Policy information sourced from the Aylesbury Local Plan
NE4 Landscape character and locally important landscape
Development must recognise the individual character and distinctiveness of particular landscape character areas set out in the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA), their sensitivity to change and contribution to a sense of place. Development should consider the characteristics of the landscape character area by meeting all of the following criteria:
- minimise impact on visual amenity
- be located to avoid the loss of important on-site views and off-site views towards important landscape features
- respect local character and distinctiveness in terms of settlement form and field pattern, topography and ecological value
- Carefully consider spacing, height, scale, plot shape and size, elevations, roofline and pitch, overall colour palette, texture and boundary treatment (walls, hedges, fences and gates) e
- minimise the impact of lighting to avoid blurring the distinction between urban and rural areas, and in areas which are intrinsically dark and to avoid light pollution to the night sky
- ensure that the development is not visually prominent in the landscape, and
- not generate an unacceptable level and/or frequency of noise in areas relatively undisturbed by noise and valued for their recreational or amenity value
The first stage in mitigating impact is to avoid any identified significant adverse impact. Where it is accepted there will be harm to the landscape character, specific on-site mitigation will be required to minimise that harm and, as a last resort, compensation may be required as part of a planning application. This reflects the mitigation hierarchy set out in paragraph 152 of the NPPF (2012). Applicants must consider the enhancement opportunities identified in the LCA and how they apply to a specific site.
The Policies Map defines areas of attractive landscape (AALs) and local landscape areas (LLAs) which have particular landscape features and qualities considered appropriate for particular conservation and enhancement opportunities. Of the two categories, the AALs have the greater significance. Development in AALs and LLAs should have particular regard to the character identified in the report ‘Defining the special qualities of local landscape designations in Aylesbury Vale District’ (Final Report, 2016) and the LCA (2008).
Development will be supported where appropriate mitigation to overcome any adverse impact to the character of the receiving landscape has been agreed.
Where permission is granted, the council will require conditions to best ensure the mitigation of any harm caused to the landscape.
Policy information sourced from the Aylesbury Local Plan