mole valley local plan...1 introduction 1 2 policycontext 3 3 usingthelandscapespd 5 4...

Supplementary Planning Document

July 2013

Mole Valley Local Plan

Landscape SPD

This document can be made available in large print, onaudio cassette, in Braille and in other languages

1Introduction1

3Policy Context2

5Using the Landscape SPD3

11The Landscape of Mole Valley - An Overview4

21Character Profiles5235.1 Thames Basin Lowlands245.1.1 Character Profile: Esher and Epsom265.1.2 Character Profile: Ockham and Clandon295.1.3 Character Profile: Lower Mole315.2 North Downs335.2.1 Character Profile: Box Hill375.2.2 Character Profile: Mole Gap405.2.3 Character Profile: Ranmore and Hackhurst Downs425.3 Wealden Greensand435.3.1 Character Profile: Holmesdale465.3.2 Character Profile: Pippbrook and Tillingbourne495.3.3 Character Profile: Reigate Greensand515.3.4 Character Profile: Leith Hill Greensand545.4 Low Weald555.4.1 Character Profile: Open Weald575.4.2 Character Profile: Wooded Weald

61Glossary and Sources of Further Information6

62Appendices1

Mole Valley Local Development Framework Landscape SDPMole Valley District Council

Contents

Mole Valley District CouncilMole Valley Local Development Framework Landscape SDP

Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction

1.1

Box Hill from Pixham

The landscape of Mole Valley is cherished by its residents andvisitors alike. Large extents are protected through European,National and local designations. Substantial areas are ownedor managed by organisations whose focus is primarilyconservation and informal recreation, such as the NationalTrust and the Surrey Wildlife Trust.

1.2 Safeguarding and enhancing the highly attractive and diverseenvironment of Mole Valley is a key objective of the LDF andis strongly supported by the community as a whole. Goal 1of the LDF Core Strategy is "To safeguard and enhance thehighly attractive and diverse natural, built and historicenvironment of the District." This is carried forward into CoreStrategy Policy CS13 which sets out a strategic framework forlandscape protection.

1.3 The Core Strategy included a commitment to prepare a "MoleValley Landscape Character Assessment" in order to assistapplicants in understanding what is important about thelandscape. This Landscape SPD is published to fulfil thatcommitment.

Methodology

1.4 Extensive studies of the landscape of Mole Valley have beenundertaken over the past 10 years, by a variety of bodiesincluding Surrey County Council and the Surrey Hills AONB Board. They have not always covered thesame areas or gone into the same levels of detail, but they have been based on two key sources:

The Future of Surrey’s Landscape and Woodlands (1997), Surrey County CouncilNational Character Areas, Countryside Agency (and supporting area descriptions)

1.5 Revised profiles for all 159 National Character Areas are due to be published by April 2014.

1.6 In view of the availability of these existing studies, and the limited resources available to undertakewidespread field studies, the Council has decided to draw together information from existing sources,rather than commission a full-scale Landscape Character Assessment. A similar exercise wasincorporated into the Mole Valley Local Plan, 2000 (Appendix 1: Landscape Character Areas). Onceadopted, this Landscape SPD will supersede the Local Plan Appendix and provide a more detailedanalysis.

1.7 Although the Council is not undertaking a full-scale Landscape Character Assessment, account hasbeen taken of guidance from the former Countryside Agency. The Guidance also informed the preparationof the Future of Surrey's Landscape andWoodlands and the Surrey Hills Management Plan 2009 - 2014(which includes a detailed assessment of the landscape character of the various parts of the AONBacross Surrey). In addition to these studies a review of the Surrey ‘Area of Great Landscape Value’ (1)

has been undertaken and the results are fed into this SPD.

1 Surrey AGLV Review, June 2007, Chris Burnett Associates


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Introduction

Purpose and Scope

1.8 By drawing together information from existing landscape character studies, the SPD provides a moreaccessible overview of the landscape character of Mole Valley than was previously available. Thisprovides area-specific information, to support landscape protection and enhancement, in line with CoreStrategy policy CS13, Landscape Character.

1.9 The information in Landscape SPD will inform preparation of Local Development Documents, includingthe Land Allocations Development Plan Document (DPD) and Development Management policies. Itwill also be a material consideration in determining planning applications, to ensure that the localdistinctiveness of the various parts of the District is recognised and reflected in development proposals.In the case of significant development proposals, in locations where landscape impact is a keyconsideration, the Council will also expect developers to undertake site-specific landscape appraisaland the contents of this SPD will help to inform the preparation and consideration of site-specific analysis.

1.10 The SPD will also be available as a resource for others, including prospective developers, local amenitybodies, Parish Councils and Neighbourhood Forums. It will provide a tool for neighbourhood planning,as well as for the preparation and consideration of new development proposals.

1.11 The SPD recognises that some areas of the District are of a higher landscape quality than others.However, the mosaic of different landscape forms, each with its own character, combines to create anenvironment that is highly valued by those who live, work and spend their leisure time within the District.Although some areas are subject to special protection, all types of landscape have their own particularcharacter, which should be understood in order to safeguard the quality of the whole.

1.12 Where maps are referred to in the SPD, it should be noted that most landscape character areas will nothave clearly-defined boundaries on the ground. In most locations, there will be a gradual transition fromone landscape type to another. Characteristics of neighbouring landscape character areas may alsooverlap. This study should be used as a framework within which to judge landscape character and theissues it may raise. Judgements about the impact of specific development proposals will always haveto be made on a case by case basis.

1.13 The main focus of the SPD is on the rural landscape. Brief consideration is given to the maincharacteristics of settlements which fall within each Character Area. A more detailed analysis of thecharacter of the built environment can be found in the following documents:

Built Up Areas Character Appraisals for Ashtead, Bookham and Fetcham, Dorking, Pixham andNorth Holmwood and Leatherhead.Larger Villages Character Appraisal (covering BeareGreen, Brockham, Capel, Charlwood, Hookwoodand Westcott)

1.14 Both documents can be accessed from the Local Plans pages of the Council's website,www.molevalley.gov.uk. Taken together, the Built Up Areas and Larger Villages Character Appraisalsand the Landscape SPDwill provide a suite of documents to support analysis of landscape and townscapecharacter throughout the District.

1.15 It is intended that the Landscape SPD will be updated as new issues arise or new information is madeavailable e.g. through reviews of documents such as the Surrey Hills AONB Management Plan or theanticipated review of AONB boundaries.


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Introduction

Chapter 2 Policy Context

National Planning Policy Framework

2.1 The National Planning Policy Framework sets out twelve "core planning principles" which include takingaccount of the "different roles and character of different areas", including "recognising the intrinsiccharacter and beauty of the countryside and supporting thriving rural communities within it".

2.2 Paragraph 109 goes on to state that the planning system should "contribute to and enhance the naturaland local environment by, among other things, "protecting and enhancing valued landscapes ..." (para109) Special priority is given to the protection of nationally designated areas, including Areas ofOutstanding Natural Beauty (para 115) and Planning Authorities are to recognise the hierarchy ofinternational, national and locally designated sites, so that the level of protection is commensurate withtheir importance. The NPPF places landscape conservation in the context of a wider environmentalagenda, which recognises the links between the aesthetic aspects of landscape and the protection ofbiodiversity and this SPD aims to make those connections through consideration of biodiversity issueswhere they have a landscape dimension.

Local Policy Framework

2.3 The local policy framework for landscape protection is set out in Core Strategy Policy CS 13, LandscapeCharacter (see below). CS13 is in line with the guidance in the NPPF, inasmuch as it recognises theintrinsic character and beauty of all character areas (point 1), while setting out special protection for theArea of Outstanding Natural Beauty (point 2).

2.4 The Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) is a local designation, which will be retained until such timeas there has been a review of the AONB boundary. This is in light of the Surrey AGLVReview, undertakenin 2007, which concluded that most of the AGLV within Mole Valley could be classified as having identicalcharacteristics to the AONB. Review of the AONB boundaries is the responsibility of Natural England,who have commenced work on a Landscape Character Assessment as a necessary step prior to aconsideration of the Surrey Hills AONB boundary review later in 2013.

2.5 On the basis that there is objective evidence to support inclusion of parts of the AGLV within the SurreyHills AONB and until such time as the landscape assessment is concluded and decisions taken aboutthe future boundary of the AONB, the Council takes the view that significant weight should continue tobe given to the AGLV as a formal designation and protection afforded to it in line with policy."


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Policy Context

Policy CS 13: Landscape Character

1. All new development must respect or enhance the character and distinctiveness of the landscapecharacter area in which it is proposed. Landscape enhancement works may be required to avoidadverse impacts associated with new developments.

2. The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is of national significance, and as such,the conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape will be a priority in this area. The AONB willbe protected in accordance with the objectives in Planning Policy Statement 7 (SustainableDevelopment in Rural Areas) and the Surrey Hills Management Plan, with particular focus on theimpact of development on ridgelines, significant views, peace, tranquillity and levels of artificial light.

3. The AGLV (Area of Great Landscape Value) will be retained until such time as there has been areview of the AONB boundary. Development in the AGLV area will be required to be supported byevidence to demonstrate that it would not result in harm to the AONB, particularly views from andinto the AONB and the key features identified in point 2 above.

4. Small scale development for the reasonable needs of the rural economy, outdoor recreation as wellas that in support of services for the local community in the AONB or AGLV will be supported subjectto meeting other relevant criteria within the LDF.


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Policy Context

Chapter 3 Using the Landscape SPD

3.1 This chapter is intended to help users locate information within the SPD and provide guidance on howthat information can inform different stages of the planning process.

Structure of Document

3.2 Chapter 2 set out the Policy Context for the consideration of landscape issues.

3.3 Chapter 4 gives an overview of the landscape across the District, including an overview of the underlyinggeology, topography, river systems, soils, vegetation, settlement patterns and areas which are coveredby national or local landscape designations.

3.4 Chapter 5 contains a series of Character Profiles for each of the twelve Landscape Character Areas inthe District. Each Character Profile contains:

A summary of the key characteristics of the landscapeA more detailed description of the landscapeComments on the character and landscape setting of any settlementsDetails of typical local building materialsSuggested actions for enhancing the landscape and/or addressing identifies threats to landscapecharacter

3.5 Maps of the boundaries of each individual Landscape Character Area are contained in Appendices 2 to5. Please note that the titles of the Landscape Character Areas are taken from the County-wide study,upon which much of the contents of this SPD are based. Although some of the titles relate to locationsoutside the District, it was considered appropriate to use the same titles, in order to aid cross-referencingbetween the two documents.

Role of the Landscape SPD

For Developers

3.6 The impact of development on its landscape setting will vary depending on the location, size, scale andtype of proposal. Some developments, particularly those within the built-up area, may have only a limitedlandscape impact. Others will have amuchmore significant impact - especially larger andmore prominentdevelopments within the rural areas.

3.7 High quality design is a core planning principle, as is recognising the "intrinsic character and beauty ofthe countryside" (NPPF para 17). These principles are encapsulated in Core Strategy policies CS13and CS14 and the Council will resist development of a poor quality of design.

3.8 Landscape considerations are an important component of design. All planning applications shouldaddress landscape issues, to an extent that is proportionate to the scale of the proposal. The Councilwill expect developers to demonstrate that they have had regard to the sensitivity of the landscape tothe proposed form of development and to assess the magnitude of change that will occur through theconstruction and operation of the proposed development. They will need to show how this analysis hasbeen reflected in the siting, design and layout of their proposals.

3.9 Where required, Design and Access Statements should demonstrate how the development has beendesigned with sensitivity to the surrounding landscape. The information in this SPD can be used toinform this analysis.


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Using the Landscape SPD

3.10 It is beyond the scope of this SPD to provide a detailed analysis of landscape issues on every individualsite. Therefore, in some cases the Council will also require developers to undertake a site-specificLandscape Character Assessment, to support their planning application, or where a site is being proposedto be allocated for development. This requirement will apply on sites where the location of the site and/orthe scale of the development are such that landscape issues will be a key consideration. It is very likelyto be a requirement for larger developments within the AONB, or in locations where significant viewsinto or out of the AONB may be at risk. It may also apply to proposals within the built up area, wherethey would be conspicuous in key views to, or from, the wider landscape. In many cases it will beappropriate and helpful to illustrate written submissions with photographs.

3.11 Questions which may be relevant to the appraisal of landscape issues include:

Gradient:

Is the site flat, sloped or undulating?How does the topography affect views into, out of, and across the site?Are there parts of the site which are hidden behind higher land?Conversely, are there parts which are highly exposed, for example because they slope upfrom a public vantage point, or because they are overlooked from higher ground?If there are clear views into the site from its surroundings, how would the proposed developmentrelate to those views?

Landscape Function:

What function does the site serve in the wider landscape?For example, is the site part of the rural setting of a built up area? Perhaps the land bringsviews of the natural landscape into a town or village? Or perhaps it is part of the woodedbackdrop to a built up area? Or it may provide a glimpse of open land through a gap in existingbuildings.Is the site part of a larger landscape feature, such as a ridgeline, or field pattern, that ischaracteristic of the area? If so, will the proposed development interrupt or preserve thatlandscape feature?How does the site relate to the wider countryside? How does the arrangement of naturalfeatures such as trees, hedgerow, vegetation cover reflect, complement or differ from adjacentlandscape? Is the site an isolated pocket with unique characteristics, or is it seen as part ofa larger landscape?If the land is on the edge of a built up area, will it appear as an intrusion into the surroundinglandscape, or is it already contained within well-defined boundaries? How will the new edgeof the built up area be defined if the land is developed?

Vegetation:

Are there individual trees on the site which make a significant contribution to the appearanceof the area? Can they be kept? If so, how will they be cared for, both during developmentand after occupation?Does existing vegetation on the site include locally characteristic, native species?Are there invasive non-native species which need to be brought under control?Is existing vegetation appropriately managed and maintained - e.g. Is woodland properlymanaged? Are hedgerows or roadside planting properly maintained? Is there scrub orundergrowth that should be brought under control?What natural habitats are provided by existing vegetation and how should they be protected?


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Are there indications of historic planting on site - for example historic hedgerows, specimentrees or formal planting? Where such signs exist, can and should they be retained andprotected?If a landscaping scheme is proposed, what tree and plant species are local to the area? Canthese be used to good effect? Are there ways in which the structure of the planting schemecan echo the characteristics of the local landscape? How will the landscaping schemematureover time and what are the long term landscape objectives?Does the development rely on trees and vegetation to screen its visual impact? If so, what isthe likely life-span of that screening? Is it effective at all times of year? Would the proposalbe acceptable without the screen? If not, can provision be made to reinforce and safeguardits ongoing effectiveness? Does provision need to be made for additional planting, or futurereplacement of trees which die?Are landscaping proposals compatible with any local biodiversity conservation aims? Whereappropriate, has advice been sought from local conservation bodies, e.g. the Surrey WildlifeTrust?Would the development being proposed support enhanced management of the naturalcharacteristics remaining on the site, for example through grazing, coppicing, regular haycutting or similar measures.Do planting plans take account of future climate change scenarios (e.g. use of drought-tolerantspecies).

Screening:

Is the site wholly or partially screened from public view?If so, what does the screen consist of?If the screening includes trees and vegetation, what is the likely life-span of that vegetation?Where new vegetation is proposed, does it take account of the points raised under "Vegetation"above - e.g. appropriate use of local native species?Will the view be different at different times of the year, such as in the winter when leaves havefallen?

Views:

What are the places outside the site from where the development will be visible, and what willbe the distance of these viewpoints from the development?From key viewpoints, what proportion of the field of view will be occupied by the development(generally a higher proportion from closer viewpoints)?Are there opportunities to create pleasant views from the site, for example by clearing scrubor creating defined viewpoints for the use of occupiers?Are there any important views that need to be safeguarded?Is the site part of a significant view into or out of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? Ifso, what impact will it have on that view?Does the view include historic landscape features or structures whose setting needs to besafeguarded?

Rights of Way:

Are there public rights of way around or through the site?Are they well used by walkers, cyclists or horseriders?


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How is the landscape currently perceived from those rights of way? Would the developmentchange that perception and, if so, how?Are there other areas of permissive access land which are likely to experience an effect as aresult of the development?Are rights of way well-managed (well drained, kept clear of obstruction etc) and if not, is therean opportunity to address this as part of the development?

Tranquillity:

Will the development introduce new sources of noise or activity into a previously tranquil area?If so, what impact will that have on public enjoyment and/or wildlife habitats?

Illumination

What are the existing levels of artificial illumination?Will the proposed development introduce artificial illumination into an area which is currentlydark? If so, what impact will this have on wildlife habitats and/or the character of the surroundingarea?Where illumination is proposed, how can it be designed to avoid intruding into areas wheredarkness is valued as a characteristic feature?

Structures:

Are there existing buildings or structures on the site?What contribution do these make to the landscape? Do they enhance or detract?What building materials are prevalent in the surroundings?Is it appropriate to use similar materials for the proposed development?What boundary treatment is prevalent in the locality?Is it appropriate to use similar boundary treatment for the proposed development?

Historic Landscape:

Has reference been made to sources of information about features of historic and/orarchaeological interest on or around the site?For example, has information(2) been obtained from:

Surrey County Council's Historic Environment Record;The Historic Landscape Characterisation programme data base (viewable online viaSurrey County Council's Interactive Map); (3)

The County Archaeological Research Framework.

Are there other features or designations on or around the site which give clues to its historicdevelopment?If so, how does the proposed development acknowledge and safeguard such features?

3.12 The Character Profiles in Chapter 5 identify the main characteristics of each Landscape Character Area,to assist developers in considering some of the above issues. However, it is beyond the scope of thisSPD to provide a highly detailed analysis. The Character Profiles are intended to provide a useful

2 Further information on all these facilities is available via www.surreycc.gov.uk/recreation-heritage-and-culture/archaeology3 www.surreycc.gov.uk/maps/surrey-interactive-map


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starting-point, highlighting the main landscape issues within a wide area. Inevitably, there will also befeatures which are unique to a specific site and development proposals should demonstrate that regardhas been had to this local distinctiveness.

3.13 Within designated areas, notably the AONB and the AGLV, developers should be aware that protectionof the special qualities of the landscape will have special priority, as set out in the NPPF, in Core Strategypolicy CS13 and in paragraphs 3.19-3.20 below. Within the AONB, developers are advised to havereference to the Surrey Hills Management Plan, which can be accessed at www.surreyhills.org.

3.14 Within the built up areas, developers should also have regard to the guidance in the Larger Rural VillagesCharacter Appraisal SPD (adopted July 2013) and the Built Up Areas Character Appraisals (adoptedFebruary 2010).

For the Local Authority

3.15 Mole Valley District Council will refer to the Landscape SPD when determining planning applications.The Council will use the questions above, and the information in the Character Profiles, as a startingpoint to indicate the landscape issues which may be relevant to a specific development.

3.16 The Council will also refer to the Landscape SPD when assessing sites that have been suggested tothe Council for allocation within the Land Allocations Development Plan Document. This will especiallybe the case in the event that sites which are beyond the built up area boundaries come underconsideration. The Landscape SPD will help to identify key landscape features that need to be retained,enhanced, or restored. It will also help in assessing the impact of development on the sensitivity of thesurrounding landscape and any changes which may take place through increased development.Landscape issues will be among the constraints which determine the amount and type of developmentfor which a site may be allocated.

3.17 As noted in paragraph 3.10 above, there will be situations where the Council requires developers tosubmit additional information in the form of a site-specific Landscape Character Assessment, in orderthat the landscape impact of a proposal can be properly understood. This will apply on sites where thelocation of the site and/or the scale of the development are such that landscape issues will be a keyconsideration. It is very likely to be a requirement for larger developments within the AONB, or in locationswhere significant views into or out of the AONB may be at risk. It may also apply to proposals withinthe built up area, where they would be conspicuous in key views to, or from, the wider landscape.

3.18 The Character Profiles identify landscape features which are part of the distinctive character of eacharea. Under Core Strategy Policy CS13, the aim will be to ensure that all new development respectsand, where appropriate, enhances the character and distinctiveness of the landscape character area inwhich it is proposed. However, it is recognised that the information in this SPD is inevitably of abroad-brush nature. Within each Landscape Character Area there will be local variation and thecharacteristics of each individual site will also be assessed.

3.19 Within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, great weight will be given to conserving landscape andscenic beauty, in accordance with the NPPF. The Council will focus on issues including the impact ofdevelopment on ridgelines, significant views, peace, tranquillity and levels of artificial light, in line withthe AONB Management Plan 2009-2014 and Core Strategy Policy CS13.

3.20 Landscape issues will also carry considerable weight in planning decisions within the Area of GreatLandscape Value (AGLV). The AGLV is a local designation which identifies land that is considered tobe of particularly high landscape quality outside of, but adjoining, the AONB. As explained in paragraphs2.4 and 2.5, some of the land in the AGLV is part of an anticipated AONB boundary review. The reviewbuilds on work undertaken by Chris Burnett Associates in 2007, which identified that the majority of the


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AGLV within Mole Valley has identical characteristics with the AONB. With this in mind, the Counciltakes the view that protection of the AGLV should continue to be a high priority until such time as anynew AONB boundaries are established. This will particularly be the case where the impact of newdevelopment could cause harm to the AONB itself and/or views to or from the AONB (Policy CS13).

3.21 Within the AONB and AGLV, the Council will also consider proposals against the guidance in the AONBManagement Plan 2009-2014 and "Building Design into the Surrey Hills". Both documents are publishedby the Surrey Hills Board and available at www.surreyhills.org.

3.22 Throughout the District, where development is acceptable in principle, the Council will use the SPD toinform the approval of such detailed matters as landscaping schemes, the scale and layout of buildings,external materials and boundary treatments, to ensure that they are consistent with the character of thewider landscape.

For Third Parties

3.23 The Landscape SPD provides a resource for Parish Councils, local amenity groups, neighbourhoodforums and other bodies involved in neighbourhood planning or who take an interest in the planningprocess.

3.24 The questions above and the contents of the Character Profiles can be used to inform neighbourhoodplanning proposals, including the identification of sites, particularly where they are beyond existing builtup area boundaries. The Landscape SPD will help to identify key landscape features of such sites thatneed to be retained, enhanced, or restored.

3.25 The SPD can also be used to inform the preparation of representations on planning applications or siteallocations. The information contained in the Character Profiles should be regarded as a tool to helpall parties assess whether a development proposal successfully respects the landscape within which itwould be situated. However, all parties are reminded that the SPD is only a starting point and the specificcharacteristics of individual sites should always be taken into account.


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Chapter 4 The Landscape of Mole Valley - An Overview

4.1 The landscape of Mole Valley is dominated by the chalk escarpment of the North Downs, which crossesthe District from Abinger in the west to Buckland in the east. The distinctive profile and scarp face ofthe Downs can be viewed from much of the south of the District. The Downs are parallelled to the southby an undulating and heavily wooded greensand ridge rising to Leith Hill in the west.

Box Hill from Denbies

4.2 To the north of the Downs, the landscape is more dominated by suburban development as it gentlyslopes down towards the Thames. The Southern part of the District is much more rural, as the landscapeof the Downs makes way for the gently undulating Weald.

4.3 Through all of these landscapes the River Mole carves its path, starting near Gatwick with a collectionof small tributaries draining much of this part of the Weald before it then carves its way in a steep sidedvalley through the North Downs (the "Mole Gap"), before flowing between Leatherhead and Fetchamto meet the Thames to the north.

Geology

4.4 The geology generally runs on an east – west axis through the District (see Figure 4.1). To the souththe typical clays of the Weald are dominant, although interspersed with small areas of alluvium as aresult of the River Mole and its tributaries, plus small areas of gravel, limestone, brickearth and sandstone.The landscape is gently undulating and the small pockets of other geological features can cause ridgesor features in the area.

4.5 To the north of the clay, the next most dominant feature is the Greensand (sandstone) which results ina more prominent set of hills and ridges. This is particularly visible to the west of the District, where itresults in the formation of Leith Hill, the highest point in the South East. These hills then drop downtowards the edge of the North Downs where the distinctive chalk rises up dramatically, forming steepscarp slopes.


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The Landscape of Mole Valley - An Overview

4.6 The geology to the north of the District is dominated by the chalk of the North Downs but there are areasof clay, silt, sand and flints. The River Mole cuts through the Downs north of Dorking, leaving depositsof alluvium in the valley floor. Further north, the Downs give way to large areas of London Clay, whichresults in a generally flatter terrain.

4.7 Overall the underlying geology of the District gives rise to a varied, even dramatic landscape with anumber of peaks and focal points.


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Geology of Mole Valley


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Landform / topography

4.8 Figure 4.2 shows the main areas of gradient change across the District. The chalk escarpment runningeast-west through the centre of the District is clearly identifiable, as is the Mole Gap, where the RiverMole cuts through the Downs. To the south west the high ground of the Greensand Hill is also prominent,rising to the key landmark of Leith Hill.

4.9 South and east, the Greensand gives way to the lower, undulating landscape of the Low Weald, withits gently rolling landforms and wider open spaces.


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Topography of Mole Valley


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River and drainage systems

4.10 The River Mole and its tributaries are the main fluvial influence on the District. The River Mole's catchmentcovers most of Mole Valley, with the exception of a small area towards the north-east (draining into theHogsmill), the very south-west of the District (draining into the River Arun) and a small area to the west(draining into the River Wey).

4.11 The River Mole rises in the hills of North Sussex in the vicinity of Rusper and flows to join the Thamesat Molesey. The fall between their source and the River Thames is approximately 95m. From its sourceto its confluence the river is about 80km long.

4.12

River Mole at Leatherhead

The river was historically an important source ofpower for many years and old mill structures canstill be seen. In very dry weather the river hasbeen known to flow underground, leaving a drybed between Dorking and Thorncroft (south ofLeatherhead), re-emerging where the chalkmeets the clay. Conversely, at times of flood theMole can be described as quite “flashy”, in thatflooding can occur and dissipate rapidly in someareas within the floodplain. As the River Moleflows over the chalk bedrock, water disappearsdown swallow holes before emerging again nearLeatherhead.

4.13 Themajority of the River Mole's tributary streamsare found south of Dorking. Within the Districtthe Leigh Brook rises near Holmwood, flowingnorth east through the Weald past Leigh to itsconfluence with the Mole just above FlanchfordBridge. The Pippbrook flows from west to eastthrough a greensand valley to Dorking and joinsthe Mole at Pixham (east of Dorking). The RyeBrook flows from east to west along the northernedge of Ashtead and Leatherhead before joiningthe Mole to the north of Fetcham.

4.14 The River Tillingbourne has its source to thenorth of Leith Hill and flows along the south sideof the North Downs, to join the River Wey atGuildford. It flows through the village of AbingerHammer, where it feeds the watercress beds.

4.15 Mole Valley published a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment 2009, with an update chapter published in2012 to include updated data and changes in policy and procedures relating to flood risk (4). Thesedocuments provide maps and comprehensive information about locations in Mole Valley which aresubject to flood risk, alongside guidance on the issues which developers and decision-makers need totake into account.

4 The 2009 and 2012 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment documents are available from the Local Plans section of the Council's website:www.molevalley.gov.uk.


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Soils

4.16 The soil across the District is very varied. Agricultural land is generally classified as Grade 3 or 4. Asignificant proportion is also classified as non agricultural and is wooded or used for forestry.

4.17 Agriculture within the District is varied but generally pasture and grazing is more common in the northwith some arable farming towards the south.

4.18 Horse-keeping is common throughout the District, partly as a result of the limited opportunities forproductive agriculture on heavy clay soils. This can lead to poor maintenance of the land and hedges,where smallholdings are acquired for equestrian purposes by owners who do not necessarily have themeans or skills to manage the land or hedges.

Vegetation

4.19 An assessment of vegetation cover has been taken from the existing studies undertaken in the area.These are based on both desk and field based assessments, plus an analysis of the key features of theSAC (Special Area of Conservation), SSSI’s (Site of Special Scientific Interest), SNCI’s (Site of NatureConservation Importance) and LNR (Local Nature Reserve). The diversity of geology, landforms andsoils has led to differences in natural vegetation and in the way that the landscape has been managed.The result is a great variety of vegetation cover, particularly woodland but with significant areas of scrub,lowland heath and grassland.

4.20 Surrey is one of themost densely wooded counties in England with nearly 20%woodland cover comparedwith the national average of 7.5%. Mole Valley's proportion of woodland cover is even higher, at 30%woodland. Tree cover comprises a mix of broadleaf woodland, coppice woodland, shaws and smallwoodlands, ancient oak pasture plantations, scrub, hedgerows, urban fringe woodland, and parklandtrees.

4.21 The District includes the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment Special Area of Conservation (SAC), onceof the most important features of which is the stand of Box scrub which is unique in the UK. This occurson steep chalk slopes, where the River Mole has cut into the North Downs escarpment.

4.22 There is also a National Nature Reserve (NNR) at Ashtead Common. The common has 2,300 ancientoak pollards which constitutes by far its most important feature.

4.23 There is also a large amount of chalk grassland within the North Downs landscape area, most notablywithin the Special Area of Conservation. The SAC includes large but fragmented areas of nationallysignificant calcareous grassland, which support an important assemblage of orchid species. The SACalso supports a significant area of dry heathland and acid grassland at Headley Heath.

4.24 Hedgerows also provide a key feature in contributing to the character of the landscape and land coverparticularly in the Low Weald, where they give enclosure to fields and lanes and determine the patternof much of the landscape.

Designations and their distributions

4.25 Much of the District is covered by several strategic landscape and environmental policy designations,which result in strict controls being placed on new development in rural areas. One third of the Districtlies within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with further land lying within theadjoining Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV).


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4.26 There are 12 sites designated as SSSIs covering almost 9% of the District area, in addition to the SpecialArea of Conservation which covers much of Box Hill and Norbury Park in the north of the District.

4.27 There are many additional sites in the District which are designated as Sites of Nature ConservationImportance (SNCIs) or National or Local Nature Reserves. These are sites which are known to containflora and fauna of county or regional value and their importance for nature conservation is protectedunder policy CS15 of the Core Strategy.

4.28 The reasons why an individual site has been designated for its biodiversity significance are summarisedin Appendix 2 of the Mole Valley Local Plan 2000.

Surrey Hills AONB

4.29 The primary purpose of the designation is to conserve landscape and scenic beauty, which is recognisedas being of national importance (NPPF para 115). The Surrey Hills is one of the most wooded AONBsin the country. It is a diverse landscape with hills, valleys, mixed farming, chalk grassland, heathland,sunken lanes, small villages and market towns. Although the geology, soils and climate have createdthe structure to the landscape, changing patterns of land use and settlements have shaped what is seentoday.

4.30 The Surrey Hills Board has produced an AONBManagement Plan for 2009-2014 which has been adoptedby the constituent local authorities, including Mole Valley. A landscape character assessment formedpart of that work, and is one of the source documents for this SPD. The AONB Management Plan canbe viewed and downloaded at www.surreyhills.org.

Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV)

4.31 Significant parts of the countryside adjacent to the AONB are designated as AGLV. Planning policiesseek to ensure that, the high quality of this landscape is protected and where possible enhanced. Thisis considered particularly important in terms of protecting views to and from the AONB (Core Strategypolicy CS13, criterion 3).

4.32 In 2007, the Surrey Planning Officers Association commissioned a Review of the AGLV from ChrisBurnett Associates. The Review found that significant areas of the AGLV within Mole Valley had identicallandscape characteristics to the AONB. On that basis, the Council is supporting the Surrey Hills Boardin representations it has made to Natural England to encourage a review of the boundaries of the AONB(see paragraph 2.4 for more detail.) At the time of writing, Landscape Character Assessment is underwayto inform that work.

4.33 Pending the outcome of the boundary review, the Council takes the view that significant weight shouldbe given to protection of the landscape within the AGLV, as set out in Core Strategy Policy CS13.

Historic Parks and Gardens

4.34 The District contains five parks and gardens which are registered on the English Heritage Register ofParks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest, representing fine examples of 17th, 18th and 19th Centurylandscape design. Landscaped parks have had an important influence on large parts of the District andeven where they are no longer in existence and are used for other purposes, boundary specimen treesand other features can still be seen. The registered historic parks and gardens in Mole Valley are :

Polesden Lacey (Grade II*)Wotton House (Grade II*)The Deepdene (Grade II*)


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Norbury Park (Grade II)Ashtead Park (Grade II)

Settlement pattern

4.35 The majority of Mole Valley's population (72%) live in the two largest built-up areas which togethercomprise 7% of the District's area.

4.36 Near the geographical centre of District is the market town of Dorking, the built up area of which hasexpanded over the years to merge with the villages of North Holmwood and Pixham. Dorking sits belowthe Greensand Hills to the south and the chalk hills of the North Downs to the north. There are viewsof the surrounding countryside throughout the built up area, with the natural landscape forming animpressive backdrop to the urban environment. The centre of the town is at the low point of the valley,enabling panoramic views over the town from viewpoints at Box Hill, Denbies Hillside and Ranmore.

4.37 The other main built up area is in the north of the District, where the town of Leatherhead lies betweenthe expanded villages of Ashtead to the east and Bookham and Fetcham to the west. Residentialexpansion around each of the original settlements has created a substantially continuous built up area.However, there is a significant green corridor along the floodplain of the River Mole (between Leatherheadand Fetcham), as well as a belt of open grazing land separating Leatherhead and Ashtead. Bookhamand Ashtead Commons form substantial and important green spaces to the north, while themore dramaticlandscape of Box Hill and Norbury Park lies immediately to the south.

4.38 The remainder of the District is rural in nature. Villages of varying sizes are dispersed throughout thelandscape, from tiny hamlets such as Broadmoor and Friday Street, nestling in the deep interlockingvalleys of Leith Hill, to more substantial settlements such as Brockham, Westcott and Beare Green.Most of the larger villages lie along the A24 and A25 transport corridors. Many of the villages retaintheir historic core and the majority include at least one area designated as a Conservation Area.

4.39 Outside villages, most lower-lying areas are punctuated by isolated groups of dwellings and farmsteads.There also remains a handful of country estates, held in private ownership along with their associatedworkers' cottages and farms.


19


View towards Dorking from Denbies hillside


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Chapter 5 Character Profiles

5.1 There are four Regional Character Areas(5) within the District:

Thames Basin LowlandsNorth DownsWealden GreensandLow Weald

5.2 The extent of these four areas within Mole Valley is illustrated on the map on the following page.

5.3 ’The Future of Surrey’s Landscape and Woodlands‘ identified 25 county-wide Landscape CharacterAreas, of which twelve can be identified within Mole Valley, as follows:

County Landscape Character AreasRegional Character Areas

Esher & Epsom

Lower Mole

Thames Basin Lowlands

Ockham and Clandon

Box HillNorth Downs

Mole Gap

Ranmore & Hackhurst Downs

Holmesdale

Pippbrook & Tillingbourne

Wealden Greensand

Reigate Greensand: Deepdene

Leith Hill

Open WealdWooded Weald

Low Weald

Table 5.1

5.4 The location of each of these County Landscape Character Areas is shown on the map at Appendix 1.A Character Profile for each of the twelve is set out in the following pages and maps of the individualLCAs are included in Appendices 2 to 5.

5.5 There will often be some overlap at the boundaries between character areas, as changes in landscapecharacter are rarely abrupt or clearly delineated on the ground. Where a specific site is underconsideration, it will always be necessary to consider the actual characteristics of the immediate locality,alongside the information in the Character Profiles.

5 Character of England Landscape,Wildlife and Cultural FeaturesMap, 2005, Countryside Agency. More information on www.naturalengland.org.uk.


21

Character Profiles

Regional Character Areas


22

Character Profiles

5.1 Thames Basin LowlandsOverview

5.6 Within Mole Valley, the Thames Basin Lowlands incorporates the settlements of Bookham, Fetcham,Ashtead and Leatherhead, together with the countryside to the north, including Bookham and AshteadCommons and the intervening farmland. Views of the North Downs are possible across much of thearea. The River Mole meanders through a broad valley from the North Downs northwards towards theThames. The open, flat valley floor is set within a gently undulating landscape. The River Mole oftenfloods, forming temporary lakes on the valley floor and supporting riparian wet woods and water meadows.

5.7 The geology is predominantly clay, making soil heavy and difficult to cultivate. Areas of poorer qualitysoil have remained as commons or woodlands. Farmland is interspersed by woodlands and shaws.Fields are medium to small in size and usually divided by hedges.

5.8 Field trees almost invariably run in straight lines and mark the position of vanished hedges. Many ofthese trees are of a similar age with almost none that are young. Oak is the most common hedgerowtree, although ash and field maple also occur. The main woodland type is oak with a mix of brackenand bramble.

5.9 The interface between the countryside and the urban edge varies in quality depending on its management.Many areas are carefully managed, including BookhamCommon (National Trust) and Ashtead Common(Corporation of the City of London). However, in a few locations the landscape can have an unkemptappearance, sometimes associated with horse keeping or historic neglect. Irregular fences and gappyhedges, run-down sheds, obstructed water courses and fields full of docks, nettles and ragwort can givesuch areas a neglected feel. In some cases, this is a consequence of relatively poor agricultural landbeing fragmented and/or converted for equestrian use, where individual landowners may not have theskills or resources to care for the land or hedges.

5.10 This is a particular issue elsewhere in the Thames Basin, closer to London, but also occurs in pocketson the fringes of Mole Valley's settlements.

5.11 Throughout the Thames Basin area, twentieth century development has tended to expand around villagesuntil they appear to merge together. The settlements of Ashtead, Fetcham and Bookham have succeededin retaining a strong village identity, even though their original village centres are now at the heart ofmuch larger residential areas. These settlements, and the town of Leatherhead, remain remarkablywell hidden in the wider landscape, as a result of undulating gradients and generous tree cover.

5.12 There are larger urban populations further north on the outskirts of London and the easy accessibilityof the area means that it is widely used for informal recreation. The M25, which runs alongside the RiverMole embankment is a significant feature both in terms of both noise and visual intrusion.

5.13 Key issues in the Thames Basin Lowlands include:

Loss, or poor maintenance, of hedges, hedgerow and field trees, which degrades the structure ofthe farmed landscapes and contributes to loss of linear wildlife habitats throughout the landscape;Recreational pressure within popular and important public access land such as Bookham andAshtead Commons;Areas of neglected and unkempt land, including poor management of horse pastures, around theurban fringes;Conservation of the River Mole corridor and adjoining meadows.


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Character Profiles

5.14 Within Mole Valley, the Thames Basin Lowlands contains three Landscape Character Areas:

Esher and EpsomOckham and ClandonLower Mole

5.1.1 Character Profile: Esher and Epsom5.15 The Esher and Epsom (6) Landscape Character Area takes in land to the north of Leatherhead and

Ashtead, including Ashtead Common (see map in Appendix 2). It includes the northern part of bothsettlements and extends to the boundary of Mole Valley in the east and north. The western boundarygenerally follows the route of Randalls Road.

Key Characteristics

Wooded commons, the results of natural regeneration, give parts of the area a moderately woodedappearance.Elsewhere, small to medium sized, irregularly rectangular fields are enclosed by hedges with maturehedgerow trees.Hedgerow lined roads give a sense of enclosure.Glimpsed and occasional open views of the North Downs dip slope contrast with the enclosure foundwithin the farmland areas.Large parts of the area are urban in nature.M25 corridor passes through the area, between Leatherhead and Ashtead.

5.16 The Esher and Epsom LCA includes the environs of Leatherhead and Ashtead, east of the River Molecorridor. A mixture of open chalk grassland and small scale farmland lies close to, and is fragmentedby, urban areas. Much of the area is built-up but there are tracts of open undulating countryside andextensive wooded areas, notably including the 181Ha of Ashtead Common.

5.17 Outside the built-up areas, the area retains much of its rural agricultural landscape character and providesa transition between the densely wooded landscape on top of the North Downs and the built-up areas.The traditional late 18th century landscape patterns of fields and woods is still evident, but the landscapehas been affected by the loss of traditional land uses and land management.

5.18 Ashtead Common retains a particularly rare landscape of gnarled, old, pollard oaks in pasture ofconsiderable historic and ecological value. It is designated as a National Nature Reserve and a Site ofSpecial Scientific Interest (SSSI) and contains important areas of veteran trees in broadleaved woodlandor wood pasture, scrub grassland, meadow grassland and wetland. It is protected as an SSSI to protectthese habitats. The City of London, who own the Common, have amanagement plan in place to conservethe valuable habitat and over the past 15 years considerable progress has been made to control scruband secondary woodland and conserve the ancient oak pollards which provide an important habitat forinsects in particular. Ashtead Common is also of some archaeological significance, including, as it does,the remains of a Roman villa.

6 Please note: the title of this Character Area is taken from the County-wide study "The Future of Surrey's Landscape and Woodlands" and refersto settlements located just outside the boundaries of Mole Valley. This profile is for the part of the County Landscape Character Area whichlies within Mole Valley.


24

Character Profiles

5.19 Immediately north west of Leatherhead, Teazle Wood is about 23 Hectares of woodland which wasoriginally in private hands, but was purchased by a group of local residents, businesses and otherorganisations in 2012. Their intention is that it will be safeguarded in perpetuity for its biodiversityimportance and to maintain a woodland setting to this part of the town. The woodland is designated asa Site of Nature Conservation Importance and includes areas of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland, buthas suffered degradation as a result of historic neglect and would benefit from a well thought out woodlandmanagement scheme.

Path through Ashtead Common

Settlement Character and Setting

5.20 The southern part of this character area includes the parts of Leatherhead north of the town centre andmuch of the extended village settlement of Ashtead.

5.21 Leatherhead grew up as a small market town and staging post at a convenient place to ford the RiverMole. The town has spread north from the town centre, along the route of the Kingston Road and therailway line. This character area includes extensive residential and business development, with severalbusiness parks located on the periphery of the built up area. The landscape of the urban fringe includesbelt of open fields along the M25 corridor and the river Mole, with areas of woodland to the north, atTeazle Wood and Ashtead Common. Pachesham Park is a private estate of large detached homesaround a lake, set in clearings within the woodland to the north of Leatherhead, between the A243 andA244.

5.22 The village of Ashtead has experienced considerable residential expansion around the original villagecentre, which is near the southern edge of this character area. The built up area includes a mixture ofresidential areas, some with a low density, semi-rural character and others of a more suburban nature.The woodland and heathland landscape of Ashtead Common provides a strong landscape setting. TheBerg Estate to the north east of the village extends right into the edge of the woodland. Elsewhere, thenorthern edge of the village adjoins a patchwork of small fields.


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Character Profiles

5.23 The Built Up Areas Character Appraisals for Leatherhead and Ashtead provide more detail about thecharacter within each settlement.

Local Building Materials

Red bricks and red tiles, render and slate, some flintHedgerows, especially on boundaries between built-up area and countryside.Timber post and rail fences and brick walls.

Actions

Careful management of land and public access.Conservation of hedges, hedgerow trees and field trees to retain the remaining structure within thefarmed landscapes. Local voluntary groups can play a valuable role in helping tomanage woodlands,and commons. Volunteer opportunities are co-ordinated by bodies including the National Trust(Bookham Common), the Corporation of the City of London (Ashtead Common) and the LowerMole Countryside Management Project (countryside around Ashtead, Leatherhead, Fetcham andBookham).Potential opportunities to address issues of historic degradation at Teazle Wood, Leatherhead,following its acquisition by the Friends of Teazle Wood.

5.1.2 Character Profile: Ockham and Clandon5.24 The Ockham and Clandon LCA (7) includes the built up areas of Bookham and Fetcham, together with

the land to the north, including Bookham Common and adjacent farmland. It extends to the boundariesof Mole Valley in the north and west. The eastern boundary approximately follows the River Mole, thefloodplain of which lies in the adjacent LCA (Lower Mole). See map in Appendix 2 for more detail.

5.25 The LCA is named after two villages which lie outside the District, but within the same County-wideLandscape Character Area. The name has been retained in this document, to enable cross-referencingwith the County study (see para 1.5).

Key Characteristics

Small to medium size, irregularly shaped fields are enclosed by hedges and shaws.Narrow hedgerow lined roads, sometimes slightly sunken, give few views and a strong sense ofenclosure.Large block of woodland, including areas of Ancient Woodland, notably at Bookham Common SSSI.A large proportion of the Character Area is within the built up area.

5.26 This area is characterised by a mix of agricultural areas with large blocks of woodland abutting the northof Fetcham and Bookham. Shaws extend from woodland into farmland giving a more woodedappearance. Bookham Common SSSI provides a large single block of woodland, including areas ofAncient Woodland. Oak standards over hazel coppice occur most frequently but oak high forest iscommon in secondary woodland. Small areas of sweet chestnut and conifer plantation exist and willowdominates wet pockets within woodlands.

7 Please note: the title of this Character Area is taken from the County-wide study "The Future of Surrey's Landscape and Woodlands" and refersto settlements located just outside the boundaries of Mole Valley. This profile is for the part of the County Landscape Character Area whichlies within Mole Valley.


26

Character Profiles

5.27 Bookham Common is owned by the National Trust and there is an active programme of management.It is also a popular for recreational use, with a network of footpaths and bridleways. Bookham Commonis important for nature conservation, as are some of the smaller areas of woodland. The smaller woodlandsvary in condition and management.

5.28 Shaws are a common and important features in this landscape. They occur as extensions of woodlandsand as field boundaries, which are frequently unfenced and so are composed of even aged oak treeswith little or no understorey or woodland ground flora. They usually have ditches and banks associatedwith them.


5.29 Bookham and Fetcham are the two main settlements in this area. The village of Fetcham was firstrecorded in the late 10th Century and was referenced in the Domesday Survey as three different manorholdings. Fetcham is now a large, mainly residential settlement, based around the village centre. Thereis a mix of housing styles from medieval to modern.

5.30 Bookham is one of the larger settlements in the District, with origins in the mid 13th century. Its Medievalstreet pattern - north-south and east-west - has been largely maintained. Again, the settlement is mainlyresidential, with a mix of historic and modern buildings. It includes a small commercial area in the northwest, near the railway station.

5.31 Bookham Common lies immediately to the north of the built up area, providing a wooded backdrop tothe residential fringe. The connection with the landscape is particularly strong near the railway station,where fingers of Common land project right into the village, along Church Road and Little BookhamStreet. Elsewhere, the railway corridor tends to define the northern edge of the built up area. A belt oftrees and shrubs screens the developed area from the wider landscape.


27

Character Profiles

Common land at edge of Little Bookham

5.32 The southern edge of Fetcham and Bookham is also clearly-defined, but with a much more open outlooktowards the landscape of the North Downs. Residential areas adjoin open fields, rising up towards theestates of Polesden Lacey and Norbury Park.

5.33 West of the built up area, the edge of the built up area is not so well-defined. Sporadic developmentcontinues along Lower Road and Guildford Road, with small businesses and residential propertiesseparated by small fields and equestrian uses.

5.34 The Built Up Areas Character Appraisal for Bookham and Fetcham provides more detail about characterwithin the settlements themselves.


Red brick and tiles - mixture of flint, render and slate.A mix of brick and wooded fences with some flint and brick walls.Extensive tree cover and garden planting within residential areas.

Actions

Shaws in this area should be targeted for management and protection as they are a particularlyimportant feature of the landscape.Local voluntary groups can play a valuable role in helping to manage woodlands, and commons.Volunteer opportunities are co-ordinated by bodies including the National Trust (BookhamCommon)


28

Character Profiles

and the Lower Mole Countryside Management Project (countryside around Ashtead, Leatherhead,Fetcham and Bookham).

5.1.3 Character Profile: Lower Mole5.35 The Lower Mole LCA is a narrow landscape corridor, following the route of the River Mole, downstream

of central Leatherhead. The eastern boundary of the LCA is at Randalls Road. The western boundaryis just west of the river itself. See map in Appendix 2 for detailed boundaries.

Key Characteristics

Broad, meandering valley with a flat, medium scale, moderately open landscape.Small woodland pockets and strips of riparian woodland.Strong hedgerow pattern of hedges with hedgerow trees, which is becoming degraded.Pockets of unkempt land around the urban fringes.

5.36 North west of Leatherhead the River Mole flows through a broad gentle valley which winds its waynorthward to the Thames. The valley is open with occasional small pockets of woodland and some stripsof riparian woodland. The land is mostly used for grazing and has a strong hedgerow pattern whichvaries greatly in quality from thick, low and dense to thin and sparse. The thin hedges are often speciespoor, while thicker hedges are generally species rich, with a mixture of blackthorn, hawthorn, ash, fieldmaple, hornbeam, oak. Elm hedges and lines of elm suckers also occur, especially just north ofLeatherhead.

5.37 Where there has been the loss of hedgerows the occasional line of oak trees can be found. There arealso some areas of well managed horse pasture.

5.38 Within the floodplain of the River Mole, areas such as Common Meadow and Fetcham Splash provideaccess to surprisingly intimate river landscapes, very close to the built up area. The floodplain servesan important function in storing water during periods of heavy rainfall and it is not uncommon for partsof the low lying land to be submerged for periods of a few days.

5.39 The M25 runs across the valley and is a major feature in the landscape. Noise from the motorway affectsthe character and tranquility of the landscape. The floodplain and river valley is broad and meanderingat this point.


29

Character Profiles

Grazing on Common Meadow, Leatherhead


5.40 This area does not include any substantial built up areas. However, the Lower Mole area acts as animportant landscape corridor, separating the settlements of Leatherhead and Fetcham and helping themmaintain their distinctive character.

5.41 The open spaces of Fetcham Splash and Common Meadow are enjoyed by local residents for informalrecreation on a local scale, as well as connecting into the more extensive riverside footpath network tothe south.


30

Character Profiles

Footpath between Cobham Road, Fetcham and Mill Lane, Leatherhead

Local Building Material

Red bricks and red tiles.Hedgerows, especially on boundaries between built-up areas and countryside.Timber post and rail fences and brick walls.

Actions

Mole Valley District Council are actively conserving and managing river corridors and adjoiningmeadows through the Lower Mole Countryside Management Project.Continued maintenance of good quality horse pasture.Conservation management of trees and woodlands is appropriate in the south and middle stretches.Other management includes the re-creation of the landscape structure which is needed in thenorthern stretches, including managed public open spaces, boundary improvements, tree plantingand improved horse pasture management.

5.2 North DownsOverview

5.42 The full sweep of the North Downs runs from Dover, Kent in the east to Farnham, Surrey in the west.They have a dramatic and distinctive topography with a steep, south facing scarp slope that is particularlyvisible in Mole Valley and gently sloping north facing dip slope. Within Mole Valley, the North Downslies between the Thames Basin and Wealden Greensand areas.


31

Character Profiles

5.43 The geology of the area is predominantly chalk although there are also surface deposits of sand gravelsand clay with flints. The resulting soil provides for a variety of landscapes and habitats, not just rollingchalk downland. Land use is characterised by open sweeps of traditional downland grazing, but in someareas this makes way for arable fields. The open downland and the complexity of the surface depositsis reflected in the small scale farmland, enclosed by hedgerows and shaws east of Box Hill and in theheathland at Ranmore Common.

5.44 The River Mole provides an important corridor through the North Downs within Mole Valley, giving theDistrict its name.

5.45 The unimproved chalk grassland of the North Downs provides open expanses, long views and is richin a valuable variety of flora and fauna. Conservation grazing projects are proving to offer a valuablemethod of maintaining the open grassland, which requires continuous management to retain its distinctivecharacter and protect important and rare species.

5.46 The woodland is varied, including areas of ancient woodland. This area contains the most extensivearea of natural box and yew woodland in Europe. Consequently, large areas of the Reigate to Boxhillescarpment are designated as a Special Area of Conservation. The area also includes pockets ofevergreen plantation, especially towards the top of the Downs, where the woodland on the dip slopeextends over onto the scarp. The lower slopes are more open but are subject to colonisation by scrub.Beech woodland is also a feature of the area. The whole of the North Downs is quite well wooded,particularly between Guildford and Dorking where some especially large areas extend over the valleysand downs. Beech, ash, field maple, oak, holly and birch are all common species, with an under-storeyincluding bramble, bracken and dog's mercury.

5.47 The area contains important transport corridors and roads. Roads and railways follow the line of theriver Mole through the North Downs helping to shape the layout of settlements including Leatherheadand Dorking. Local building materials including flint are typical in this area and red-orange Wealdenbricks have been widely used for features such as corners, doors and window surrounds, framing thegrey and white flints.

5.48 Key issues in the North Downs include:

Recreational pressure at key locations, including Box Hill, Headley Heath and Norbury Park, wherethere is a need to balance the desirability of responsible recreational use against risk to the landscapeand nature conservation interests;Risk of species loss within chalkland grassland habitats, if not properly managed;Scrub incursion within woodland areas;Potential suburbanising impact of major transport routes, such as the A24 corridor;Pockets of unkempt land around the urban fringes.Preserving areas of peace and tranquillity.

5.49 Within Mole Valley, the North Downs area contains three Landscape Character Areas:

Box HillMole GapRanmore and Hackhurst Downs


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Character Profiles

5.2.1 Character Profile: Box Hill5.50 The Box Hill LCA forms part of the "Woldingham, Chaldon and Box Hill" County LCA, as identified in

the 1997 study (see para 1.5). It takes in the whole of the Box Hill and Headley area, from the southernfringes of Leatherhead and Ashtead, south to the Box Hill escarpment, taking in the villages of Box Hill,Headley and Mickleham. The southern boundary approximately follows the Dorking-Reigate railwayline. The western boundary includes Mickleham village, but excludes parts of the lower slopes of BoxHill. See map in Appendix 3 for detailed boundaries.

Key Characteristics

Extensive species rich ancient woodland, beech woodland, shaws and coppice.Areas of high-quality unimproved chalk grassland.

Tracts of open downland, heathland, wood pasture and commons.

Far reaching expansive views from scarp viewpoints across the Greensand Hills and the Weald.Woodland belts, shaws and thick hedges divide fields.Small settlements scattered across the Downs.Isolated farms occur on hill tops and in valleys.Areas of peace and tranquillity, with dark skies and little disturbance from traffic noise.Roads located in the intersecting valleys are enclosed.Rail corridor through the lower land, south of the Box Hill escarpment.High levels of recreational use, especially around Box Hill Visitor Centre and Headley Heath.North Downs Way long distance footpath provides an important route for recreational access.Isolated expanses of open heathland in the west of the area.

5.51 Most of this area is within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. North of the AONBboundary, from Cherkley Court to Headley, is an area which is within the Area of Great Landscape Value(AGLV). This is one of the areas which was identified in the 2007 study as having identical characteristicsto the AONB (see para 3.20). The Character Area also includes much of the Mole Gap to ReigateEscarpment Special Area of Conservation.

5.52 Along this stretch of the Downs, to the east of the Mole Gap, the dip slope is dissected by a series ofsteep U-shaped valleys. Between these valleys at the top of the dip slope are areas of flat open terrainwhere valleys join. This intervening high ground forms a blunt profile characteristic of the Downs here.It provides a special sense of openness on top of the Downs despite the gradual encroachment of scruband woodland. The prominent scarp slope provides a dramatic and dominant feature, which overlooksmuch of the District towards the south.

5.53 In the past there were extensive areas of heathland due to the acidic surface deposits of sand andgravels. This heathland still remains, but to a lesser extent. A large proportion of this area is still farmland,of a downland character, ranging from large scale open areas with few trees, fields divided by post andwire fences and downland areas separated by woodland and wooded valleys.


33

Character Profiles

5.54 This area has a simplistic underlying chalk geology, but there is a great variety of surface deposits fromsands, gravels and clay with flint, each with their own characteristic vegetation. There are acidic heathlandareas such as Headley Heath, ash and field maple woodlands on clay soils and oak and birch woodlandon the flinty, clay soils. Yew and box are characteristic of the steep exposed chalk slopes, while beltsof woodland on the open downland contain either beech or ash and field maple.

5.55 The scarp comprises a rich mosaic of pasture, ploughed land, downland, woodland and scrub. Thenorth facing dip slope is more open and undulating with wooded shaws, pasture, large arable fields andparkland. Hedgerows are not generally characteristic of the downland, but in places the remnants ofan old hedge line remain.

5.56 Occasional chalk quarries, such as at Betchworth, are prominent landmarks and give the scarp a dramaticcharacter. With the exception of forestry and those woodlands managed by the Surrey conservationagencies, most woodlands are unmanaged and some of those adjacent to urban areas have a poorstructure, often merging into gardens and displaying exotic species and species which do not derivefrom this area.

5.57 The area is extremely popular for recreation, especially around the National Trust's visitor centre at BoxHill. Headley Heath is also a popular destination, with car parking and the cricket green. There is awidespread network of footpaths and bridleways throughout the area and the National Trust promotesits land as a venue for responsible outdoor recreation. The focal points of the Box Hill visitor centre andHeadley Heath cricket ground bustle with visitors at popular times. There are also educational facilitiesat Nower Wood educational nature reserve, Juniper Hall and High Ashurst, providing opportunities foryoung people in particular to enjoy and learn about the countryside.

5.58 Despite these focal points for recreational and educational uses, the wider landscape retains areas ofreal peace and tranquillity, which are much to be valued in this densely developed region of the country.

View over Juniper Hall


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Character Profiles

Settlement Character

5.59 The settlement pattern historically consisted of widely scattered small settlements. This pattern is stillevident within the farmed landscape. Several isolated farmsteads remain, standing on hill tops, in valleysand within stand alone fields. The traditional landscape view to the north of the area has however, beenobscured to some extent by urban development extending southwards from London along the valleys.

5.60 There are three villages within this landscape character area: Box Hill, Headley andMickleham. Headleyis a small village with a loose knit pattern of development. The church, pub and shop (housed in theformer village hall) form a focal point, from which pockets and ribbons of houses spread sporadicallyover a wide area, along the narrow lanes. The countryside setting is apparent throughout the village.Even in the village centre, buildings are grouped on one side of the road, facing a large expanse of openland. Streets are generally unlit, which contributes to the highly rural character of the village, althoughthere is some night-time light pollution from the urban areas to the north.

5.61 Local flint has been used extensively in traditional building construction. Brick has been often used forcorners, doors and window surrounds. The rich orange-reds of Wealden bricks contrast attractively withthe cool grey of the local flint work.

5.62 The Defence Medical Rehabilitation Unit at Headley Court is a notable feature, with a parkland campusof modern buildings around the original 19th century house.

5.63 Box Hill village is a larger settlement, having experienced significant residential expansion in the middleof the 20th century. Mainly detached houses and bungalows spread out along Boxhill Road and aroundthe triangle formed by Ashurst Drive and Headley Heath Approach. The village also includes a clusterof park home sites. Areas of hard landscaping and well-clipped domestic hedges give parts of thisvillage a more suburban character than elsewhere in the Box Hill area.

5.64 Mickleham lies at the western extreme of the character area, on the edge of the Mole Gap. The villagehas a linear form, flanking the Old London Road with an outlying group of properties at Byttom Hill,overlooking Norbury Park. Red brick, flint and tile predominant, but render and slate can also be seen.The A24 by-passes the village, helping it to retain much of its 18th and 19th century character. Thehistoric pattern of the village is still evident, with narrow, winding lanes, lined by high stone and brickwalls. Parts of the village centre feel highly enclosed, between the steep, wooded valley sides andboundary walls.


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Character Profiles

Mickleham Village Centre

5.65 Mickleham Conservation Area is ranged along approximately 750 metres of the Old London Road.Within the Conservation Area, a high proportion of buildings are of historic or architectural interest. Inthe central part of the village a number of footpaths converge and there are important views out towardsthe landscape surrounding the village. To the east, the parish church can be seen against the steeplyrising slopes of the North Downs. Box Hill School is an important feature at the north end of the OldLondon Road, with its imposing main school building in a parkland campus.

5.66 To the north of this character area is the built up area of Ashtead. The southern part of the village ischaracterised by very low density housing within highly landscaped, spacious street layouts. Theseparts of the village help to form a gradual transition between the built up areas and the open landscapeto their south. The character of the built up area is described more fully in the Built Up Areas CharacterAppraisal for Ashtead.

Local Building materials

Red brick and tiles, occasionally decorative or running in patterns, grey slate and white paintedwalls, grey and white flint.Hedgerows, tree belts, shrubs and brick walls.

Actions

Enhancement of landscape character through management of existing woodlands, shaws andhedgerows.Removal of scrub from grass downland and re-introduction of grazing where possible.Removing fly tipping as soon as possible, improving footpaths network and horse pasturemanagement.


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Character Profiles

Heathland restoration at Headley with a priority of maintaining habitats.Careful visitor management to balance responsible recreational use with the preservation of natureconservation interests (especially within the Special Area of Conservation) and preservation ofpeace and tranquillity.

5.2.2 Character Profile: Mole Gap5.67 The Mole Gap LCA follows the route of the River Mole downstream from the northern edge of Dorking

to the centre of Leatherhead. It takes in the lower slopes of Box Hill to the east and Norbury Park andRanmore to the west. The LCA includes the village of Westhumble and residential areas on the southernedge of Leatherhead, including Givons Grove. See map in Appendix 3 for detailed boundaries.

Key Characteristics

Meandering River Mole with narrow strips of riparian woodland occurring alongside the river andwater meadowsPicturesque and often dramatic views associated with Mickleham, Box Hill and Norbury ParkDensely wooded valleys, particularly with juniper, yew and box woodlandSteep sided cliffs overlooking the valley and high points with spectacular viewsNarrow winding, enclosed lanes with hedgerow and wooded boundariesRegular field pattern of rolling pasture with bushy hedgerows (in valley), but smaller fields nearer toHeadley.Remnant parkland within farmland includes avenues, specimen trees, pollard limes and oaks, copsesand exotic shrubsSettlements are nestled into valley sides.Includes a section of the North Downs Way long distance footpath, south of Westhumble.

5.68 This area is generally open, but is dominated by a striking corridor of landscape between Dorking andLeatherhead where the River Mole cuts through the chalk escarpment to create a spectaculargeomorphological feature and one of the most popular visitor destinations for the Surrey Hills. Themeandering River Mole has created natural amphitheatres surrounded by riparian woodland. The valleyis flanked on the east by the precipitous, wooded slopes of Box Hill and by more gently rising farmland,vineyards and parkland on the west.


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Character Profiles

View across the Mole Gap, from Box Hill to Denbies Hillside

5.69 Many of these areas provide a mix of semi-natural woodland especially on the steep sides of the valley.This is an important feature within the landscape, although much of it was substantially storm damagedin 1987. Since then, there has since been good natural regeneration, producing species rich woodedareas. This includes at Norbury Park which is on the English Heritage Parks and Gardens Register andwas originally laid out in the late eighteenth century to provide a picturesque setting to Norbury ParkHouse.

5.70 In addition to its historical significance and importance for nature conservation, the area is extremelypopular for recreation. The valley floor is overlooked by Box Hill, Ranmore and Norbury Park. DenbiesWinery and Bocketts Farm, also in the area, are also popular visitor destinations in the Surrey Hills. TheMole Gap also provides extensive networks of footpaths and bridleways allowing for a number ofrecreational pursuits such as walking, running, cycling and horse riding. The North Downs Way crossesjust south of Westhumble, linking Box Hill and Ranmore.

5.71 The Mole Gap is also an important transport corridor for road and rail. The A24 follows the line of theRiver Mole through the Gap and provides important views of the distinctive outline of Box Hill. Inevitably,parts of the dual carriageway have changed the distinct rural character of the area with the introductionof suburban elements of street lighting, formal lines of trees and maintained grass verges.


5.72 Westhumble is the only village within the Mole Gap area. The village experienced significant residentialexpansion in the mid 20th century, spreading west from its historic core. It now forms a residentialenclave characterised by large detached houses located along private roads with views towards JuniperHill. Nearly every dwelling has it own individual character, which adds to the overall elegance of thevillage. Gardens are generally well-landscaped with trees and hedges screening much of this residentialenclave from wider views.


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Character Profiles

View over Westhumble (c) Robert Steele

5.73 Parts of Mickleham are also very much part of the Mole Gap landscape, despite being physically withinthe Box Hill character area. In particular, the properties at Byttom Hill rise up the steep valley sides andform an attractive composition of cottages and other traditional buildings, against a backdrop of woodland.The parish church can also be seen in views from the east, against the steeply rising slopes of the NorthDowns.

5.74 The northern part of the Mole Gap character area includes much of the built up area of Leatherhead.The southernmost part of the town includes areas of low density detached housing, in mature gardensettings. These include Givons Grove, an enclave of large private houses, lying south of the built uparea in a secluded, arcadian setting. The town rises up towards the "Beaverbrook" roundabout, at theentrance to the Cherkley Court estate, where there is a marked sense of transition from the residentialparts of the town into the rolling landscape of the Surrey Hills.

5.75 Moving inwards towards the town centre, densities become higher and the Mole Gap area includesmuch of the town centre and Conservation Area. The Built Up Areas Character Appraisal for Leatherheadprovides more detail about the character of these areas of the town.


Red and brown brick, flint, red tiled roofs, vertical tile hanging to upper floors and white paintedwalls and slate roofs.Slate is also a common material.Open boundaries, hedges, hedgerow trees, banks, shrubs and brick walls.

Actions

Reduce the visual impact of roadside car parks.


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Character Profiles

Implementation of Road Verge Habitat Action Plan and Green Corridor Action Plan (8), to managecentral reservations and road verges, including along the A24, as a means to reduce the road'ssuburban impactManaging woodlands and reducing scrub, restoring parkland.Ensure that the increased use of the area for recreational and leisure pursuits is not detrimental tothe overall landscape.

5.2.3 Character Profile: Ranmore and Hackhurst Downs5.76 The Ranmore and Hackhurst LCA covers an extensive rural area west of the Mole Gap, extending from

the southern edge of Bookham to the southern edge of Ranmore Common. It includes the valuedlandscapes of Ranmore Common, Norbury Park and Polesden Lacey. See map at Appendix 3 fordetailed boundaries.

Key Characteristics

Pockets of farmland are enclosed within woodland with medium sized fields divided by dense shaws.Woodland is particularly dense on the scarp, the top of the dip slope and within its dry valleys (it isboth ancient and secondary woodland).Woodland is mixed including ancient and secondary woodland with some conifer plantations.Most hedgerows occur along the narrow, winding lanes and ar