ascendant: the elizabeth landmark

23
Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark Cold Law, Ray Estate, Northumberland Commissioned by Viscount Devonport Artist - Simon Hitchens Planning Statement January 2019 W Fabian FINAL

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Page 1: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Ascendant the Elizabeth Landmark

Cold Law Ray Estate Northumberland

Commissioned by Viscount Devonport

Artist - Simon Hitchens

Planning Statement

January 2019

W Fabian

FINAL

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

2

Contents

10 Introduction p 3

20 Site and surroundings p 4

30 Proposed development p 6

40 Planning policy p10

50 Compliance with national policy and the development plan p13

501 Construction Strategy

503 Character and appearance

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

544 Surface water management

60 Design and Access Statement p21

70 Community consultation and pre-application enquiry p21

80 Conclusion p23

Appendices

A Drawings List

B Preliminary Risk Assessment Shadbolts

C Construction Strategy Statement Simon Hitchens

D Landscape Visual Impact Assessment Southern Green Ltd

E Preliminary Ecological Appraisal E3 Ecology Ltd

F Archaeological Desk Based and Visual Impact Assessments Bamburgh Research Project

G Transport Statement SAJ Transport Consultants

H Surface Water Drainage Strategy Shadbolts

I Community Consultation Results Journal articles (May 2 2018 amp August 30 2018) Matthew Jarratt

J Future Community Engagement Proposal Matthew Jarratt

K Pre-application enquiry response letter (16 October 2018) Northumberland County Council

L letter of support Arts Council North East

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

3

100 Introduction

101 The objective of the Elizabeth Landmark is to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II the longest-

reigning British monarch for her services to the country and her lifelong dedication to the

Commonwealth

ldquoThis is a celebration of shared values of a connected global community In what is an increasingly

fractured world The Commonwealth is a unifying force led by Queen Elizabeth IIrdquo ndash Lord Devonport

102 The proposal will be a contemporary landmark and a viewing area at the summit of Cold

Law a distinctive small hill on the Ray Estate in Northumberland It will provide a new

cultural tourism destination with a small car park and pathways accessible to walkers and

cyclists as well as motorists The site is in an area of attractive open countryside that is criss-

crossed by numerous existing public footpaths and bridle tracks and with nearby

established cycle routes

103 The aim is to benefit the local community and economy by bringing new visitors to the area

and so help to sustain existing local facilities and services

104 It will form a part of the growing continuum of notable contemporary and historic cultural

tourism sites in the region which include Temenos (Middlesbrough) the Angel of the North

(Gateshead) Hadrianrsquos Wall Kielder Art and Architecture Northumberlandia the Couple

(Newbiggin-by-the-Sea) Alnwick Garden and the Wellington Tower (Jedburgh) These

landmarks are part of an historic tradition of public and private landowners who

commissioned monuments that have become with time a cherished part of the urban and

rural landscape

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

4

200 Site and surroundings

201 The proposed landmark will be sited at the summit of Cold Law on the Ray Estate This in an

area of mainly open grassland currently in use for grazing with some areas of marshy

ground1 The summit is recorded by the Ordnance Survey at 281m

202 The site is part of an area of access land mapped under the CRoW Act 2000 It is bounded at

the southwest by the C195 a lightly trafficked minor road This runs west from the A696 at

Knowesgate towards the A68 main road near Ridsdale On the other side of the road are

crags to the southwest with Hepple Heugh 336m high and only some 750m away The top

of the proposed landmark would equal the height of Hepple Heugh

203 Near the foot of the west flank of Cold Law is a traditional circular drystone sheep stell

Public footpaths run close to the northwest and southeast of the site To the northeast of

the site is the earthworks line of the former 19th Century Wansbeck Valley single track

railway2

204 On the A68 to the west is Ridsdale Lord Armstrongrsquos first iron ore smelt works now a

scheduled ancient monument The closest settlements are the villages of East and West

Woodburn 27km to the northwest

205 There are numerous public rights of way footpaths and bridleways in the immediate and

wider surroundings as well as national Cycle Route 68 nearby and the Sandstone Way

cycleway in the National Park to the north west

Aerial view with site location Location Plan

1 Appendix D section 33 amp 34 2 Appendix F paragraph 458

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

5

Cold Law and sheep stell from west

View from summit towards north line of former railway and Hart Side beyond

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

6

300 Proposed development

301 Artistrsquos response to the project objective

ldquoTo have the opportunity to design a landmark to be placed in this raw and beautiful landscape is

undoubtedly a privilege and a challenge that I wholeheartedly relish Its success will grow from a

sensitivity to land and place born in form material and presence from the majestic geography that

supports itrdquo ndash Simon Hitchens

302 Concept

The proposed landmark will be a thin slice cut north to south through the uppermost

bedrock of Cold Law tilted and elevated at the north end so that it points to the sun at its

zenith on Midsummerrsquos day The angled form will be around 56m high overall from the hill

top to equal the summit of Hepple Heugh at 336m 750m away to the south

Its upper curved surface will match the topographical form of the hill precisely following its

curved profile The under surface will be flat Angled lateral fins between the upper and

lower flanges will change in pitch and frequency as they rise up the wing form accentuating

the sense of perspective and movement Formed from Corten steel it will have a rich

orangered finish It is intended to include a modest reflective element for example a

polished edge detail to parts of the steel to catch the sun as it sets in the west Details and

materials for this are yet to be finalised and can be subject to a details condtion

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 2: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

2

Contents

10 Introduction p 3

20 Site and surroundings p 4

30 Proposed development p 6

40 Planning policy p10

50 Compliance with national policy and the development plan p13

501 Construction Strategy

503 Character and appearance

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

544 Surface water management

60 Design and Access Statement p21

70 Community consultation and pre-application enquiry p21

80 Conclusion p23

Appendices

A Drawings List

B Preliminary Risk Assessment Shadbolts

C Construction Strategy Statement Simon Hitchens

D Landscape Visual Impact Assessment Southern Green Ltd

E Preliminary Ecological Appraisal E3 Ecology Ltd

F Archaeological Desk Based and Visual Impact Assessments Bamburgh Research Project

G Transport Statement SAJ Transport Consultants

H Surface Water Drainage Strategy Shadbolts

I Community Consultation Results Journal articles (May 2 2018 amp August 30 2018) Matthew Jarratt

J Future Community Engagement Proposal Matthew Jarratt

K Pre-application enquiry response letter (16 October 2018) Northumberland County Council

L letter of support Arts Council North East

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

3

100 Introduction

101 The objective of the Elizabeth Landmark is to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II the longest-

reigning British monarch for her services to the country and her lifelong dedication to the

Commonwealth

ldquoThis is a celebration of shared values of a connected global community In what is an increasingly

fractured world The Commonwealth is a unifying force led by Queen Elizabeth IIrdquo ndash Lord Devonport

102 The proposal will be a contemporary landmark and a viewing area at the summit of Cold

Law a distinctive small hill on the Ray Estate in Northumberland It will provide a new

cultural tourism destination with a small car park and pathways accessible to walkers and

cyclists as well as motorists The site is in an area of attractive open countryside that is criss-

crossed by numerous existing public footpaths and bridle tracks and with nearby

established cycle routes

103 The aim is to benefit the local community and economy by bringing new visitors to the area

and so help to sustain existing local facilities and services

104 It will form a part of the growing continuum of notable contemporary and historic cultural

tourism sites in the region which include Temenos (Middlesbrough) the Angel of the North

(Gateshead) Hadrianrsquos Wall Kielder Art and Architecture Northumberlandia the Couple

(Newbiggin-by-the-Sea) Alnwick Garden and the Wellington Tower (Jedburgh) These

landmarks are part of an historic tradition of public and private landowners who

commissioned monuments that have become with time a cherished part of the urban and

rural landscape

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

4

200 Site and surroundings

201 The proposed landmark will be sited at the summit of Cold Law on the Ray Estate This in an

area of mainly open grassland currently in use for grazing with some areas of marshy

ground1 The summit is recorded by the Ordnance Survey at 281m

202 The site is part of an area of access land mapped under the CRoW Act 2000 It is bounded at

the southwest by the C195 a lightly trafficked minor road This runs west from the A696 at

Knowesgate towards the A68 main road near Ridsdale On the other side of the road are

crags to the southwest with Hepple Heugh 336m high and only some 750m away The top

of the proposed landmark would equal the height of Hepple Heugh

203 Near the foot of the west flank of Cold Law is a traditional circular drystone sheep stell

Public footpaths run close to the northwest and southeast of the site To the northeast of

the site is the earthworks line of the former 19th Century Wansbeck Valley single track

railway2

204 On the A68 to the west is Ridsdale Lord Armstrongrsquos first iron ore smelt works now a

scheduled ancient monument The closest settlements are the villages of East and West

Woodburn 27km to the northwest

205 There are numerous public rights of way footpaths and bridleways in the immediate and

wider surroundings as well as national Cycle Route 68 nearby and the Sandstone Way

cycleway in the National Park to the north west

Aerial view with site location Location Plan

1 Appendix D section 33 amp 34 2 Appendix F paragraph 458

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

5

Cold Law and sheep stell from west

View from summit towards north line of former railway and Hart Side beyond

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

6

300 Proposed development

301 Artistrsquos response to the project objective

ldquoTo have the opportunity to design a landmark to be placed in this raw and beautiful landscape is

undoubtedly a privilege and a challenge that I wholeheartedly relish Its success will grow from a

sensitivity to land and place born in form material and presence from the majestic geography that

supports itrdquo ndash Simon Hitchens

302 Concept

The proposed landmark will be a thin slice cut north to south through the uppermost

bedrock of Cold Law tilted and elevated at the north end so that it points to the sun at its

zenith on Midsummerrsquos day The angled form will be around 56m high overall from the hill

top to equal the summit of Hepple Heugh at 336m 750m away to the south

Its upper curved surface will match the topographical form of the hill precisely following its

curved profile The under surface will be flat Angled lateral fins between the upper and

lower flanges will change in pitch and frequency as they rise up the wing form accentuating

the sense of perspective and movement Formed from Corten steel it will have a rich

orangered finish It is intended to include a modest reflective element for example a

polished edge detail to parts of the steel to catch the sun as it sets in the west Details and

materials for this are yet to be finalised and can be subject to a details condtion

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 3: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

3

100 Introduction

101 The objective of the Elizabeth Landmark is to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II the longest-

reigning British monarch for her services to the country and her lifelong dedication to the

Commonwealth

ldquoThis is a celebration of shared values of a connected global community In what is an increasingly

fractured world The Commonwealth is a unifying force led by Queen Elizabeth IIrdquo ndash Lord Devonport

102 The proposal will be a contemporary landmark and a viewing area at the summit of Cold

Law a distinctive small hill on the Ray Estate in Northumberland It will provide a new

cultural tourism destination with a small car park and pathways accessible to walkers and

cyclists as well as motorists The site is in an area of attractive open countryside that is criss-

crossed by numerous existing public footpaths and bridle tracks and with nearby

established cycle routes

103 The aim is to benefit the local community and economy by bringing new visitors to the area

and so help to sustain existing local facilities and services

104 It will form a part of the growing continuum of notable contemporary and historic cultural

tourism sites in the region which include Temenos (Middlesbrough) the Angel of the North

(Gateshead) Hadrianrsquos Wall Kielder Art and Architecture Northumberlandia the Couple

(Newbiggin-by-the-Sea) Alnwick Garden and the Wellington Tower (Jedburgh) These

landmarks are part of an historic tradition of public and private landowners who

commissioned monuments that have become with time a cherished part of the urban and

rural landscape

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

4

200 Site and surroundings

201 The proposed landmark will be sited at the summit of Cold Law on the Ray Estate This in an

area of mainly open grassland currently in use for grazing with some areas of marshy

ground1 The summit is recorded by the Ordnance Survey at 281m

202 The site is part of an area of access land mapped under the CRoW Act 2000 It is bounded at

the southwest by the C195 a lightly trafficked minor road This runs west from the A696 at

Knowesgate towards the A68 main road near Ridsdale On the other side of the road are

crags to the southwest with Hepple Heugh 336m high and only some 750m away The top

of the proposed landmark would equal the height of Hepple Heugh

203 Near the foot of the west flank of Cold Law is a traditional circular drystone sheep stell

Public footpaths run close to the northwest and southeast of the site To the northeast of

the site is the earthworks line of the former 19th Century Wansbeck Valley single track

railway2

204 On the A68 to the west is Ridsdale Lord Armstrongrsquos first iron ore smelt works now a

scheduled ancient monument The closest settlements are the villages of East and West

Woodburn 27km to the northwest

205 There are numerous public rights of way footpaths and bridleways in the immediate and

wider surroundings as well as national Cycle Route 68 nearby and the Sandstone Way

cycleway in the National Park to the north west

Aerial view with site location Location Plan

1 Appendix D section 33 amp 34 2 Appendix F paragraph 458

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

5

Cold Law and sheep stell from west

View from summit towards north line of former railway and Hart Side beyond

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

6

300 Proposed development

301 Artistrsquos response to the project objective

ldquoTo have the opportunity to design a landmark to be placed in this raw and beautiful landscape is

undoubtedly a privilege and a challenge that I wholeheartedly relish Its success will grow from a

sensitivity to land and place born in form material and presence from the majestic geography that

supports itrdquo ndash Simon Hitchens

302 Concept

The proposed landmark will be a thin slice cut north to south through the uppermost

bedrock of Cold Law tilted and elevated at the north end so that it points to the sun at its

zenith on Midsummerrsquos day The angled form will be around 56m high overall from the hill

top to equal the summit of Hepple Heugh at 336m 750m away to the south

Its upper curved surface will match the topographical form of the hill precisely following its

curved profile The under surface will be flat Angled lateral fins between the upper and

lower flanges will change in pitch and frequency as they rise up the wing form accentuating

the sense of perspective and movement Formed from Corten steel it will have a rich

orangered finish It is intended to include a modest reflective element for example a

polished edge detail to parts of the steel to catch the sun as it sets in the west Details and

materials for this are yet to be finalised and can be subject to a details condtion

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 4: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

4

200 Site and surroundings

201 The proposed landmark will be sited at the summit of Cold Law on the Ray Estate This in an

area of mainly open grassland currently in use for grazing with some areas of marshy

ground1 The summit is recorded by the Ordnance Survey at 281m

202 The site is part of an area of access land mapped under the CRoW Act 2000 It is bounded at

the southwest by the C195 a lightly trafficked minor road This runs west from the A696 at

Knowesgate towards the A68 main road near Ridsdale On the other side of the road are

crags to the southwest with Hepple Heugh 336m high and only some 750m away The top

of the proposed landmark would equal the height of Hepple Heugh

203 Near the foot of the west flank of Cold Law is a traditional circular drystone sheep stell

Public footpaths run close to the northwest and southeast of the site To the northeast of

the site is the earthworks line of the former 19th Century Wansbeck Valley single track

railway2

204 On the A68 to the west is Ridsdale Lord Armstrongrsquos first iron ore smelt works now a

scheduled ancient monument The closest settlements are the villages of East and West

Woodburn 27km to the northwest

205 There are numerous public rights of way footpaths and bridleways in the immediate and

wider surroundings as well as national Cycle Route 68 nearby and the Sandstone Way

cycleway in the National Park to the north west

Aerial view with site location Location Plan

1 Appendix D section 33 amp 34 2 Appendix F paragraph 458

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

5

Cold Law and sheep stell from west

View from summit towards north line of former railway and Hart Side beyond

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

6

300 Proposed development

301 Artistrsquos response to the project objective

ldquoTo have the opportunity to design a landmark to be placed in this raw and beautiful landscape is

undoubtedly a privilege and a challenge that I wholeheartedly relish Its success will grow from a

sensitivity to land and place born in form material and presence from the majestic geography that

supports itrdquo ndash Simon Hitchens

302 Concept

The proposed landmark will be a thin slice cut north to south through the uppermost

bedrock of Cold Law tilted and elevated at the north end so that it points to the sun at its

zenith on Midsummerrsquos day The angled form will be around 56m high overall from the hill

top to equal the summit of Hepple Heugh at 336m 750m away to the south

Its upper curved surface will match the topographical form of the hill precisely following its

curved profile The under surface will be flat Angled lateral fins between the upper and

lower flanges will change in pitch and frequency as they rise up the wing form accentuating

the sense of perspective and movement Formed from Corten steel it will have a rich

orangered finish It is intended to include a modest reflective element for example a

polished edge detail to parts of the steel to catch the sun as it sets in the west Details and

materials for this are yet to be finalised and can be subject to a details condtion

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 5: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

5

Cold Law and sheep stell from west

View from summit towards north line of former railway and Hart Side beyond

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

6

300 Proposed development

301 Artistrsquos response to the project objective

ldquoTo have the opportunity to design a landmark to be placed in this raw and beautiful landscape is

undoubtedly a privilege and a challenge that I wholeheartedly relish Its success will grow from a

sensitivity to land and place born in form material and presence from the majestic geography that

supports itrdquo ndash Simon Hitchens

302 Concept

The proposed landmark will be a thin slice cut north to south through the uppermost

bedrock of Cold Law tilted and elevated at the north end so that it points to the sun at its

zenith on Midsummerrsquos day The angled form will be around 56m high overall from the hill

top to equal the summit of Hepple Heugh at 336m 750m away to the south

Its upper curved surface will match the topographical form of the hill precisely following its

curved profile The under surface will be flat Angled lateral fins between the upper and

lower flanges will change in pitch and frequency as they rise up the wing form accentuating

the sense of perspective and movement Formed from Corten steel it will have a rich

orangered finish It is intended to include a modest reflective element for example a

polished edge detail to parts of the steel to catch the sun as it sets in the west Details and

materials for this are yet to be finalised and can be subject to a details condtion

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 6: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

6

300 Proposed development

301 Artistrsquos response to the project objective

ldquoTo have the opportunity to design a landmark to be placed in this raw and beautiful landscape is

undoubtedly a privilege and a challenge that I wholeheartedly relish Its success will grow from a

sensitivity to land and place born in form material and presence from the majestic geography that

supports itrdquo ndash Simon Hitchens

302 Concept

The proposed landmark will be a thin slice cut north to south through the uppermost

bedrock of Cold Law tilted and elevated at the north end so that it points to the sun at its

zenith on Midsummerrsquos day The angled form will be around 56m high overall from the hill

top to equal the summit of Hepple Heugh at 336m 750m away to the south

Its upper curved surface will match the topographical form of the hill precisely following its

curved profile The under surface will be flat Angled lateral fins between the upper and

lower flanges will change in pitch and frequency as they rise up the wing form accentuating

the sense of perspective and movement Formed from Corten steel it will have a rich

orangered finish It is intended to include a modest reflective element for example a

polished edge detail to parts of the steel to catch the sun as it sets in the west Details and

materials for this are yet to be finalised and can be subject to a details condtion

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 7: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

7

303 Materials and form

The proposed landmark will be formed of Corten steel which weathers to a rich orangered

finish The steel is metallurgically designed to form a protective rust coat and requires no

maintenance This material choice echoes the industrial heritage of the site the iron for the

High Level Bridge was worked at Ridsdale

Its shape and appearance draw inspiration from the engineering heritage of the area The

ribbed profile references the aerodynamic form of steam turbine blades invented by

Charles Parsons a former owner of the Ray Estate who is buried in Kirkwhelpington

It will be supported on a simple reinforced concrete beam spanning the rock slot at the

hilltop close to the base of the Corten structure and above the archway through it The

indigenous bedrock of the hill will be cut smooth and angled away above the pathway to

provide a clean natural stone finish The path surface will be of the same finish There is a

long local heritage of stone workings and small traditional sandstone quarries close to the

site continue to produce high quality stone Any stone needed in addition to that excavated

on site will be sourced locally

304 Construction

It is anticipated that the artwork will mainly be manufactured off-site in sections within the

region for site welding and erection The foundations and support structure will be

designed by accredited structural engineers The reinforced concrete beam will be

supported on two buried concrete pile caps secured to rock anchors and the foot of the steel

structure will rest on a buried concrete pad foundation

from car park north through rock slot

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 8: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

8

Original concept plan

305 Proposed plan

Visitors will walk on a curving pathway (graded for accessibility) from the proposed car park

This will feature works relating to the history and heritage of the area produced by a

community writing programme as well as by poets from around the Commonwealth The

path will lead through the rock slot cut through the top of the hill and pass via an archway

through the base of the landmark to a pathway to the hilltop viewpoint area Markers

around the main oval path will indicate the shadow fall of the landmark at the Queenrsquos

birthday the sun rise and sunset at summer and winter solstice and the spring and autumn

equinoxes

Concept plan re-worked following topographic survey and with LVIA and transport advice

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 9: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

9

307 Car park

There will be a small informally laid out car park located at the foot of the hill and partly

screened by drystone screen walls and landscape mounding These features will include

some informal seating and refuse bin provision as well as cycle stand slots and locking

points It will provide 17 hard paved car bays including 2 accessible bays and 1 coach space

In addition 11 more temporary overspill spaces are provided around the same looping

access road From the car park visitors can walk on a footpath (graded for accessibility) to

the hilltop landmark and viewing area There will be no toilets visitor centre or amenities

for visitors as part of the proposals and signage will be used to direct visitors to facilities

(including pubs and shops) in nearby Ridsdale West Woodburn Sweet Hope Loughs

Knowesgate and Kirkwhelpington

The size of the carpark is based on professional advice regarding anticipated visitor numbers

and research into carpark capacities at comparable destinations (see Section 538)

concept sketch of viewing area

306 Viewing area

The viewing area will be oval in plan with a stone bench and a sheltered space provided

beneath the hillside overhang The focus of this area will be a bronze topographic map set

onto a stone plinth giving information about the landscape and history of the surroundings

There will be Corten steel inserts in the stone floorscape denoting the commonwealth flag

as well as direction and distance markers to all of the Commonwealth member state

capitals

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 10: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

10

400 Planning policy

401 National Planning Policy Framework 2018 (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance

2014 (as amended) (NPPG)

402 The NPPF sets out the Governments planning policies for England and how these are

expected to be applied The following sections and paragraphs are of particular relevance

NPPF Section 2 Achieving sustainable development

7 The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable

development At a very high level the objective of sustainable development can be

summarised as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future

generations to meet their own needs

8 Achieving sustainable development means that the planning system has three overarching

objectives which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways

(so that opportunities can be taken to secure net gains across each of the different

objectives) a) an economic objective ndash to help build a strong responsive and competitive

economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places

and at the right time to support growth innovation and improved productivity and by

identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure b) a social objective ndash to support

strong vibrant and healthy communities by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of

homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations and by

fostering a well-designed and safe built environment with accessible services and open

spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communitiesrsquo health social and

cultural well-being and c) an environmental objective ndash to contribute to protecting and

enhancing our natural built and historic environment including making effective use of

land helping to improve biodiversity using natural resources prudently minimising waste

and pollution and mitigating and adapting to climate change including moving to a low

carbon economy

NPPF Section 6 Building a strong competitive economy

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

83 Planning policies and decisions should enable

a) the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas both through

conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings b) the development and

diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses c) sustainable rural

tourism and leisure developments which respect the character of the countryside and

d) the retention and development of accessible local services and community facilities such

as local shops meeting places sports venues open space cultural buildings public houses

and places of worship

NPPF Section 8 Promoting healthy and safe communities

92 To provide the social recreational and cultural facilities and services the community

needs planning policies and decisions should a) plan positively for the provision and use of

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 11: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

11

shared spaces community facilities (such as local shops meeting places sports venues

open space cultural buildings public houses and places of worship) and other local services

to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments b) take into

account and support the delivery of local strategies to improve health social and cultural

well-being for all sections of the community

Open space and recreation

96 Access to a network of high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and physical

activity is important for the health and well-being of communities Planning policies should

be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space sport and

recreation facilities (including quantitative or qualitative deficits or surpluses) and

opportunities for new provision Information gained from the assessments should be used to

determine what open space sport and recreational provision is needed which plans should

then seek to accommodate

98 Planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and

access including taking opportunities to provide better facilities for users for example by

adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails

NPPF Section 9 Promoting sustainable transport

102 Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making and

development proposals so that

a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed and

c) opportunities to promote walking cycling and public transport use are identified and

pursued

Considering development proposals

109 Development should only be prevented or refused on highways grounds if there would

be an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the residual cumulative impacts on the

road network would be severe

NPPF Section 12 Achieving well-designed places

124 The creation of high quality buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning

and development process should achieve Good design is a key aspect of sustainable

development creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development

acceptable to communities Being clear about design expectations and how these will be

tested is essential for achieving this So too is effective engagement between applicants

communities local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process

127 Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments a) will function well

and add to the overall quality of the area not just for the short term but over the lifetime of

the development b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture layout and

appropriate and effective landscaping c) are sympathetic to local character and history

including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting while not preventing or

discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities) d) establish or

maintain a strong sense of place using the arrangement of streets spaces building types

and materials to create attractive welcoming and distinctive places to live work and visit

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 12: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

12

128 Design quality should be considered throughout the evolution and assessment of

individual proposals Early discussion between applicants the local planning authority and

local community about the design and style of emerging schemes is important for clarifying

expectations and reconciling local and commercial interests Applicants should work closely

with those affected by their proposals to evolve designs that take account of the views of

the community Applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective

engagement with the community should be looked on more favourably than those that

cannot

131 In determining applications great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative

designs which promote high levels of sustainability or help raise the standard of design

more generally in an area so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their

surroundings

NPPF Section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

170 Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local

environment by a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes sites of biodiversity or

geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or

identified quality in the development plan) b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty

of the countryside and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services ndash

including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land

and of trees and woodland c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast while

improving public access to it where appropriate d) minimising impacts on and providing net

gains for biodiversity including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more

resilient to current and future pressures

Habitats and biodiversity

174 To protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity plans should a) Identify map

and safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and wider ecological networks

including the hierarchy of international national and locally designated sites of importance

for biodiversity wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas

identified by national and local partnerships for habitat management enhancement

restoration or creation and b) promote the conservation restoration and enhancement of

priority habitats ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species

and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity

175 When determining planning applications local planning authorities should apply the

following principles a) if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development

cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts)

adequately mitigated or as a last resort compensated for then planning permission should

be refused

NPPF 16 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

184 Heritage assets range from sites and buildings of local historic value to those of the

highest significance such as World Heritage Sites which are internationally recognised to be

of Outstanding Universal Value These assets are an irreplaceable resource and should be

conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they can be enjoyed for

their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 13: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

13

Proposals affecting heritage assets

189 In determining applications local planning authorities should require an applicant to

describe the significance of any heritage assets affected including any contribution made by

their setting The level of detail should be proportionate to the assetsrsquo importance and no

more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their

significance

403 Local policy

404 Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance

with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

405 This comprises the Tynedale Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2007 (CS) and

saved policies of the Tynedale District Local Plan 2000 (as amended 2007) (LP) Policies of

relevance to the proposal are

bull CS policy BE1 Principles for the built environment

bull CS policy GD1 General location of development

bull CS policy GD4 Principles for transport and accessibility

bull CS policy GD5 Minimising flood risk

bull CS policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment

bull CS policy EDT1 Principles for economic development and tourism

bull LP policy GD2 Design criteria for all development

bull LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development

bull LP policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas

bull LP policy NE19 Protection of internationally important nature conservation sites

bull LP policy NE20 Protection of sites of special scientific interest

bull LP policy DE21 Protection of site of nature conservation importance

bull LP policy NE26 Protection of habitats of special importance to wildlife

bull LP policy NE27 Protection of protected species

bull LP policy TM4 New tourism development in the open countryside outside the green

Belt and North Pennines ANOB

500 Compliance with national policy and the development plan

501 Construction strategy

502 To inform the detail design of the proposal including highway access car park and access

trackpathways within the site a Construction Strategy Statement3 has been prepared by

Simon Hitchens This is based on advice received from five contractorfabricators ( two of

which are appended to the statement) The following extracts explain the approach

envisaged

The construction period is anticipated at between 8 and 12 months (for a break down of this see full CS

statement) Traffic on public highways will be minimized and routes selected to reduce any impact on local

communities Construction methods and access will be planned to achieve a minimum disturbance to the natural

landscape habitats and topography with existing site topsoil retained for reinstatement of all temporary

3 Appendix C

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 14: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

14

compound areas and access tracks and ecological advice followed on reseeding of the indigenous grassland

habitat

A temporary site compound (construction staff parking contractorrsquos office materials plant and fuel storage

staff facilities deliveries drop off and turning area) will be established on the site of the proposed car park

A temporary access track to the top of the hill will be laid from the site compound for the rockslot excavation and

sculpture foundations construction This will follow the proposed footpath to the sculpture and to a temporary

assembly areaconstruction compound The 5m wide access track and site compound will be constructed in

compacted stone using locally sourced stone and excavated material from site

All site accommodation will be removed at project completion

An estimated volume of 1150 cubic metres of rock will be removed during the excavation of the rockslot this

equates to approximately 150 lorry loads on site The aim is that all excavated material will be used to create the

proposed car park and footpaths thus minimising traffic leaving the site with waste material

Civil engineers estimate at peak times 14 personnel on site and so a maximum 14 staff vehicles accessing site

daily to park Steel fabricators estimate 13 personnel and a maximum 13 staff vehicle parking The two

contractors may overlap but not at maximum staff rates

Plant machinery deliveries estimated to site total 1 x piling rig 1 excavator 1 x 300ton crane 1 x 500ton crane 1

x 550ton jib crane and 17 ballast wagons Delivery of the sculpture will be in 6 sections on long low-loaders

Smaller deliveries will be in 75t vehicles or smaller Overall less than 10 construction plant movements a week

are anticipated

503 Character and appearance of the surrounding countryside

504 The site lies in an area of open countryside on land approximately 4km to the southeast of

West Woodburn Northumberland and around 5km west of the eastern boundary of the

Northumberland National Park In terms of planning policy it is outside defined settlement

limits in open countryside where only limited forms of development are encouraged

505 The proposed landmark has been carefully designed to reflect and enhance the natural

landscape of the area The design was unanimously selected from initial proposals by a short

list of three nationally reputed artists by a panel including Viscount Devonport and arts and

planning advisers This design was also supported by a majority of those members of the

public who expressed opinions during the public consultation4 (see section 700)

Buckingham Palace and the Cabinet Office have been kept informed during the development

of the proposal The Arts Council North East5 has expressed support for the artist selection

process and vision for the project

506 The detailed design of the proposal in particular the associated viewing area pathways and

carpark have been developed in collaboration with a team of professional consultants

Natural materials and finishes have been selected and details carefully considered to avoid

hard edges and clutter and so ensure a low-key natural appearance for all of these elements

to minimise their visual intrusion within the landscape Please refer to carpark layout

drawings and Southern Greenrsquos details as referenced in the drawings list and other

appendices

4 Appendix I 5 Appendix L

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 15: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

15

507 The Landscape Visual Impact Assessment6 (LVIA)

508 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council Southern Green Ltd

were commissioned to undertake the LVIA This examines 14 separate viewpoints to assess

the impact of the proposed landmark on the landscape including views to and from the

National Park

509 The LVIA notes at 511

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from long distances nevertheless

the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material will not appear incongruous and the slender form and

use of curves will help the piece to sit at ease in the landscape

510 It concludes at 601 ndash 608

The main change in relation to Landscape Character would be the effect of introducing a tall landmark into the

rural landscape and the direct localised effects of excavation and removing vegetation to install the landmark

paths and parking area The site lies within access land and much of the surrounding higher land lies within the

Northumberland National Park so the landscape context is a sensitive receptor

The proposed landmark has some similarities in its slender verticality to the existing wind turbines seen

extensively in this landscape however the matte earth tones of the proposed corten steel and soft curves of the

form derived from the topography of Cold Law would assimilate well with the landscape The direct landscape

effects and the landscape effects upon the landscape character areas were found overall to be moderate minor

which would not be considered significant

The landscape character area contains a number of highpoints such as escarpments and craggy outcrops

creating a landscape of vantage points and long views Northumberland has a long tradition of hill forts and

castles being sited and built to be seen as much as to function in a military fashion and then a post-medieval

tradition of landscape monuments While the development is adding a modern landmark to the landscape the

landscape will remain open in character and the history of the area will remain available for interpretation The

site itself and the hillock have not been identified as an area of particular historical or archaeological interest

This study assessed views from a wide range of viewpoints and then identified several key views (Viewpoints 4 7

and 14) that were selected for more accurate scrutiny of visual effects using photomontages The key driver for

selection of these views was to consider views from the most sensitive recreational receptors and views both

towards and from the Northumberland National Park whose boundary is around 45km from the site at its closest

point

Of the 16 representative viewpoints assessed four were found to have no view three were found to have minor

effects and six were found to have moderate minor effects Viewpoint 1 and View 7 were found to have

moderate visual effects and View 2 was found to have substantial moderate effects which could be considered

significant however this was due to the close proximity to the landmark

The car park access road and paths have been designed using the mitigation recommendations in section 5 The

proposed design measures including drystone walling with earth bunding have successfully reduced visual effects

and the measure will help to minimise visibility of the carpark in the landscape It will be critical to ensure an

appropriate design response is carried through to detailed design stage Residual visual effects will include the

visual effects of vehicles parked at the site albeit the shelter walls will partly conceal vehicles other than

coaches

In many of the views wind turbines were present in the view Where turbines are seen against the sky the pale

colour reduces visual effects however they are more obvious when seen against a darker landscape backdrop

The converse is true with the Elizabeth Landmark its matte earth tones assimilate with the colours found in the

upland landscape setting while the landmark stands out more clearly when seen against the pale colours of the

sky

6 Appendix D

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 16: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

16

The slender form of the landmark means that from most aspects it occupies a narrow part of the view and does

not disrupt views over the landscape and its curved form derived from the topography of Cold Law helps the

feature to sit well in this landscape context while still performing as a deliberate focus for views

511 On this basis it is considered that the proposed landmark is a high quality design which will

not harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside This is in line with

the NPPF at section 12 which seeks the achievement of well-designed places it states that

good design is a key aspect of sustainable development

512 The proposal will accord with Core Strategy policy GD1 in so far as it applies and with CS

policy BE1 which seeks high quality design that will maintain and enhance the distinctive

local character of the countryside This policy also aims to promote the development of

public art as part of significant new development In addition the proposal accords with CS

policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment at (f) Ensure that development close to

the Northumberland National Park does not have an unacceptable adverse effect on its

landscape quality wildlife or geological value

513 Tynedale Local Plan policy GD2 sets design criteria for all development and requires it to be

appropriate to the character of the site and its surroundings and respect the positive

characteristics of the Districtrsquos natural and built environment The proposal complies with

this policy

514 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

515 The NPPF in section 15 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment at paragraph

170 seeks the protection and enhancement of sites of biodiversity or geological value and

soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the

development plan)

516 Core Strategy policy NE1 Principles for the natural environment aims to (a) Protect and

enhance the character and quality of the landscape biodiversity and geological interest of

the Districthelliphellip (b) Manage the relationship between development and the natural

environment in order to minimise risk of environmental damage and avoid the urbanisation

of the countryside

517 The Ecological Appraisal7 (EA)

518 The legislation applying to the protection of habitats and species is set out in the EA

Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council E3 Ecology Ltd

undertook an appraisal of the site in December 2018 including a phase 1 habitat survey On

the precautionary principle the area surveyed is greater than the final design site boundary

(see the EA for survey boundary details) The desk study included an assessment of land-use

in the surrounding area and a data search covering a 2km buffer zone

519 The Ecological Appraisal indicates that the site is dominated by acid grassland with areas of

wet and dry heath marshy grassland semi-improved acid grassland and continuous

bracken Drainage ditches are present in a number of areas Assessment of the survey

results suggest that the site is of local value for the habitats it supports such habitats being

common in the local area For further detail refer to the EA

7 Appendix E

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 17: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

17

520 The proposed development is not predicted to have any impacts on statutorynon-statutory

sites

521 Potential impacts of the development to habitats and species are anticipated to include

bull Loss of acid grassland and associated habitats including areas of dry heath to the Landmark to car parks access

routes and to the areas of hard standing required for construction

bull Risk of pollution to freshwater habitats through silt and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Some trampling and nutrient enrichment through visitors to the site and their dogs

bull Risk of harm to nesting birds reptiles and amphibians during site clearance

bull Small reduction in habitats for nesting birds

bull Risk of harm to freshwater habitats including streams used downstream by white clawed crayfish through silt

and contamination during both construction and operation

bull Increased disturbance through visitors to the site and their dogs and habitat loss

522 Avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategy are set out at sections H2 amp H3

bull Working areas will be minimised aim to avoid areas of dry heath or deep peat where possible and will be

restored to appropriate upland habitats when no longer required

bull Areas required for car parking will be graded from hoggin for the main areas to aggregates with grass cover for

over-flow parking areas that may be required for particular events By using a range of aggregate types a range of

habitats from acid to calcareous will be created

bull Excavations into bedrock will be designed to create roosting opportunities for bats and birds hibernation sites

for reptiles and niches for plants mosses and lichens

bull For the majority of the paths local rock excavated for the works will be used to promote appropriate plant

communities

bull Drainage will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural wetlands in the local area to slow

flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats During construction drainage for the works compound

and fabrication area will run to a pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow

sediment settlement This will also form long-term habitat enhancement

bull To maintain locally appropriate plant communities seeding will be undertaken either through the use of natural

regeneration perhaps with additional local seedgreen hay collection and use of a grass nurse crop where

required

TIMING OF WORKS

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside of the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive) unless a

checking survey by a suitably experienced ornithologist confirms the absence of active nests

bull Soil stripping will not be undertaken whilst reptiles are hibernating November to February

WORKING METHODS AND BEST PRACTICE

bull A CEMP will be produced for the project

bull An ecological clerk of works will be appointed to provide on-site advice at key stages of construction including

site clearance SuDS construction construction of areas of temporary and permanent hard standing and habitat

creation post construction

bull Vegetation clearance will be undertaken to a reptile method statement

bull Standard good practise will be followed to maintain water quality and quantity during construction and

operation with aquatic invertebrate surveys used to assess water quality pre and post construction

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 18: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

18

bull Any excavations left open overnight will have a means of escape for mammals that may become trapped in the

form of a ramp at least 300mm in width and angled no greater than 45deg

ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY

bull Habitats in the vicinity of the Landmark will be returned to a more natural mosaic by reducing grazing pressure

with mixed cattle and sheep grazing equivalent to 05 livestock units between May and July only

bull Rock piles will provide habitat for reptiles

bull Within the survey area approximately 60ha existing drainage ditches will be blocked to promote mire and pool

creation increasing the naturalness of the habitats that provide the setting to the Landmark

bull Small patches of native woodland and scrub will be planted to increase diversity

bull Two barn owl boxes will be provided in areas of suitable habitat

bull Post construction opportunities will be taken to return land to low nutrient substrates influenced by a range of

rock types including small areas of whin carboniferous limestone and magnesian limestone The main aggregate

use will be from site-won material with a target to increase the areas of dry heath habitat This approach will

promote plant diversity and reflect the range and diversity of plant communities associated with verges

elsewhere on the estate

523 The report concludes that provided the avoidance mitigation and enhancement strategies

recommended by the appraisal are implemented adverse effects will be of no more than

local significance and there will be a net benefit to biodiversity in the medium and long

term

524 The recommendations of the report form a part of the development proposal and could be

the subject of an implementation condition The proposal will thus accord with the aims of

the NPPF policies to conserve and enhance the natural environment at paragraphs 170 171

and 174 It will also comply with CS policy NE1 and local plan policies of relevance

525 Conserving and enhancing the historic environment

526 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at section 16 paragraphs 184 and 189 Bamburgh Research Project

undertook a Desk Based Assessment and Archaeological Visual Impact Assessment8 (DBA

AVIA) for the site

527 The report provides an assessment of the archaeological evidence in the vicinity of the site

and considers the potential for encountering and impacting on archaeological material that

might result from the proposed construction of the new landmark together with an

assessment of its visual impact on the heritage landscape including with respect to the

settings of historic assets within the vicinity of the site

528 The report records at paragraph 701 that

It is clear from the plans for the proposed development that construction activity would be relatively extensive

within the site area and have a high chance of impacting on any archaeological features should they be present

The car park area likely to also site the construction compound would be a permanent impact and is likely to be

located on the south side of the site adjacent to the road The access routes for construction machinery would be

of issue although temporary and would be replaced by relatively low impact public access routes to the

landmark The current proposal envisions an access route curving around Cold Law from south to north with

possible crane access platform on the west side of the summit The landmark itself will require a considerable

degree of construction activity and have a substantial impact on the summit of Cold Law

8 Appendix F

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 19: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

19

529 However for the DBA it concludes at paragraph 1001

The proposed new landmark does not lie within an area of high archaeological potential The presence of a cairn

and a scooped feature on or close to its summit are worthy of some additional investigation along with the

general investigation of the areas that will be subject to disturbance and alteration by the construction process It

seems unlikely though that below ground archaeological features of real significance will be encountered

530 Further on-site investigative work will be carried out during early February to confirm the

DBA findings

531 For the AVIA the conclusion found at paragraph 1002

A study of the visual impact of the new landmark on the wider heritage landscape including a series of

viewpoints associated with the Scheduled Monuments and the Listed Buildings within its 3km study area

suggests only a very modest potential for impact The individual nature of most of the features and their siting

within the landscape aids in diminishing the potential for impact The one clear exception being the hillfort at

Wanneyrsquos Crag which is clearly located with inter visible sight-lines In this case the proposed role of the new

landmark and it being a modern continuation of a long tradition of publicly visible monuments that includes the

hillfort itself can been seen as adding to rather than detracting from the wider heritage landscape The

cumulative effect of the addition of the new landmark with regard to the pre-existing heritage landscape will

therefore be of modest impact and could be seen as to a degree beneficial rather than harmful

532 From these conclusions it follows that there will be little significant harm if any to the

historic environment and that the proposal may enhance it to some degree In this regard

also it will comply with the national policies set out above

533 Highway safety transport and accessibility aviation safety

534 Following pre-application advice from Northumberland County Council and in accordance

with the aims of the NPPF at paragraph 102 SAJ Transport Consultants have commissioned a

traffic survey and provided the Transport Statement9 CS policy GD4 Principles for transport

and accessibility LP policy GD4 range of transport provision for all development and LP

policy GD6 Car parking standards outside build up areas also apply

535 The automated traffic survey carried out over 14 days in December 2018 on the C195 single

carriageway road from Knowesgate to Ridsdale recorded flows of up to 17 vehicle

movements (two way flow) in the peak hour period The majority of vehicles were cars with

16 light goods vehicles and 3 HGVs Northbound speeds are very slightly greater than

southbound the mean recorded speed is 445mph and the 85ile speed is 495mph There

is very little difference in weekday and weekend volumes of movement and the direction of

travel

536 On the basis of this data a visibility splay of 24m by 160m at the proposed new access would

be acceptable under Design Manual for Roads and Bridges standards The access proposed

on the layout drawings achieves 24m x 215m as appropriate to the speed limit higher than

the recorded speeds and therefore affords enhanced visibility The visibility splay

requirements can be provided wholly within land controlled by the applicant andor the

adopted public highway The proposed access arrangement has a greater visibility envelop

than is required for the nature of the road This affords good inter-visibility between road

users and the proposed access

9 Appendix G

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 20: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

20

537 Vehicle trip estimates and car parking provision

538 Due to the very rural location with no direct footpath links or public transport stops it is

expected that the vast majority of visitors will access the proposed landmark by car Bus

services to Ridsdale and West Woodburn are minimal As the TRICs database only returned

two comparable surveys it was considered not reliable to use this data alone therefore

further data was sought to enable a more thorough assessment Sites across Kielder

Northumberland National Park and Hadrianrsquos Wall have been considered together with

Penshaw Monument the Angel of the North and Northumberlandia

539 The Angel of the North provides 27 car parking bays 5 accessible bays and 3 coach bays It is

a very prominent sculpture adjacent to and visible from a major road (A1) with large traffic

flows and therefore the level of diverted trips would be higher than at the application site

540 Detailed analysis of all these sites compared to the available TRICs data set out in the

Transport Statement demonstrates that a total of 30 car spaces will be reasonable

provision Of these 17 (including 2 accessible bays) will be hard surfaced for day to day use

with overspill for 13 more cars at peak times A coach bay and turning loop will also be

provided

541 The Traffic Statement concludes at 511 ndash 512

The landmark will be a significant contribution to the landscape and area as a destination or visited as part of a

wider journey to other attractions within Northumberland It is concluded that the development proposal has no

severe impact on the surrounding road network and therefore is acceptable in terms of the relevant national and

local policies it should be supported from a highways and transport perspective

542 Accordingly the proposal will not harm highway safety and will accord with the national and

local policies set out above

543 For aviation safety consultations were undertaken by Northumberland County Council at

the pre-planning stage which produced these responses Newcastle International Airport

envisages no detrimental impact the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) have raised no

safeguarding objection no responses were received to date from the Civil Aviation Authority

or the Ministry for Defence The height of proposal will equal that of Hepple Heugh a

craggy outcrop only 750m to the south of the site A windfarm of some 125m overall height

(to tip of rotors) lies nearby to the east On this basis there will be no harm from the

proposal to aviation safety interests

544 Surface water management strategy

545 The Preliminary Risk Assessment10 states

Information from the Environment Agency RoFRaS (Risk of Flooding from Rivers and Sea) database indicates that

the maximum risk of flooding at the site is Very Low This classification indicates that the site has a less than 1 in

1000 chance of flooding in any given year

546 With the exception of the highway access verge crossing all access roads tracks paths and

the car park will be surfaced with a range of permeable surfaces to achieve a natural

appearance in keeping with the surroundings In accordance with the Ecological Appraisal

all drainage provision will be designed along SuDS principles with the aim of using natural

wetlands in the local area to slow flows settle out sediments and increase mire habitats

10 Appendix B

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 21: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

21

During construction drainage for the works compound and fabrication area will run to small

pools designed to allow containment in the event of any spillages and to allow sediment

settlement Over a period of time the upper running surface of the road and carpark is likely

to become almost impermeable The surface water run-off from the upper surfaces will be

intercepted by a proposed shallow swale that will generally follow the alignment of the

access road The swale will ultimately discharge surface water into a SuDS Basin which is to

be located immediately to the north of the proposed car park area

547 These measures will ensure compliance with national policies for the conservation and

enhancement of the natural environment and meet local policies for proper surface water

management

600 Design and Access Statement

The design principles for the proposal are set out at paragraphs 102 ndash 104 and 301 ndash 307

Access considerations are set out at paragraphs 305 306 502 533 ndash 546

700 Community consultation continuing engagement and pre-application

enquiry

701 At section 12 the NPPF seeks effective engagement between applicants communities local

planning authorities and other interests throughout the process Paragraph 128 states that

applications that can demonstrate early proactive and effective engagement with the

community should be looked on more favourably than those that cannot

702 The Elizabeth Landmark has been designed by sculptor Simon Hitchens following a limited

competition Arts curator Matthew Jarratt produced a long list for the applicant to review

Three artists were then invited to produce concept proposals and these were exhibited at

Kirkwhelpington Village Hall Otterburn War Memorial Hall Corsenside Parish Hall

St Cuthberts Church Corsenside and West Woodburn Primary School during May and June

2018 Feedback questionnaires captured a wide range of responses varying from negative to

very positive11 Of those who expressed a preference the majority (21 out of 31) people

liked Simon Hitchens proposal A further 11 disliked all three An advisory panel of

professionals including Viscount Devonport were unanimous in opting to proceed with

Simon Hitchens design

703 Throughout the pre-application process the proposal was publicised via a dedicated website

press releases and interviews on local radio and television12

704 Continuing community engagement13 is planned during the project development and

construction stages It is intended to find ways to engage with the local rural communities in

the area surrounding the site The aim is to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the

local community for a new contemporary artwork The documentation of this project would

be a lasting legacy celebrating unity across local and global communities

Ways to achieve this may include

11 Appendix I summary of feedback questionnaires 12 Appendix I copies of newspaper articles 13 Appendix J

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 22: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

22

bull Continuing to update the dedicated website for the project with blog posts and possibly

links to social media

bull Working with local people to promote understanding of the social and industrial history

of the local landscape

bull Promoting creativity in the local community by facilitating workshops to involve

interested individuals local schools community groups and commonwealth members

bull Inclusion of Commonwealth and locally produced poetry writing and other creative

media within the proposed visitor area

bull Recording of the project from inception to finish to make a book and perhaps a film of

the process Possible time-lapse webcam coverage during construction

705 After initial discussions with a senior planning officer from Northumberland County Council

due to the unique nature of the proposal a pre-application enquiry was submitted in

August 2018 The response dated 16 October 201814 has formed the basis for this planning

statement

706 During consultation at the pre-application stage Corsenside Parish Council has strongly

objected to the proposed landmark in terms of its size and appearance as well as the

capacity of local facilities and road infrastructure to accommodate the visitors generated

However on character and appearance professional advice in the LVIA is that

The proposed landmark itself is very tall as it is intended be noticed and seen from

long distances nevertheless the earth tones and matte finish of the cor-ten material

will not appear incongruous and the slender form and use of curves will help the piece

to sit at ease in the landscape

With regard to highway safety the Transport Statement anticipates that visitor numbers on a

day to day basis will not be overwhelming will assist in sustaining the ongoing viability of

local facilities and services and could potentially boost the current provision and that the

level of traffic that will be generated can be readily absorbed without harming highway

safety

707 It is worth noting that the proposal will accord with the Corsenside Parish Council Plan 2007

which states

The Parish is ideally suited for tourist traffic as it is situated on the A68 which is a major tourist route from North

East England into the Scottish Borders Increasing the number of visitors who stop on their way through would

help to improve the viability and sustainability of local services

708 Northumberland County Council has published lsquoOur Creative Landscape ndash A Cultural Strategy

for Northumberland 2018-2030rsquo This sets out the Councilrsquos vision and aim

By 2030 Northumberland will be recognised as a cultural leader the rural destination in England and a place

acknowledged for its creativity and world class cultural offer We believe investing in arts heritage and culture is

a commitment to a healthier more fulfilled and prosperous Northumberland

The proposal will also accord with this strategy

14 Appendix K

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission

Page 23: Ascendant: the Elizabeth Landmark

Elizabeth Landmark Planning Statement with Design and Access Statement January 2019

23

800 Conclusion

801 The proposed landmark will provide an innovative new cultural tourism focus in an under-

visited area of Northumberland and so assist with sustaining existing local facilities and

services in local settlements It will provide local employment directly (during stone

excavation for the construction) as well as regional employment (during steel fabrication

and erection)

802 The proposal will accord with national policy aimed at supporting a prosperous rural

economy by providing a new sustainable cultural tourism facility in a rural area which

respects the character of the countryside It will also meet Tynedale LDF Core Strategy policy

ED21 which recognises the importance of tourism to the District and aims to support a

buoyant and diverse local economy by allowing new tourism development where

appropriate in order to increase the range quality and type of facilities available to tourists

803 The proposal achieves the three over-arching national policy objectives (economic social

and environmental) for sustainable development It will meet the needs of the present

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

804 The proposed landmark will be sustainable development that will benefit the area by

promoting cultural tourism and helping to sustain local services It accords with the

development plan policies and there are no material considerations sufficient to prevent

granting planning permission