Car Park at Pont ar Daf, Brecon Beacons

Design & Access Statement (update December 2016)

CONTENTS

SECTION 01: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

1.2 The Vision

SECTION 02: CONTEXT

2.1 Site Location and Context

2.2 Planning Policy

2.3 Summary of Constraints

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SECTION 03: DESIGN 3.1 Design Brief

3.2. Landscape Strategy

3.3. Consultation on Draft Proposals

SECTION 04: SUSTAINABILITY

4.1 Drainage

4.2 Other Services

4.3 Ecology

4.4 Public Pressure on Protected Sites

4.5 Archaeology

4.6 Future Proofing

SECTION 05: CONCLUSION

APPENDED DOCUMENTS APPENDIX 1: Landscape Strategy (Revised drawing) APPENDIX 2: Archaeological Survey 2010 APPENDIX 3: Current Usage Photos 2014 APPENDIX 4: Cut & Fill Plan Drawing No. 10039 – 102 APPENDIX 5: Protected Species Survey & Review (Bat & Otter Report) Rob Colley APPENDIX 6: Biological Survey 2011 APPENDIX 7: Stakeholder Consultation 2014 (response summary) APPENDIX 8: Screening Opinion Officer’s Report 2014 APPENDIX 9: Engineering Layout: Phoenix Design Drawing Nos. 10039 – 101_1,101_2 & 101_3 APPENDIX 10: Construction details Drawing No. 10039 – 103 APPENDIX 11: Method Statement for Construction Phase Pollution Prevention & Drainage APPENDIX 12: Concept Masterplan 2014 APPENDIX 13: BWW Management Plan 2012

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment, with Photomontages & Zone of Theoretical Visibility

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Pont ar Daf, viewed from the west

SECTION 01: INTRODUCTION AND VISION 1.1 Introduction This Design and Access Statement (DAS) update has been prepared to assist consideration of the proposals brought forward by National Trust. It is submitted in support of a full planning application for improvement of, and extension to, an existing car park at Pont ar Daf. It is accompanied by a Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA).

This DAS is an update to that previously submitted by National Trust, and consolidates information previously provided and adds further information following initial consideration. This DAS will be informed by a period of further public consultation completed during mid December 2016 and January 2017.

The revised application has been informed by a period of consultation brought forward by the following changes to the scheme:

-Welsh Government has started to construct a new access to the area of the new car park.

-A tree survey has been completed, and adjustments have been made to the layout to protect the identified trees.

-A new layout of the car park has been undertaken which better fits into the site.

-At the northern end of the car park, further landscaping is proposed with

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construction of a stone wall.

-We have amended our landscape strategy drawing.

-We have slightly revised the area of our planning submission at the site entrance to reflect the new Welsh Government Access.

-We have clarified archaeological aspects of the scheme following earlier comments.

The substantive aspects of the scheme, however, remain as originally submitted.

Located within close proximity of Pen y Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales, and easy to access from the A470 trunk road, the site and surrounding area present a significant draw for tourists and walkers.

The demand for car parking greatly exceeds the number of spaces available at this honey-pot location. As a result, overflow parking takes place along the verges on both sides of the A470. This presents a hazard to visitors themselves and to passing vehicles, and creates a poor impression, visible from miles around.

The National Trust (NT) own and manage the central part of the Brecon Beacons and have a vested interest in improving visitor provision.

It is proposed that the site be redeveloped in an appropriate, sustainable way, to provide a total of 263 car parking spaces including spaces for disabled users, together with parking for minibuses and coaches and secure provision for cyclists.

This application follows discussions which have taken place at Pre-Application stage with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority (BBNPA), including a Screening Opinion, discussions with the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent (NMWTRA), and a stakeholder consultation held at Storey Arms, all during 2014. Comments received from the Screening Opinion included a positive response from Natural Resources Wales (NRW). Following further feedback, and consideration by NMWTRA, a revised scheme has been produced, and subject to a period of consultation during January 2017. This draft DAS has been prepared to assist this process as required by new legislation for pre application consultation for major applications.

Pont ar Daf, on a busy summer weekend

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1.2 The Vision The vision for Pont ar Daf is to achieve safe and attractive parking provision for visitors to the Brecon Beacons, with the following objectives:

1.2.2 Car parking

• Remove the need for dangerous and unsightly parking from the verges of the A470; • Improve the safety, capacity and aesthetics of the existing car park; • Extend the parking into an area of recently felled plantation, thereby achieving sufficient

capacity to accommodate high total numbers of cars; • Through a combination of robust and creative design, use of local materials, native planting

and sustainable drainage, enable parking to blend in sympathetically with the surrounding landscape and ecology;

1.2.3 Visitor use

• Create a hub for visitors at this important gateway to the Brecon Beacons, providing access to the Taff Trail and the Beacons Way long distance footpaths, and a fitting trailhead to Pen y Fan, the highest peak in Southern Britain;

• Provide welcoming and attractive, facilities to cater for travellers wishing to stop en route, free-of-charge for a short break;

• Provide a base for National Trust engagement work, parking for Mountain Rescue activity, for Ministry of Defence training, and a venue for other events;

• Provide an income to contribute to National Trust programme of upland path repair and maintenance in the central Brecon Beacons;

• Provide the opportunity to expand National Trust membership and disseminate information about NT work in the Brecon Beacons and further afield.

1.2.3 Future Proofing

• Ensure that the proposals are capable of accommodating potential future improvements, such as the development of a Visitor Centre as outlined in the 2011 Concept Masterplan (Appendix 12);

• Ensure that the car park and associated works are designed to conserve archaeology and allow for possible future enhancement, interpretation, clearance or consolidation.

1.2.4 The Proposal

Our proposal is to redevelop and improve the existing car park, and to extend the parking into the area of felled plantation. The redesigned and extended car park will provide 263no. car spaces plus parking for cycles, motorbikes, coaches and minibuses. It will give the impression of parking in an open woodland. This will provide more appropriate infrastructure for tourist and leisure trips, while protecting and enhancing the special qualities of the Brecon Beacons National Park (BBNP) which make it an attractive landscape to visit.

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SECTION 02: CONTEXT 2.1 Site Location and Context 2.1.1 Location and Access

The application site is located in the centre of the Brecon Beacons National Park near Pen y Fan (NGR SN 987 198), the highest point in southern Britain at 886m, which attracts around 150,000 visitors a year. (Figure 1: Site Location Plan). The site is situated adjacent to the A470, a major trunk road connecting South to North Wales at a location 33 miles north of Cardiff and 8 miles south of Brecon.

The site consists of an existing run-down car park together with an adjacent area of recently felled plantation woodland. The existing site provides car parking, toilets and access to popular footpaths and is served by one point of access from the A470 trunk road.

Several bus services provide transport to the site, stopping at the nearby Storey Arms Outdoor Education Centre. The services connect Brecon and Mid Wales (Newtown and Llandrindod Wells) to the north with Merthyr Tydfil and Cardiff to the south. The nearest train station is at Merthyr Tydfil from where a connecting bus service runs. There is no train station in Brecon.

The National Trust has recently constructed a new section of footpath linking Storey Arms with Pont ar Daf, an important connection between bus stops, car parking and trailheads. The path re-routes a short section of the Beacons Way, and provides a more pleasant, safer alternative to walking along the verges of the A470. As yet it is underused, due to its newness, and due to being less obvious than the old route along the A470.

Figure 1a: Site Location Plan (nts)

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2.1.2 Site Description

The application site lies adjacent to the A470 trunk road corridor, and rises from the site on a south-west facing slope. The area of the site is approximately 2.5 hectares, 0.9 ha of which will comprise the proposed car park extension.

The site consists of two areas: an existing surfaced tarmac car park; and an area of former larch plantation which has recently been cleared due to Phytopthera disease. The resulting area of stumps and brash has sparse and species-poor ground flora and a number of small streams. The plantation used to cast heavy shade over the site and its felling has introduced more light and opened up views. The edge of the remaining plantation outside the site boundary is subject to wind throw.

The cleared plantation within the site previously formed part of a larger plantation subject to a Better Woodlands for Wales Forestry Management Scheme (BWW), and substantial parts are being replanted with broadleaf woodland with a target of 60%.

Figure 1b: Site Location Plan (nts)

2.1.3 Ownership & Surrounding Land Use

In total, the National Trust owns 3327 hectares of land around Pen y Fan, an area which has a rich ecology and landscape history and which typifies the special qualities and spirit of place of the Brecon Beacons. Much of the area within NT ownership is Common Land and managed by grazing, in association with the Commoners.

The existing car park and toilet block are currently owned by Welsh Government but will be transferred to NT once full planning permission is obtained. The site of the plantation is located on land that is owned (leasehold) by the National Trust. Refer to Figure 2: Ownership Plan.

Storey Arms Outdoor Education Centre is the only building in the area and is sited on the A470 at the pass between Pen y Fan and Fan Fawr, 200m from the application site. On the opposite side of the A470, but unconnected with Storey Arms, is a layby used for parking. Bus stops are sited on each side of the A470 here.

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Figure 2: Ownership Plan (nts)

2.1.4 Recreation Opportunity

The Brecon Beacons is a popular area for outdoor recreation, and there is a particular concentration of pressure at and in the vicinity of the site, due to the proximity of Pen-y-Fan, and easy access from the A470.

Pen-y-Fan experiences particularly intensive levels of use. The National Trust estimates that each year 200,000 people tread the slopes of this central area, equivalent to the number of visitors to Big Pit in Blaenavon World Heritage Site, or the Brecon Beacons National Park Visitor Centre in Libanus. (Ref: p.16 Sustainable Tourism Strategy for the Brecon Beacons 2012-2016)

As well as Pen-y-Fan, the car park at Pont ar Daf provides access to two of the National Park’s five long distance trails, at the point where these routes cross the A470:

There are also several walking options for short or circular routes, such as the Pen y Fan Horseshoe.

The car park is also used by passing travellers, as it provides one of few toilet facilities available on the A470.

The car park is also used by Ministry of Defence training squads and Mountain Rescue teams, both of whom have parking requirements.

The site provides no guaranteed opportunity for purchase of refreshments, although unlicensed catering vans are present on busy occasions, and there is a burger van sited in a layby opposite Storey Arms throughout the year.

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2.1.6 Landscape Designations Landscape designations: The following designations are relevant to the site:

• National Park: The site lies within the Brecon Beacons National Park • Geopark: The site lies within the Fforest Fawr Geopark • Scheduled Monuments: There are two Scheduled Monuments on the site, part of the WW2 Western

Command Stop Line between Storey Arms and Quakers Yard • Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI): The site lies adjacent to the Brecon Beacons SSSI

• Brecon Beacons National Park

The site lies within the Brecon Beacons National Park, an area of 520 square miles. The statutory purposes of National Parks are to conserve and enhance their natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage and to promote opportunities for public understanding and enjoyment of their special qualities. National Park Authorities have been set up to pursue these purposes, and other public bodies and other relevant authorities have a statutory duty to have regard to these purposes. National Park Authorities also have a duty to seek to foster the economic and social well-being of their local communities. The Brecon Beacons National Park is designated for its landscape quality. Defined by the IUCN as a Category V protected Landscape, it is an area where the interaction of people and nature over time has created a distinctive character with significant aesthetic, ecological and cultural value.

• Fforest Fawr Geopark The site lies within the Forest Fawr Geopark, the first European Geopark to be designated in Wales, in 2005. The Geopark covers 300 square miles of the Western Brecon Beacons between Llandovery, Llandeilo, Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil. The Geopark celebrates the geological and wider natural heritage of the area together with the cultural heritage relating to 7000 years of recorded human occupation since the last ice age. The Geopark aims to promote and support sustainable tourism and other opportunities to improve the economy of the area whilst safeguarding the natural environment. Its aims largely coincide with the statutory duties and purpose of the National Park within which it sits.

• Archaeology

Refer also to Sustainability S4.5 below, and Appendix 2: Archaeology Survey 2011

Scheduled Ancient Monument BR337 Storey Arms Anti-invasion Defences:

These form part of the WW2 Western Command’s Storey Arms to Quakers Yard Stop Line. (Reference BR337A: Infantry Support Trench and BR337B). The Pill Box is on the edge on the site of the proposed car park. These structures are embedded in the stream bank, near the footbridge that carries the main path up to Corn Du and Pen y Fan.

Site of Storey Arms Inn: site of local importance: The original Storey Arms coaching inn was located immediately east of the existing car park. It was demolished in 1924. Remains include low banks outlining the building and degraded remains of stone walls of associated enclosures. The stone wall alongside the existing layby may incorporate part of the original Storey Arms.

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Figure 3: Relationship of the site to the Brecon Beacons SSSI (SSSI is shown in green hatch; site boundary is shown by red line.)

• SSSI/SAC

The site is located adjacent to the Brecon Beacons SSSI but falls outside the Section 3 Conservation Area (mountain, moor and heath). The 4993 hectare SSSI is an extensive upland area dominated by the central Beacons massif owned by the NT, but also includes tracts of land outside NT ownership. The special features for the SSSI include geology and landform, sandstone cliffs and rock outcrops, screes, cliff ledge vegetation, with associated rare plants and broadleaved woodland. The Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) on the central Beacons are largely confined to the cliff areas below Pen y Fan and Cribyn and the ridge running down Craig Gwaun Taff and Graig Ffan Ddu.

2.2. Planning Policy The Planning Policy Framework for the determination of this application is provided by the content and scope of Welsh National Planning Guidance, together with the Brecon Beacons National Park Local Development Plan 2007-2022 (LDP) adopted by the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority in December 2013.

Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) includes the following:

• Landscape and Development Supplementary Planning Guidance, BBNPA 2014 • Landscape Character Areas for Brecon Beacons National Park, 2014 • Brecon Beacons Visitor Management Plan, LUC September 2013 • A Strategy and Action Plan for Sustainable Tourism in the Brecon Beacons 2012-2016

2.2.1 Local Plan Policy Consideration of the effects of development on wildlife and cultural heritage and landscape and visual amenity aspects of natural beauty are set out in this DAS, and in Appendix 2 of the accompanying Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA). The following extracts from the Local Development Plan are seen as particularly relevant to this application, and have been addressed by our proposals:

Policy 1 Appropriate Development in the National Park “All proposals for development or change of use of land or buildings in the National Park must

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comply with the following criteria, where they are relevant to the proposal: i) the scale, form, design, layout, density, intensity of use and use of materials will be appropriate to the surroundings and will maintain or enhance the quality and character of the Park’s Natural Beauty, wildlife, cultural heritage and built environment; ii) the proposed development is integrated into the landscape to the satisfaction of the NPA through planting and appropriate management of native species or through the construction of appropriate boundary features; iv) the proposed development promotes opportunities for the conservation and enhancement of bio/geodiversity through appropriate design and landscaping.”

CYD LP1 Enabling Appropriate Development “Proposals for development within countryside locations will be required to contribute positively to their countryside setting and enhance the quality of the landscape without adverse impact on the wildlife, natural beauty, cultural heritage, environmental assets or biodiversity of the area.”

In particular: “5. Proposals for tourist attractions or recreational activity which by evidenced necessity require a countryside location as essential to their function”

The National Park is an International Dark Skies Reserve, and an objective of the National Park Management Plan is to minimise light pollution; no additional lighting is proposed at Pont ar Daf.

SP3 Environmental Protection – Strategic Policy “All proposals for development or change of use of land or buildings in the National Park must demonstrate that the proposed development does not have an unacceptable impact on, nor detract from, or prevent the enjoyment of; a) the special qualities of the National Park as identified in the National Park Management Plan.

b) ecology and biodiversity assets both within and beyond designated sites c) the water environment d) geodiversity, including the Fforest Fawr European Geopark e) cultural and historic heritage f) the character of the built heritage, including listed buildings, conservation areas and archaeological features h) the important network of public open space and recreation facilities”

SP14 Sustainable Tourism “The NPA will enable proposals for sustainable tourism development which promote opportunities for the enjoyment and understanding of the National Park, whilst ensuring that the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage is conserved and enhanced.”

Policy 6 Biodiversity and Development “Development will only be permitted where: 1. the developer proves to the satisfaction of the NPA that there is no unacceptable loss or fragmentation or other impact of a habitat or landscape feature and/or increased isolation on important species as listed under Section 42 of the NERC act (habitats and species of principal importance to Wales), OR 2 A the developer identifies habitats and landscape features of importance for wildlife within the site and provides for the further creation, positive management, restoration, enhancement or compensation for these habitats and features to ensure that the site maintains its nature conservation importance; and B full provision is made for the future management of the site's habitats and features of nature conservation value. “

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Policy 10 Water Quality “Development Proposals will only be permitted where: a) They do not have unacceptable adverse impact upon the water environment, and b) Where they would not pose an unacceptable risk to the quality and quantity of controlled waters (including groundwater and surface water).” Refer to Section 4.1 below.

2.2.2 Special Policy Guidance

• Landscape and Development (L&D) Supplementary Planning Guidance, BBNPA 2014 • Landscape Character Areas (LCA) for Brecon Beacons National Park, 2012

The L&D SPG is informed by the LCA Study, which is appended to the L&D.

Pont ar Daf falls within the Landscape Character Area (LCA) 8: Talybont and Taff Reservoir valleys, and very close to LCA 3: Fforest Fawr and LCA 7: Central Brecon Beacons. To some extent, all LCA overall strategies apply:

LCA3 “To protect and enhance the special qualities of the landscape, including tranquility, remoteness and relative wildness, and its historic features, long views and open skylines.”

LCA 8 “To sensitively manage forestry, water resources and recreation to ensure the long-term enhancement of the area’s biodiversity and special qualities, and enhance views of the area from adjacent higher ground.”

LCA 7 “To protect the area’s open, undeveloped, dramatic and tranquil landscapes, and

enhance its special qualities. Recreation is encouraged, but discreetly managed, to minimise its environmental and visual impacts. “

The ways in which our proposals respond to these strategies, minimise adverse impacts and create positive outcomes are described in detail in the accompanying LVIA.

The L&D states “Design that responds to the landscape can enhance landscape character.”

Our understanding of the landscape character of Pont ar Daf and its setting has informed the design proposals, and resulted in a sympathetic scheme which will not only address parking issues but will create new landscape features which accord with LCA 8.

• A Strategy and Action Plan for Sustainable Tourism in the Brecon Beacons 2012-2016

Our proposals accord with many recommendations in this Strategy, in particular:

“4.1 Maintain high quality walking experiences and general countryside access at all levels”

“4.5 Strengthen the awareness, accessibility and appeal of the area’s historical sites”

• Brecon Beacons Visitor Management Plan, LUC September 2013

The Brecon Beacons Visitor Management Plan identifies Storey Arms and Pont ar Daf car parks and the north scarp path as popular honey pot location for outdoor recreation. It recommends:

“Local interventions are needed to better manage the impacts and experience of visitors at … honeypot sites which have the capacity to provide high quality experiences for large numbers of visitors where impacts can be managed within acceptable limits.

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2.3 Summary of Constraints The following constraints have been identified and addressed in the proposals:

• The site is in a sensitive location in the Brecon Beacons National Park, highly visible from the A470 corridor and key long distance footpaths;

• The site is adjacent to the Brecon Beacons SSSI/SAC and has potential to

impact sensitive habitats;

• The site and adjacent areas are under extreme pressure due to the proximity of Pen y Fan and ease of access from the A470, and therefore the design solution needs to accommodate high parking capacity without looking like a large car park;

• Public access causes pressure on the footpaths in the area; • Additional parking requirements needs to be catered for, such as the MOD

and Mountain Rescue;

• The microclimate is harsh, with a short growing season, poor soils, high rainfall and low temperatures;

• Due to the gradients and extremes of weather, there is restricted choice of suitable, robust materials;

• The site lies above the Beacons Reservoir and Taf Fawr, giving potential for

damaging pollution of groundwater;

• There is an archaeological resource, only part of which is evident, and which requires protection; and

• The design needs to be ‘future-proofed’ to allow potential development of a

Visitor Centre. This aspect, however, is not part of the current proposals.

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SECTION 03: DESIGN

3.1 Design Brief 3.1.1 The National Trust brief for the new car park is for it to be designed in such a way that it creates a sense of arrival and a fitting welcome that reflects the grandeur of the Brecon Beacons and their place in Welsh culture. The facilities are to be tailored to the needs of the users, primarily hill walkers and reflect appropriate standards of design, sustainability, function, quality and sensitivity to the spirit of the place. A key objective is that the landscape proposals and new car park fit seamlessly with the surrounding rural context. It is also important that the car park will help the National Trust to generate income from car parking and membership recruitment, and in time potentially from catering and retail. 3.1.2 Specific Requirements of the Brief The following specific requirements of the brief have been addressed by our proposals and are described in detail in Section 3.2. The only requirements modified are: the number of parking spaces which it was possible to achieve whilst remaining sympathetic to the location (reduced from 280 to

263); and the proposed bunding which is to be carried out by the TRA rather than part of this application:

• The design of the new car park should recognise the extreme sensitivity of the location within the National Park and carefully consider how potential landscape and visual impacts could be mitigated by sympathetic and suitable design. This will include a consideration of the impact on important local and long distance views.

• The design of the car park should recognise the severe weather conditions experienced at the location, including high rainfall and low temperatures.

• The design will need to include a drainage system that can cope with severe rainfall and not allow run off into the adjacent Taf Fawr.

• Capacity to accommodate approximately 263 no. including adequate numbers of disabled parking bays, spaces for coaches/buses and campervans and army vehicles

• Adequate provision for secure cycle and motorbike parking. • The surface of the core parking area and associated structures should be durable, easily

maintained, but suitable in a rural context. However parking bays must be marked in some way in order to maximise use of the area.

• There should be minimum impact on the natural environment and the car park design should respect the location of specimen trees and groups of trees which are to be protected from damage, both throughout the construction phase of the car park, and afterwards during its operation.

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o There should be easy access off the busy A470 into the car park avoiding queues. o It will be necessary to provide bunding along both sides of the A470 to the north of the

existing car park to prevent car parking on verges but liaison with North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency is essential to scope details including exact location and proposed landform.

o Traffic should be able to flow easily and safely through the car park and potential bottlenecks should be avoided.

o This initial Phase 1 accommodation will not require power, water and telephone lines, however provision should be made for underground ducting for these services to be supplied in subsequent phases of development of the site.

o Pay and display units will be installed and the siting of these needs careful consideration. o Visitors should be able to park securely and safely – it is a requirement that there is the

potential for improved supervision and security of the car park and that the design will contribute to minimising vandalism, theft and antisocial behaviour. Provision should be made for closing the car park at night.

o Provision also made for time limited (c 20 minutes) stops to use toilet facilities for no charge.

o The new design should maximise the opportunities to make links, both visual and physical with the surrounding landscape – both with the open access land and with the network of local and long distance trails.

o Access improvements to be included in the design include links to the new access tracks that have been constructed to aid timber extraction. This will create a connection between the Storey Arms Path on the Brecon Beacons and the proposed new car park area allowing walkers to avoid using routes alongside the A470.

o Provision should be made for a future location of events area including marquee. o The new car park should respect the settings of the listed structures and scheduled

monuments in the vicinity and use these features as an opportunity. o Access by visitors to the existing car park is to be maintained during the construction of the

works. o Signage – visitor welcome and orientation signage is already being developed with

separate funding and it will be necessary to liaise with National Trust staff to ensure a seamless approach to location etc.

o All proposals should take into account the National Trust’s Draft Best Practice Guidance on Parking Facilities and are expected to comply with the National Trust’s environmental principles.

3.2 Landscape Strategy 3.2.1 Character Proposals seek to create parking within an ecologically diverse and attractive deciduous woodland. This will allow a high number of cars to be absorbed into the landscape in a sensitive way. Planting of

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trees and shrubs at the boundaries will form a soft and varied edge, and so will form an appropriate transition into adjacent grassland, rather than a distinct sharp line in the landscape as is evident with the conifer plantation. 3.2.2 General access The current single access point will be retained as this is the preferred option of the Trunk Road Agent (TRA) and works best with the change in levels.

The car park will be attended during busy periods and a charge made for non-members of the National Trust. There will be short-term free parking adjacent to the toilet block.

A lockable barrier with 'dragon's teeth' egress will permit night time closure of most of the car park. Keys will be issued to Mountain Rescue teams.

Bunding will be continued along the A470 by the TRA to prevent illegal parking along the road verges, and does not form part of this application.

3.2.3 Parking provision The existing car park has a nominal capacity of 90 cars but is not managed and, at busy periods, over 120 vehicles have been counted in the car park at a time. However this is only achievable when cars are crammed into the space in a chaotic manner, using verges as well as allocated spaces and with doors opening onto footpaths. Turning is difficult and safety is compromised. (Refer to Current Usage photos at Appendix 3). The Current Usage report also indicates 53no. further vehicles along both sides of the A470, at the time of the survey. In order to provide maximum capacity of 263no. spaces, whilst remaining sensitive to the location, car parking is divided into ‘formal’ and ‘informal’ parking areas:

3.2.4 Formal car park The ‘formal’ main car park is essentially the existing tarmac car park with a tarmac extension. The formal car park is adjacent to the A470 with better potential for screening, so parking here is higher density, with double rows of lined spaces with tarmac surface. By re-designing and extending the area, a total of 171 ‘formal’ spaces can be achieved, including disabled spaces, plus 7no. minibus and 3no. coach spaces. Higher parking density is achievable by delineating spaces. Disabled parking is close to the ‘hub’ at the southern end of the car park, and provision for motorcycle and cycles will be in the ‘hub’ close to the existing ‘Meet & Greet’ hut and potential future Visitor Centre. At the northern section, further away from the hub, will be located MOD, minibus and coach parking and turning area.

3.2.5 Informal car park

The ‘informal’ car park is essentially a further car park extension into the former plantation which provides an additional 92no. spaces. Layout, surfacing and materials will contrast with the main car park. The majority of surfacing will be permeable crushed stone. In order to maximise the use of available space, parking bays will be delineated by subtle 'T' blocks in ground. Parking density decreases towards the east side of the car park, where the existing ground levels will be reduced and planting will be increased.

Tree planting along planted swales; all imported materials to be appropriate to the rural character e.g. local sandstone, indigenous plant species. Stone walling used to separate tiers of spaces, with sculptural elements, random boulders for sitting and posts for tying up dogs.

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Figure 4: Sketch of section through formal car park

Figure 5: Path through informal car park

3.2.6 Topography

The site rises from 436m at the location of the toilet block in the existing car park, to 443.5m at the top (eastern) corner of the site. The proposed car park will extend up as far as the 442.5m contour, but at this point will be cut into the slope by 1.5m to reach no further than 441m. Refer to Cut and Fill Plan at Appendix 4. This means that there is a 7.5m total existing level change, of which 5m is proposed across

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the parking areas and 2.5m across the planted steep slope at the top of the site. This illustrates how the car park will be set into the slope to achieve suitably shallow gradients across the parking bays, in order to prevent migration of surface material, erosion by storm water flows or running away of push chairs. It also results in the additional benefit of minimising visual impact.

3.2.7 Views and screening

In preference to creating a total screen to the car park, our aim has been to partially screen/blend the car park sympathetically into the landscape. The objectives of this approach have been to:

• allow natural supervision of the car park, thereby improving security; • allow the welcome and friendly sight of the car park when coming down off the hill particularly

in bad weather, or for those who only wish to venture a short distance from their cars; • allow passing traffic to realise that there are parking and toilet facilities available at this location.

The attached LVIA includes photomontages which show the anticipated effect of the proposals from key viewpoints agreed with the BBNPA. A Zone of Theoretical Visiblility (ZTV) has been prepared as part of the LVIA for within 5km and 10km radii of the application site. The LVIA clearly illustrates that:

• The area from which the extension to the existing car park will be visible, barely differs from the area from which the existing car park is currently visible.

• Due to the proximity of the car parks to the A470 highway corridor, the visual effects of car movements, glinting windscreens, headlights and parked cars present minimal intrusion to the already trafficked landscape; and

• The effect of the expanded car park is deemed preferable to the sight of banks of cars parked along both verges of the A470.

In addition, any negative effects will be greatly mitigated or eliminated by proposals for:

• Naturalistic groupings of native plantings within the car parks; • Cutting the top of the car park into the slope; and • Establishment of recently planted broadleaf woodland on NT land above the

application site (through the BWW Scheme, see 3.2.8 below).

3.2.8 Existing and proposed vegetation

There are groups of existing trees at the top of the bank which forms a boundary with and runs alongside the A470. These trees consist principally of even aged ash, which have been closely planted and are in need of thinning. Towards the south end there are gaps in this belt of trees, and further south again there is a small group of conifers adjacent to the Taff Trail. It is proposed to retain the conifers (to be reviewed in future years once new planting is established), thin and underplant the broadleaf trees and inter-plant gaps with appropriate native broadleaves. This will achieve a more naturalistic woodland screen with a softer edge, whilst maintaining some views through for improved security. A key role of the planting will be to soften views of car parking when viewed from the A470 approach from the south.

It is estimated that, at these altitudes, the growth rate of trees will be approximately 70% of the rate at lower levels. These slower growth rates have been taken into account for the photomontages.

Some further felling of ash trees is proposed, of the groups in between existing bays of car parking. This will permit increased parking provision.

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Figure 6: Impression of summer view from the A470

There are a few broadleaf trees which were growing within the former plantation and which were not felled; it is proposed to retain all of these with the exception of one, due to safety issues. A bat survey will be carried out on any trees with potential roosting opportunity prior to felling. A recent Protected Species Survey & Review 2014 is appended (Appendix 5). No bat related constraint to the development is identified.

Proposed tree planting within the car park areas will give the impression of an open woodland setting for small groups of cars. This will allow natural supervision at the same time as blending the car park into the surrounding landscape.

As the elevation of the car park increases, parking density decreases, so the highest parking spaces will be in smaller groups and divided by larger copses of trees.

Once the landscape layout is agreed, a detailed planting plan will be drawn up with full planting specification, with details of plant sizes, densities and numbers. Refer also to Section 4.3 below.

To achieve an instant and naturalistic effect, trees within the parking areas will be planted at three different sizes and as multi-stems, together with feathered oaks. Species such as alder, birch and mountain ash and other native species of local provenance will be used. Trees will be rootballed so as to facilitate underground root guying in lieu of stakes. This will provide a more naturalistic and instant effect, increase establishment rates (allowing more stem movement) and reduce the possibility of vandalism.

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Figure 7: Welcoming entrance into car park

Examples of planted sizes are as follows: Feathered oak (Quercus petraea) Mostly 3.5-4m Occasional 4.5m Birch (Betula spp) Multi-stem 3 and 4m Single feathered stems mixed from 4-6m Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) Multi-stem 2m and 3m Pine trees (Pinus sylvestris) 2m, bushy

Planting of pine will be in the strip between the A470 and the car park and will be very occasional. Its role is to provide an evergreen cover which will visually relate the broadleaf woodland with the conifer plantations, provide an element of improved screening, and makes a connection with the historic planting of pine on ancient drover’s roads.

Understorey shrubs will include indigenous species such as Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Ulex europaeus, Viburnumn opulus, (hazel, hawthorn, holly, blackthorn, gorse and guelder rose)

Natural heather & bilberry regeneration will be encouraged using cut heather mulch. Natural regeneration will be used in preference to planting of ground cover species in line with the Biological Survey Report recommendations (Appendix 6). However, swales and pond edges will be

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planted/sown with marginal species such as: Phragmites australis, Ranunculus spp, Bidens curma, Caltha palustris, Butomus umbellatus, Carex spp. (Common reed, Buttercup, Bur m a rig o ld , M a rsh marigold, Flowering rush, Sedge spp). These species will be collected from National Trust managed local areas.

New planting will initially be protected by stock proof fencing.

Part of the site, together with NT-owned land outside the application site, is managed under the Better Woodlands for Wales scheme. Under this scheme, it is proposed to fell a large proportion of the conifer plantation and plant new broadleaf woodland. This planting has already begun and will provide additional softening and screening immediately adjacent to the car park.

In particular, where the upper slopes to the east and above the car park rise quite steeply, recently planted broadleaves will eventually provide a backdrop of deciduous woodland.

As shown in Figure 8, the sequence of felling and planting will be: • Compartment 1a completed. • Compartments 1a, 1e, 1h, 3d already planted with broadleaves, will grow taller (although probably 30% more slowly than at lower altitudes) • 1b, 1c will be clear felled over next 25 years, but only when broadleaves in front of them become established • 1d will be retained, although edge will slowly move backwards due to wind throw • Compartments 3a, 3b, 3c will be felled in coupes during the next 25 years and replanted with 40% conifer 60% broadleaves. National Trust management is to revert back to at least 60% broadleaf.

Figure 8: BWW Sequence of felling and replanting

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3.2.9 Other facilities A ‘hub’ area is proposed adjacent to the recently constructed ‘Meet & Greet’ hut. This will provide a focal point for the proposals – path node, road crossing, secure cycle and motorbike parking, interpretation, events area and information point and seating will all be located here.

Crumbling stone walls will be rebuilt, re-using site-won stone

Provision is made for temporary Mountain Rescue vehicle adjacent to the ‘hub’ area and close to the trailhead to Pen y Fan.

MOD parking will be sited in the northernmost part of the car park, away from the main hub.

The existing toilet block will be refurbished or replaced together with the existing sewerage system; the toilets will be locked at night.

A kerbed and surfaced footway in between the existing car parking and existing wall will absorb increased pedestrian pressure and provide for safe movement within the lower car park.

A less formal east-west pedestrian route will run across the bays of the proposed car park extension, to connect into the ‘hub’ area and give access to the walking trails.

3.2.10 Signage and interpretation

National Trust ‘welcome’ signage and maps are currently sited near the existing car park and further ‘visitor welcome’ signage and interpretation has been developed. Oak fingerposts will be carefully sited to ensure visitors can find their way easily through the car park and to key access points. In

particular, new clear signage will encourage use of the recently constructed footpath to Storey Arms, part of the Beacons Way.

A new short loop walk is proposed through the recently felled plantation to the Taf Fawr stream and this will also be signed. Site entrance signage will form part of a separately-funded project.

Discussions will be carried out with the TRA to renew brown signs on the A470 and with the BBNPA regarding interpretation, including internet orientation.

The recently constructed ‘Meet & Greet’ hut is staffed by volunteers and is open at weekends and during events. It is hoped that opening hours will be increased in future.

3.3 Consultation on Draft Proposals 3.3.1 During the Pre-Application stage, our proposals have been discussed with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent, and at a stakeholder consultation held at Storey Arms.

3.3.2 Stakeholder Consultation and Exhibition of Draft Proposals Draft proposals were considered in May 2014. This is combined with a further consultation during December 2016 and January 2017.

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Our proposals were met with broad agreement and support; any issues raised have been addressed in the design. The only request which we have been unable to meet is the relocation of the bus stops from Storey Arms to Pont ar Daf. This is due to lack of support from other stakeholders such as the TRA. A summary of comments is appended. (Appendix 7) 3.3.3 Consultation with Cadw Subsequent consultation with Cadw related to the setting of the pillboxes and the physical impact of the development on the archaeological resource. With regard to the setting, we have ensured that parking bays close to the pillboxes were removed from our draft proposals in order to avoid interrupting views out from the trench. Whilst the proposed scheme avoids both of the scheduled areas adjacent to the development, Cadw’s military specialist has indicated that these structures are likely to have formed part of a more extensive array of associated defences including cabling, foxholes, firing trenches, machine gun pits or weapons dumps. As a result, a budget will be reserved in the contract for archaeological intervention on any areas that are to be planted or otherwise disturbed due to the high potential for undesignated features to survive.

3.3.4 Consultation with the MOD The MOD at Sennybridge has indicated that they will only require parking at off-peak times. A maximum of 6no. spaces will be required at any time. 3.3.5 Screening Opinion

The Screening Opinion from the BBNPA is appended. (Appendix 8). The Screening Opinion indicates that the development would not generate any significant environmental effect that an Environmental Impact Assessment would be required. However, as requested, additional information has been supplied as part of this DAS:

• Drainage Method Statement • Drainage & Pollution Construction Phase Statement; • Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment, which uses all five LANDMAP aspect layers together

with realistic, uninterrupted viewpoints agreed with the BBNPA; and • Assessment of Bat & Otter use.

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SECTION 04: SUSTAINABILITY 4.1 Drainage 4.1.1 The site forms part of the catchment area for the Taf Fawr / Beacons Reservoir. The natural drainage pattern needs to be retained, whilst ensuring that the car park is well drained and not subject to erosion, particularly in the case of the proposed stone surfacing. As such, foul and surface water proposals form an integral element of the design proposals. These sustainable drainage proposals will provide the opportunity for visitor interpretation on the impacts of increasing levels of surface water and how they are best addressed.

4.1.2 Surface water drainage

Surface water drainage in this high rainfall area will managed by twin methods: improved and proposed tarmac areas will be drained using the existing traditional drainage system, which will be improved by construction of additional gulleys and replacement of existing interceptors. The proposed car park extension will use Sustainable Drainage techniques, including a combination of permeable stone surface, swales, perforated pipes and balancing pond to achieve calculated attenuated flows and natural filtration.

4.1.3 Drainage Strategy – to be read in conjunction with Appendix 9 Engineering Layout Drawing Nos. 10039 – 101_1,101_2 & 101_3 and Appendix 10 Construction Details Drawing No. 100039-103

• The 'purple' coloured drainage is to make use of existing surface water drainage connections at an unrestricted discharge rate. The existing tarmac area that drains to existing drainage system

is 3935m². Where an allowance for a worst case rainfall intensity of 50mm/hr provides a discharge rate of 55l/s. The proposed tarmac area to drain to existing drainage is 4025m², an increase of 70m². As a consequence the proposed flows based upon a 50mm/hr worst case rainfall intensity a discharge rate of 55.9l/s is achieved, an increase of only 0.9l/s;

• A portion of the existing car park which currently drains to the existing SW system (southern area) will be drained to the pond thus reducing the 'hardstanding' area to drain to the existing system, this offers a betterment to the existing system;

• In order to prevent contaminants leaving the site all proposed surface water systems are to incorporate petrol interceptors with the exception of gravel parking areas;

• All land drains inspection chambers/ manholes are to incorporate 300mm catch pits to prevent silt and debris reaching the receiving watercourse;

• No petrol interceptor is required to gravel parking areas. The crushed stone/gravel will contain naturally occurring micro-bacteria which consume hydrocarbons, thus cleaning the water prior to discharging to the pond; and

• All perforated pipes will have rodding points. 4.1.4 As well as managing attenuated water, the pond will enhance biodiversity. It is designed to have 600mm permanent water rising to 1200mm for extreme weather events (1 in 100 years). In order to ensure a safe and attractive environment, the pond will have gently graded, non-uniform banks. The pond will be close to moving water (Taf Fawr) and away from the car park itself and therefore is assessed as a minimal safety hazard. In future years it could be re-profiled to become an attractive feature adjacent to a Visitor Centre. 4.1.5 Foul water The existing reed bed and septic tank arrangement for the toilet block is inadequate. As part of a separately funded project, the system will be upgraded to accommodate current and proposed use.

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4.1.6 Construction Phase A Method Statement for proposed drainage and pollution prevention measures is appended (Appendix 11) and will be provided as part of the Construction, Design & Management (CDM) package for the Construction Phase.

4.2 Other Services Lighting

There is existing lighting to the toilet block and this will be retained, it is not the intention to light the wider car park.

Solar power

Solar power will be used for pay & display machines at information/interpretation points.

4.3 Ecology Refer to the appended Protected Species Survey 2014 (Appendix 5) and Biological Survey Report 2011 (Appendix 6). The survey for the 2011 report was carried out as the felling programme was starting, so some of the description is out-of –date. However, the low nature conservation value of the plantation’s poor ground flora remains, and the report conclusions remain unchanged. The report suggests the native woodland on this site would probably be the W17 Quercus petraea –

Betula pubescens – Dicranum majus community. This type of woodland is typical of very acidic soils in the cooler and wetter north and west of Britain. Using this community as a planting palette will restore ecological balance and diversity to the former plantation area. All proposed planting will use indigenous plant material, using local seed banks where possible. This will broaden biodiversity and encourage a wider range of fauna to frequent the site than at present.

No ash will be specified in order to avoid potential spread of Chalara fraxinus disease.

Soil fertility at this altitude is low and growth rates are relatively slow but these conditions will be respected. There will be no importation of soil or bark mulch and no use of chemicals. Growth rates of new planting will be encouraged through application of mycorrhizal fungi in preference to use of fertiliser. Peat based products will be avoided. No bat or otter related constraints to the development are identified in the Protect Species Survey undertaken in December 2014. The Biological Survey Report shows that the former conifer plantation had low ecological interest. This will be improved with the current planting proposals. The section 3 conservation area map included within the Brecon Beacons National Park Management Plan shows that no part of the site is identified as mountain, moor and heath. A small area of woodland is shown, which forms part of the existing landscape around the car park. Our proposals would retain and enhance these trees. It is not envisaged that there would be any significant impact on the special interests which the section 3 conservation area seeks to protect.

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4.4 Public Pressure on Protected Sites

It is considered that the indirect effects from use of the car park would not have an effect on the protected sites. Much of the protected sites are already subject to a right of public access on foot. In some places such as the Beacons Way PROW to Corn Ddu and Pen y Fan, this use is very intensive. Creation and maintenance of paths in this area by the National Trust has been instrumental in protecting important habitats and geology as well as providing a remedy for unsightly erosion. Since this footpath network is now substantially in place, the creation of a car park will help concentrate public pressure in one ‘honey-pot’ area, which can then be appropriately managed. The NT has been tackling and reducing visual and physical impact of path erosion for the last 26 years and is committed to maintaining the repaired paths and in particular the main route up from Pont ar Daf to Pen y Fan. A significant amount of NT staff and volunteer time is given to maintaining the path each year to keep it in good repair and to minimise the impact from walkers. It is therefore felt that although there may be some increase in the number of walkers due to the refurbishment and extension of this car park, any further future impact on the SSSI and SAC is unlikely, given it is already and will continue to be a priority to manage path erosion on the main walking routes.

One of the reasons for improving the parking facilities and the introduction of charging is in order to raise money to help the ongoing management and maintenance of the path network, to reduce the impact of erosion scars and impact on the protected area and to allow the continued access and enjoyment to this special place.

This accords with the Sustainable Tourism Strategy for the Brecon Beacons 2012-2016 (SPG), which proposes the encouragement of environmental responsibility:

“… encourage and promote responsible use of the environment by visitors and tourism stakeholders and establish ways for them to support the management and conservation of the Brecon Beacons.” and

“Encourage visitors to contribute to the conservation and enhancement of the National Park and its environment, financially and by behavioural change”.

4.5 Archaeology The proposals are designed to avoid direct impact on the archaeological remains and also to protect their settings, which have been compromised to an extent both by the conifer plantation and by post-war road improvements. The scheduled and unscheduled archaeological remains will be protected during construction. An improved picnic area is proposed on the site of the former Storey Arms. The levels will be raised and graded to minimise disturbance and achieve an even surface without affecting any underlying archaeology, and the area will be seeded.

A buffer zone will be applied around each pillbox, which retains existing levels, allows shrub planting but restricts larger rooting species such as trees. The extent of this easement is shown on the Landscape Strategy as 7-10m, although will be subject to detailed advice from Cadw.

The inclusion of the Pill Box easements results in the benefit of a strip along the south site boundary, which effectively increases the distance between parked cars and the PROW to Corn Ddu (a

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possible point of concern). This, together with the cutting-in of the parking levels and the planting of native shrubs, all help to accommodate the cars in a less intrusive manner.

As part of a separate project and after discussions with Cadw, the aspiration is to make the pillboxes safe and accessible to the public.

Protection of the site of the former site of Storey Arms will include: • Protective fencing around the site – extent to be determined on site. • No machinery, storage of materials or excavations will take place within the fenced

area. • There will be no tree planting within the fenced area. • There will be no construction within the fenced area. • Repairs to the stone wall fronting the car park will use fallen stone. • Removal of tree stumps will avoid damage to banks and remains of walls. • Allowance will be made for possible future surveys, clearance and interpretation.

Protection of the pillboxes will include:

• 7-10m protection zone during construction, with temporary fences and notices; • No machinery, storage of materials or excavations will take place within protection

zone; • There will be no tree planting, no drainage or construction works within 10m of

monuments; • Paths and desire lines will be designed to avoid the monuments; • Views south from the monuments (the direction in which the defences face) will not be

obstructed.

Construction of the car park and associated works will not include any works that require Scheduled Monument Consent, however, as indicated, further advice will be sought from Cadw inspector. Figure 10: Pillboxes and other archaeology will provide an opportunity for site interpretation

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4.6 Future Proofing • An area south of the site will be reserved for a potential future Visitor Centre. This is not however

part of the current considerations, and this aspect is only included for general information; • Electric cabling will be routed underneath improved car park surfacing for potential future

development; • Stumps on the southern portion of the site will be ground out and the area re-graded. It will be

allowed to develop into a mixed acid grassland through self-seeding and regular mowing; • NT are responsible for managing the car park and surrounding land and will have a day-to-day

presence on site which will enable an immediate ‘on the ground’ response to any problems or developing issues.

SECTION 05: CONCLUSION The existing car park fails to cope with demand at this popular ‘honey-pot’ destination, and presents a poor impression of the Brecon Beacons to visitors. Through construction of an improved car park, the National Trust will be able to provide additional parking capacity, and a safer, more appropriate solution to the management of large numbers of visitors. This will take also pressure off even more visible locations nearby, such as the layby opposite Storey Arms and the dangerous parking along the verges of the A470. The National Trust has carefully considered the potential for the development to have significant effects on the environment, with particular regard to the environmental designations identified in the pre-application advice, and has mitigated or removed all potential impacts. It is considered that the landscape and visual impact of the proposals will not be significant and have been fully addressed through the landscape and visual impact assessment. The proposals have been developed by landscape architects, and employ a sympathetic design philosophy. This will result in provision of a visually improved, appropriate and user-friendly landscape which accords with Local Plan and SPG policy, which blends with the landscape character of the uplands, and which will provide a more fitting gateway onto the Brecon Beacons. We believe that the potential benefits of this development will be far-ranging, not only to the National Trust and visitors to the Brecon Beacons, but also to all other stakeholders, including the TRA, BBNPA, local communities and tourist industry.