Appendix A10.1: Local Landscape Character Areas 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Baseline Conditions

Appendix A10.1: Local Landscape Character Areas

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 This appendix sets out the baseline landscape character using Local Landscape Character Areas (LLCA) to describe the study area. For each LLCA, the description includes location, topography, drainage, land use, settlement, views, positive and negative attributes, designations, condition, scenic quality and sensitivity to change due to development.

1.1.2 The location of the Local Landscape Character Areas and landscape designations are shown on Figures 10.1 and 10.3 respectively.

1.1.3 Photographs illustrating the characteristics of each LLCA are shown in Figure 10.2

1.2 Baseline Conditions

1.2.1 The LLCAs within the Study Area are described below for each character type as listed in Chapter 10 (Landscape) and as they occur from north to south in the study area.

Lowland Hill and Valley Farmland

Woodlee

1.2.2 This LLCA is situated 2km east of Dunfermline Urban Area and is bounded to the west by the M90 with Crossgate urban settlement to the north.

1.2.3 This area is composed of south facing rolling open farmland sloping up to the north and reaching a high point of 137m above Ordnance Survey (aOD). Settlement in the area comprises a few scattered farm dwellings and a small caravan park at Drumcooper. The area also has a history of mining which is reflected in the row of air shafts located in the east of the LLCA. The elevated position of the area allows open views towards Clinthill Top to the south.

1.2.4 In terms of hydrology, there is a lake at Windmill Knowe in the north of the area and several small burns along the edges of fields throughout the area.

1.2.5 The main access route through the area is the B916 which traverses the area north to south. In addition there are several rural roads and farm access tracks leasing from the B916. There is aural and visual intrusion from the A90 to the west. Further visual intrusion occurs in the south of the area from pylons and overhead transmission lines.

1.2.6 Drystone walls and hedges define the field boundaries within the area. Vegetation cover is mainly scrub, rough grassland and species-rich grassland with some marsh areas to the northeast of the LLCA. Farmed land is arable and rough grazing. There are small areas of mixed woodland, hedge trees and shelterbelts around some farm buildings.

Table 1: Landscape Character Summary for Woodlee

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Rolling open farmland
Positive Character Attributes	Vernacular buildings Rolling open farmland Open views towards southwest
Negative Character Attributes	Visual and aural intrusion of the M90 along west edge. The B981 road cuts through the area. Pylons and communication masts
Landscape Designations	Semi-natural Woodland Inventory/ Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland
Landscape Condition	Well maintained walls Working farmland with semi-mature woodland blocks in good condition.
Scenic Quality	Average scenic quality due to disruptive linear elements such as M90 and pylons.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Duloch

1.2.7 This LLCA is situated to the east of Dunfermline and is bounded to the east by the M90.

1.2.8 Duloch is situated on a gentle southeast facing slope with a rolling landscape to the north. Settlement in the area consists of a cluster of smallholdings and farm buildings in the south of the LLCA. To the north of the area are fields and planted mixed woodland. The area is overlooked by the housing development to the west and affected by the Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line, M90 and an overhead powerline with pylons.

1.2.9 Pinkerton Burn is the main hydrological feature in the area and runs north to south in the south of the LLCA. Other manmade water features exist in the north of the area.

1.2.10 The main access to the smallholdings in the south of the area is from Masterton Road. The northern section of the area is accessed by Sandpiper Drive which features roundabouts and access into the northern fields catering for future development. There are several access tracks to farm buildings and a footpath through the woodland in the north.

1.2.11 Vegetation in the area consists of arable fields and mixed woodland in the north with hedge trees, shelterbelts and clumps of trees in the south around the smallholdings and farm buildings. There is also a strip of woodland and riparian vegetation along Pinkerton Burn.

Table 2: Landscape Character Summary for Duloch

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Rural area on urban fringe Attractive burn Smallholdings and small scale field pattern in the south. Open south east facing gentle slope. Block of mixed woodland to the north.
Positive Character Attributes	Pleasant rural vista Pinkerton Burn
Negative Character Attributes	Pylons and overhead powerline. Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line. M90 to the east. Intrusion from the urban expansion in the west.
Landscape Designations	Long Established Woodland (of plantation origin) around Pinkerton Burn
Landscape Condition	Landscape generally in fair condition.
Scenic Quality	Average scenic quality Views into the area present a semi-rural landscape with linear intrusions from power lines and roads.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low

Inverkeithing Farmland

1.2.12 This LLCA is situated to the northeast of Inverkeithing and to the north of Dalgety Bay. It is bounded by the A921 and the settlement of Hillend to the south and by the Fordell Estate to the north.

1.2.13 Inverkeithing Farmland is situated on a gentle south facing slope in a shallow valley.

1.2.14 There are four small water bodies running through the area (Pinkerton Burn, Keithing Burn, Mill Lade and The Cast). All of these converge at the southwest boundary of the area and feed into the river passing through Inverkeithing to the south and finally into the Firth of Forth at Inverkeithing Bay. In addition there is also a natural spring along one of the field boundaries.

1.2.15 The Edinburgh to Aberdeen and Fife Circle railway lines pass through the area from east to west and there is a dismantled railway passing from north to south. There is also an electricity sub station and an overhead power line with pylons crossing the west of the area.

1.2.16 The fields in the area are a mixture of arable and improved grassland. Other vegetation in the area includes scrub woodland to the west of the LLCA as well as degraded hedgerows, shelterbelts, hedge trees and isolated trees.

Table 3: Landscape Character Summary for Inverkeithing Farmland

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Rural area Open, south facing, gently sloping fields. Shallow valley Land rising to north and southeast.
Positive Character Attributes	Pleasant rural vista.
Negative Character Attributes	Pylons and overhead power line. Electricity sub-station. Edinburgh to Aberdeen and Fife Circle railway lines. Noise intrusion from nearby roads (A921, B981 and M90).
Landscape Designations	1 semi-natural Woodland Inventory/ Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland. Historic Garden and Designed Landscape (Scotland). 1 Area of Great Landscape Value (Fife).
Landscape Condition	Landscape generally in good condition but some hedgerows in need of maintenance.
Scenic Quality	Average scenic quality. Views into the area present a rural landscape with linear intrusions from rail lines, power lines and roads.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Duddingston

1.2.17 This LLCA is situated to the southwest of South Queensferry and to the northwest of Kirkliston between Hopetoun and Dundas Designed Wooded Landscapes.

1.2.18 Topographically, Duddingston Farmland is situated on a flat ridge with a north facing slope to the north of the area and a more gentle south facing slope to the south. The north facing slope has far reaching views overlooking the Firth of Forth to the Fife coastline beyond in contrast to the south facing slopes which have more close to medium range views. The southeastern corner is screened to the north by Dundas Hill.

1.2.19 There are a few scattered rural dwellings and farm buildings within the area with the exception of the small settlement of Newton located on the ridge in the northwest corner adjacent to the A904. There is a dominant factory building bordering the Hopetoun Designed Landscape LLCA boundary to the north of the site. The historic A listed Duntarvie Castle is located to the west adjacent to the A90 motorway. A riding centre can be found in the central area of the LLCA.

1.2.20 There are three minor burns within the area and several natural ponds with associated woodland formations.

1.2.21 Most of the roads across the site are secondary or minor rural roads, except from the main A904 road running from South Queensferry along much of the ridge to the north part of the LLCA. The M9 defines the boundary along the south and eastern edge. To the south, a local rail line crosses the area. Some of the secondary roads are very narrow and in poor condition due to heavy farming machinery traffic. Pylons and communication masts are also found within the area.

1.2.22 The predominantly farming character of the landscape is composed of arable, improved pasture, grassland and rough grazing fields divided by dry stone walls, fences and beech or hawthorn hedges. Shelterbelts are used along several field boundaries and there are several scattered blocks of mixed woodland separating the farmland.

1.2.23 The area is aesthetically balanced despite its large scale and limited diversity. Apart from Dundas Hill, there are no visual barriers and a sense of openness. The main ‘A’ road and the railway line interrupt the north and south boundaries.

Table 4: Landscape Character Summary for Duddingston

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	A ridge formation with slopes to the north and south. Rolling farmland. Small settlement with additional rural scattered dwellings. Scattered blocks of mixed woodland plantation within the area.
Positive Character Attributes	North facing slopes have broad views over the Firth of Forth. Rural vistas
Negative Character Attributes	Poor accessibility by car to some parts within the area. Railway line Noise and scenic intrusion by motorway in southern boundary.
Landscape Designations	Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) ( West Lothian) Green Belt, Edinburgh Historic Garden and Designed Landscape (Scotland) 7 Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland (Scotland) Scheduled Ancient Monument (Scotland)
Landscape Condition	Productive farmland Scattered long established woodland plantation in good condition. Well maintained hedgerows across the area.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality with north facing slopes and ridge line have attractive views over the Firth of Forth. Attractive enclosed rural landscape to the south.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Craigbrae

1.2.24 Craigbrae LLCA is located to the southeast of South Queensferry to the west of Craigie Hill. It is bounded to the north by the A90 and follows the M9 spur road to Kirkliston which form its west and south boundaries.

1.2.25 Topographically the landscape features an undulating plateau in the north which descends in a south east direction towards the River Almond.

1.2.26 There are few hydrological features in the area with the exception of Dolphington Burn, which traverses the north of the area in an east to west direction, and a further minor burn to the south of Craigbrae Farm. In addition to this, there are two ponds to the north of the area adjacent to the A90 and railway lines.

1.2.27 Access to the area is mainly through a number of rural B roads, which run from Dalmeny in the north to Kirkliston in the south west. Scattered farm dwellings and buildings can be accessed through this route which also braches off to the west towards Dalmeny Castle and the M9. Scattered footpaths and tracks also provide access to fields and farm buildings. In addition to this, the Edinburgh to Aberdeen runs through the area in a north-south direction with a local line splitting off to the southwest and another to the southeast.

1.2.28 Aside from a few scattered farm buildings, there are extensive commercial buildings in the north and centre of the LLCA. Sewage works and an oil storage depot are located in the north surrounded by a large earth bund, with, a smaller industrial estate to the south east.

1.2.29 Agricultural land in the area consists of arable and improved grassland with fence and hedge field boundaries. Other vegetation in the area includes grassland areas, a small woodland clump south of the oil storage depot and shelterbelts.

Table 5: Landscape Character Summary for Craigbrae

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Gently undulating rural farmland. Southeasterly slope
Positive Character Attributes	Farmland in good condition.
Negative Character Attributes	Major road corridor Oil storage depot and industrial units Communication masts Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway
Landscape Designations	Green Belt (Edinburgh) Long established woodland of plantation origin Scheduled Ancient Monument
Landscape Condition	Well maintained farmland
Scenic Quality	Average to poor scenic quality due to spur road and oil storage depot.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Wooded lowland hill and valley

Craigie

1.2.30 This small character area is located 2km south east of South Queensferry and approximately 1km north of Edinburgh Airport.

1.2.31 The area consists of an oval shaped hill formation running in a north south direction rising from 55m to 94m aOD. The main features of the area include a re-vegetated disused quarry at the top and far reaching views over the Firth of Forth and surrounding area. Scattered farm buildings and cottages form the settlement in the area and there are also the remains of fortification at the southern edge.

1.2.32 Within the site, some views are screened by the dense deciduous ancient woodland which covers the hilltop to the north. However, extensive views are experienced by dwellings and farm buildings below the tree line. The majority of these are to the east with the exception of one dwelling to the northwest of the hill.

1.2.33 Access to the area is provided along a B road along the east boundary. Another minor road crosses the site east west at its south corner. The Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area and there are several footpaths within the woodland.

1.2.34 The distinctive character of the steep wooded hill surrounded by a flatter topography makes it an interesting landmark within the broader landscape.

Table 6: Landscape Character Summary for Craigie

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Small wooded hill above open farmland to the north of Edinburgh airport.
Positive Character Attributes	Steep hill topography provides potential views. Naturalised quarry and well established woodland used for recreation.
Negative Character Attributes	The Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area. Defined boundaries
Landscape Designations	Green Belt, Edinburgh. Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin)/ semi-natural Woodland Inventory
Landscape Condition	Mature well established deciduous woodland across hillside surrounded by well maintain open farmland. Disused quarry at the top of the hill in the process of regeneration.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality — distinctive and attractive formation in the landscape with attractive open views of surrounding areas. Poor ability to accommodate change.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

North Inverkeithing

1.2.35 This LLCA is located to the southeast of Rosyth and is bordered to the north by the A921 and to the west by an industrial estate and the M90 road.

1.2.36 The area comprises partly wooded west and north facing slopes. The west face is steep and overlooks Castlandhill, Rosyth and the M90 whilst the north face has open views over Inverkeithing industrial estate and distant rolling farmland. The south boundary of the area is screened by the existing topography and high hedges belonging to the peripheral housing development.

1.2.37 The area is accessed by roads from the south and east and contains a footpath network used for recreation. Overhead power cables with wooden poles cross the site.

1.2.38 Along the western limit of the area, a shelterbelt partly screens the adjacent road to the industrial estate. At the top of the western slope, which supports a strip of deciduous woodland, there is a small, disused quarry, designated as a SSSI. The northern hillside and area to the east are occupied by small rough grazing fields. The remaining vegetation is scrub woodland.

1.2.39 The area has good views to the surrounding countryside but the adjacent roads and industrial estate are degrading to the quality of the area.

Table 7: Landscape Character Summary for North Inverkeithing

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Partly wooded north and west facing slope overlooking motorway (M90), industrial estate and surrounding countryside.
Positive Character Attributes	Open views to north. Existing footpaths for recreational use.
Negative Character Attributes	Visual intrusion of adjacent M90 and industrial estate.
Landscape Designations	None
Landscape Condition	Rough fields and scrub are in average condition. Series of rough footpaths across the hillside. Well maintained trees and hedges around the adjacent housing.
Scenic Quality	Average to poor scenic quality due to disturbance by industrial estate, adjoining roads and housing. Reasonable ability to accommodate change within the area.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low to Medium

Humbie

1.2.40 This LLCA is placed within the major Duddingston Open Farmland character area at its south boundary bordering with the railway line to the south and the A90 motorway to the south west.

1.2.41 The area rests on a south facing slope terminating in the curved shaped Humbie Reservoir. To the south of this there is a gentle north facing slope rising to the south towards the railway line. Swine Burn feeds Humbie Reservoir from the higher ground to the northwest of the area and flows onward from the south east of the area.

1.2.42 Additional hydrological features include a lake formed in a disused quarry at the western edge of the area. This has been stocked with fish and is used as a recreational fishing site. A disused quarry is also found at the northeast corner of the LLCA and has also formed a lake. In addition to this, a covered reservoir is found adjacent to the quarry in the northeast of the area.

1.2.43 The main access to the site is through a B road that runs along its north and east limits. There is a main track running south to north across a woodland block as well as several minor footpaths along the water features.

1.2.44 Along the watercourse, there is extensive woodland, mainly deciduous to the west and east and mixed in the central area, together with shelterbelt formations.

1.2.45 The farm fields are mainly covered by improved pastured and grassland. There are existing dry stone walls, hedges and fences marking boundaries of some of the fields.

1.2.46 The intrusion from the adjacent railway is visually well screened by mitigation bordering planting, but the noise of passing trains is still evident. Due to the woodlands in the LLCA, the A90 motorway is also well screened within the site with the exception of a large arable field at the south west corner. However aural intrusion from the road does occur.

1.2.47 The diverse character of the area principally deals with naturalized water features and woodland plantations in a relatively small, enclosed and peaceful location, therefore it is perceived as interesting and pleasant as well as safe.

Table 8: Landscape Character Summary for Humbie

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Plantation woodland and mature shelterbelt surrounding small fields on rolling topography around small reservoir. Disused quarries forming water-bodies and recreational facilities.
Positive Character Attributes	Footpath network across the area Rural location Attractive waterbodies
Negative Character Attributes	Proximity to busy motorway (M9) and railway line.
Landscape Designations	Long-Established Woodland (of plantation origin) Area of Outstanding Landscape Quality (AOLQ) Edinburgh
Landscape Condition	Well maintained fields Poorly managed woodland Well defined field boundaries Mature shelterbelt woodland in good condition. Well maintained reservoir and water bodies used for fishing.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality despite significant noise intrusion from motorway. Some attractive views to the south. Poor ability to accommodate change.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	High

Coastal Hills

Letham Hill

1.2.48 This LLCA is situated immediately north of Inverkeithing Bay. It is bounded to the north by the A921 and the Firth of Forth coastline to the south.

1.2.49 Letham Hill is situated on a predominantly west facing slope and has a distinctive wooded hill along its eastern edge. A coastal brae continues to the south, with impressive views to the Firth of Forth and features a disused quarry with steep vertical faces and some natural plant regeneration.

1.2.50 Aside from a field drain and the coastal edge the flooded quarry is the only hydrological feature in the area. A network of footpaths cross the area providing access to Inverkeithing to the west and Dalgety Bay to the east. A cycle path follows the coastline and a farmhouse and outbuildings area accessed along a private track.

1.2.51 Vegetation in the area includes scrub woodland and species rich grass to the south and along the coastal brae. Deciduous woodland covers Letham Hill to the east of the area and hedges, hedge trees and shelterbelts feature beside the farmhouse and define the field boundaries. Fields are improved grassland.

Table 9: Landscape Character Summary for Letham Hill

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Isolated farmland between two urban areas. Wooded hill to the east. Coastal brae to the south. West facing gently sloping fields.
Positive Character Attributes	Impressive views over the Firth of Forth from the southern brae. Attractive wooded hill to the east. Well used foot and cycle paths. National Trail / Long Distance Route / National cycle network-traffic free.
Negative Character Attributes	Visual intrusion of housing to the west. Disused quarry with damaged fencing.
Landscape Designations	1 Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland
Landscape Condition	Landscape generally in good condition.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality Views from the area are excellent along the southern brae. Attractive wooded hill
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

Castlandhill

1.2.52 Castlandhill is located between Inverkeithing and Rosyth Urban Area. It is bounded to the east by the A90.

1.2.53 The LLCA comprises two separate hill formations. A smaller wooded hill (‘Whinny Hill’) to the south rises from 25m to 63m aOD and a larger hill to the north of the area rises from 40m to 85m aOD with worked farmland fields and a small cluster of housing towards the top of the hill. The northern hill also features a cluster of three prominent communication masts.

1.2.54 The area is accessed from the east by Castlandhill road where a lay-by provides parking and access to a footpath leading between the two hills with an additional footpath to the northern side of Whinny Hill. There is also private access to a house to the south of Whinny Hill from Ferry Toll Road. Further north along Castlandhill road an access track leads to the cluster of housing on the most northerly hill.

1.2.55 The topography comprises two adjacent hills at the north and south sides of the area. The southern hill is formed from igneous rock and the northern hill by contrast is formed from sedimentary rock. Between the hills, a narrow valley has been formed.

1.2.56 There are open views over Rosyth Urban Area and the M90 alignment. Views to the east are screened by an existing ridge aligned with the M90. To the south there are views to the Firth of Forth from Whinny Hill.

1.2.57 The majority of the land coverage on the northern hill is farmland. Whinny Hill has species rich and rough grassland with small scrub areas and deciduous woodland to the south. At the top of the Whinny Hill there is a small pond with marsh type vegetation. This area also features stone walls and hedges to mark field and property boundaries.

Table 10: Landscape Character Summary for Castlandhill

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Farmland across two hills.
Positive Character Attributes	Good access Recreation value of Whinny Hill and valley footpath network. Long views to the Firth of Forth from the southern hill of the area. Views to the northern hill Castlandhill.
Negative Character Attributes	The area is disturbed by the proximity of the A90 which runs along the eastern edge. Disturbance by masts in Castlandhill and cluster of housing.
Landscape Designations	Semi-natural Woodland Inventory/ Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland
Landscape Condition	Working farmland in good condition. Whinny Hill in semi-natural state and in good condition. Mature deciduous woodland in good condition.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality both towards and from the area.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Ferry Hills

1.2.58 This small character area is located immediately north of North Queensferry and extends to the coast to both the east and the west with Cruicks Quarry forming a boundary to the north.

1.2.59 The area is formed by igneous rock and rises steeply from sea level to the west and east reaches an undulating plateau with a high point of 71m aOD. The main features of the area include a disused quarry to the north and far reaching views over the Firth of Forth and surrounding area. There are scattered dwellings to the east of the area and a hotel and country house to the west. A railway cutting for the Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line forms a steep vertical intrusion through the centre of the area.

1.2.60 The area has few hydrological features with the exception of a natural loch in the centre of the LLCA and the coastal edges.

1.2.61 Access to the area is provided along a B road which follows the edge of Cruicks Quarry. The A90 also traverses the area and provides access to the west of the area before continuing into North Queensferry. The area is also crossed from north to south by a railway line. A series of formal and informal footpaths cross the area providing access to the hills and coastal path to the east and the area surrounding the loch to the west. There is no access by footpath from east to west due to the railway cutting.

1.2.62 Vegetation in the area includes areas of rough grassland with large areas of gorse and scattered scrub woodland in the centre of the LLCA. To the west is an attractive area of deciduous woodland and there are also hedges, hedge trees and clumps of deciduous woodland to the west. There is also extensive riparian vegetation around the loch.

Table 11: Landscape Character Summary for Ferry Hills

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Small hill above settlement of North Queensferry Steep coastal hills to east and west. Extensive views Fragmentation due to railway and A90.
Positive Character Attributes	Natural rugged landscape Extensive views
Negative Character Attributes	Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line. Disused quarry Fragmentation
Landscape Designations	Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin) / semi-natural Woodland Inventory.
Landscape Condition	Landscape left in natural condition in the centre of the LLCA. Disused quarry in the process of regeneration. Woodlands to the east and west in good condition.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality — attractive open views of surrounding areas. Fragmentation and existing intrusion from rail and road creates an ability to accommodate change.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Coastal Flats

North Queensferry

1.2.63 This LLCA is situated east of Rosyth Industral Area, bordered to the west by the M90 and St. Margaret’s Hill and to the south by the Firth of Forth coastline. Along the north fringe of the area runs a secondary road of which embankment is included within the LLCA. At the northeast corner a water treatment plant is located.

1.2.64 North Queensferry Coastal Flat is located on the Forth floodplain. As a result, its predominant topography is flat.

1.2.65 The predominant land cover is rough grassland, scrub and some shrubs and small isolated trees along the road embankment. Close to the eastern edge, there is a natural small pond with marginal vegetation around it.

1.2.66 The main access to the site is by the secondary road along the northern edge. There are several footpaths within the site.

1.2.67 The area is open to the south but slightly enclosed to other directions due to its adjacent topography and the industrial estate. The water treatment plant is intrusive causing some fragmentation. Also the adjacent Rosyth Industrial Area breaks the character of the western edge of this LLCA. There are open views to the Firth of Forth except from the eastern side where the St. Margaret’s Hill partly screens those views. The area provides an interesting scenic quality provided by the contrast between the prominent wooded hill sloping down to the sea level and the flat nature of the adjacent wetland.

Table 12: Landscape Character Summary for North Queensferry

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Marshy grassland on the Forth floodplain.
Positive Character Attributes	Open views to the Firth of Forth. Natural pond
Negative Character Attributes	Views partly screened by St. Margaret Hill. Strong contrast between this naturalised area and the adjacent industrial development.
Landscape Designations	None
Landscape Condition	Grassland on floodplain in good natural condition. Scattered trees and shrubs along road embankment in average condition.
Scenic Quality	Average scenic quality due to presence of industrial estate to west and the dominance of St. Margaret Hill to the east. Visual and smell intrusion by water treatment sewerage work. Poor ability to accommodate change due the ecological sensitivity of the area.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

Designed Wooded Landscape

Fordell

1.2.68 Fordell Wooded Farmland is situated to the north of Dalgety Bay and to the east of the M90. It is bordered to the south by Inverkeithing Open Farmland and to the west by Woodlee Open Farmland.

1.2.69 Much of the area is designed woodland surrounding Fordell Castle and Estate. Aside from the castle, settlement consists of a few scattered farm dwellings and associated estate buildings. In addition to this there are also a number of static caravans / holiday homes forming a separate community at Fordell Gardens. The majority of this character area has been designated as a Historic Garden and Designed Landscape with long-established ancient woodland formations (of plantation origin).

1.2.70 The topography to the north of the LLCA is undulating and there is a well defined peak at Clinthill Top to the east of the area. From the undulating plateau in the north, the land falls steeply to the south before becoming a shallow southerly slope. Also featured in the landscape is a steep ravine immediately south of the castle formed by Fordell Burn.

1.2.71 In addition to Fordell Burn other hydrological features include a lake to the north of the castle, several notable springs and wells and two sets of falls. A pond has also formed in a disused quarry in the south of the area.

1.2.72 Due to its topography there are views towards the Firth of Forth from Clinthill Top and from selected south faced locations. Elements of the area are enclosed due to ravines and the undulating land formation.

1.2.73 The land cover is mainly farmland and woodland. The farmland consists of arable fields and improved pasture, separated with stone walls, fences or hedges. There are both mixed and deciduous woodlands with the main woodland located around the Castle in wide strips running from south to north. There are two other important woodlands in the area, one of them is situated in the southeast bordering with Donibristle Industrial State and the other one is at the northeast side. Some trees are used as shelterbelts or hedges dividing different fields, others are dispersed in clumps.

1.2.74 Road communications within the area are poor but there is a pathway network through the fields and woodlands.

Table 13: Landscape Character Summary for Fordell

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Rolling farmland across wooded estate.
Positive Character Attributes	Open views to the Firth of Forth from Clinthill Top and selected points. Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Negative Character Attributes	Poor communications, only one secondary B road along part of west edge. Pylons to the west of the area. Intrusion of static homes and water tank into woodland.
Landscape Designations	2 semi-natural Woodland Inventory/ Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland Large area of Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland Historic Garden and Designed Landscape (Scotland)
Landscape Condition	Areas of felled woodland with natural regeneration in need of maintenance. Well maintained working farmland fields.
Scenic Quality	High scenic quality around Fordell Castle designed landscape, ravine, waterfalls. Medium scenic value along the B981 and B916 due to regenerating woodland and intrusion of static homes into woodland setting.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

Hopetoun

1.2.75 Hopetoun Designed Wooded Landscape is situated to the west of South Queensferry and encompasses designed landscapes from a number of historic country houses on the southern banks of the Firth of Forth.

1.2.76 The LLCA features a north facing slope descending from a ridge at 90m aOD in the south to water level in the north. The slope is best described as gently undulating with a steeper coastal brae towards the waters edge in the north. To the west of the area, the land rises reaching a peak at Binns Hill before descending towards the Firth of Forth. A steep valley (Midhope Glen) is also formed by the Midhope Burn which runs in a north easterly direction across the area before reaching the Firth of Forth. There are extensive views to the north over the Firth of Forth.

1.2.77 In addition to Midhope Burn other hydrological features include Cornie Burn running east to west and joining with Midhope burn, artificial ponds to the west and south of Hoptoun House and three ponds formed in disused quarries. Additional small burns occur south of Hopetoun House and there are several wells scattered through the area.

1.2.78 The area is accessed through minor roads stemming from the A904 running along the southern edge of the area. It can also be accessed from a coastal road originating in South Queensferry and terminating at Hopetoun House. Various private tracks provide access to estate buildings and there are footpaths around the estate grounds, along the wooded shoreline and in Hoptoun Wood to the south of the LLCA.

1.2.79 Vegetation in the area primarily consists of farmland and woodland. The farmland consists of arable fields and improved pasture, separated with well maintained stone walls, fences or hedges. There are areas of mixed, deciduous and coniferous woodlands. A continuous strip of mixed woodland follows the coast line to the north of the LLCA with a further expanse of woodland following the Midhope and Cornie Burn valleys. Mixed woodland blocks also surround Hopetoun, Midhope and Philipstoun Houses and further large woodland blocks are located to the south of the area — most notably Hopetoun Wood. Isolated trees occur in the designed landscape surrounding The Binns House in the west of the LLCA and there are also clumps of woodland, shelterbelts and hedge trees throughout the area.

Table 14: Landscape Character Summary for Hopetoun

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	North facing slope with coastal edge. Extensive views over the Firth of Forth. Historic and designed landscapes Extensive woodland features with areas of farmland.
Positive Character Attributes	Open views to the Firth of Forth at places. Peaceful sinuous coastal setting. Attractive woodland areas Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Negative Character Attributes	Some areas not easily accessible.
Landscape Designations	Long-Established Woodland (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin) AGLV Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Landscape Condition	Woodland generally in good condition. Well maintained working farmland fields.
Scenic Quality	High scenic quality
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	High

Dalmeny

1.2.80 Dalmeny is situated to the east of South Queensferry and encompasses a designed landscape to the north and west and an area of farmed estate land to the south of the B924. The area is bounded to the south by the A90 and B924 and to the east by the River Almond. The Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area.

1.2.81 The LLCA features an undulating landscape with several hill formations formed from underlying igneous rock (the tallest reaching a height of 119m aOD). The northern and eastern edges of the LLCA follow the coastline which forms a distinctive pointed peninsula on the Firth of Forth. There are steep wooded coastal braes with accessible crags and beach areas in places. To the southeast, the LLCA forms the western embankment of the River Almond as it discharges into The Forth estuary.

1.2.82 The area has a history of fortified settlement with a castle to the east. However the main estate residence is a country house dating to the early 19th Century. There are also a number of listed farm buildings and cottages throughout the estate.

1.2.83 In terms of hydrology, aside from the River Almond, there are two large ponds to the west of Dalmeny House and a number of burns running through the south and east of the area including Dolphington, Cockle and Linklin Burns. There are also several minor burns to the northwest. Abstraction from the area has in the past been provided through a number of wells including the historic St. Margaret’s Well.

1.2.84 The area is accessed through private roads (open to the public seasonally) and an extensive public footpath network allowing attractive coastal walks from South Queensferry to Cramond and north Edinburgh beyond.

1.2.85 Vegetation in the area primarily consists of farmland and woodland. The farmland consists of arable fields and improved pasture, separated with well maintained stone walls, fences or hedges. There are areas of mixed, deciduous and coniferous woodlands. A continuous strip of mixed woodland follows the coast line to the north of the LLCA with a further expanse of woodland following the River Almond valley and the main burns in the area. Mixed woodland blocks also surround Dalmeny House and further large woodland blocks are located on the hill tops. Parkland trees occur in the designed landscape to the south of Dalmeny House. There are also shelterbelts and hedgerow trees throughout the area.

Table 15: Landscape Character Summary for Dalmeny

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Undulating / hilly wooded country estate. Extensive views over the Firth of Forth. Historic and designed landscapes Extensive woodland features with areas of farmland.
Positive Character Attributes	Open views to the Firth of Forth at places. Peaceful sinuous coastal setting. Attractive woodland areas Extensive footpath network Access to crags and beaches
Negative Character Attributes	The Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area. Some views obscured by tree line.
Landscape Designations	Green Belt Long-Established Woodland (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin) AOLQ Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Landscape Condition	Woodland in good condition. Well maintained working farmland fields.
Scenic Quality	High scenic quality. Poor ability to accommodate change.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	High

Dundas (desk based)

1.2.86 Dundas is situated to the south of South Queensferry and to the west of the M9 Spur. The area encompasses a designed landscape to the west and an area of wooded farm land to the east of the A8000.

1.2.87 The LLCA features a small hill rising from 60m to 118m aOD formed from igneous rock with a steep southerly edge leading to Dundas Loch situated to the south of the area. To the east of the area is a gently undulating south and east facing slope formed from underlying sedimentary carboniferous rock.

1.2.88 Settlement in the area has historically centred on Dundas Castle. However there are also a number of other scattered dwellings and buildings in the estate grounds. Several of these are listed buildings.

1.2.89 In terms of hydrology, Dundas Loch is the main water body in the area. There is also a manmade pond to the southwest of the LLCA and Dolphington Burn running through the east of the area.

1.2.90 The estate area to the west is accessed through private roads and has a footpath network through wooded areas and along the southern edge of the loch. The area to the east of the A8000 is accessed through a rural B road with tracks allowing access to farm buildings.

1.2.91 Vegetation in the area primarily consists of farmed arable fields and improved pasture, separated with well maintained stone walls, fences or hedges. There are areas of mixed, deciduous and coniferous woodlands. Parkland trees occur in the designed landscape to the east of Dundas House. There are also clumps of woodland, shelterbelts and hedge trees throughout the area.

Table 16: Landscape Character Summary for Dundas

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Undulating / hilly wooded country estate. Natural loch Historic and designed landscapes Golf course within area Extensive woodland features with areas of farmland.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive woodland areas Attractive loch Historic Garden and Designed Landscape.
Negative Character Attributes	Intrusion from A8000 and M9 Spur
Landscape Designations	Green Belt (Edinburgh) Long-Established Woodland (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin) AOLQ Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Landscape Condition	Woodland in good condition. Well maintained productive farmland fields.
Scenic Quality	High scenic quality. Poor ability to accommodate change with exception of the area between A8000 and M9 Spur which has a medium ability to accommodate change due to existing aural and visual intrusion.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

Newliston (desk based)

1.2.92 Newliston Designed Wooded Landscape is situated to the south west of Kirkliston and to the west of the M9. The area is bound to the south by the A89 and to the west by Broxburn industrial estate.

1.2.93 The LLCA is situated on an undulating and gently south facing slope which forms the northern slope of the River Almond Valley.

1.2.94 The designed landscape is centred on Newliston House and in addition to this the main settlement in the area consists of several estate buildings, farms and farm cottages.

1.2.95 Several burns converge to the south west of the LLCA to form one main burn that flows through the area in a south west to south east direction before discharging into the River Almond. There are also two natural ponds to the south west of the LLCA and several manmade ponds in the north of the area around Newliston House.

1.2.96 The estate area is accessed through private roads via surrounding public roads to the south, west and east. The area also has several footpaths and tracks providing access to the gardens and to farm buildings and farm land. In addition to this, the Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line crosses the west of the LLCA.

1.2.97 Vegetation in the area primarily consists of farmed arable fields and improved pasture with well maintained stone walls, fence and hedge boundaries. There are areas of mixed and deciduous woodlands with isolated trees occurring in the designed landscape to the north of Newliston House.

Table 17: Landscape Character Summary for Newliston

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	South sloping wooded country estate. Natural ponds and burn Historic and designed landscape Woodland features with areas of farmland.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive woodland areas Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Negative Character Attributes	Proximity of M9 and A89 Crossed by Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line.
Landscape Designations	Green Belt (Edinburgh) Long-Established Woodland (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin) AOLQ Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Landscape Condition	Woodland in good condition. Well maintained working farmland fields.
Scenic Quality	Medium to high scenic quality. Medium ability to accommodate change on the periphery of the area.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	High

Disturbed Farmland

Craigton

1.2.98 This LLCA is located immediately north of Winchburgh and extends west to Philipstoun and east towards Kirkliston following the M9 as its northern boundary.

1.2.99 Topographically the area is a gently undulating landscape which is dominated by large manmade ‘bings’ from former shale mine workings. In addition to this, the area also features two disused quarries and a disused tip to the west. Settlement in the area consists of scattered farm dwellings and the settlement of Philipstoun in the west. In addition to this development, the area includes a sewage works to the north of Philipstoun and the remains of a church.

1.2.100 The main hydrological feature in the area is the canal which runs north from Winchburgh and west to Philipstoun. Other water bodies include a large pond to the north of Winchburgh and several burns including Niddry Burn to the east, Swine Burn to the northeast and Pardovan Burn to the northwest of the area.

1.2.101 Access to the area is through a selection of rural B roads. The M9 can also be accessed from one of these roads in the north of the LLCA. In addition to this, the Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line runs through the area in an east-west direction with a local line splitting off to the south east at the eastern end of the LLCA, roughly following the line of the canal. The area can also be accessed by a footpath and cycleway along the canal and there is a network of footpaths through some woodland areas.

1.2.102 Agricultural land in the area consists of arable and improved grassland with fences, hedges and drystone walls forming the field boundaries. Other vegetation includes rough grassland and natural regeneration on the bings and deciduous and mixed woodland along the canal path. There are also areas of mixed woodland in the centre of the LLCA and a block of coniferous woodland to the south of Mounthooly.

Table 18: Landscape Character Summary for Craigton

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Gently undulating rural farmland. Presence of large dominating ‘bings’. Canal running through the area with railway line running parallel to the north.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive canal with path and established vegetation.
Negative Character Attributes	Former mine workings and shale bings. Fragmented landscape Crossed by Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line.
Landscape Designations	Long established woodland of plantation origin/ semi-natural woodland inventory.
Landscape Condition	Well maintained farmland. Well established woodland. Canal path well maintained and in good condition. Well maintained hedgerows and dry stone walls.
Scenic Quality	Average to good scenic quality. Bings add interest to the landscape. Attractive walks along the canal.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low to Medium

Lowland Plain

River Almond

1.2.103 This LLCA is located between Kirkliston urban area and Edinburgh Airport in a predominantly flat topographic landscape featuring the winding River Almond.

1.2.104 The main hydrological feature is the River Almond which runs inside the area from southeast Kirkliston urban area boundary, meandering along Edinburgh Airport’s northern boundary until Craigiehall housing development. Several tributary burns join the river from the northwest. Most of the buildings within the area are isolated farms apart from the small settlement at Craigiehall, which contains several historic buildings. There are also 2 Scheduled Ancient Monuments (Scotland) within the LLCA: ‘Cat Stane’ on the borders of the airport grounds; and Huly Hill tumulus in the junction between the A89 and A90 roads.

1.2.105 Despite the flat topography of the area there are wider views south towards the Pentlands.

1.2.106 Access to the site is provided by B roads that run across the area from Kirkliston and mainly cover the western half of the LLCA. The Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area and a network of footpaths provide access throughout and follow the River Almond. There is also a traffic free cycle route crossing the area to the west towards South Queensferry.

1.2.107 Land coverage mainly consists of open arable fields with the exception of vegetation beside the River Almond. There are a few clumps of mixed woodland and isolated trees amongst the farmland. Dry stone walls, fences, hedges and shelterbelts around the arable fields can be found at several locations. Mature trees feature in areas along the River Almond particularly where it meanders to the west and east of the airport runway.

1.2.108 The area is perceived as safe and pleasant but the proximity of the airport and the lack of diversity make it monotonous and of low interest in aesthetic terms.

Table 19: Landscape Character Summary for River Almond

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Generally flat farmland, rising gently to the northeast corner, with the river Almond running through the area to the south.
Positive Character Attributes	Riverside area with distinctive vegetation. Historic buildings
Negative Character Attributes	Proximity to intrusive airport development. Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area. Flat topography restricts open views. Suppressed vegetation along River Almond adjacent to airport runway.
Landscape Designations	Areas of Importance for Flood Protection in Edinburgh Green Belt (Edinburgh) Historic Garden and Designed Landscape
Landscape Condition	Well maintained open farmland. Well established woodland field boundaries. Well maintained hedgerows and dry stone walls.
Scenic Quality	Average scenic quality. Significant disturbance from the airport detracts from the scenery. Attractive south views towards the Pentlands.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

Overton

1.2.109 Overton LLCA is located between the settlements of Winchburgh and Kirkliston. It is bounded to the northeast by the M9 and to the west by the union canal. To the south is the Newliston estate.

1.2.110 Topographically the landscape is flat with a slight south facing slope to the southern boundary.

1.2.111 There are few hydrological features in the area with the exception of Niddry Burn which travels diagonally roughly from the northwest to the south east of the LLCA. To the west of the area is the Union Canal and there is a field drain to the south.

1.2.112 Access to the area is mainly through a minor rural road which runs from Carmelhill to Winchburgh.

1.2.113 Aside from a few scattered farm buildings, there are no buildings in the LLCA.

1.2.114 Agricultural land in the area consists of arable and improved grassland with well maintained stone wall boundaries. Other vegetation in the area includes an area of mixed woodland adjacent to the M9 and a ‘manicured’ golf course to the northwest.

1.2.115 The area has few landscape features, is crossed by the Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line and is further degraded by the M9 to the north and the surrounding bings.

Table 20: Landscape Character Summary for Overton

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Flat rural farmland Arable and improved grassland fields. Stone walls Small burn
Positive Character Attributes	Farmland in good condition. Stone walls Golf course
Negative Character Attributes	Major road corridor and junction Crossed by Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line. Views to surrounding bings
Landscape Designations	Long established woodland of plantation origin
Landscape Condition	Well maintained farmland
Scenic Quality	Average to poor scenic quality due to road and junction and bings.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Firth of Forth

Firth of Forth (desk based)

1.2.116 The Firth of Forth is the main water body in the southeast of Scotland flowing from the Trossachs into the North Sea. The study area focuses on the section between the settlement of Boness to the west and Dalgety Bay to the east.

1.2.117 The Firth of Forth is crossed by several bridges and features small islands and transport-related infrastructure. Along the shore line to the north are several settlements including Rosyth and North Queensferry and to the south the main settlement is South Queensferry.

1.2.118 The shore area is flat featuring small rock formations in the extensive, intertidal mud flats when the tide is low. Along the firth, the land has been formed by maritime erosion into small peninsulas, bays and sand banks over thousands of years. The vast horizontal character provides long distance views and a focus for the surrounding areas.

1.2.119 The dominant structures are the Forth Road Bridge and the Forth Rail Bridge. Development on the shores to the north and south includes housing, industry, a naval base and a marina. Piers, ports, lighthouses, military installations and forts, some of which are designated as Scheduled Ancient Monuments, are located on the shorelines and islands. Ships also feature as transitory built elements.

1.2.120 The A90, Forth Road Bridge crosses the area, linking the M90 to the north with the M9 to the south. Several local roads and paths enable local access around the north and south shore. The area is also traversed by the Forth Rail Bridge which provides national and local links via the east coast railway line. The river is well used by commercial and leisure boats, including a seasonal local ferry from South Queensferry to Inchcolm Island and year-round ferry from Rosyth to Zeebrugge. The naval base at Rosyth caters for submarines and cargo vessels sail from the Forth to other ports in Scotland and Europe.

1.2.121 The land coverage is water, mud flats and small islands, vegetated with scrub woodland, and rough grassland.

1.2.122 The area is characterised by tranquil and colourful open space, where a large range of landscape experiences are founds, dependent on tidal movement, light and weather, contrasted and balanced with the constant movement of vehicles by road, rail and sea.

Table 21: Landscape Character Summary for the Firth of Forth

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Horizontal and natural landscape influenced by tidal, light and weather conditions. Contrasting natural and artificial elements.
Positive Character Attributes	The vast horizontal scenery provides long distance views and a focus for the surrounding areas.
Negative Character Attributes	Intrusive manmade infrastructures (piers, ports and marina centres).
Landscape Designations	Conservation Areas in Edinburgh Historic Garden and Designed Landscape (shore line of the Dalmeny Designed Wooded Landscape)
Landscape Condition	River and important intertidal mud flats are in relatively unspoilt condition overall except where industrial areas and infrastructure are dominant.
Scenic Quality	High scenic quality and important landmark.. Medium to high ability to accommodate carefully selected change near to the existing bridges.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	High

Urban

Dunfermline

1.2.123 This large urban area is situated to the north of Rosyth and to the west of the M90. Areas of dense housing are separated by green recreational spaces, historic designed landscapes and business parks. It is one of the primary towns in West Fife and has an extensive housing development programme to the east.

1.2.124 Topographically, Dunfermline is situated in an undulating landscape and is spread across several rolling hills. There are views from some south facing hills towards the Firth of Forth.

1.2.125 There are a number of artificial waterbodies to the east of the area, mainly associated with sustainable urban drainage systems situated in housing developments. Other hydrological features include several burns that run through the town (Lyne Burn, Whinny Burn and Castleblair / Broomhead Burn).

1.2.126 The main roads through the town include the A823 and the A907 with most minor roads accessed from these main routes. The area is also served by the Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway with a station in the town centre.

1.2.127 There are a number of recreation and parkland areas in the town including a golf course and playing fields at Pitreavie in the south of the area and designed parklands to the west of the palace and to the north of the train station.

Table 22: Landscape Character Summary for Dunfermline

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Large expanding urban areas. Undulating landscape
Positive Character Attributes	Views from some south facing hills towards the Firth of Forth. Attractive park areas
Negative Character Attributes	Ongoing development to the east with areas of undeveloped ‘waste ground’. Derelict industrial units in the northeast corner. Edinburgh to Aberdeen Railway line.
Landscape Designations	Conservation Area
Landscape Condition	Landscape generally in good condition with the exception of undeveloped and derelict areas to the east.
Scenic Quality	Average urban scenic quality.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low

Rosyth

1.2.128 Rosyth LLCA is situated approximately 2km west of Inverkeithing and 1km south of Dunfermline.

1.2.129 Rosyth has several medium and low density areas of housing with further residential development occurring to the east of the town. Recreational playing fields and an area of woodland provide a break in the housing to the northeast and northern edge of the area. The area also contains two business parks.

1.2.130 The main roads through the area are the B980, which runs diagonally through the centre from north to south and the A985 which crosses from east to west. Minor roads radiate from these routes. The area is bounded to the east by the M90 and to the north by the railway line. Rosyth also has a railway station to the north of the LLCA.

1.2.131 Topographically the area is situated on a south facing slope that is surrounded by hills, which give a sense of enclosure. Predominant views are to the south west across the Forth with some views to the surrounding hills and eastwards along the A90.

1.2.132 Vegetation cover includes designed parklands and urban landscaping such us avenue trees and hedges. A small area of long-established ancient woodland (‘the wilderness’) is located in the north edge beside a stretch of the railway.

1.2.133 The area is diverse and colourful with high levels of activity during the day especially along the A90.

Table 23: Landscape Character Summary for Rosyth

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Urban area on a south facing slope.
Positive Character Attributes	Good communication routes and public access. South side has a lower housing density than the north. Long views to the firth of Forth from the south of the area. Views to surrounding hills.
Negative Character Attributes	Views of industrial developments to south. Aural disturbance from M90.
Landscape Designations	Semi-natural Woodland Inventory/ Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland
Landscape Condition	Urban landscape with well-maintained housing. Designed parkland, avenue trees, hedge trees, clumps and isolated trees in good condition.
Scenic Quality	Low to average scenic quality.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low

Dalgety Bay

1.2.134 Dalgety Bay LLCA is situated 1km east of Inverkeithing Urban Area.

1.2.135 This is a medium scale urban area built around a hill formed from igneous rock and rising from sea level to 50m aOD. To the west the area is bounded by Letham Hill Wood and to the south the area borders the Firth of Forth. The LLCA also includes the settlement of Hillend to the north of the A921. Much of the area consists of medium density housing with an industrial estate and selection of shops to the north. The elevated position allows open views to the Firth of Forth from the south facing slopes.

1.2.136 The area is served by a series of roads that are accessed from the A921 to the north. Adjacent to the A921 is the train station and Fife Circle railway and within the area there also is a National Trail / Long Distance Route / National cycle network route along the coastal edge.

1.2.137 Vegetation cover includes designed parklands, clumps of mature woodland dispersed through the housing, ancient woodlands, isolated trees and a Historic Garden and Designed Landscape at Donibristle Gardens.

1.2.138 This character area has a good aesthetic value due to its harmonious balance, unity, diversity and presence of colour. Although the area is primarily urban it covers interesting views and elements and has an intimate and enclosed feel due to the surrounding wooded hills.

Table 24: Landscape Character Summary for Dalgety Bay

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Urban development on coastal hill with views over the Firth of Forth.
Positive Character Attributes	Historic Garden and Designed Landscape at Donibristle Gardens Vernacular and historic buildings Good communications and public access with National Trail / Long Distance Route/ National Cycle Network. Views across the Firth of Forth due to housing layout and sloping topography.
Negative Character Attributes	Medium density housing Fife Circle railway line Presence of Industrial Estate
Landscape Designations	6 Long-Established Woodland (of plantation origin) 2 Semi-natural Woodland Inventory/ Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland Historic Garden and Designed Landscape (Scotland)
Landscape Condition	Well managed clumps of mature deciduous and conifer woodland dispersed through housing estate. Well maintained manicured private gardens and public spaces.
Scenic Quality	A pleasant and interesting urban area to experience. Good scenic quality especially in the south of the area.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Inverkeithing

1.2.139 This LLCA is situated to the west of the A90 between Rosyth and Dalgety Bay.

1.2.140 Inverkeithing urban area is set in a narrow valley above an inlet of the Forth. The valley is characterised by steep slopes to the west rising from sea level to 75m aOD and gentler slopes to the east rising to 35m aOD. This gives the area a sense of enclosure and limits the town to small to medium in scale.

1.2.141 The topography also reflects the hydrological features of the LLCA. Several burns converge north of the town and form a river that flows through the valley in the middle of the town into the Forth at a small inner bay to the southern edge of the town.

1.2.142 The B981 forms the main road running through the area with a number of minor roads providing access to the rest of the town. The town is also influenced by the Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line running roughly north to south with a station in the north of the settlement.

1.2.143 The LLCA predominantly consists of housing although elements of industry are found adjacent to the bay with larger industrial areas flanking the town to the north and south. The town centre has a number of stone and vernacular buildings and the range of housing styles and periods reflects the history of the town’s development.

1.2.144 Vegetation in the area includes scrub woodland to the west of the LLCA and clusters of woodland trees to the north and south west of the area. A sports ground and park adjacent to the river and bay provide a well maintained recreation facility and visually connect the town with the bay and the Firth of Forth beyond.

Table 25: Landscape Character Summary for Inverkeithing

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Urban area dissected by a river. Valley setting Inlet / bay of the Firth of Forth
Positive Character Attributes	Good communications with railway station. Vernacular/ listed buildings Designed riverside parkland Recreational value of the river and bay side. National Trail / Long Distance Route / National cycle network-traffic free.
Negative Character Attributes	Disturbance by Industrial area in the south. Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway cuts through the area.
Landscape Designations	None
Landscape Condition	Mixture of housing styles and periods. Sports grounds and park beside the river are well maintained.
Scenic Quality	Scenic quality is compromised by industrial areas to the south and north and A90 to the west. Attractive open space in the south provides good scenic quality. The housing layout provides opportunities for views over the Firth of Forth.
Sensitivity to change due to development	Medium

North Queensferry

1.2.145 This LLCA is a small urban area on the southern tip of a peninsula to the north of the Firth of Forth. It is situated on the coast at the northern end of the existing Forth road and rail bridges.

1.2.146 The town is on a south facing slope with a distinctive historic quarter closest to the bay. North of this the land rises steeply and the town has expanded haphazardly to take advantage of the extensive views and train station built in the late 19th century. There area two disused quarries, one of which has been made into the ‘Deep Sea World’ tourist attraction. There are also attractive sandy beach areas along the coast line. In terms of structures, North Queensferry is dominated in places by the road and rail bridges that penetrate the town centre.

1.2.147 Although North Queensferry is a distinctive and attractive settlement it remains relatively small in scale, limited by the topography, small peninsula and constraints such as working quarries and rail and road structures to the north.

1.2.148 The area has convenient access to the A90 and Ferryhills Road provides local access north to Inverkeithing. The Fife Coastal Path cycle / footpath originate in the town and there are three main piers for boat access from the Forth River. There is also a train station to the north of the town where the railway provides links across the iconic rail bridge to Edinburgh in the south and Dundee and Aberdeen in the north.

1.2.149 There are deciduous woodland areas along the steep hills to the northwest of the area and on the eastern coastal brae.

Table 26: Landscape Character Summary for North Queensferry

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Urban area on the northern coast of the River Forth. Large iconic bridge structures influencing the area. Historic town on coastal lowland with later expansion along steep hill to the north. Extensive views along the Forth River.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive historic town centre with views over the Forth. Attractive wooded hills Major tourist attraction (Deep Sea World) Good road access
Negative Character Attributes	Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line passes through the area. Intrusion of road bridge into the town..
Landscape Designations	Conservation Area Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin)/ semi-natural Woodland Inventory
Landscape Condition	Well maintained community with a mixture of housing styles in good condition.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality with sensitive historic town and village centres. Low ability to accommodate change.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

South Queensferry

1.2.150 This LLCA is the main urban settlement in the south study area and is situated on the coast at the southern end of the existing Forth road and rail bridges.

1.2.151 The town is on a north facing slope which is steepest at the historic town centre beside the Firth of Forth. Along the coastal edge to the north there are rock outcrops and a natural harbour. Manmade elements along the coastal edge include a harbour, pier and marina at Port Edgar to the west of the area.

1.2.152 Much of the urban development has occurred on the more gently sloping area to the south of the town and has expanded towards the village of Dalmeny to the south east of the LLCA. There are differing styles and generations of housing which add interest to the area in South Queensferry. Industrial and commercial buildings are found at the south and south east of the area with a small selection of industrial units at Port Edgar in the west. In Dalmeny the housing is mainly vernacular and is centred around a village green with more recent housing to the south of the village. The dominant structures in the area however are the two existing bridges with the road bridge structure elevated directly above the town before reaching grade.

1.2.153 The area is well accessed by A roads and the M9 spur leading to the road bridge. The B929 also runs through the town in an east west direction and forms the High Street in the town centre. Minor roads are accessed from this and the B907 running north-south through the town. Dalmeny train station lies to the east of South Queensferry and to the west of Dalmeny village with the Edinburgh to Aberdeen rail line forming a boundary between the two areas. South Queensferry is also accessible from the River Forth by boat and there are seasonal ferry trips to Inchcolm Island.

1.2.154 South Queensferry features several recreational green spaces and a wooded coastal brae to the north and west of the High Street. Dalmeny has a village park and central green.

1.2.155 The area contains a pleasing contrast of historic and modern development and remains a major tourist destination due to views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge and the Forth Road Bridge.

Table 27: Landscape Character Summary for South Queensferry

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Urban area on the southern coast of the River Forth. Large iconic bridge structures influencing the area. Historic village centred around village green.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive historic town centre with views north over the Forth. Attractive historic village Good road access
Negative Character Attributes	Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway line divides area. Intrusion of road bridge into the town.
Landscape Designations	Conservation Area, Edinburgh Protection of Open Space, Edinburgh
Landscape Condition	Well maintained communities with a mixture of housing styles — particularly in South Queensferry.
Scenic Quality	Good scenic quality with sensitive historic town and village centres. Medium ability to accommodate change on the edges of the town.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium to High

Kirkliston

1.2.156 This LLCA is situated 2.5km south of South Queensferry Urban Area and 0.5km northwest of Edinburgh Airport, bordering to the east with the River Almond, to the southwest with the M9 motorway and open farmland to the north.

1.2.157 Kirkliston Urban Area is situated in a predominantly gentle south slope with a significant level drop in the south western part where the Swine Burn forms a natural pond before joining the River Almond.

1.2.158 The River Almond is a significant hydrological feature in the area and runs along the south eastern edge of the LLCA.

1.2.159 There are several styles of housing within the area with new development situated in the north and east and historic vernacular buildings in the centre and west, along the "High Street".

1.2.160 The area has is well-accessed by road and there is a main traffic-free cycle route from south to north along the eastern edge. A network of footpaths are associated with the river Almond and Edinburgh airport is located less than 1km to the south east.

1.2.161 The vegetation in the area includes a small deciduous woodland plantation beside the River Almond tributary stream and a range of well maintained designed landscapes and gardens at the new developments.

1.2.162 The area features a dominant leisure centre facility at the northeast corner, Kirkliston Primary School, a city library and an abandoned factory where construction works are ongoing for a new development.

1.2.163 The east boundary of the area is degraded by the M9. Within the area the views are enclosed. At the edges of the LLCA however, open surroundings offer wider and more distant views.

1.2.164 The area contains a balanced contrast of historic and modern development.although new development is detracting from the sense of place. Nevertheless the proximity of rural features such as the River Almond and its tributaries, a deciduous woodland and open farmland enhance the area.

Table 28: Landscape Character Summary for Kirkliston

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Urban development adjacent to the M90 and the River Almond.
Positive Character Attributes	Vernacular buildings River Almond on west edge Open view from area boundaries. Good communications within the site.
Negative Character Attributes	M9 motorway degrades east boundary. Housing density reaching its limit with new developments.
Landscape Designations	Protection of Open Space, Edinburgh Conservation Area in West Lothian Areas of Importance for Flood Protection in Edinburgh
Landscape Condition	Well maintained community with a mixture of housing estates. New housing development around the edge of town.
Scenic Quality	Average to low scenic quality due to disturbance by noise from two motorways and noise intrusion from Edinburgh Airport.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Medium

Industrial

Inverkeithing Industrial Estate

1.2.165 This LLCA is situated to the north of Inverkeithing and to the east of Rosyth. It is bounded by the M90 to the west and the A921 to the south.

1.2.166 Inverkeithing Industrial Estate is situated on a levelled area of the valley around the Keithing Burn, enclosed by a steep embankment along the southern edge of the area, to the A921. The area is dominated by a large, derelict building a car breaker’s yard, visible from a distance. There are also a mixture of old and new industrial units and a small park and ride.

1.2.167 The area is conveniently located for links to the M90 and is accessed at two points from the south, with internal roads providing access to all the industrial units and the park and ride at the eastern end of the site. The railway line to the Fife coast runs along the northern edge of the estate and converges with the Edinburgh to Aberdeen line running north from the Forth Rail Bridge at the northeastern corner of the area, isolating a triangle of derelict land between the connections. Additional sidings for goods trains lead off the line into the estate. A separate part of the estate comprising smaller business units is situated to the east of the railway and is accessed by the B981.

1.2.168 The hydrological features of the area include a small loch at the northern edge of the estate, which enhances views from the surrounding hills and a channelled burn running west to east across the area. The farmland to the north of the estate rises towards the Fordell Estate, and also provides an attractive outlook.

1.2.169 Vegetation in the area includes scrub woodland to the west of the LLCA along the railway embankment and at the park and ride area.

1.2.170 Overall, this is a disparate, degraded landscape of poor scenic quality.

Table 29: Landscape Character Summary for Inverkeithing Industrial Estate

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Industrial area Park and ride facility Bordered by M90, A921 and railway. Small loch at northern end of site. Predominantly flat with land rising to north, west and south.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive views to the north across rolling farmland. Loch is hidden from most views but helps to improve appearance of estate in views from the surrounding hills. Good links to motorway and well used park and ride system.
Negative Character Attributes	Largest, most prominent building in poor condition. Surrounding local and national railway lines and road have limited available space and concentrated development. Scrap yard within estate has tall piles of cars which are visible from a distance.
Landscape Designations	None
Landscape Condition	Older buildings generally in a poor condition. Estate is productive bu disparate. Park and ride is used beyond capacity leading to disorganisation in car park. Scattered vegetation around edges of site appears healthy.
Scenic Quality	Poor scenic quality Low-lying position limits views into the area, but settlement on surrounding hills overlook the site.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low

South Inverkeithing Bay

1.2.171 This LLCA is situated to the west of the A90 between Inverkeithing to the north and North Queensferry to the south.

1.2.172 South Inverkeithing Bay is predominantly an industrial area enveloping the west and south of Inverkeithing inner bay. Traditional and modern industrial buildings are clustered to the north of the area and a large working quarry is prominent to the south of the bay, which generates smoke. A park and ride facility is situated at the western edge of the area adjacent to the railway.

1.2.173 The Fife Coastal Way and cycle path follows the Cruickness Road beside the bay. The area is also accessed by the B981 to the north and west and the Ferryhills Road to the south. The Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway runs through the area to the west.

1.2.174 The area immediately surrounding the bay is flat. The land rises to the west towards the park and ride facility and this slope is further augmented by a railway embankment. The area of quarried land to the south features flat elements where extraction has already occurred and vertical elements at the quarry face rising to 45m aOD. The surrounding hills to the north, west and south give the area a sense of enclosure, although there are there are views east across the attractive bay area and Firth of Forth.

1.2.175 Vegetation in the area includes scrub woodland to the west of the LLCA along the railway embankment and at the park and ride area.

1.2.176 Overall, this is a disturbed and degraded landscape of poor scenic quality.

Table 30: Landscape Character Summary for South Inverkeithing Bay

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Industrial area Large quarry Bordered by bay / inlet Predominantly flat with land rising to north, west and south.
Positive Character Attributes	Attractive bay area with views east along the Firth of Forth. National Trail / Long Distance Route / National cycle network-traffic free.
Negative Character Attributes	Derelict Industrial buildings Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway cuts through the area. Active quarry detracts from the landscape value. Quarry activity and smoke Stockpiles in bay area
Landscape Designations	None
Landscape Condition	Landscape generally in poor condition with quarry activity and derelict industrial buildings.
Scenic Quality	Poor scenic quality Views into the area present a disturbed and degraded landscape. Scenic views from the area to Firth of Forth. Potential to develop the scenic quality of the area.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low

Rosyth Industrial Area

1.2.177 Rosyth Industrial Area is located 1.5km northwest of North Queensferry and immediately south of Rosyth Urban area. The Firth of Forth creates a coastal boundary to the south.

1.2.178 Most of the LLCA is occupied by relatively large, disparate industrial buildings, surrounded by derelict land, with the eastern side undergoing further development. Rosyth Castle is incongruously situated towards the east of the estate and Rosyth Castle Dovecot, with associated woodland, to the north of the LLCA. Along the coastal edge is an enclosed naval submarine base, a ferry port and a pier.

1.2.179 Ferry Toll Road and Barham Road connect the industrial area with the A90 and Forth Road Bridge and Millenium Road and Castle Road run northwards to Rosyth. International transport links are provided by the Rosyth — Zeebrugge ferry service and the naval base.

1.2.180 The area is at sea level, predominantly flat with gentler slopes to the northwest.

1.2.181 Vegetation is mainly scrub and marsh in undeveloped areas with urbanised lines of trees and hedges elsewhere.

1.2.182 Along the north edge of the area there are clear open views to the south except in the more northeast side where the Cult Ness Hill screens views to the southeast. Views within the estate are generally limited by the industrial buildings, except in the eastern area where long views remain open to the south.

Table 31: Landscape Character Summary for Rosyth Industrial

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Flat coastal area exposed to south and contained elsewhere by topography and buildings. Large industrial buildings expanding eastwards.
Positive Character Attributes	A listed buildings (Rosyth Castle ruin and Dovecot) Good access Long open views to south across the Firth of Forth.
Negative Character Attributes	Disparate industrial plots. Incongruous castle setting amongst industry. Undeveloped wasteland and scrub. Bland or unpleasant scenery.
Landscape Designations	Semi-natural Woodland Inventory / Long-Established (of plantation origin) Ancient Woodland Scheduled Ancient Monuments (Scotland)
Landscape Condition	Heavily developed with most industrial units in good condition. Patches of undeveloped wasteland and scrub. Landscape disruption to the east as development progresses. Urbanised lines of trees and hedges in average condition.
Scenic Quality	Low scenic quality of the area itself. Panoramic, long-range views possible in south directions from south edge but views blocked within the area. Rosyth Industrial Area is visible from the Forth Road Bridge and in views from the land surrounding the Hopetoun Estate and South Queensferry to the south.
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low

Existing Road Corridor

A90 / M90 / M9 roads (desk based)

1.2.183 The A90 / M90 / M9 LLCA consists of the distinctive linear landscape created by these roads as they pass through the landscape to the north and south of the existing Forth Road Bridge.

1.2.184 In the south, the road crosses the River Almond Valley and continues in a northwest direction along undulating south facing slopes. The road passes to the south of Kirkliston and continues onwards immediately to the south of Duntarvie Castle towards Linlithgow and Stirling. An additional M9 Spur road has recently been constructed to connect the M9 with the A90 and the Forth Road Bridge. The junction for this is immediately southwest of Kirkliston and the road continues north towards a ridge line at 55m aOD before the landscape slopes north to the Firth of Forth.

1.2.185 To the north, where the topography is generally steep and south facing, the LLCA travels through the igneous hill formation at Ferry Hills and continues northward through a slight valley formation formed by Castlandhill and North Inverkeithing Hill. The study area to the north comprises a number of cuttings as the road travels through the steep south facing slopes. To the west side of Ferry Hills, sheer rock cuttings create large vertical elements in the landscape. A further cutting with grading out occurs as the road passes to the east of Castlandhill and smaller cuttings occur as the road passes to the east of Dunfermline.

1.2.186 The study area to the north comprises a number of cuttings as the road travels through the steep south facing slopes. To the west side of Ferry Hills, sheer rock cuttings create large vertical elements in the landscape. A further cutting with grading out occurs as the road passes to the east of Castlandhill and smaller cuttings occur as the road passes to the east of Dunfermline.

1.2.187 In the study area to the south, the road corridors comprise a series of embankments which are high in places and form a dominant feature in the gently undulating landscape. The LLCA is only in cutting where the A90 crosses the final ridge line south of the Forth before continuing to the bridge.

1.2.188 The LLCA passes close to all the settlements in the study area, providing key road transport routes for Edinburgh and the central belt, with generally scenic views to the surrounding landscape.

1.2.189 Vegetation in the LLCA primarily consists of grassland or scrub and mixed or coniferous woodland planting along cuttings and embankments.

Table 32: Landscape Character Summary for A90 / M90 /M9

Landscape Attributes	Description
Key Characteristics	Linear landscape with cuttings and embankment.
Positive Character Attributes	Provides views to scenic landscape features.
Negative Character Attributes	Large cuttings and embankments dominate the landscape.
Landscape Designations	None
Landscape Condition	Average condition
Scenic Quality	Low scenic quality
Sensitivity to Change Due to Development	Low