The Beeches, Leadburn
This landscape appraisal, carried out for a private client, identified the scope for low density rural housing on part of a 19 hectare agricultural holding.
Using historical maps, aerial photographs and fieldwork it became clear that, by reinstating former field boundaries, a more robust landscape framework could be created, which would help to integrate new housing development into the landscape.
A landscape plan accompanied the appraisal and set out to:
- strengthen the landscape character by protecting and enhancing the main landscape components;
- improve microclimate for low density housing development;
- protect and enhance the biodiversity value of the existing wet meadow and shelterbelts;
- provide new wildlife corridors; and
- improve public access.
The Reporter for the Finalised Midlothian Local Plan Inquiry allocated the site for low-density rural housing in his report of April 2008. |
