plain. Views are typically limited by landform and vegetation; however, more open long distance views out to adjacent landscape units are afforded from areas of higher land and along the coastline.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA Open Access Areas to the west of Abergele Registered Parks & Gardens Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) Registered Historic Landscape Denbigh Castle The Marble Church (St Margaret’s Church, Bodelwyddan) Hillfort				Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Low / Moderate / High VS47: Low / Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Remoteness / Tranquillity	Away from the developed and busy coastline, the sense of tranquillity increases. VS24: Attractive; Sheltered; Settled / Attractive; Sheltered; Safe; Settled / Unattractive; Noisy; Settled		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	Part of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA. Nationally designated features include Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and small parts of Open Access Areas to the west of Abergele. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some areas evaluated as Outstanding. VS50: Low / Moderate / High VS49: Low / Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding GL31: Moderate / High / Outstanding GL33: Moderate / High / Outstanding				Red
Value	*Cultural Heritage Value	Parts of this landscape unit lie within Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) Registered Historic Landscapes. This area includes Registered Parks & Gardens and a hillfort. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some Outstanding. HL38: Low/Moderate/High/Outstanding/Unassessed HL35: Low/Moderate/High/Outstanding/Unassessed HL40: Low/Moderate/High/Outstanding				Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The combination of distinctive limestone topography, pastures, woodland and designed landscapes impart a high degree of sensitivity and have resulted in part of the area being regionally designated as the Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele SLA. This sensitivity is further enhanced by proximity to important cultural heritage features. When combined with some sensitive visual receptors, including users of the A55 and North Wales Coast Railway the overall sensitivity of this landscape is considered high.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Limestone Farmlands
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline and 9 Rhos Hills
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, Area 38 Lower Elwy Valley (HLW (C) 4)
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, No: 2 Regional Seascape Unit Name: Point of Ayr to Colwyn Bay
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 2 Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Areas as follows: Bodelwyddan and Kimnel Park (Code: D/LC/9); Limestone Ridge and Valleys (Code: D/LC/10); and Denbigh Plateau (Code: D/LC/11)

5.11

Location and Extent
A series of steep hills and cliffs located at Llandulas (Cefn yr Ogof, Rhyd-y-foel and Crag-y-Forwyn) and Bryn Euryn Hill (between Rhos-on-Sea and Colwyn Bay). These landforms are highly distinctive features located close to the Conwy coastline.

Key Characteristics

Typically small to medium scale
Open hills and scarp faces
Prominent feature in the landscape
Cultural heritage interest

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	*Scale	Typically a small-medium scale landscape VS8: Small / Medium			Red
	*Landform	Steep limestone hillswith rock outcrops, distinctive scarp faces and scree slopes. VS4:Hills/Valleys / Rolling/Undulating			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Landcover comprises a mosaic of wooded hillsides, scarp slopes and pastures. VS3: Wooded Hillside & Scarp Slopes / Mosaic Rolling Lowland / Urban / Hillside & Scarp Slopes Grazing VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Mixture / Development			Red
	Built Environment	Man-made influences include the settlements that are found around the lower slopes and also in the quarrying at Llandulas. However, with the exception of important historical features, and within the context of the developed coastline, the majority of this landscape unit is relatively undeveloped. VS6: Mixture / Scattered Rural/Farm / Urban VS27: Fair / Good			Red
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	Thee hills are highly distinctive and form prominent skylines when viewed from a number of locations along and adjacent to the coastline.			Red
	Movement	Movement is limited to infrequent traffic on local roads around the base of the hills. The hill tops and higher slopes are very still. VS18: Infrequent / Constant			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	The higher slopes afford open and expansive views out to sea and over coastal areas including the Great Orme Headland, across the Clwydian Range, Denbigh Moors and Snowdonia National Park. Views to and from the lower slopes are more enclosed by landform and vegetation. VS9: Enclosed / Open			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Properties which are found mainly around the lower slopes Long distance routes including Offa’s Dyke Path national trail, Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5), the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) and the Clwydian Way Open Access Areas to the east of this landscape unit Local attractions and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway The local road and network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	This landscape unit has a strong association and intervisibility with both adjacent and more distant landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Great Orme Heritage Coast Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele SLA Open Access Areas to the east of this landscape unit Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscape Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Low / Moderate / High VS47: Low / Moderate VS48: Low / Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	This landscape unit is relatively tranquil and remote particularly in comparison to the adjacent densely populated coastline. VS24: Attractive; Exposed / Attractive; Exposed; Wild		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	Much of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele SLA. Nationally designated features also include Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and Open Access Areas (to east of this landscape unit). Typical High LANDMAP evaluation with some Outstanding. VS50: Low / Moderate / High VS49: Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Part of a Registered Parks and Garden and hillfort lie within the eastern part of this landscape unit. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Low / Moderate / High HL35: Low / Moderate HL40: Low / Moderate / High			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The attractive small to medium scale limestone scenery of this landscape unit is regionally designated as part of the Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele SLA. Its sensitivity is further enhanced by its prominent skylines and intervisibility with adjoining high value landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park. When combined with the presence of important cultural heritage features and many sensitive visual receptors, the overall sensitivity of this landscape is considered high.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Limestone Escarpment and Hills
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, Regional Seascape Unit No: 2 Point of Ayr to Colwyn Bay
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 2 Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.12

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular which lie to the north west of Conwy.

Key Characteristics

Typically small to medium scale
Dramatic limestone headlands
Considerable cultural heritage interest

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	*Scale	Typically a small-medium scale landscape VS8: Small / Medium			Red
	*Landform	The landform of the peninsula is varied and comprises dramatic limestone headlands and cliffs with areas of gently rolling land and flatter lowland. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Levels / Rolling/Undulating			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Mosaic of pastures, woodland, open land, hillsides, scarp slopes and cliffs and urban settlements. VS3: Hillside & Scarp Slopes Grazing / Estuary / Flat Open Lowland Farmland / Urban VS5: Open Land / Mixture / Development		Amber
	Built Environment	With the exception of the Great Orme Headland. Man-made influences are evident across this landscape unit and include the A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway in the south and also the busy urban resort settlements of Conwy, Deganwy, Llandudno, Rhos on Sea and Colwyn Bay and pylon lines that are visible towards the middle of this landscape unit. VS6: Linear / Urban / Scattered Rural/Farm / No Settlements VS27: Fair / Good		Amber
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	The Great Orme and Little Orme form a prominent skyline feature. Esgyryn Obelisk is a distinctive monument visible from the south.			Red
	Movement	Much of this landscape unit is very busy, particularly around the coastal settlements; however there are a number of areas where movement is much less frequent. VS18: Infrequent / Frequent / Constant		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Expansive views out across the sea, coastline and inland hills from theGreat Orme and other high points within this landscape unit. VS9: Exposed / Confined / Enclosed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Numerous properties particularly along the coast and including the towns of Conwy, Deganwy, Llandudno, Rhos on Sea and Colwyn Bay Long distance routes including Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and the North Wales Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) Open Access Areas both within this landscape unit and Snowdonia National Park Coastal attractions including the Great Orme Headland and Country Park and Little Orme Other local attractions and public rights of way The A55 tourist route and North Wales Coast Railway The local road network Passing ships and ferries.			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	This landscape unit has strong association and intervisibility with both adjacent and more distant landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park Anglesey Coast AONB Conwy Castle, Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site Great Orme Heritage Coast Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA Conwy Valley SLA Open Access Areas Great Orme Country Park Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscape. Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation with some areas Outstanding. VS46: Low / Moderate / High VS47: Low / Moderate / High VS48: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	There is a strong and locally important contrast between the busy developed areas of coastline and the tranquil and remote undeveloped parts of the headland. VS24: Attractive; Exposed; Wild; Unattractive; Smell / Attractive; Exposed; Wild / Attractive; Unattractive; Noisy; Settled / Exposed / Attractive; Exposed; Wild / Attractive; Settled; Sheltered; Safe			Red
Value	Landscape Value	Much of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA and also contains the nationally identified Great Orme Heritage Coast. Nationally designated features also include the Sustrans - North Wales Coast cycle route (NCN Route 5) and Open Access Areas. Typical High LANDMAP evaluation with some areas Outstanding. VS50: Low / Moderate / High VS49: Low / Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding GL31: Moderate / High / Outstanding GL33: Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Value	*Cultural Heritage Value	Conwy Castle, Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site is wholly contained within this landscape unit. Much of this landscape unit lies within Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) Registered Historic Landscape. A number of Registered Parks and Gardens are also present. Typical High-Outstanding LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding HL35: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding HL40: Moderate / Outstanding			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular is a distinctive and popular section of coastline, which is designated as both Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular SLA and nationally identified as the Great Orme Heritage Coast. Its sensitivity is further enhanced by its prominent skylines and intervisibility with adjoining high value landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park. When combined with the presence of important cultural heritage features, including the Conwy Castle, Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site and the many sensitive visual receptors, the overall sensitivity is considered high.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 8 Colwyn and Northern Coastline
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register: 23 Creuddyn and Conwy (HLW (Gw) 5)
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, Regional Seascape Units as follows: 3 Rhos Point to Great Ormes Head; 4 Conwy Estuary; and 5 Great Ormes Head to Puffin Island
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 1 Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.13

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the undulating uplands of the Rhos Hills.

Key Characteristics

Typically medium scale
Undulating / rolling hills & valleys
Generally open with a mosaic of grassland, gorse scrub and woodland.

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium scale landscape. VS8: Small / Medium / large		Amber
	*Landform	Landform mainly comprises hills and valleys -typically rolling / undulating. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Rolling/Undulating / Levels		Amber
	*Landcover Pattern	Mosaic of upland grazing, pastures, gorse scrub and woodland. VS3: Hill & Lower Plateau Grazing / Hill & Lower Plateau Mosaic / Hillside & Scarp Slopes Grazing VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Mixture / Woodland / Development			Red
	Built Environment	Man-made influences include pylon lines which cross the northern end of this landscape unit in an east west direction. Elsewhere influences are typically limited to scattered rural properties and small settlements which are linked by a few minor roads. VS6: Clustered / Mixture / Scattered Rural/Farm / Village VS27: Unassessed / Poor / Fair / Good			Red
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	Parts of this landscape unit form prominent and uninterrupted skylines.			Red
	Movement	Local road traffic introduces infrequent movement into the landscape. VS18: Rare / Occasional / Infrequent / Frequent			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views are variable depending on the landform and vegetation cover. From the higher more open areas there are expansive views northwards across the sea and coastline and westwards to Snowdonia National Park. Views from lower lying areas are typically contained by intervening landform. VS9: Open / Exposed / Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Small dispersed settlements and properties Long distance routes including the Clwydian Way Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The elevated parts of this landscape unit have a strong association and visibility with surrounding uplands including Snowdonia National Park; whereas lower lying areas are more contained.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Open Access Areas Elwy and Aled Valleys SLA Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA Conwy Valley SLA Open Access Areas Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd), Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) and Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscapes Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Low / Moderate / High VS47: Low / Moderate / High VS48: Low / Moderate		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Remoteness / Tranquillity	Away from settlements and roads, this landscape unit has typically a tranquil and in places remote quality. VS24: Attractive; Sheltered / Attractive; Sheltered; Safe / Attractive; Exposed; Wild; Remote / Attractive; Tranquil; Sheltered; Safe; Settled; Spiritual / Tranquil; Exposed			Red
Value	Landscape Value	A large part of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Elwy and Aled Valleys and Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele SLAs. Several Open Access Areas are also found within this landscape unit. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some areas Outstanding. VS50: Low / Moderate / High VS49: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / High GL31: Moderate / High / Outstanding GL33: Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	This area includes Registered Parks and Gardens, hillforts and small areas of Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd), Pen Isaf Dyffryn Elwy (Lower Elwy Valley) and Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscapes. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation with some areas Outstanding. HL38: Moderate / High / Unassessed HL35: Low / Moderate / High / Unassessed HL40: Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This medium scale landscape of undulating and rolling hills and valleys comprises a farmland mosaic of pastures, scrub and woodland. It is a tranquil and scenic landscape which has resulted in parts of it being regionally designated as Elwy and Aled Valleys and Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele SLAs. Its sensitivity is further enhanced by the number of sensitive visual receptors and by its prominent skylines and intervisibility with adjoining high value landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Aled Hiraethog Hills
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 9 Rhos Hills and 10 Denbigh Moors
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, Area 38 Lower Elwy Valley (HLW (C) 4)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 2 Rhyd-y-Foel to Abergele and SLA 3 Elwy and Aled Valley
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.14

Location and Extent
This landscape unit falls within both Denbighshire and Conwy and encompasses much of Clocaenog Forest.

Key Characteristics

Large scale
Predominantly commercial conifer forest
A number of existing wind farms

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	*Scale	Large scale landscape. VS8: Large	Yellow
	Landform	Landform mainly comprises high hills and slopes which are typically rolling / undulating with some areas of upland plateau. VS4: Rolling/Undulating / Plateau		Amber
	*Landcover Pattern	Landcover is dominated by commercial conifer forestry interspersed with pockets of moorland and settled farmland which form breaks within the forest. VS3: Wooded Hillside & Scarp Slopes / Wooded Uplands & Plateaux VS5: Woodland	Yellow
	*Built Environment	Man-made influences include some large scale wind farms and commercial forestry plantations. There is little settlement and few roads. Much of this landscape unit lies within TAN8 SSA A. VS6: No Settlements VS27: Unassessed / Fair	Yellow
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Simple skylines are interrupted by conifer plantations and wind turbines. The forest forms a prominent skyline feature in some views.	Yellow
	Movement	Away from the wind turbines, the landscape has a typically still character. VS18: Occasional		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views are typically contained by the dense tree stands and in places by the local landform. However, there are some extensive views out across the surrounding uplands where areas of forestry have been felled and also from the higher ground and more open edges of this landscape unit. VS9: Confined		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Properties(mainly located outside this landscape unit) Long distance routes including Offa’s Dyke Path national trail, the Clwydian Way and Hiraethog Trail long distance routes Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way The A5 (views towards the southern parts of this landscape unit) The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/ Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	Where views are open, this landscape unit has a strong association and intervisibility with surrounding upland areas. In some places there are attractive views of the woodland edge and rolling landform from adjacent landscape units. This effect is however masked where large scale blanket forestry forms the main component of the view.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscapes Open Access Areas		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Low VS47: Moderate / High VS48: Low / Moderate		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Being predominantly unsettled and with relatively few local roads, this landscape unit has a sense of remoteness. The forestry activities and presence of wind turbines locally reduce the sense of tranquillity. VS24: Sheltered; Smell; Other / Unattractive; Remote		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Low VS49: Low / Moderate LH45: Low / Moderate / High LH42: Low / Moderate GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High		Amber
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Part of this landscape unit falls within Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscape. Typical High LANDMAP evaluation with some Outstanding. HL38: High / Outstanding / Unassessed HL35: High / Unassessed HL40: Low / Moderate / High			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		Although the presence of commercial forestry and existing wind farm development within this large scale upland landscape lessen sensitivity, the elevation and prominence of the skyline in views from the wider landscape provide a slight counterbalance. Nevertheless the overall sensitivity is still considered low. This is a reflected in the fact that much of the area lies within TAN8 SSA A	Low

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Hill Forest
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 10 Denbigh Moors
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, 39 Denbigh Moors (HLW (C) 5)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Area: Clocaenog Forest (Code: D/LC/24)

5.15

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the area of uplands lying between the Denbigh Moors and Snowdonia National Park. The historic route of the A5 runs through this landscape unit, running from Tynan in the south east to Pentrefoelas and Snowdonia National Park in the north west.

Key Characteristics

Medium to large scale
Upland landscape
Predominantly improved pasture

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium-large scale landscape. VS8: Medium / Large		Amber
	Landform	Upland landscape comprising broad valleys and high hills. VS4: High Hills/Mountains / Hills/Valleys / Levels / Rolling/Undulating		Amber
	Landcover Pattern	Mainly pasture, with some wetlands and rough grassland. Tree cover is sparse and confined to the smaller valleys and shelter belts. VS3: Open Upland Valleys / Hill & Lower Plateau Grazing / Upland Grazing VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Open Land		Amber
	*Built Environment	Man-made influences are relatively limited. Small clustered villages are concentrated along the A5, whilst elsewhere there is typically a dispersed pattern of farms and rural properties. Some wind turbines are present in this landscape unit. VS6: Clustered / Scattered Rural/Farm / No Settlements VS27: Fair / Good / Unassessed		Amber
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Simple sweeping skylines are occasionally interrupted by individual field and hedgerow trees, wood poles, dispersed rural properties and occasional wind turbines.		Amber
	Movement	Away from the A5 road corridor, movement in this landscape is relatively infrequent. VS18: Frequent / Infrequent / Occasional		Amber
	*Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	This is a typically open and exposed landscape unit withlong ranging views, particularly from the more elevated areas. VS9: Open / Exposed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Small villages along the A5 corridor and dispersed individual properties Long distance routes including the Clwydian Way and Hiraethog Trail Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way The A5 tourist route to regional/national attractions outside this landscape unit The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	There is a strong associationwith neighbouring upland areas including Snowdonia National Park, the Berwyn Mountains and the Denbigh Moors.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Cynwyd and Llandrillo AOB Hiraethog SLA Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA Open Access Areas Y Berwyn (Berwyn) and Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscapes			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate / High VS47: Low / Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Away from the A5 road corridor, this landscape unit has a remote and tranquil character. VS24: Attractive; Tranquil; Exposed / Tranquil; Exposed / Exposed / Settled			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	Much of the south east part of this landscape unit, including east of the A5 lies within the regionally designated Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Moderate / High VS49: Low / Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / High LH42: Low / Moderate / High GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Low / Moderate / High HL35: Low / Moderate / High HL40: Moderate / High		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		Although this large scale highly rural upland landscape has characteristics which lessen its landscape sensitivity, part of it is regionally designated as the Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA and it also has a strong association and intervisibility with surrounding high value landscapes and cultural heritage features, particularly with Snowdonia National Park. This increases its overall sensitivity.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Cerrig Uplands
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 10 Denbigh Moors
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, 39 Denbigh Moors (HLW (C) 5)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 4 Hiraethog
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.16

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises a series of undulating hills which lie to the south of the Clocaenog Forest and run south from Derwen past Maerdy to the southern boundary of Conwy.

Key Characteristics

Small to medium scale
Undulating upland rural landscape

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	*Scale	This is a small to medium scale landscape. VS8: Small / Medium			Red
	Landform	Landform mainly comprises hills and valleys and is typically rolling or undulating. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Rolling/Undulating		Amber
	Landcover Pattern	Mosaic of pastoral farmland and woodland. VS3: Open/Wooded Mosaic Upland Valleys / Hill & Lower Plateau Grazing / Open Upland Valleys VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic			Red
	Built Environment	The influence of modern development is limited to the northern half of this landscape unit which lies withinTAN 8 SSA A and includes some existing turbines. Elsewhere there is typically a dispersed pattern of isolated farms and rural properties with some small clustered villages along the A5 road corridor. VS6: Scattered Rural/Farm VS27: Unassessed / Fair / Good		Amber
Visual	Skylines and Settings	This landscape unit has some prominent undeveloped skylines.			Red
	Movement	Away from the A5 road corridor, movement in this landscape is relatively infrequent. VS18: Occasional / Infrequent / Frequent			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views within this landscape unit are typically enclosed by landform and vegetation. However, there are some longer views of surrounding uplands to and from the higher ground. VS9: Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Small villages along the A5 corridor and dispersed individual properties Long distance routes including the Clwydian Way and Hiraethog Trail Open Access Areas Local attractions and the public rights of way The A5 tourist route to regional/national attractions outside this landscape unit The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The higher parts of this landscape unit have some intervisibility and association with adjoining landscapes but generally this is a visually contained landscape unit.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Cynwyd and Llandrillo AOB Open Access Areas Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA Registered Historic Landscapes Hillforts		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: High VS47: Moderate / High VS48: High			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Remoteness / Tranquillity	Away from the A5 road corridor this landscape unit typically has a remote and tranquil character. VS24: Attractive; Tranquil; Sheltered; Safe; Settled / Attractive; Safe; Remote; Settled; Wild / Attractive; Tranquil; Exposed			Red
Value	Landscape Value	The southern part of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: High VS49: Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / High LH42: Low / Moderate / High GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High		Amber
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	This area includes a scheduled hillfort. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Moderate / High / Unassessed HL35: Moderate / High / Unassessed HL40: Moderate / High		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		Small to medium scale landscape with a mosaic of pastoral farmland and woodland. The southern part of this unit is regionally designated within the Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor SLA. Sensitivity is further enhanced by the presence of sensitive visual receptors, the remote and typically tranquil character and by the fact that the area includes some prominent skylines. Whilst these features all lend a high sensitivity, the northern parts of this landscape unit are within TAN 8 SSA A and include existing wind turbines which lower the sensitivity, particularly to the north.	Medium-High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Maerdy Hills
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, RLCA 10
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012) SLA 5 Cerrigydrudion and A5 Corridor
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Area: Melin-y-wig Hills (Code: D/LC/26)

5.17

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the strongly undulating rural landscape which stretches from Clawydd -newydd southwards to the A5, and includes the hills to the west of Corwen.

Key Characteristics

Medium scale
Strongly undulating rural landscape

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Medium scale landscape. VS8: Medium		Amber
	Landform	The complex landform comprises rounded and interlocking strongly undulating hills and valley slopes. VS4: Rolling/Undulating / Hills/Valleys		Amber
	Landcover Pattern	Mosaic of pastoral farmland with some large areas of open hillside and scarp slopes. Woodland blocks are more prevalent in the north and south of this landscape unit. VS3: Hillside & Scarp Slopes Grazing / Hillside & Scarp Slopes Mosaic / Open Hillside & ScarpSlopes VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic			Red
	*Built Environment	With the exception of the historic village of Gwyddelwern, settlement is limited to remote farms and rural properties which are linked by a dense network of narrow winding lanes. Pylon lines and wind turbines are present to the south, and the main A494 Ruthin to Corwen road runs through this landscape unit. A metal recycling scrap yard locally influences the landscape. VS6:Scattered Rural/Farm / Village / No Settlement VS27: Unassessed		Amber
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	This landscape unit has some prominent undeveloped skylines although in places these are interrupted by wind turbines and pylon lines.		Amber
	Movement	Away from the A5 road corridor, movement in this landscape is relatively infrequent. VS18: Infrequent		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views within this landscape unit are typically enclosed by landform and vegetation. However, there are some longer views to and from the higher ground. VS9: Open / Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: The historic village of Gwyddelwern and dispersed individual properties Long distance routes including the Clwydian Way, Brenig Way and Dee Valley Way Open Access Areas The A5 tourist route to regional/national attractions outside this landscape unit Local attractions and the public right of way The local road network			Red
	*Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The southernmost part of this landscape unit has strong visual associations with adjacent units; whereas the northern parts are more visually self-contained.		Amber
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Cynwyd and Llandrillo AOB Open Access Areas Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and Y Berwyn (Berwyn) Registered Historic Landscapes Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: High VS47: Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Although this landscape is typically tranquil, the well-developed farmed character, presence of settlement and dense network of local roads gives a reduced sense of remoteness. VS24: Attractive; Safe; Settled / Attractive; Sheltered; Settled / Attractive; Tranquil; Safe; Settled		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	The south eastern corner and far eastern part of this landscape unit lie within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB. There is also a small Open Access Area to the south east. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some Outstanding areas to the southin relation to geological value. VS50: Moderate / High VS49: Moderate LH45: Moderate LH42: Moderate GL31: Moderate / High / Outstanding GL33: Moderate / High / Outstanding		Amber
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	The area includes a hillfort and part of the A5 historic route. Typical High LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Low / Moderate / High / Unassessed HL35: High / Unassessed HL40: Low / Moderate / High		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This is a medium scale landscape comprising a complex pattern of rounded and interlocking hills and valleys. Part of it lies within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB which increases sensitivity in that particular locality. Sensitivity is enhanced by a number of sensitive visual receptors and by some prominent skylines and intervisibility with adjoining high value landscapes, including the AONB and Snowdonia National Park The presence of existing wind turbines within both this and adjacent landscapes units slightly reduces the sensitivity of the local landscape to further wind energy development.	Medium-High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Edeirnion Hills
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 15 Vale of Llangollen and Dee Valley and 12 Clwydian Range
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Areas as follows: Woodlands South of Ruthin (Code: D/LC/22); Denbigh and Ruthin Hills (Code: D/LC/23); Gwyddelwern Quarries (Code: D/LC/27); Llanelidan and Gwyddelwern Hills (Code: D/LC/28); and Rug Estate Parkland (Code: D/LC/30)
Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan 2009/14 (Nb. Area located just outside the AONB)

5.18

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises a strongly undulating upland plateau.

Key Characteristics

Small to medium scale
Strongly undulating upland plateau

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a medium scale landscape. VS8: Small / Medium		Amber
	*Landform	Strongly undulating, slightly rugged,upland plateau. VS4: Hills/Valleys	Yellow
	Landcover Pattern	Mainly upland grazing with pockets of scrub and woodland. VS3: Hill & Lower Plateau Mosaic / Hill & Lower Plateau Grazing VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic	Yellow
	*Built Environment	This landscape unit is sparsely settled. Modern development includes pylon lines which cross this landscape unit and are visible from a number of locations. VS6: Scattered Rural/Farm / Clustered VS27: Fair / Good		Amber
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Simple and open skylines are interrupted by pylon lines.	Yellow
	Movement	Infrequent movement within this landscape imparts a still character. VS18: Occasional / Infrequent / Frequent			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	Views within this landscape unit are typically enclosed by landform and vegetation. However, there are some expansive views to and from the higher ground. VS9: Open / Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Occasional dispersed properties Local attractions and public rights of way The local road network		Amber
	*Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The higher parts of this landscape unit have anassociation and intervisibility with adjoining upland landscapes,including Snowdonia National Park and the Great Orme Headland .			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park Great Orme Heritage Coast Conwy Valley SLA Elwy and Aled Valleys SLA Rhyd Y Foel to Abergele SLA Creuddyn a Chonwy (Creuddyn and Conwy) and Pen Isaf Dyffryn Conwy (Lower Conwy Valley) Registered Historic Landscapes Registered Parks and Gardens			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate / High VS47: Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	Although the area typically has a tranquil character, existing pylon lines lessen the sense of remoteness. VS24: Attractive; Tranquil; Sheltered; Safe; Settled; Spiritual / Tranquil; Exposed		Amber
Value	Landscape Value	The very western edges of this landscape unit fall within the regionally designated Conwy Valley SLA. Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Moderate / High VS49: Moderate / High LH45: High LH42: Low GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High		Amber
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Moderate HL35: Low / Moderate HL40: Moderate		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		The medium-high sensitivity of this open upland plateau arises from the presence of sensitive visual receptors and views to and from important landscape and cultural heritage features including Snowdonia National Park and the Great Orme Headland.	Medium-High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Upland Plateau
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 9 Rhos Hills
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.19

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises the upland areas of the Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors).

Key Characteristics
Typically vast in scale
Predominantly rolling upland moorland plateau
Cultural heritage interest

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically vast in scale. VS8: Small / Large / Vast	Yellow
	Landform	A rolling upland plateau. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Plateaux	Yellow
	Landcover Pattern	Extensive tracts of blanket bog and heather moorland with some wooded areas and large lakes. Coniferous forestry plantation is particularly prevalent in the east. VS3:Upland Moorland / Wooded Upland & Plateaux / Mosaic Upland & Plateaux / Lake VS5: Open Land / Woodland / Water	Yellow
	*Built Environment	The landscape is unsettled with little modern development other than somewind turbines in the far north west and north eastern parts of the landscape unit. VS6: No Settlement VS27: Fair / Good			Red
Visual	Skylines and Settings	A plateau landscape with typically simple, open and largely uninterrupted skylines with the exception of existing wind turbines which interrupt the skyline to the far north west and north east.		Amber
	Movement	Movement is rare within this landscape. VS18: Rare / Occasional / Infrequent			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	There are some open and expansive views across the undulating moorland to surrounding uplands including Snowdonia National Park and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB. VS9: Open / Exposed / Enclosed		Amber
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Relatively few properties (located in adjacent landscape units) Long distance routes including Offa’s Dyke Path national trail, the Clwydian Way and Hiraethog Trail Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way Local road network		Amber
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The higher parts of this landscape unit have an association and intervisibility with adjoining and other upland landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Cynwyd and Llandrillo AOB Open Access Areas Hiraethog SLA Open Access Areas Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd) and Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscapes Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Low / Moderate / High VS47: Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	This landscape unit is tranquil and has a remote wilderness quality. VS24: Tranquil; Exposed; Remote; Wild; Spiritual; Threatening			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	The western part of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Hiraethog SLA. Almost half of this landscape unit comprises Open Access Areas. Much of this landscape unit falls within TAN8 SSA A and there are a number of existing wind turbines. Typical High-Outstanding LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Low / Moderate / High VS49: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH45: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Low / Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	More than half of this landscape unit lies within the Denbigh Moors Registered Historic Landscape. Typical High-Outstanding LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Moderate / High / Outstanding HL35: Moderate / High HL40: Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		A remote, exposed and open landscape with high landscape value reflected in the western half of the area being regionally designated as the Hiraethog SLA. There are expansive views to and from important landscapes and cultural heritage features, including Snowdonia National Park and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB. Whilst these features all lend a high sensitivity, the northern extent of the area lies within TAN8 SSA A and is likely to have a lower sensitivity.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Moorland Plateau
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 10 Denbigh Moors
Countryside Council for Wales, Historic Landscapes Register, 39 Denbigh Moors (Mynydd Hiraethog) (HLW (C) 5)
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 4 Hiraethog
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003
Denbighshire Landscape Strategy 2003, Character Area: Brenig/Forest (Code: D/LC/25)

5.20

Location and Extent
Located to the far south west of the study area; this landscape unit lies adjoins the eastern boundary of Snowdonia National Park.

Key Characteristics

Typically large scale
High and strongly undulating upland plateau

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically large scale. VS8: Medium / Large	Yellow
	Landform	High and strongly undulating upland plateau broken by upland valleys. VS4: Hills/Valleys / High Hills/Mountains		Amber
	Landcover	Extensive tracts of blanket bog and heather moorland with some wooded areas and pastures. VS3: Upland Moorland / Open Upland Valleys VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic / Open Land	Yellow
	*Built Environment	The landscape is typically unsettled. VS6: Clustered / No Settlements VS27: Good / Unassessed			Red
Visual	Skylines and Settings	Garn Prys is a prominent skyline feature which is visible from a number of locations from both within and outside this landscape unit.			Red
	Movement	With the exception of occasional movement, this landscape unit has a relatively still character. VS18: Occasional / Frequent			Red
	*Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	There are open and expansive views across the undulating moorland to Snowdonia National Park, the Denbigh Moors and intervening areas to the north. VS9: Open / Exposed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Occasional properties Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way Visitors to regional/national attractions outside this landscape unit travelling along the A5 The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	The higher parts of this landscape unit have a strong association and intervisibility with adjoining upland landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park Open Access Areas Hiraethog SLA Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscape			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate / High VS47: Low / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	This landscape unit typically has a tranquil and remote character. VS24: Tranquil; Exposed; Remote; Threatening			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	This landscape unit adjoins Snowdonia National Park and comprises some Open Access Areas. Typical High-Outstanding LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: Moderate / High VS49: Low / High LH45: Moderate / High / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / Outstanding GL31: Moderate GL33: Moderate			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Low / Moderate HL35: Moderate HL40: Moderate / High	Yellow
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This area of open upland moorland is largely unsettled and has a remote and tranquil character. There is a strong association and intervisibility with Snowdonia National Park and expansive views to and from other important landscapes and cultural heritage features. When combined with a number of sensitive visual receptors this significantly increases the sensitivity of the landscape.	Very High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Moorland Plateau
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, RLCA 6 Snowdonia / Eryri and RLCA 10 Denbigh Moors
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.21

Location and Extent
This landscape unit comprises distinctive upland hills in Conwy, Mwdwl-eithin to the north of the A5 and Foel Goch and associated hills to the south of the A5.

Key Characteristics

Typically large scale
Upland moorland landscape
Mostly continuous and undulating high ridgelines
Cultural heritage interest

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	Scale	Typically a large scale landscape. VS8: Medium / Large / Vast	Yellow
	*Landform	Strongly undulating upland hills which form distinctive ridgelines. VS4: High Hills/Mountains / Hills/Valleys			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Landcover mainly comprises upland moorland. VS3: Upland Moorland / Open Upland Valleys VS5: Open Land / Field Pattern/Mosaic	Yellow
	Built Environment	This landscape unit is typically unsettled and there is little modern development. VS6: No Settlements / Scattered Rural/Farm VS27: Fair			Red
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	The ridgelines of this landscape unit are distinctive skyline features that form the backdrop to views from lower lying areas.		Amber
	Movement	Although there is occasional movement, this landscape is typicallyrelatively still. VS18: Rare / Occasional			Red
	Visibility, Key Views, Vistas	There are open and expansive views, including to and from the Clwydian Range and Snowdonia National Park in particular from the south of this landscape unit. VS9: Open / Exposed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Occasional properties Long distance routes including Offa’s Dyke Path national trail, the Hiraethog Trail and Clwydian Way Open Access Areas Local attractions and public rights of way Visitors to regional/national attractions outside this landscape unit travelling along the A5 The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	This landscape unit has strong associations and intervisibility with upland areas,including the Denbigh Moors, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB, Berwyn Mountains and Snowdonia National Park.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Denbigh Moors SLA Cerrigydrudion and A5 corridor SLA Open Access Areas Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd), Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) and Y Berwyn (Berwyn) Registered Historic Landscapes Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: High VS47: Moderate VS48: High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	*Remoteness / Tranquillity	This landscape unit has a typically tranquil and remote character. VS24: Tranquil; Exposed; Wild; Attractive; Remote / Attractive; Tranquil; Exposed			Red
Value	Landscape Value	This landscape unit contains some Open Access Areas. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation. VS50: High VS49: Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / High LH42: Low / Moderate GL31: Moderate / High GL33: Moderate / High		Amber
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Typical Moderate LANDMAP evaluation. HL38: Moderate / High HL35: Low / Moderate / High HL40: Moderate / High		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This area of large scale upland moorland is largely unsettled and has a remote and tranquil character. There is a strong association and intervisibility with the Denbigh Moors, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB, Berwyn Mountains and Snowdonia National Park and extensive views to and from important landscapes and cultural heritage features. When combined with some sensitive visual receptors the sensitivity of the landscape is significantly increased.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Clwyd Landscape Assessment 1995, Moorland Ridge
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, RLCA 10 Denbigh Moors
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

5.22

Location and Extent
This landscape unit is situated between the River Conwy valley to the west and Rhos Hills to the east.

Key Characteristics

Small to medium scale landscape
Open and exposed uplands
Mosaic of pasture and woodlands

Evaluation
The following table illustrates the appraisal of this landscape unit against wind energy development sensitivity criteria.

Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Assessed Sensitivity
Sensitivity Criteria		Characteristics of the Landscape Unit	Lower	⇔	Higher
Landscape	*Scale	Small to medium scale landscape. VS8: Small / Medium			Red
	Landform	Sloping landform rising up to rolling and undulating uplands. VS4: Hills/Valleys / Levels / Rolling/Undulating			Red
	Landcover Pattern	Landcover comprises a mosaic of pasture and small areas of woodland. VS3: Hill & Lower Plateau Mosaic / Hill & Lower Plateau Grazing VS5: Field Pattern/Mosaic			Red
	Built Environment	Modern development is evident in the local road network, dispersed settlement pattern and pylon lines that run east to west across this landscape unit and wind turbines to the south. VS6: Clustered / Scattered Rural/Farm / Mixture VS27: Good / Fair / Poor		Amber
Visual	*Skylines and Settings	The more elevated parts of this landscape unit form prominent skyline features, particularly in views out of the Conwy Valley and from Snowdonia National Park. Skylines are interrupted by wind turbines and pylon lines in some places.			Red
	Movement	This landscape is typically still in character, although infrequent traffic on the local road network and more frequent traffic on the A548 introduce some movement. Rotating turbine blades also introduce movement in the south. VS18: Occasional / Infrequent / Frequent		Amber
	Visibility, Key Views, vistas	This landscape unit is typically open and exposed. The moreelevated areas afford extensive westerly views to Snowdonia National Park with less prominent southerly views to the Denbigh Moors and distant easterly views to the higher parts of the Clwydian Range. VS9: Open / Exposed			Red
	Typical Receptors (in broadly descending order of sensitivity)	These include occupiers, users and visitors to the following: Dispersed settlements Open Access Areas in adjacent landscape units Local attractions and public rights of way The local road network			Red
	Intervisibility/Associations with Adjacent Landscapes	There is a strong association and intervisibility with Snowdonia National Park and to a lesser extent with adjacent upland areas to the south and east and coastal areas to the north.			Red
	Views to and from Important Landscapes and Cultural Heritage Features	These include: Snowdonia National Park The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Conwy Valley SLA Open Access Areas (to the south) Great Orme Heritage Coast Dyffryn Clwyd (The Vale of Clwyd), Pen Isaf Dyffryn Conwy (Lower Conwy Valley) and Mynydd Hiraethog (Denbigh Moors) Registered Historic Landscapes Registered Parks and Gardens Hillforts			Red
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Scenic Quality and Character	Typical Moderate - High LANDMAP evaluation. VS46: Moderate / High VS47: Moderate / High VS48: Moderate / High		Amber
Aesthetic, Perceptual and Experiential	Remoteness / Tranquillity	This landscape unit is typically tranquil and relatively remote in character. VS24: Tranquil; Exposed / Tranquil; Exposed; Threatening			Red
Value	*Landscape Value	Much of this landscape unit lies within the regionally designated Conwy Valley SLA. Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some areas Outstanding. VS50: Moderate / High VS49: Moderate / High LH45: Low / Moderate / Outstanding LH42: Low / Moderate / High GL31: Moderate / High / Outstanding GL33: Moderate / High / Outstanding			Red
Value	Cultural Heritage Value	Typical Moderate-High LANDMAP evaluation with some very small sections of Outstanding areas to the south. HL38: Moderate / High / Outstanding HL35: Moderate / High HL40: Moderate / High / Outstanding		Amber
Summary of Sensitivity to Wind Energy Developments		This area of small to medium scale sloping pastures and woodlands is sparsely settled and has a remote and tranquil character, which has resulted in its inclusion within the regionally designated Conwy Valley SLA. The area forms a prominent skyline feature, particularly in from views from the Conwy Valley and from Snowdonia National Park. There is a strong association and intervisibility with Snowdonia National Park and extensive views to and from important landscapes and cultural heritage features, including the Great Orme Heritage Coast. This, combined with the presence of other sensitive visual receptors imparts a high degree of sensitivity.	High

Key Reference Sources Used for this Evaluation

LANDMAP
Regional Landscape Character Map for Wales, 7 Conwy Valley and 9 Rhos Hills
Welsh Seascapes and their Sensitivity to Offshore Developments, 4 Conwy Estuary and 5 Great Ormes Head to Puffin Island;
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Revised Background Paper 27 – Special Landscape Areas (August 2012), SLA 6 Conwy Valley
Conwy Deposit Local Development Plan, Background Paper 27 – Landscape Character Areas (March 2011)
Conwy Borough Council, A Countryside Strategy for Conwy 1998-2003

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5. SECTION 4: EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE UNITS AND THEIR SENSITIVITY TO WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT

Approach to Evaluating Landscape Units

A3 Lowland Hills

A4 Coastal and Estuarine Flats (Prestatyn to Abergele)

A5 Coastal and Estuarine Flats (Colwyn Bay)

A6 Vale Farmlands (Vale of Clwyd)

A8 Coastal Landscape Unit (Penmaenmawr to Llanfairechan)

B2 Deep Valleys (Aled and Elwy)

B7 Conwy Valley

C4 Limestone Farmlands (Abergele to Denbigh Coastal/Vale hills)

C9 Limestone Escarpment and Hills

C10 Great Orme and Creuddyn Peninsular

D1 Aled Hiraethog Hills (West)

D2 Hill Forest (Clocaenog Forest)

D3 Cerrig Uplands

D4 Maerdy Hills

D5 Edeirnion Hills

D8 Upland Plateau

D10 Moorland Plateau (Denbigh Moors)

D11 Moorland Plateau

D15 Moorland Ridge

D16 Marginal Upland (East Conwy Valley)