Quainton Neighbourhood Development Plan
Local Green Space
Report
2015 - 2033
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Contents: Page 2 Contents Pages 3-4 Introduction, Methodology and Publicity Pages 5 - 10 List of Local Green Spaces and Justification Page 10 Site of Specific Scientific Interest Pages 11 - 15 Local Green Spaces Land Scoring Table Pages 16 Grading System Pages 17 - 18 Explanation of Column Headings Page 19 – 20 Appendix C – Table of Local Green Spaces Justification
Scores from consultation comments Page 21 Appendix A – Map of Policy NE1 Natural Environment
Designated Local Green Spaces 1 to 6 Page 22 Appendix B – Map of Policy NE1 Natural Environment
Secondary Local Green Spaces 12 and above Pages 23 Appendix D – Map of Valued Areas to Community Pages 24 - 25 Appendix G – Citation Finemere Wood Page 26 - 27 Appendix H – Citation Grendon and Doddershall Woods Page 28 Appendix I – Map of Open Spaces and Trees Page 29 Appendix J – Map of Land Parcels Page 30 Appendix E – Map of Historical Constraints Quainton
Neighbourhood Development Plan Page 31 Appendix F – Map of Environmental Constraints 2014
Quainton Neighbourhood Development Plan
1. Introduction 1.1 This audit of the green spaces in Quainton has reviewed and updated the list of such spaces in the AVDC Green Space Audit 2009 and 2011. It has been based upon the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) criteria which direct that 'Local Green Space' should only be designated where the green space is:
• in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves • demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local
significance, for example. because of its beauty • historic significance • recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of
its wildlife • local in character • is not an extensive tract of land.
2. Methodology
2.1 Within Quainton Neighbourhood Development Plan, designation has been limited to:
• those generally small areas within the built environment of the village
which are vital to the open, rural feel of the village • those areas used for sport and recreation • those areas on the immediate periphery with public access regularly
used for local leisure and dog-walking, many having historical, landscape or wildlife importance. These include the Station Road Pastures, the Church meadows south of the Holy Cross and St Mary’s Church and that to the North East of the village at Denham.
2.2 Based upon these criteria, a simple scoring system has then been used
to provide a basic comparator index as to the relative value of the individual open spaces to the community. This scores 0 representing None; 1= Least; 2= Best/Most for most criteria and, in the case of a proximity measure to the community served, sites within 400m (5 mins) are scored 2; within 600m (7.5 mins) =1 and remote units are scored 0. Furthermore an additional column was added reflecting comments made during the consultation period, recording positive and negative comments. A Local Green Spaces Land Scoring Table was then completed. 3. Publicity
3.1 All potential sites were displayed for comments at the 2011 Forum. A copy of the map showing the proposed Local Green Spaces and areas considered of particular value to the community were displayed during the consultation period in July to August 2015. All comments were noted and compiled into the Table of Consultation Comments. Full details of this consultation period are given in the Consultation Report.
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3.2 Landowners were contacted in July 2015 to advise them that their land was to be put forward as Local Green Spaces in the Draft Neighbourhood Development Plan.
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LIST OF LOCAL GREEN SPACES AND JUSTIFICATION LGS 1 The Green
One of Quainton’s exceptional places located to the north, central to the main residential area. The layout of the Green originally had a top and bottom road running west to east. This evolved through residential and commercial development with the two roads joining creating the four principal road junctions. The Jefferies map dated 1760s shows the layout which remains today.
Taken from the Conservation Area Review 2015:
• it establishes the Village Centre • it provides a focal point for village
activities • it is crossed by pathways (visible on
19th Century maps of Quainton) which improves the permeability of the village
• it creates a physical and visual connection between Quainton and the surrounding landscape reinforcing the rural character of the village
• the open character of The Green and the expansive views gained from it provide contrast with the more enclosed and intimate character of other areas in the village, in particular a section of Church Street.
The trees, verges and open space within and bordering The Green provide soft organic contrast to the hard edges of the buildings, pavements and carriageways. The area provides an attractive foreground to views of individual and groups of buildings. The panoramic views however are only interrupted by striking architecture such as the Windmill to the north
with Mill Hill rising majestically behind. The views sweep south towards Waddesdon Manor and onto the Chilterns and Brill. In this foreground the south of the village unfolds starting with the Grade II listed Lower Farmhouse.
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The Green continues to provide a gathering place for activities and although the value to the village is immeasurable, local businesses, charities, and groups all benefit from various events enjoying the charms of this rural idyll surrounded by building history. The ancient footpath and Market Cross further the feeling of historic importance and the Conservation Area review 2015 goes on to say "Although there are examples of other village greens within the District, they are not a strong characteristic of local morphology". Also evident are the important groups of trees as shown on the “Open Spaces and Trees Map” in the Conservation Area Review 2015. LGS 2 The Wildlife Garden This oasis for wildlife is situated at the Denham Junction with 2 access points gained from Church Street and The Holy Cross and St Mary’s Church. Sitting in a natural hollow north of the Grade 1 listed church, this garden is approximately 40m x 60m and surrounded by established hedging punctuated by mature trees. The ground itself is managed by volunteers from the community with many days throughout the year put aside for clearing and maintenance. The beautiful stream running through this wildlife garden from Quainton Hills is simply idyllic and enhances this tranquil setting.
Natural wood and stone steps that lead from the churchyard provide a place of quiet reflection for church goers and visitors as well as allowing free passage through the garden and out onto the road. This important natural space is now included in the Conservation Area Review 2015. The benefits to nature are easy to see and details of locally
seen rare birds both breeding or for migration stops have been spotted. This is also an area of notable species and bats as recognized by AVDC. Furthermore, local people have seen crested newts in the wildlife pond. An asset which not only benefits wildlife and the community but enhances the rural experience whilst protecting the north side of the 14th century church and old school house. Adults and children alike are free to explore, learn and enjoy this natural haven all year round following a lovely stroll through the church. Also evident are the important groups of trees as shown on the “Open Spaces and Trees Map” in the Conservation Area Review 2015. Appendix I.
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LGS 3 The Meadows incorporating Upper and Lower Church Fields and The Pyghtles
These linked paddocks and meadows have some of the most visually impacting views from any position when walking the historic stepping stones from the ancient footpath or driving along New Road or The Strand. Originally 3 fields, this area was farmed as Banner Hill Farm until the retirement of the local farmer, when some land was split to form paddocks for a private development. Starting from The Strand, this footpath, thought to link outlying farms to the 14th century church gently rises through 4 pastures to the south and 3 to the north until reaching the church. This path is enclosed with a mixture of hedging and post and rail which provides a pleasing archway at the church field gate. Due to the church’s elevated position, its dominance on the skyline when entering the village from the east is unmissable. The uninterrupted views sweep up towards this grade
1 listed building across the church fields. This visual representation plays an important role, not only as a recognized landmark but also as a prominent point of reference which increases the legibility of the village. From The Strand, again prominent views toward the church make a strong contrast to the enclosed nature of the street scene when leaving the village, especially over The Pyghtles. From the Church, spectacular panoramic views to Chearsley Ridge, Waddesdon’s St Michael's and All Angels Church and Manor through to the west, dominate this wide and vast scenery. Closer to the pastures, the openness of undeveloped uncluttered land parcels enhance the rural feel with purposeful hedgerows. The footpath entrances allow glimpses between hedging until the views unfold. The Conservation Area Review 2015. ”This contrast of expansive and enclosed views is a striking and distinctive element of the village's character". Within the Conservation Area, dominant buildings of note such as The Almshouses, The Old Police House, Tuesday Cottage (formerly Pyghtles Cottage), Banner Hill Farmhouse and Bakers Cottage all benefit from the setting of these distinctive open spaces and provide a visual link to the past. Also evident are the important groups of trees as shown on the “Open Spaces and Trees Map” in the Conservation Area Review 2015. Appendix I.
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LGS 4 Station Road Pastures These pastures to the south of the main body of Quainton, are still farmed and currently set to pasture and bordered by large established mixed hedging. Ancient ridge and furrow can clearly be seen which enhances the historic feel whilst walking the public footpath which runs north to south on this grassland. When approached from Mallets End the hedge and trees constrict
the view then upon reaching the footpath stile the pastures burst into eye line and a feeling of a calming rural space unfolds. The road fronted pasture is the last remaining green space before Station Road linear dwellings begin. This grassland rises to the south following the road line and gives the hedge a commanding feel offering a natural break from housing and a small oasis for wildlife and flora and fauna. These pastures interlink with footpaths and back onto a close of affordable housing. This easily accessible grassland has become an established informal recreational area for local families enjoying the space with various outdoor pursuits such as kite flying, dog walking, learning to ride bikes up the hard track and much more. These pastures, in entirety, provide the wonderful panoramic views from the north of Holy Cross and St Mary’s Church all the way through to the
south, Waddesdon Manor and beyond. West to east provides openness and space affording the walker the complete rural feel whilst enjoying a break from built up areas. Following on from these pastures, further historic stepping stones can be seen on the footpath, which goes on to Waddesdon. Throughout, these important views are clearly marked on the 2015 Views and Vistas Conservation Area Review Map. Parishioners voted this parcel as an "Area it is important to keep open". Valued areas of the community Map - Appendix D. Furthermore this parcel is an Archaeological Notification Area taken from the Quainton Historic Constraints map - Appendix E and abuts the Conservation Area to the north.
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LGS 5 Amenity Space at North End Road
These grassed, open spaces are located 50m north from the North End Road/Lee Road T-junction. North End Road has an eclectic mix of 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st Century houses culminating in the southern end being within the new Conservation Area including the beautiful Winwood Cottage, two doors away. North End Road 6-14 is a development of 5 bungalows with access flanked by these two important spaces.
These flat, uncluttered areas are not classed as verges, but privately tended and privately owned. The space is so important to the community, no fencing has been installed and where bordering home owners, the minimum boundary is erected to mark ownership lines only. These areas are flanked by high hedging and trees from gardens and stop what would be a built up oppressive feeling. This enhances the street scene openness of No's 6-14, allowing views to the east towards Mill Hill. These gently sloping lawns help a challenging road for traffic by keeping the vision splay to a maximum so ease of turning to and from the close allows other vehicles free passage. LGS 6 Land at 13 Townsend
This land at Townsend forms a back garden of sizable proportion and is owned by No 13 Townsend, an attractive 1950's chalet. The plot itself borders the back gardens of 8 other properties and has trees of interest within its boundaries. This pretty area is important to keep open due to the undeveloped space offering
light and views to the surrounding neighbours. This western end of the village has historical value with Townsend recently being adopted within the Conservation Area review 2015. Within this area is the significant and dominating building known as The Swan and Castle.
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The garden from this old 1850's pub has the longest boundary adjoining LGS 6 and the integrity of this important building must be protected with no development behind it. The views from Lower Street and Upper Street across this space make a pleasing outlook for both home owners and pedestrians, offering openness within a tightly built area. LGS 6 is an area the community wish to see left open, evident from comments made in the consultation period backing the Housing Policy that the Quainton Neighbourhood Development Plan does not support back land development. Also evident are the important groups of trees as shown on the “Open Spaces and Trees Map” in the Conservation Area Review 2015 - Appendix I. Site of Specific Scientific Interest, Ancient Wild Flower Meadows and Tree Preservation Order In addition to the SSSI woodlands, Quainton Parish also has 2 ancient wildflower meadows on Hill Farm/Grange Farm, Shipton Lee. One has been carefully nurtured by the Fenemore family for some 50 years. Full details of these can be seen in: Appendix D – Valued Areas to the Community Map Appendix G – Finemere Wood Citation Appendix H – Grendon and Doddershall Woods Citation Appendix I – Open and Spaces and Trees Map
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Local Green Spaces Land Scoring Table
Criteria 2 = highest score (5 mins/400 metres)
Demonstrably special to the Community and 1 = Mid Significance (7.5 mins/600 metres)
holding special significance because of its: 0 = Remote of no significance
Land
Par
cel R
efer
ence
Name
Pro
xim
ity to
the
com
mun
ity it
se
rves
Bea
uty
His
toric
sig
nific
ance
Rec
reat
iona
l val
ue
Des
igna
ted
wild
life
Foot
path
s/pu
blic
acc
ess
Tran
quill
ity
Com
mun
ity c
omm
ents
Tota
l Sco
re (M
ax 1
7)
Comment
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The Meadows - LGS 3 (1 of
5) 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 16
In CA. Historical stepping stones footpath. CA panoramic views behind 1687 almshouses. "Area it is important to keep open" . Important Trees. Land Grade 3.
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The Meadows incorporating
Pygtles Paddock 1 -
LGS 3 (2 of 5) 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 16
In CA. Historical stepping stones footpath. "Area it is important to keep open" Land Grade 3
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The Meadows incorporating
Pygtles Paddock 2 -
LGS 3 (3 of 5) 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 16
In CA. Historical stepping stones footpath. "Area it is important to keep open" Land Grade 3
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Holy Cross and St Mary's Church
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 15
In CA. ANA. Views to the Chilterns through to Brill. Access to wildlife garden. Land Grade 3
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Village Green - LGS 1
2 2 2 2 0 2 2 3 15
In CA. Ancient stepping stones footpath, memorial cross. Views towards Waddesdon. Major community significance. Important Trees and TPO. Land Grade 3
4
Denham Lodge Moat Field
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0 14
Scheduled ancient monument and moated lodge. Panoramic views. ANA. Land Grade 3
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Wildlife Garden - LGS
2 2 2 0 2 2 2 2 2 14
Community managed and open to the public. In CA and linked to the church. (Photograph in Neighbourhood Development Plan). NS. Important Group of Trees. Land Grade 3
1 Paddock at
Denham Junction
2 1 0 2 2 2 2 3 14
Abuts CA, wildlife garden, pumping station and listed buildings Brudenell House and Holy Cross and St Mary's Church. In an area of NS and ANA. Land Grade 3
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Church Field - LGS 3 (4 of 5)
2 2 2 2 0 2 2 2 14
In CA. To be used for church yard expansion when demand dictates. CA panoramic views to the Chilterns through to Brill. "Areas it is important to keep open". Land Grade 3
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Station Road Farm Pasture - LGS 4 (3 of 3)
2 2 2 2 0 2 2 2 14
Adjoining CA. "Area it is important to keep open". Ridge and furrow. CA landscape and townscape panoramic views Historic stepping stones Land Grade 3
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2 Denham House
footpath junction
2 2 1 2 2 2 2 0 13
Formerly World War II Prisoner of War Camp (no ruins) and adjacent to deserted village of Denham. Land Grade 3
5
Pumping Station Field
2 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 12
Surrounds pumping station in conservation area. NS and CA. Panoramic views from Chilterns to Brill. Land Grade 3
34
North End Barn Field
2 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 12 Protects CA panoramic views NS. Land Grade 3
35
North End Hill Field
2 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 12 Protects CA panoramic views. NS. Land Grade 3
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Mill Hill Field
2 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 12
CA panoromic views from the village to Mill Hill and from Mill Hill to the Chilterns, through to the Claydons. Abuts CA. Footpath with historic stepping stones. Land Grade 3.
39
Larger Anstiss Field
2 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 12 Abuts conservation area. NS. CA Panoramic views. Land Grade 3
40
Small Anstiss Field
2 2 0 2 2 2 2 -1 11 In CA. CA specific views. Land Grade 3
29
Trailflatt Farm
2 2 2 2 0 2 2 -1 11
Protects CA panoramic views. Historic stepping stones on footpath - Doddershall to Quainton. (photograph in Neighbourhood Development Plan). Land Grade 3
28
Part of Barge's Farm Land -
Klee Close/Lee Road
2 2 2 2 0 2 2 -1 11
Small parcel of land with footpath containing stepping stones possibly Victorian. Protects CA panoramic views
3
Denham Leys Long Field
1 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 11
Leads to the Victorian Water Tower and top of Quainton Hills. CA panoramic views over the valley towards Chilterns through to Brill. Land Grade 3
37
Hill Top Field
1 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 11
Panoramic views throughout Bucks from Chilterns through to Winslow. Land Grade 4
42
North End Barn Big Field
1 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 11 Protecting CA panoramic views. Land Grade 4
43
Grange Hill
1 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 11 Protecting CA panoramic views. Land Grade 4
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Station Road Track Pasture - LGS 4 (2 of
3) 2 2 0 1 0 2 2 2 11
Protects the linear line of southern Station Road. CA panoramic views. ANA. Used informally by community for recreation. Land Grade 3
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Long Track Field
1 2 1 2 0 2 2 0 10 CA panoramic views. ANA. Stone path. Land Grade 3
32
Sport Field, Tennis Court,
Skate Park 2 2 0 2 0 2 2 0 10
Protects CA panoramic views. Leased land (owned by Saye and Sele) Land Grade 3
30
Fieldside Farm Field
1 2 0 2 0 2 2 0 9 Protects CA panoramic views. Land Grade 3
31
Snake Lane Field
1 2 0 2 0 2 2 0 9 Protects CA panoramic views. Land Grade 3
25
School Playing Field and
Village Playground 2 1 0 2 0 2 2 0 9
In CA with stepping stone footpath. Land Grade 3
21
South of Station Road
2 2 1 0 2 0 2 0 9
Protects the linear line of south Station Road. CA panoramic views. NS and ANA. Land Grade 3
33
Lee Road Field
2 2 1 0 2 0 2 0 9 Protecting linear line. CA panoramic and specific view. ANA. Land Grade 3
52
Land around Faccenda Hatchery
2 2 1 0 2 0 2 0 9 Protects CA panoramic views. ANA. Land Grade 3
46
West of Station Road (plus infill
roadside of Seechfield)
2 2 1 0 2 0 2 -1 8
Protecting linear line and panoramic views. "Area it is important to keep open". ANA. Land Grade 3
24
Saye and Sele Field - Adjacent
to School 2 2 0 2 0 0 2 0 8
In CA. Used by school, but no public access. Land Grade 3
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The Strand Square
2 1 0 2 0 2 1 0 8
Abuts CA. The Parish Council undertake the maintenance. Breaks up 2 modern developments at east village entry. Land Grade 3
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Mallets End Green Space 2
2 2 0 0 0 2 2 0 8 Protects CA panoramic view street scene and footpath. Land Grade 3
44
West Field North End
2 2 0 0 2 0 2 0 8 Protecting CA panoramic views. Land Grade 3
53
Southeast Station Road, Block next to
Railway Station 2 2 0 0 2 0 2 0 8
Protects CA panoramic view. NA. Land Grade 3
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Lower Church Field - LGS 3
(5 of 5) 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 8
In CA. Enhances street view upon entering the village east. "Area it is important to keep open" Land Grade 3
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Station Road Pasture - LGS
4 (1 of 3) 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 8
Adjoining CA. "Area it is important to keep open”. Ancient ridge and furrow. Panoramic landscape and unfolding views. Land Grade 3
47
Land behind Cautley
Close/Pigotts Orchard/Station
Road 2 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 8 Protecting linear line and CA panoramic views. Land Grade 3
55
Green Space at North End
Road - LGS 5 2 2 0 0 0 1 1 2 8
Last remaining small pocket of land to be kept open in built-up residential area. Adjacent to Important Trees.
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Strand - large field opposite lower Church
Field 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 7 ANA. CA panoramic view. Land Grade 3
51
Back of Pigott Orchard
2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 7 Protects CA panoramic view. ANA. Land Grade 3
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Mallets End Green Space 1
2 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 7 Keeps open street scene. Land Grade 3
38
Denham Landlocked
field 1 2 0 0 2 0 2 0 7
Protects CA panoramic views. Land Grade 3
41
North End Barn Hill Field
1 2 0 0 2 0 2 0 7 Protects CA panoramic View. Land Grade 4
54
Small pockets of land
throughout the village (several
areas) 2 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 7
Protects views and open spaces feel between pockets of residential and commercial use.
56
Pumping Station
2 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 7
Interesting building mentioned in conservation area. Privately owned by Thames Water
26
Green Space at Townsend -
LGS 6 2 2 0 0 0 0 1 2 7
In CA, important green space in busy residential area. Important Group of Trees. Land Grade 3
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Allotments
2 1 0 2 0 0 2 -1 6 "Area it is important to keep open" Land Grade 3
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27
Swan and Castle
2 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 In CA and opposite 2 listed buildings. Abuts LGS 6. Land Grade 3
49
Land adjoining allotments
2 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 "Area it is important to keep open" Land Grade 3
57
Tebby’s Close
2 2 0 0 1 0 2 -1 6
Small paddock top of North End Road. Protects landscape views towards Simber Hill.
48
The Strand Stables
2 2 0 0 0 0 2 -1 5
Protects CA panoramic views from the southside of Church, LGS 3, and panoramic views to Waddesdon Manor. Land Grade 3
45
Snake Lane junction Field
1 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 5
At Snake Lane junction, protecting CA panoramic view approaching village from west, when Quainton and Shipton Lee join. Land Grade 3
6
Long Corner Paddock
1 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 4
Protects the open aspect of the eastern side of the village and CA panoramic views. Hedgerow in CA. Land Grade 3
Key
LGS Local Green Space
CA Conservation Area Review 2015 Map - Neighbourhood Development Plan.
ANA
Archaeological Notification Area. Taken from Quainton Historic Constraints Map. Source: The Vale of Aylesbury – Quainton Fact Pack 2011
NS
Notable Species. Taken from Quainton Neighbourhood Development Plan Environmental Constraints Map 2014. Appendix F
Grade
Land Grade 3 and 4. Taken from Quainton Agricultural Land Clarification Map Feb 2014. (This is land grading)
TPO Important Trees
Tree Preservation Order and Important Trees Taken from Open Spaces and Trees Map Appendix I
See Appendix J Land Parcel
Map
Area it is important to keep open is taken from Valued Areas to the Community Map Appendix D
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GRADING SYSTEM Due to the nature of Quainton Parish's abundant green spaces within and surrounding the village, a plan to grade these areas has been made with criteria important to the community. All the land immediate to the village has had 7 values applied with an 8th added following the consultation findings to represent the wants of the parishioners. The criteria applied are as such: Demonstrably special to the Community and holding special significance because of its: Proximity to the community it serves
1. Beauty 2. Historic significance 3. Recreational value 4. Designated wildlife 5. Footpaths/public access 6. Tranquillity 7. Public comments
A series of maps and information was gathered for reference and all land parcels were walked where footpaths were available or owner permission granted. The remaining land was checked visually where possible and land owners contacted if needed and vast local knowledge was drawn upon. Each land parcel was numbered, named, graded and scores totalled. A comments section was added to show background information per land parcel and supply references for maps. The criteria for grading of Criteria 1-7 is as follows: 2 = Highest score (5 minutes walk / 400 metres) Closest proximity to village centre. 1 = Middle score (7.5 minutes walk / 600 metres) Not an immediate area to the village centre. 0 = No score as remote or of no significance. The criteria for grading of Criteria 8 as follows: 3 = Most public comments in favour of the land parcel as a Green Space. 2 = Several public comments in favour of the land parcel as a Green Space. 1 = Few public comments in favour of the land parcel as a Green Space. 0 = Base line of public comments in favour of all land parcels as a Green Space. -1 = Non-supporting comment of a land parcel as a Green Space.
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EXPLANATION OF COLUMN HEADINGS Land Parcel Reference Number Each parcel of land (or field which ever applies) has a unique number which corresponds to the Land Parcel Map (Appendix J). Some land parcels which grade the same where the community have not suggested its significance, have a generic number. Name The Land Parcel is named to cross reference with owners/parishioners/farmers to ensure all the community recognise the area where possible and includes the Local Green Spaces references. Proximity to the Community it Serves Graded 2, 1, and 0 depending on the proximity to the village centre, up to 7.5 minutes walk in all directions. Beauty Takes into account the land itself, surroundings, views and the protection of such views. Historic Significance Grades land parcels with historical significance taken from the Conservation Area, also Archaeological Notification Areas taken from the Quainton Historic Constraints map (Appendix E) which is currently being updated following the Conservation Area Review 2015 Map on page 11 of Quainton Neighbourhood Plan. Recreational Value A clear value on sites specific to recreation but areas where the community have historically used a land parcel for recreation have also been recognised. Designated Wildlife Notable Species data has been taken from the Quainton Neighbourhood Development Plan Environmental Constraints Map February 2014 – Appendix F. Footpaths / Public Access The Land Parcels map (Appendix J) shows the Bucks County Council Ordnance Survey map for Footpaths overlaid from where the grading has been taken. Public access is for land parcels where no footpath is available but a pathway is generally accepted.
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Tranquillity Land Parcels unspoilt from noise or visual pollution leaving the community with a feeling of tranquillity. Consultation Comments on Green spaces Comments specifically supporting or non-supporting of the green spaces and the LGS's within Natural Environment Policies. See Appendix C. Total Score Max 17 Column arranged Highest Scoring first to show importance of land parcel, following totally all the grading scores appropriate to each land parcel. Comments Information to add background such as listed buildings on land parcels, historic significance, archaeological notification area, conservation area, notable species, an "Area it is important to keep open" from the community 2011, land grading, positioning and views taken from Key Views and Vistas Conservation Area Review 2015 Map on page 22 of Neighbourhood Development Plan. A key is provided on the Land Scoring Table. All supporting evidence is available to view within the Neighbourhood Development Plan documents, supplementary evidence attached or see the Quainton Parish Council website and Conservation Area review 2015.
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Appendix C LGS GRADING JUSTIFICATION SCORES FROM CONSULTATION
COMMENTS
LGS Reference Positive Negative Total Grand Total
LGS 1 The Green (land parcel 23) NE 1.24, NE 1.26, NE 1.28, NE 1.22, NE 1.23 5 0 5 5
LGS 2 The Wildlife Garden (land parcel 7) NE 1.22, NE 1.23, NE 1.27, NE 1.28 4 0 4 4
LGS 3 The Meadows (land parcels 9, 10,11,12, 13 NE 1.22, NE 1.23, NE 1.4 3 0 3 3 LGS 4 Station Road Pastures (land parcel 17, 18, 19)
NE 1.4, NE 1.22, NE 1.23, NE 1.25 4 0 4 4
LGS 5 North End Road Green Areas (land parcel 55) NE 1.25, NE 1.22, NE 1.23 3 0 3 3 LGS 6 Townsend Green Space (land parcel 26) NE 1.25, NE 1.22, NE 1.23 3 0 3 3
Paddock at Denham Junction (land parcel 1)
NE 1.13, NE 1.4, NE 1.18, NE 1.7, NE 1.8, NE 1.11, NE 1.12 NE 1.20 NE 1.9 8 1 7 7
Holy Cross and St Marys Church (land parcel 8)
NE 1.4 1 0 1 1
Part of Barge's Farm Land Klee Close/ Lee Road (land parcel 28) NE 1.6 NE 1.10 0 2 2 -2
All Green Spaces
NE 1.15, NE 1.21, NE 1.23 NE 1.24, NE 1.28, NE 1.5, NE 1.3 7 0 7 7
Trailflatt NE1.35 0 1 1 1 Cautley Close NE1.1 1 0 1 1 Small Anstiss NE1.29 0 1 1 1 Allotments NE1.30 0 1 1 1
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The Strand Stables NE1.31 0 1 1 1 Tebbys Close NE1.32 0 1 1 1 Infill roadside off Seechfield NE1.33 0 1 1 1 For further details see consultation document
Rationale: Points awarded As 7 comments favoured every green space, this was taken as an absolute zero. We then applied the following points to the Grand Totals from the table above as follows: Grand Total: High to Low number of comments positive and negative: 7, 5, 4, 4, 3, 3, 3, 1, 1, -1, -1, -1, -1, -1, -1, -2. 3 points awarded to the high score of 7 to 5 Positive Comments 2 points awarded to mid scores of 4 through to 3 Positive Comments 1 point awarded to 1 Positive Comments -1 point awarded to -1 and -2 Negative comments (points are taken off the overall scoring on the Land parcel following parishioner comments wishing the land not to be included in Green Spaces) Local Green Space Areas Protected in Policy NE1 of Quainton Neighbourhood Plan 2015 – 2033 These 6 areas are highlighted in the Local Green Spaces Land Scoring Table in green. These areas are designated Local Green Spaces which are protected from development unless very special circumstances can be demonstrated. See Appendix A and Local Green Spaces Land Scoring Table. Secondary Local Green Spaces – Grading 12 and Above Those remaining which graded 12 and above, are considered particularly important for the community to protect. They are designated as Secondary Local Green Spaces as set out in Appendix B and Local Green Spaces Land Scoring Table. Some identified spaces whilst not having the protected status of Local Green Spaces are never the less important locally. Planning applications submitted which would affect these spaces need to be considered in the context of the potentially adverse impact on the qualities which lead them to be identified.
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Appendix A
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Appendix B
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Appendix D
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COUNTY: BUCKINGHAMSHIRE SITE NAME: FINEMERE WOOD Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Local Planning Authorities: Aylesbury Vale District Council, Buckinghamshire County Council National Grid Reference: SP718218 Ordnance Survey Sheet 1:50,000: 165 1:10,000: SP72 SW Date Notified (Under 1981 Act): 1990 Area: 45.7 ha 112.9 ac Description and Reasons for Notification Finemere Wood is a large ancient pedunculate woodland supporting rich communities of native plants, birds, insects and other animals. In particular the wood contains populations of some local butterflies, including the nationally rare wood white and black hairstreak. Parts of the wood consist of neglected conifer plantations and the site also incorporates an adjacent area of unimproved rough grassland and scrub. Finemere Wood lies on a gentle to moderately southerly aspect, situated in the Vale of Aylesbury. Overlying Oxford Clay, soils are generally heavy and poorly drained, giving rise to marshy areas within the wood. A small stream crosses the wood, and part of the River Ray is included within the grassy area to the south of the wood. The areas of native woodland consist of ash-maple stand types, where oak, or oak and ash, dominate the canopy, together with field maple and hazel coppice in the understorey and shrub layer. Ash-maple ancient woodland is particularly associated with the slightly calcareous clay soils found mainly in the Midlands and south-east England. Midland hawthorn Crataegus laevigata is frequent, particularly in areas of long-neglected coppice where it has become exceptionally tall. Other associated trees and shrubs include crab apple, honeysuckle, common hawthorn, blackthorn, aspen, dogwood and wild privet. The presence of old coppiced hornbeam in part of the wood is unusual as this species mainly occurs in East Anglia and the south-east. The field layer is dominated by common herbs and grasses including bramble Rubus fruticosus, dog's mercury Mercurialis perennis, bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta, tufted hair-grass Deschampsia cespitosa and false brome Brachypodium sylvaticum. A number of species which are particularly associated with ancient coppice woodland occur, including wood anemone Anemone nemorosa, woodruff Galium odoratum, yellow archangel Lamiastrum galeobdolon, primrose Primula vulgaris and sanicle Sanicula europaea. Sedges include remote Carex remota, wood C. sylvatica and the less common pendulous sedge C. pendula. Wood barley Hordelymus europaeus, a nationally rare grass normally associated with beechwoods in Buckinghamshire, is also
25
present. Parts of the wood are rather scrubby in nature, having been partially felled and underplanted with conifers. Downy birch, grey willow and goat willow are common in these areas, along with hazel, dogwood, hawthorn and other shrubs. Areas of suckering English elm also occur. Some oak and ash standards have been left and, in time, some of these areas may regenerate fully into closed-canopy broadleaved woodland. Rides and other open areas support a remarkably diverse flora, providing food and nectar sources for butterflies and other invertebrates. In damper places species include soft rush Juncus effucus, wood small-reed Calamagrostis epigejos, meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria, ragged-robin Lychnis flos-cuculi, marsh thistle Cirsium palustre and greater bird'sfoot trefoil Lotus uliginosus. Further species occur on the drier gravel of the rides themselves including wild strawberry Fragaria vesca and trailing tormentil Potentilla anglica, a species with a restricted distribution in the county. Invertebrates include Gongylidieilum latebricola, an uncommon spider, and the mere wainscot, a local species of moth which feeds on the small wood-reed. The site supports a variety of butterflies typical of ancient woodland in lowland England. Noteworthy species include white admiral, purple hairstreak, holly blue, wood white and black hairstreak. Both wood white and black hairstreak have declined recently in Britain and occur in only a few sites elsewhere in the county. Wood white feeds on woodland legumes whilst black hairstreak relies on the blackthorn which forms a boundary to parts of the wood. Other woodland insects include the hoverflies Criorhina ranunculi and Didea fasciata and moths such as brindled white-spot, green arches and lilac beauty. The SSSI includes an area to the south of the wood supporting a variety of habitats including a blackthorn hedge, scattered scrub, rough grassland and a dry herb-rich bank. The grassland is dominated by tufted hair-grass and other tall-growing species including hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, great willowherb Epilobium hirsutum, hoary ragwort Senecio erucifolius and false fox sedge Carex otrubae. The bank supports a variety of herbs often associated with calcareous soils including abundant glaucous sedge Carex flacca, spring sedge C. caryophyllea, dwarf thistle Cirsium acaule, cowslip Primula veris and fairy flax Linum catharticum. Another chalk plant, rest-harrow Ononis repens grows along the gravel track at the entrance to the wood. Further diversity is provided by the River Ray which supports a number of wetland plants along its banks. These areas support a wide variety of insects and other animals. Butterflies have been well recorded, and include dingy and grizzled skippers, common blue, orange-tip, small heath and marbled white. The uncommon dark green fritillary has also been seen. The site supports a wide range of birds including many which are local in the county. Resident woodland specialists include nuthatch, treecreeper, woodpeckers and tits. The scrub habitats support breeding nightingales and a variety of warblers including whitethroat, lesser whitethroat, garden warbler and the declining grasshopper warbler. Other noteworthy species include tawny owl, sparrowhawk, turtle dove and woodcock. The site is visited by large numbers of wintering birds, particularly thrushes such as redwing and fieldfare and finches. Source: www.sssi.naturalengland.org.uk Appendix G
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COUNTY: BUCKINGHAMSHIRE SITE NAME: GRENDON AND DODDERSHALL WOODS Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Local Planning Authorities: Aylesbury Vale District Council, Buckinghamshire County Council National Grid Reference: SP710210 Ordnance Survey Sheet 1:50,000: 165 1:10,000: SP62 SE, SP72 SW Date Notified (Under 1949 Act): 1976 Date Notified (Under 1981 Act): 1984 Area: 67.08 ha 165.77 ac Description and Reasons for Notification Grendon and Doddershall Woods constitute an important tract of broadleaved woodland of a kind formerly far more extensive on the clays of north Buckinghamshire. Oak predominates, mainly as standards, in both woods with ash, field maple, aspen and birch as associates in the tree canopy and an understorey of dense hazel coppice and blackthorn thickets, as well as sallow, crab apple, common and Midland hawthorns Crataegus monogyna and C. laevigata and their hybrids, honeysuckle, briars (including Rosa arvensis) and dogwood. Several of these are indicators of long continuity of woodland conditions, as are many of the herbaceous species present, including primrose Primula vulgaris, wood anemone Anemone nemorosa, goldilocks buttercup Ranunculus auricomus, wood sedge Carex sylvatica, enchanter's nightshade Circaea lutetiana and narrowleaved everlasting pea Lathyrus sylvestris. A stream runs through Grendon Wood; alongside this sallow and alder, the latter uncommon in this part of the Vale of Aylesbury, are regenerating from stools cut back in the late 1970s. This and another small stream separating Grendon from Doddershall Wood provide valuable additional habitat for a range of plants and invertebrates. An important feature of both woods is the network of wide rides, some almost permanently wet, and others with ditches. Here a further range of herbaceous species occurs, including the sedges Carex pallescens, C. pendula and C. remota, wood small-reed Calamagrostis epigejos, sweet violet Viola odorata and butterfly orchid Platanthera chlorantha. The clearings opened up during agricultural operations have developed mixed stands of grassland and scrub, though most of these are in the process of being replanted. Grendon and Doddershall Woods have long been known as a site of exceptional importance for butterflies of which no less than 35 species, some now very rare, have been recorded. These include the purple emperor Apatura iris, brown and black hairstreaks Thecla betulae and Strymonidia pruni, the
27
latter of national importance, wood white Leptidea sinapis, and no less than five species of fritillary: the silver washed, high brown, marsh, pearl-bordered and small pearlybordered Argynnis paphia, A. adippe, Euphydryas aurina, Boloria euphrosyne and B. selene. Not all the fritillaries have been seen since the late 1970s, but it is possible that they linger on in small numbers. There is considerable ornithological interest in the woods, including breeding nightingales. Source: www.sssi.naturalengland.org.uk Appendix H
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Appendix I
29
Appendix J
Land Parcels
Land Parcels
30
Appendix E
31
Appendix F
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