# xTbl_FG_JM_KeyChars

FG KeyChar:
•	A network of winding hedge-lined country lanes connects small, often linear, villages, hamlets and scattered farmsteads, mostly in local stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A network of winding hedge-lined country lanes connects small, often linear, villages, hamlets and scattered farmsteads, mostly in local stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating, rolling landscape with local variation created by numerous river valleys and by the moorland outliers of Beacon Fell, Longridge Fell and Pendle Hill on the south side of the area.
•	On the northern edge of the area drumlins are characteristic while on the south, strong, mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating, rolling landscape with local variation created by numerous river valleys and by the moorland outliers of Beacon Fell, Longridge Fell and Pendle Hill on the south side of the area.
•	On the northern edge of the area drumlins are characteristic while on the south, strong, mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural woodland, much of which is ancient, occurs on the main valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural woodland, much of which is ancient, occurs on the main valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.


FG KeyChar:
•	The open, rolling heather moorland and blanket bog are managed for grouse shooting and grazed by sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The open, rolling heather moorland and blanket bog are managed for grouse shooting and grazed by sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional farmhouses are generally of gritstone and typically shelter a barn under the same roof line (laithe houses).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional farmhouses are generally of gritstone and typically shelter a barn under the same roof line (laithe houses).


FG KeyChar:
•	These upland pastures are criss-crossed by dry stone walls and grazed mainly by sheep, with some cattle.
•	Regular enclosures on higher ground where commons were systematically subdivided; more irregular enclosures are found on the slopes where there is also a complex system of narrow lanes with occasional wide historic drove roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	These upland pastures are criss-crossed by dry stone walls and grazed mainly by sheep, with some cattle.
•	Regular enclosures on higher ground where commons were systematically subdivided; more irregular enclosures are found on the slopes where there is also a complex system of narrow lanes with occasional wide historic drove roads.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.


FG KeyChar:
•	In medieval times the Bowland Fells was part of the Royal Forest of Lancaster, the top providing hunting ground for wolves, with deer on lower slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In medieval times the Bowland Fells was part of the Royal Forest of Lancaster, the top providing hunting ground for wolves, with deer on lower slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The moorland is ringed by enclosed, reclaimed moorland pasture with an attractive mosaic of woodland, unimproved meadows, pasture, marshes and streams.
•	High quality species-rich meadows can be found in the limestone areas to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The moorland is ringed by enclosed, reclaimed moorland pasture with an attractive mosaic of woodland, unimproved meadows, pasture, marshes and streams.
•	High quality species-rich meadows can be found in the limestone areas to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a scattered settlement pattern, with picturesque stone villages and strong unity of building materials, styles and village form.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a scattered settlement pattern, with picturesque stone villages and strong unity of building materials, styles and village form.


FG KeyChar:
•	The large-scale, sweeping landform of the Bowland Fells is incised by narrow, wooded, intimate valleys and cloughs.
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.
•	However, physical harshness is tempered by the compactness of the topographical unit and its proximity to settlement.
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The large-scale, sweeping landform of the Bowland Fells is incised by narrow, wooded, intimate valleys and cloughs.
•	The dominant feature is the central upland core of Millstone Grit fells, with extensive tracts of heather moorland and blanket bog.
•	However, physical harshness is tempered by the compactness of the topographical unit and its proximity to settlement.
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.
•	Extensive coniferous plantations occur to the south-east and east of the area.
•	Small copses shelter the area’s isolated farmhouses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steeply sloping, sculptural escarpments and exposed moorland tops contrast with the surrounding lush green valleys of the Lune, Ribble, Hodder and Wyre, to which they are linked by the wooded cloughs.
•	Extensive coniferous plantations occur to the south-east and east of the area.
•	Small copses shelter the area’s isolated farmhouses.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are remnants of agricultural land, fragmented by industry and scattered development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are remnants of agricultural land, fragmented by industry and scattered development.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s many Victorian stone buildings and terraces are well-integrated into the landscape.
•	There is a strong industrial heritage associated with the textile industry, and redundant mill buildings, mill lodges and ponds are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area’s many Victorian stone buildings and terraces are well-integrated into the landscape.
•	There is a strong industrial heritage associated with the textile industry, and redundant mill buildings, mill lodges and ponds are common.


FG KeyChar:
•	The towns of Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley give the area an intensely urban character, and numerous communication routes, including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the M65 motorway, run along the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The towns of Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley give the area an intensely urban character, and numerous communication routes, including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the M65 motorway, run along the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are regular to the west and irregular to the east, but are generally degraded around urban areas.
•	They are formed by hedges with few hedgerow trees, and by stone walls and post and wire fences at higher elevations.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field boundaries are regular to the west and irregular to the east, but are generally degraded around urban areas.
•	They are formed by hedges with few hedgerow trees, and by stone walls and post and wire fences at higher elevations.


FG KeyChar:
•	It lies within a broad trough underlain by coal measures, which provided the basis of for early industrialisation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	It lies within a broad trough underlain by coal measures, which provided the basis of for early industrialisation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Numerous large country houses with associated parklands occur, particularly on the northern valley sides away from major urban areas.
•	There is a strong industrial heritage associated with the textile industry, and redundant mill buildings, mill lodges and ponds are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Numerous large country houses with associated parklands occur, particularly on the northern valley sides away from major urban areas.
•	There is a strong industrial heritage associated with the textile industry, and redundant mill buildings, mill lodges and ponds are common.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most land is pasture, with areas of acid and neutral grassland, flushes and mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most land is pasture, with areas of acid and neutral grassland, flushes and mires.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad valley of the river Calder and its tributaries runs north-east to south-west between the backdrops of Pendle Hill and the southern Pennines.
•	This visually contained landscape would once have shared many characteristics with the rural valley of the river Ribble to the north but is now mainly urban.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The broad valley of the river Calder and its tributaries runs north-east to south-west between the backdrops of Pendle Hill and the southern Pennines.
•	This visually contained landscape would once have shared many characteristics with the rural valley of the river Ribble to the north but is now mainly urban.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small, often ancient, woodlands of oak, alder and sycamore extend along narrow, steep-sided cloughs on the valley sides, for example at Priestley Clough and Spurn Clough and in the Darwen valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small, often ancient, woodlands of oak, alder and sycamore extend along narrow, steep-sided cloughs on the valley sides, for example at Priestley Clough and Spurn Clough and in the Darwen valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	The main agricultural use is sheep grazing with improved grasslands on the valley floor, unimproved grassland on the valley sides and rough or moorland grazing on the upper slopes and moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The main agricultural use is sheep grazing with improved grasslands on the valley floor, unimproved grassland on the valley sides and rough or moorland grazing on the upper slopes and moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed in local gritstone with slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Buildings are constructed in local gritstone with slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	More recent influences include reservoirs, quarries (many now disused), transmission masts and windfarms.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	More recent influences include reservoirs, quarries (many now disused), transmission masts and windfarms.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is crossed by a series of rivers including the Rivers Wharfe, Aire and Calder, together with many smaller tributaries such as the Irwell.  Reservoirs have been formed in the some of the upland valleys.  The Leeds and Liverpool Canal passes through the Aire Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is crossed by a series of rivers including the Rivers Wharfe, Aire and Calder, together with many smaller tributaries such as the Irwell.  Reservoirs have been formed in the some of the upland valleys.  The Leeds and Liverpool Canal passes through the Aire Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	Stone walls enclose small to medium sized fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Stone walls enclose small to medium sized fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west. 
•	Soils reflect local deposits of boulder clay, sands and gravels and the creation of extensive areas of blanket bogs that cover the moorland summits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west. 
•	Soils reflect local deposits of boulder clay, sands and gravels and the creation of extensive areas of blanket bogs that cover the moorland summits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area includes prehistoric and Roman remains, 18th and 19th century influences are clearly seen in the pattern of villages, enclosures, commons, packhorse trails, canals and textile mills in many of the valleys and on parts of the moors.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the area includes prehistoric and Roman remains, 18th and 19th century influences are clearly seen in the pattern of villages, enclosures, commons, packhorse trails, canals and textile mills in many of the valleys and on parts of the moors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats on the open moorland and moorland fringe include blanket bog, mores, acid flashes, unimproved grasslands and wooded cloughs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats on the open moorland and moorland fringe include blanket bog, mores, acid flashes, unimproved grasslands and wooded cloughs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many settlements are of industrial origin, deriving power from rivers for the textile industry.  Mineral working and engineering led to the further expansion of settlements such as Keighly.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many settlements are of industrial origin, deriving power from rivers for the textile industry.  Mineral working and engineering led to the further expansion of settlements such as Keighly.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the Southern Pennines are underlain by Millstone Grit.  Layers have eroded at different rates, creating distinctive terraced landscape of plateaux and escarpments.  Isolated beds of sandstone form mesa-shaped hills across the area.  Coal measures are found over a much smaller area, and a narrow band of Carboniferous Limestone occurs in the north west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is concentrated in a number of steepside valleys (cloughs) and on the slopes of the larger valleys.  Elsewhere, woodland is limited, particularly on the more open and elevated parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland is concentrated in a number of steepside valleys (cloughs) and on the slopes of the larger valleys.  Elsewhere, woodland is limited, particularly on the more open and elevated parts of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture reflects the west to east transition, with rough grazing and pastoral farming in the west giving way in places to arable cultivation in the east.  The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the development of horse grazing and other activities in its place.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agriculture reflects the west to east transition, with rough grazing and pastoral farming in the west giving way in places to arable cultivation in the east.  The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the development of horse grazing and other activities in its place.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed in local sandstone and millstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed in local sandstone and millstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers are a formative feature in the landscape, having cut the narrow valleys that dissect the hills and allowed the development of the textile industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers are a formative feature in the landscape, having cut the narrow valleys that dissect the hills and allowed the development of the textile industry.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are marked by stone walls in the higher west and hedges in the lower east.  Most fields are small or medium sized with some unenclosed rough grazing and upland pastures on higher land to the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field boundaries are marked by stone walls in the higher west and hedges in the lower east.  Most fields are small or medium sized with some unenclosed rough grazing and upland pastures on higher land to the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features reflect the pattern of industrialisation with older woollen mills and associated settlements (including enclosures) being supplemented by the mills, canals, railways and linear industrial settlements that are found in the area’s narrow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Historic features reflect the pattern of industrialisation with older woollen mills and associated settlements (including enclosures) being supplemented by the mills, canals, railways and linear industrial settlements that are found in the area’s narrow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include moorland areas and some broadleaved woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats include moorland areas and some broadleaved woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The constraining influence of the landform, together with the early influence of transport by canal and rail, resulted in a linear pattern of development within the valleys and larger industrial centres such as Bradford, Sheffield and Huddersfield.
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The constraining influence of the landform, together with the early influence of transport by canal and rail, resulted in a linear pattern of development within the valleys and larger industrial centres such as Bradford, Sheffield and Huddersfield.
•	Much of the area is significantly influenced by urban areas, with transport infrastructure, residential areas, industry and quarries present in most parts of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.
•	The area is highest in the west, marking the transition from the Pennine Moorlands to lower ground in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is underlain by carboniferous strata.  Coarse grained sandstone bed (gritstones) interbedded with softer siltstones and mudstones dominate the area creating smooth hills and plateaux.  In the east, the Millstone Grit is overlain by beds of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone of the Coal Measures.
•	The area is highest in the west, marking the transition from the Pennine Moorlands to lower ground in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Treecover is comparatively sparse overall, though framework of hedgerow trees and small woods, together with more extensive woodlands on some of the steeper valley slopes, creates the impression of a well wooded landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Treecover is comparatively sparse overall, though framework of hedgerow trees and small woods, together with more extensive woodlands on some of the steeper valley slopes, creates the impression of a well wooded landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coal measures give rise to generally poor quality soils that support grazing.  Permanent pasture is dominant to the west where dairy farms predominate.  To the east, and on lower ground the land tends to be of better quality and arable crops and improved grassland are more common.  Horse grazing is common around urban fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Grazing on poor quality soils (coal measures)
Permanent pasture and dairying to west
Arable and improved grass to east on lower, better quality land
Horse grazing around urban fringes


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are built in local sandstone and Millstone Grit.  Nineteenth century industrial and urban development is of brick and slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Older buildings of local sandstone and Millstone Grit


FG KeyChar:
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Several major rivers cross the area, including the Aire, Calder, Dearne, Rother, Don and Erewash, carving broad valleys. They often tend to be obscured by industrial development along them.  Subsidence flashes and lagoons are present in some areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Several major rivers cross the area, including the Aire, Calder, Dearne, Rother, Don and Erewash, carving broad valleys. They often tend to be obscured by industrial development along them.  Subsidence flashes and lagoons are present in some areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field sizes, boundaries and shapes are highly variable.  They range from thick, well-maintained hedges with ash and oak trees, to close-cropped or neglected hawthorn hedges.  Holly is found in some of the older hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Variable field sizes, boundaries and shapes
Old, thick, well-maintained hedges with holly in some areas
Close-cropped or neglected hawthorn hedges in other areas


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is underlain by Coal Measures comprising mudstone with beds of sandstone and many seams of coal.   The area lies below 300 metres AOD, contrasting with the neighbouring areas of the Peak District and Pennine fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is underlain by Coal Measures comprising mudstone with beds of sandstone and many seams of coal.   The area lies below 300 metres AOD, contrasting with the neighbouring areas of the Peak District and Pennine fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features include churches, country houses and follies, together with the extensive industrial archaeology and associated settlements dating back to 19th century industrialisation. 
•	Industrial development, much of it based on the exploitation of coal and steel, has had a profound influence on this landscape.  There is widespread evidence of past and present industrial activity in the form of mine buildings, former spoil tips and iron and steel plants.

Edited_KeyChars:
Churches, country houses and follies
Extensive industrial archaeology associated with 19th century industrialisation
Water features unknown but probably mixture of farm/estate ponds and industrial features such as mill ponds and subsidence flashes


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include open water, wetlands (including subsidence flashes), grassland and remnant heaths and woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open water, washlands and wetlands (including subsidence flashes)
Remnant heaths


FG KeyChar:
•	In addition to major industrial areas such as Sheffield and the Lower Don Valley, there are many smaller mining and manufacturing settlements.
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In addition to major industrial areas such as Sheffield and the Lower Don Valley, there are many smaller mining and manufacturing settlements.
•	The influence of large urban areas is evident in the retreat of farming in some areas and the presence of degraded pasture, gappy hedges and broken fences.  Transport routes, including motorways, add further urban influences to the surrounding landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Treecover is variable but generally low.  There has been woodland planting associated with the South Yorkshire Community Forest.

Edited_KeyChars:
Variable but low tree cover
Hedgerow and in-field trees of oak and ash in some areas, important in relatively open landscape
Woodland planting in South Yorkshire Community Forest


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area is intensively farmed with predominantly root crops and cereals and livestock farming of pigs, poultry, beef cattle and dairy herds.  This is one of the most productive areas of the UK

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly intensively farmed for root crops, cereals and livestock (pigs, poultry, beef and dairy)
Some areas of small scale pastoral agriculture eg Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	The local buildings are constructed from red ‘Barton’ brick and red pantiles, though slate is found in the north.  More recent development uses a range of materials including orange bricks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of red ‘Barton’ brick and red pantiles (or slate in north)


FG KeyChar:
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area contains a number of often navigable rivers of the Aire, Derwent, Don, Idle, Ouse, Trent Torne and Went which drain into the Humber and the artificial waterways of the Aire and Calder Navigation and Selby Canal.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area contains a number of often navigable rivers of the Aire, Derwent, Don, Idle, Ouse, Trent Torne and Went which drain into the Humber and the artificial waterways of the Aire and Calder Navigation and Selby Canal.


FG KeyChar:
•	The fields are usually divided by dykes, with few hedges and field trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields usually divided by dykes with few hedges or field trees (remaining hedges often degraded)
Localised areas with small, thickly hedged fields eg Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	This low lying, flat landscape is formed by drift deposits which overlie the bedrock of mudstone occupying the area of the former Lake Humber which was impounded by ice blocking the Humber gap.  There are higher ridges of sandstone or mudstone and also moundy glacial deposits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This low lying, flat landscape is formed by drift deposits which overlie the bedrock of mudstone occupying the area of the former Lake Humber which was impounded by ice blocking the Humber gap.  There are higher ridges of sandstone or mudstone and also moundy glacial deposits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic influences on the landscape largely relate to early attempts at drainage of the marshes, dating back to the 17th century.  Prominent features include drainage dykes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many features associated with drainage of the marshes 17th century onwards
Remnants of ridge and furrow and parklands with old trees in Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	The Ings are alluvial flood meadows which are important for their wetland vegetation and as habitats for wintering and migrating birds.  There are some areas of remnant heathland and there are also some areas of neutral grassland on clay soils which are of wildlife importance.  The remnant raised mires on peat deposits are also of great importance.

Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of neutral grassland on clay soils
Important wetlands (alluvial flood meadows or ings)
Remnant raised mires on peat deposits
Remnant heathlands


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is scattered across the area and is traditionally located on the higher ground out of reach of the floods.  Many villages tend to be strung out along roads and there are larger, nucleated villages, and small market towns.
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is scattered across the area and is traditionally located on the higher ground out of reach of the floods.  Many villages tend to be strung out along roads and there are larger, nucleated villages, and small market towns.
•	There are also larger more industrial centres like Goole and Selby together with motorways, roads, embankments and power stations which impact on the flat, open landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is restricted in extent except in the areas of sandy soils to the north and south where remnant birch and oak woods and extensive conifer plantations occur.

Edited_KeyChars:
Generally limited woodland cover
Remnant oak and birch woodland and conifers on sandy soils to north and south
Localised areas with mature hedgerow oaks eg Isle of Axholme


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly arable farmland but some pasture occurs and intensive indoor pig rearing is significant.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is predominantly arable farmland but some pasture occurs and intensive indoor pig rearing is significant.


FG KeyChar:
•	Local buildings are commonly constructed from brick and pantiles.  Limestone is also used in some buildings and near the coast the distinctive Holderness ‘cobbles’ appear.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Local buildings are commonly constructed from brick and pantiles.  Limestone is also used in some buildings and near the coast the distinctive Holderness ‘cobbles’ appear.


JM KeyChar:
•	The coast itself is characterised by low boulder clay cliffs, rapidly eroding into the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area contains the River Hull, which flows from north to south, and the valley has a broad indistinct and shallow form.  The proximity of the coast and Humber estuary has an important influence on the landscape.  The Driffield and Leven Canal is also an important feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area contains the River Hull, which flows from north to south, and the valley has a broad indistinct and shallow form.  The proximity of the coast and Humber estuary has an important influence on the landscape.  The Driffield and Leven Canal is also an important feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are often divided by ditches especially on the floodplain of the River Hull and by hedges on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fields are often divided by ditches especially on the floodplain of the River Hull and by hedges on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Holderness landscape is formed by superficial drift deposits overlying chalk below.  Glacial till covers much of the area and gradually increases in thickness towards the coast and forms hummocky coastal terrain and soft clay cliffs.  There are a number of glacial landforms such as hummocky terrain, kettle holes, drumlins and moraine-like ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Holderness landscape is formed by superficial drift deposits overlying chalk below.  Glacial till covers much of the area and gradually increases in thickness towards the coast and forms hummocky coastal terrain and soft clay cliffs.  There are a number of glacial landforms such as hummocky terrain, kettle holes, drumlins and moraine-like ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Early settlers cleared the area of trees and early drainage of the area took place in the 18th century.  Much of the land was enclosed prior to Parliamentary Enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Early settlers cleared the area of trees and early drainage of the area took place in the 18th century.  Much of the land was enclosed prior to Parliamentary Enclosure.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi natural vegetation only remains in small fragments and although marshland and meres were once common Hornsea Mere is the largest surviving example.  There is some unimproved neutral grassland on the bolder clays.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi natural vegetation only remains in small fragments and although marshland and meres were once common Hornsea Mere is the largest surviving example.  There is some unimproved neutral grassland on the bolder clays.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is usually on higher ground and often surrounded by smaller fields.  Hamlets and villages are widely dispersed, some are closely packed and nucleated and others are strung out along roads.  Farmsteads are usually large and widely dispersed.
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is usually on higher ground and often surrounded by smaller fields.  Hamlets and villages are widely dispersed, some are closely packed and nucleated and others are strung out along roads.  Farmsteads are usually large and widely dispersed.
•	The character area is predominantly rural although there are urban fringe influences on the landscape around Hull with housing, industry, roads and pylons.  The coastal landscape around Bridlington and Hornsea is influenced by holiday homes and caravan parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is limited woodland cover varying in extent and distribution.  Most is of recent origin, with a limited occurance of ancient woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is limited woodland cover varying in extent and distribution.  Most is of recent origin, with a limited occurance of ancient woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Outside of the urban areas the main land cover is arable farmland although some grassland remains and is grazed by cattle.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Outside of the urban areas the main land cover is arable farmland although some grassland remains and is grazed by cattle.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are built of soft red brick and red pantiles, they sometimes include cobbles nearer to the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings are built of soft red brick and red pantiles, they sometimes include cobbles nearer to the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Spurn peninsula is a sand and shingle spit extending out between the Humber and the North Sea.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th century, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Spurn peninsula is a sand and shingle spit extending out between the Humber and the North Sea.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th century, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.


FG KeyChar:
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The field boundaries are predominantly formed by dykes, drains and embankments.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The field boundaries are predominantly formed by dykes, drains and embankments.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Coastal reclamation, dating back to the 17th centrury, has made a great impact on the rural landscape.  This involved cutting drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, constructing flood protection berms and installing sophisticated sluice and pumping systems.  The practice of warping was also introduced and warping drains still remain as a feature in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are a few relict areas of salt marsh and reedbeds along the tidal channels which cross the drained marshes and there is also some remaining marshy grassland.  The mudflats in the estuary are of international importance as feeding areas for birds.
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are a few relict areas of salt marsh and reedbeds along the tidal channels which cross the drained marshes and there is also some remaining marshy grassland.  The mudflats in the estuary are of international importance as feeding areas for birds.
•	The disused Barton clay pits contain open water and lie below the Humber Bridge and the open water.  Their  reedbeds and other wetland vegetation are of value for birds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement pattern is restricted to drier land and villages and hamlets lie mainly in adjacent areas like Holderness.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement pattern is restricted to drier land and villages and hamlets lie mainly in adjacent areas like Holderness.
•	The City of Hull, the Humber Bridge and various industrial installations are the main examples of building and settlement in the Humber Estuary.  Along the coast there are some lighthouses, concrete sea defences and coastal buildings on the Spurn peninsula.


FG KeyChar:
•	Flat, low-lying landscape created when ice blocked the mouth of the estuary.  The landscape is bordered by high flood banks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Flat, low-lying landscape created when ice blocked the mouth of the estuary.  The landscape is bordered by high flood banks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is relatively sparse but there are a few blocks of medium sized, regularly shaped deciduous woodland, which are particularly prominent in the flat, open and uniform farmed landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is relatively sparse but there are a few blocks of medium sized, regularly shaped deciduous woodland, which are particularly prominent in the flat, open and uniform farmed landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	A predominantly open, medium-scale agricultural landscape, with mixed arable farmland on the Middle Marsh to the west and smaller farm units with traditional drained pastures and some vegetable crops on the Outmarsh to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A predominantly open, medium-scale agricultural landscape, with mixed arable farmland on the Middle Marsh to the west and smaller farm units with traditional drained pastures and some vegetable crops on the Outmarsh to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Specific areas of the coast are managed for nature conservation, notably between Saltfleet and Theddlethorpe.  South of Saltfleet Haven there is an ancient calcareous dune system and at Gibraltar Point more extensive dunes and saltmarshes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Specific areas of the coast are managed for nature conservation, notably between Saltfleet and Theddlethorpe.  South of Saltfleet Haven there is an ancient calcareous dune system and at Gibraltar Point more extensive dunes and saltmarshes.


FG KeyChar:
•	A complex series of rivers and small streams drain eastwards towards the sea.  Some are natural water courses (eg The Great Eau and Waithe Beck, while others rely on a network of man-made brackish drainage ditches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A complex series of rivers and small streams drain eastwards towards the sea.  Some are natural water courses (eg The Great Eau and Waithe Beck, while others rely on a network of man-made brackish drainage ditches.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Middle Marsh comprises regular rectilinear fields bounded by occasional hedgerows, which increase in density towards the edge of the Wolds.  The Outmarsh is devoid of hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Middle Marsh comprises regular rectilinear fields bounded by occasional hedgerows, which increase in density towards the edge of the Wolds.  The Outmarsh is devoid of hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Middle Marsh is underlain by glacial tills which produce slowly permeable, seasonally waterlogged fine loams which are ideal for cereals.  Mixed with the clay tills are localised areas of outwash gravels.  The Outmarsh is composed of marine alluvium and has deep clayey soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Middle Marsh is underlain by glacial tills which produce slowly permeable, seasonally waterlogged fine loams which are ideal for cereals.  Mixed with the clay tills are localised areas of outwash gravels.  The Outmarsh is composed of marine alluvium and has deep clayey soils.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traces of ridge and furrow are found throughout the Outmarsh and there is evidence of ancient salt works at Castle Hills, Tetney and Somercotes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traces of ridge and furrow are found throughout the Outmarsh and there is evidence of ancient salt works at Castle Hills, Tetney and Somercotes.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area, with a concentration of larger settlements along the coast, including seaside resorts, theme parks, bungalows, caravan parks and industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area, with a concentration of larger settlements along the coast, including seaside resorts, theme parks, bungalows, caravan parks and industry.


FG KeyChar:
•	A flat coastal plain, rising gradually towards the west where there is a more undulating landscape at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A flat coastal plain, rising gradually towards the west where there is a more undulating landscape at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland and hedge cover is sparse, but increases westwards towards the foot of the Wolds, particularly close to settlements. Wooded open farmland occurs at Claythorpe and Brocklesby on the fringes of the Wolds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland and hedge cover is sparse, but increases westwards towards the foot of the Wolds, particularly close to settlements. Wooded open farmland occurs at Claythorpe and Brocklesby on the fringes of the Wolds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a sparse settlement pattern of small, nucleated villages – building materials reflect the diverse underlying geology.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a sparse settlement pattern of small, nucleated villages – building materials reflect the diverse underlying geology.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows accentuate the rolling landform and tops are marked by prominent clumps of trees, often mature beech.
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerows accentuate the rolling landform and tops are marked by prominent clumps of trees, often mature beech.
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).


FG KeyChar:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Further south the scarp form is more complex, with exposed ironstones, limestones and sandstones (the latter giving rise to acid soils) and glacial till.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Further south the scarp form is more complex, with exposed ironstones, limestones and sandstones (the latter giving rise to acid soils) and glacial till.


Edited_KeyChars:
Dramatic limestone cliffs
Linked to the maniland by the sweep of Chesil Beach shingle ridge


Edited_KeyChars:
A highly varied and dramatic coastline strongly influenced by geology
Steep chalk cliffs in the south and west (e.g.St Catherine's Head) and dramatic chalk stacks (the Needles)
Sandstone cliffs in the east
On south coast Greensand and chert topped cliffs tower above series of terraces running down to low coastal cliffs
Sand dunes at the mouth of Newtown Creek and at St Helen's
Small areas of salt marsh associated with the estuaries of the north coast


Edited_KeyChars:
Very small areas of coastal salt marsh (area has little coast)


Edited_KeyChars:
Very high coastal slopes and cliffs
Important sand dunes at Braunton Burrows


FG KeyChar:
•	Other features from this period are Georgian manors and parkland, shelterbelt and avenue tree plantings, and broad drove roads created to provide grazing for sheep en route to the coastal marshes.
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).
•	The area is rich in archaeological remains, including ancient trackways, tumuli along the scarp and a strong concentration of deserted medieval villages – many make a visible contribution to landscape character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Other features from this period are Georgian manors and parkland, shelterbelt and avenue tree plantings, and broad drove roads created to provide grazing for sheep en route to the coastal marshes.
•	Most land throughout the area is in arable use with large, rectilinear parliamentary enclosure fields, enclosed by clipped hawthorn hedges (although older enclosures do occur in parts).
•	The area is rich in archaeological remains, including ancient trackways, tumuli along the scarp and a strong concentration of deserted medieval villages – many make a visible contribution to landscape character.


FG KeyChar:
•	In the south-west the broader valleys of the rivers Lymn and Bain have valley marshes, acid mires, alder carr and tree-lined watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In the south-west the broader valleys of the rivers Lymn and Bain have valley marshes, acid mires, alder carr and tree-lined watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This rolling upland landscape is dominated by a west-facing chalk escarpment, extensively moulded by glacial and periglacial action.
•	The escarpment takes a simple form in the north, where the plateau top has light chalky soils and the scarp face is clothed with scrub woodland and pasture.
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Hedgerows accentuate the rolling landform and tops are marked by prominent clumps of trees, often mature beech.
•	In the south-east the chalk is masked in boulder clay on the edge of the Middle Marsh that lies to the east – here there are ancient oak and ash woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	On the plateau top, deep glacial meltwater channels form dramatic, steep sided dry valleys within the chalk, often lined with beech hanger woodlands.
•	Hedgerows accentuate the rolling landform and tops are marked by prominent clumps of trees, often mature beech.
•	In the south-east the chalk is masked in boulder clay on the edge of the Middle Marsh that lies to the east – here there are ancient oak and ash woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	A regular pattern of medium-sized arable fields interspersed with pasture on heavy clays; variations include pre-enclosure hay meadows and pasture near Wragby, and the drained open flatlands to the north of Brigg.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A regular pattern of medium-sized arable fields interspersed with pasture on heavy clays; variations include pre-enclosure hay meadows and pasture near Wragby, and the drained open flatlands to the north of Brigg.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional building materials are predominantly brick and limestone from the adjoining Lincolnshire Edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional building materials are predominantly brick and limestone from the adjoining Lincolnshire Edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Ancholme has been ‘improved’ to form a straight course from Bishopbridge to Ferriby Sluice on the Humber.  The watercourse is fed by a series of becks up to Brigg and then by the drained carrs.  To the south Barings Eau and the River Bain drain into the River Witham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Ancholme has been ‘improved’ to form a straight course from Bishopbridge to Ferriby Sluice on the Humber.  The watercourse is fed by a series of becks up to Brigg and then by the drained carrs.  To the south Barings Eau and the River Bain drain into the River Witham.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows enclose most fields – most are hawthorn, but they are often more diverse at a distance from the road and those linking the limewoods are particularly dense with a rich variety of flora.
•	The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages such as Spridlington and Goltho.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerows enclose most fields – most are hawthorn, but they are often more diverse at a distance from the road and those linking the limewoods are particularly dense with a rich variety of flora.
•	The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages such as Spridlington and Goltho.


FG KeyChar:
•	Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements such as Sleaford and Metheringham to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements such as Sleaford and Metheringham to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the area is an open, arable or mixed farmland landscape with a deeply rural character; but the heavier clays of the Belvoir Vale have a greater predominance of permanent pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly open, arable or mixed farmland
More permanent pasture on heavier clays of vales at risk of drainage and improvement


FG KeyChar:
•	There are frequent nucleated settlements which often have prominent church spires and red brick houses roofed with pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	The character area is dominated by the slow, but powerful River Trent, which falls at a slight gradient and meanders very gradually through a broad shallow valley.  The Trent, and other rivers in the area, are relatively inconspicuous in the wider landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The character area is dominated by the slow, but powerful River Trent, which falls at a slight gradient and meanders very gradually through a broad shallow valley.  The Trent, and other rivers in the area, are relatively inconspicuous in the wider landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Thorn hedges between arable fields are often gappy and well trimmed; there are few hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear field patterns
Sparse and well trimmed hedgerows in large-scale arable areas
Smaller fields and denser hedgerows in pastoral areas
Ditches in the Vales


JM KeyChar:
•	The open field system has left numerous traces in this landscape, notably at Laxton; and remnant ridge and furrow can be seen in the vales.  Great country house parks and gardens (some former medieval deer parks) are a feature of the Trent Valley around Newark, with smaller estates and parklands in the Vale of Belvoir.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant open fields
Prominent historic ridge and furrow at risk from agricultural  intensification
Country house parks and gardens (some with medieval deer parks)


FG KeyChar:
•	Pastures along watercourses, particularly the Trent washlands, have some species-rich grassland habitats, but these are generally isolated and rare in the character area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant species-rich grasslands, especially in washlands
Localised remnant acid grasslands and heaths


Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are frequent nucleated settlements which often have prominent church spires and red brick houses roofed with pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	The vales have a gently undulating landform, with shallow ridges dropping down gently to broad river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The vales have a gently undulating landform, with shallow ridges dropping down gently to broad river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are generally few woodlands, but tree cover becomes more frequent towards the west of the area between Nottingham and Southwell, where there are many small linear ancient oak/ash woodlands, and on the broad ridge immediately to the west of Lincoln.

Edited_KeyChars:
Generally few woodlands, many poorly managed
Many small linear ancient oak-ash woodlands along streams and on ridges to the west
Hedgerow trees provide main tree cover in vales
Riparian trees including willow pollards in Trent washlands
Localised traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	The extensive historic estates and parklands of the Dukeries dominate the central; western area, south west of Worksop, but there are also small prominent pockets of estate land amidst the arable fields of the northern part of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The extensive historic estates and parklands of the Dukeries dominate the central; western area, south west of Worksop, but there are also small prominent pockets of estate land amidst the arable fields of the northern part of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Local buildings are of sandstone, with older buildings of red brick and pantile.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Local buildings are of sandstone, with older buildings of red brick and pantile.


FG KeyChar:
•	Surface water is scarce on the porous sandstones and river valleys occur where water courses have cut down through the sandstone to form narrow pastoral floodplains which are often in sharp contrast to the surrounding arable land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Surface water is scarce on the porous sandstones and river valleys occur where water courses have cut down through the sandstone to form narrow pastoral floodplains which are often in sharp contrast to the surrounding arable land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Elsewhere the large rectilinear arable fields are devoid of tree cover and are enclosed by trimmed thorn hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Elsewhere the large rectilinear arable fields are devoid of tree cover and are enclosed by trimmed thorn hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the area is underlain by permeable Sherwood Sandstone and has an undulating character with dry valleys (sculpted by glacial activity) and narrow river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The majority of the area is underlain by permeable Sherwood Sandstone and has an undulating character with dry valleys (sculpted by glacial activity) and narrow river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The extensive historic estates and parklands of the Dukeries dominate the central; western area, south west of Worksop, but there are also small prominent pockets of estate land amidst the arable fields of the northern part of the area.
•	The remnants of the coal industry are often conspicuous and include disused mines, pit heaps, old railway lines and mining settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The extensive historic estates and parklands of the Dukeries dominate the central; western area, south west of Worksop, but there are also small prominent pockets of estate land amidst the arable fields of the northern part of the area.
•	The remnants of the coal industry are often conspicuous and include disused mines, pit heaps, old railway lines and mining settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s strong heathland character is often evident at roadsides and along woodland edges, where there are patches of bracken, gorse and broom.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area’s strong heathland character is often evident at roadsides and along woodland edges, where there are patches of bracken, gorse and broom.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements on the Sherwood heaths are scattered farming villages which were expanded in the 20th century to become mining settlements.  In the Dukeries there are a few nucleated estate villages and in the north a dispersed pattern of scattered villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements on the Sherwood heaths are scattered farming villages which were expanded in the 20th century to become mining settlements.  In the Dukeries there are a few nucleated estate villages and in the north a dispersed pattern of scattered villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads.


FG KeyChar:
•	The former forests and wastes retain extensive woodland cover, particularly secondary oak-birch broadleaved woodland and conifers.
•	The area’s strong heathland character is often evident at roadsides and along woodland edges, where there are patches of bracken, gorse and broom.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The former forests and wastes retain extensive woodland cover, particularly secondary oak-birch broadleaved woodland and conifers.
•	The area’s strong heathland character is often evident at roadsides and along woodland edges, where there are patches of bracken, gorse and broom.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is dominated by pastoral farming, together with rough grazing on the highest land and some arable on better soils in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is dominated by pastoral farming, together with rough grazing on the highest land and some arable on better soils in the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant building material is local gritstone although limestone and red brick are found in localised areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dominant building material is local gritstone although limestone and red brick are found in localised areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many small streams and rivers, with dense tree cover, dissect the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many small streams and rivers, with dense tree cover, dissect the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a variable field pattern that is usually enclosed by hedgerows on lower ground and by dry gritstone walls on the moorland fringe.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a variable field pattern that is usually enclosed by hedgerows on lower ground and by dry gritstone walls on the moorland fringe.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an area of undulating, rising ground underlain by bands of Carboniferous sandstone and mudstone with occasional outliers of Carboniferous limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an area of undulating, rising ground underlain by bands of Carboniferous sandstone and mudstone with occasional outliers of Carboniferous limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a rich industrial heritage in the area, particularly associated with the mills along the Derwent Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a rich industrial heritage in the area, particularly associated with the mills along the Derwent Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are some patches of unimproved grassland and hay meadows in the valleys and rough grassland and heathland remnants on the enclosed moorlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are some patches of unimproved grassland and hay meadows in the valleys and rough grassland and heathland remnants on the enclosed moorlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of isolated farmsteads and small villages.
•	The area includes the small towns of Wirksworth, Belper and Duffield and the western fringes of Chesterfield.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of isolated farmsteads and small villages.
•	The area includes the small towns of Wirksworth, Belper and Duffield and the western fringes of Chesterfield.


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadleaved woodlands are scattered throughout the area, and large blocks are associated with the steep valley slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Broadleaved woodlands are scattered throughout the area, and large blocks are associated with the steep valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Grouse shooting and sheep grazing dominate the wild, semi-natural open moors.
•	Dairy farming with some beef cattle is typical in the sheltered valleys around the margins to the plateaux.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Grouse shooting and sheep grazing dominate the wild, semi-natural open moors.
•	Dairy farming with some beef cattle is typical in the sheltered valleys around the margins to the plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fast-flowing streams run through the incised cloughs.
•	Several of the broader valleys have been flooded to form reservoirs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fast-flowing streams run through the incised cloughs.
•	Several of the broader valleys have been flooded to form reservoirs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The moorland tops are largely unenclosed, with occasional gritstone walls dividing the moors.
•	The moorland fringes and valley slopes are enclosed by dry gritstone moors, and hedgerows enclose fields in the valley bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The moorland tops are largely unenclosed, with occasional gritstone walls dividing the moors.
•	The moorland fringes and valley slopes are enclosed by dry gritstone moors, and hedgerows enclose fields in the valley bottoms.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.


JM KeyChar:
•	The many visible historic landscape features include prehistoric stone circles, cairnfields, barrows and hillforts as well as early coal mining remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are wide expanses of unenclosed heather and grass moorland on the rolling upland plateaux.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are wide expanses of unenclosed heather and grass moorland on the rolling upland plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	A broad low lying and very gently undulating vale underlain by seasonally waterlogged loams and clay, grading to deeper calacareous loams towards Horncastle and the Lincolnshire Wolds.
•	By contrast there are deep acidic soils on the wind blown coversands which have accumulated on the eastern vale against the scarp of the Wolds at Elsham and Market Rasen and near Woodhall Spa and Coningsby.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A broad low lying and very gently undulating vale underlain by seasonally waterlogged loams and clay, grading to deeper calacareous loams towards Horncastle and the Lincolnshire Wolds.
•	By contrast there are deep acidic soils on the wind blown coversands which have accumulated on the eastern vale against the scarp of the Wolds at Elsham and Market Rasen and near Woodhall Spa and Coningsby.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages such as Spridlington and Goltho.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is rich in ridge and furrow and deserted medieval villages such as Spridlington and Goltho.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remnants of lowland heath (eg at Martin Moor near Woodhall Spa and Willingham Woods near Market Rasen) and the Lincolnshire Limewoods between Bardney and Wragby are the most important semi-natural habitats in the vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Remnants of lowland heath (eg at Martin Moor near Woodhall Spa and Willingham Woods near Market Rasen) and the Lincolnshire Limewoods between Bardney and Wragby are the most important semi-natural habitats in the vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sparse nucleated settlements throughout the area linked by straight east-west roads with abrupt right-angled turns.  Enclosure roads with exceptionally wide verges and enclosing hedgerows are characteristic of the vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sparse nucleated settlements throughout the area linked by straight east-west roads with abrupt right-angled turns.  Enclosure roads with exceptionally wide verges and enclosing hedgerows are characteristic of the vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is variable; there is little on the central and northern clays, but there are extensive conifer plantations on the coversands and large blocks of ancient lime woodland between Wragby and Bardney.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is variable; there is little on the central and northern clays, but there are extensive conifer plantations on the coversands and large blocks of ancient lime woodland between Wragby and Bardney.


FG KeyChar:
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street follow north-south routes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street follow north-south routes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Witham cuts through the scarp at Lincoln.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Witham cuts through the scarp at Lincoln.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•Minimal settlement on the ridgetops, a string of springline villages along the foot of the western scarp and larger settlements to the east of the dipslope.  Sited on the ridgetop, Lincoln Cathedral is a dominant landmark throughout the area.
•	Active and redundant airfields along the top of the Edge.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	To the north an area of windblown coversands creates an acidic sandy landscape of open heath, conifers, oak and birch woods.  The coversands wrap over the cliff and extend into a low lying area between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough.
•	Tree cover is variable.  The drier arable upland areas are relatively open, with shelterbelts along roads and tracks; to the east a more irregular field pattern includes more hedgerows and small semi-natural woodlands; and to the north the coversands support a mosaic of conifer plantations and oak/birch woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rich and varied agricultural land use including wide range of arable, root crops, bulbs, vegetable and livestock.  Horticultural glasshouses are a feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rich and varied agricultural land use including wide range of arable, root crops, bulbs, vegetable and livestock.  Horticultural glasshouses are a feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional built form strongly influences the landscape, particularly historic cathedrals and churches such as at Ely and Boston.
•	Due to soil shrinkage a number of agricultural buildings are now derelict – standing at alarming angles or shored up.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional built form strongly influences the landscape, particularly historic cathedrals and churches such as at Ely and Boston.
•	Due to soil shrinkage a number of agricultural buildings are now derelict – standing at alarming angles or shored up.


FG KeyChar:
•	Marshes directly adjacent to the Wash exhibit an exceptionally open aspect (broken only by sea walls).  Occurring at the coast are river outfall structures, tidal saltmarshes and mudflats.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Marshes directly adjacent to the Wash exhibit an exceptionally open aspect (broken only by sea walls).  Occurring at the coast are river outfall structures, tidal saltmarshes and mudflats.


FG KeyChar:
•	A distinct hierarchy of rivers, drains and ditches strongly influences the strong dominant rectilinear/geometric landscape patterning and is a consistent feature of the area (consisting embanked rivers above the level of the surrounding land, roddons, major high level drains and washes).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A distinct hierarchy of rivers, drains and ditches strongly influences the strong dominant rectilinear/geometric landscape patterning and is a consistent feature of the area (consisting embanked rivers above the level of the surrounding land, roddons, major high level drains and washes).


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils over the coastal and central fens are rich, fertile calcareous and silty.  Further inland soils are defined by dark, friable fen peat.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils over the coastal and central fens are rich, fertile calcareous and silty.  Further inland soils are defined by dark, friable fen peat.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.


FG KeyChar:
•	Predominantly cultivated with little semi-natural land remaining. Remnants of relic wet areas are rare exceptions e.g. Wicken, Woodwalton and Holme.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Predominantly cultivated with little semi-natural land remaining. Remnants of relic wet areas are rare exceptions e.g. Wicken, Woodwalton and Holme.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.
•	Settlement pattern varies – medium to large clusters around main towns with medieval pattern of north-south drove lines occurring at the coast and fen edge.
•	Long straight roads are typical.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although seemingly monotonous, there is considerable variation from fen to fen (amount of settlement, landscape scale and pattern) reflecting settlement history.
•	Settlement pattern varies – medium to large clusters around main towns with medieval pattern of north-south drove lines occurring at the coast and fen edge.
•	Long straight roads are typical.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large scale, flat, open landscape with extensive vistas to level horizons.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large scale, flat, open landscape with extensive vistas to level horizons.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is sparse.  There are occasional avenues to roads.  Elsewhere isolated trees have marked significance.  
•	Shelterbelts including poplar and willow occur as do leylandii hedges around farmsteads.
•	There are numerous orchards around the Wisbech area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is sparse.  There are occasional avenues to roads.  Elsewhere isolated trees have marked significance.  
•	Shelterbelts including poplar and willow occur as do leylandii hedges around farmsteads.
•	There are numerous orchards around the Wisbech area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls.
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street and High Dyke follow north-south routes with one significant east-west route, Salter’s Way. Green lanes occur throughout the southern area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Roman roads and ancient trackways such as Ermine Street and High Dyke follow north-south routes with one significant east-west route, Salter’s Way. Green lanes occur throughout the southern area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Slea follows the distinctive valley of the Ancaster Gap to the north of Grantham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The higher land of the Edge is devoid of streams, but there is a springline along the foot of the western scarp where the limestone meets the clay.  The River Slea follows the distinctive valley of the Ancaster Gap to the north of Grantham.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls. 
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large-scale ‘upland’ escarpment broadly divided into north and south by the River Witham which cuts through the ‘Edge’ at Lincoln.  The straight sharp western scarp, known as the ‘Cliff’ is a distinctive feature along most of the edge, sometimes with a secondary lower scarp of ironstone.
•	The light calcareous soils of the broad ridgetop and shallower slopes support an open landscape of rectilinear arable fields with sparse hedgerows, shelterbelts and discontinuous rubble limestone walls. 
•	Towards the eastern edge of the dip slope the landscape pattern is more enclosed, with dense hedgerows, hedgerow trees and some grazed pastures as there is a transition to the heavier clay soils of the Lincolnshire Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	The highest land of the plateaux is remote, devoid of buildings and man-made structures.
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.
•	Some larger settlements are found in the valleys, including some village centres and expanded industrial settlements like New Mills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The highest land of the plateaux is remote, devoid of buildings and man-made structures.
•	Traditional buildings are built and detailed in local 'gritstone', and are often solitary or in a compact cluster.
•	Some larger settlements are found in the valleys, including some village centres and expanded industrial settlements like New Mills.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.
•	There are strongly contrasting landscapes in deeply-incised cloughs around the margins of plateaux.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area forms a sharply defined high plateau that is underlain by Millstone Grit, giving rise to rounded hill summits and rocky outcrops and prominent linear edges.
•	There are strongly contrasting landscapes in deeply-incised cloughs around the margins of plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many enclosed valleys contain broadleaved semi-natural woodland and some are dominated by large forestry plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many enclosed valleys contain broadleaved semi-natural woodland and some are dominated by large forestry plantations.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant land use is improved grassland for intensive dairy farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dominant land use is improved grassland for intensive dairy farming.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings in villages are often constructed of limestone. Other buildings in the area, particularly in towns, are more variable, with limestone and 'gritstone' used either singly or in combination.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Buildings in villages are often constructed of limestone. Other buildings in the area, particularly in towns, are more variable, with limestone and 'gritstone' used either singly or in combination.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many of the dales are dry or seasonal, but clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams are found in some.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many of the dales are dry or seasonal, but clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams are found in some.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small narrow fields, often of medieval origin are found around many villages, while larger rectangular fields occur away from the villages.
•	Fields are enclosed by white, limestone, dry stone walls and walled up lead rakes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small narrow fields, often of medieval origin are found around many villages, while larger rectangular fields occur away from the villages.
•	Fields are enclosed by white, limestone, dry stone walls and walled up lead rakes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is elevated Carboniferous limestone plateau dissected by steeply cut dales and gorges with rock outcrops, screes, and cave systems.
•	Much of the limestone is overlain by deposits of loess, which give rise to fertile loamy soils in many parts of the plateau. Higher areas and steeper slopes are more strongly influenced by the underlying limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is elevated Carboniferous limestone plateau dissected by steeply cut dales and gorges with rock outcrops, screes, and cave systems.
•	Much of the limestone is overlain by deposits of loess, which give rise to fertile loamy soils in many parts of the plateau. Higher areas and steeper slopes are more strongly influenced by the underlying limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small narrow fields, often of medieval origin are found around many villages, while larger rectangular fields occur away from the villages.
•	Long-disused workings for limestone and ores, particularly lead rakes, provide features rich in ecological, historical and cultural interest.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small narrow fields, often of medieval origin are found around many villages, while larger rectangular fields occur away from the villages.
•	Long-disused workings for limestone and ores, particularly lead rakes, provide features rich in ecological, historical and cultural interest.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steep slopes and dale-sides are associated with a mosaic of herb-rich grassland, woodland and scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steep slopes and dale-sides are associated with a mosaic of herb-rich grassland, woodland and scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	Outside the settlements, there are small, isolated stone barns located beside field boundaries.
•	There is a settlement pattern of nucleated villages and small towns connected by crest and valley roads.
•	The area includes the spa towns of Buxton and Matlock Bath.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Outside the settlements, there are small, isolated stone barns located beside field boundaries.
•	There is a settlement pattern of nucleated villages and small towns connected by crest and valley roads.
•	The area includes the spa towns of Buxton and Matlock Bath.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is elevated Carboniferous limestone plateau dissected by steeply cut dales and gorges with rock outcrops, screes, and cave systems.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is elevated Carboniferous limestone plateau dissected by steeply cut dales and gorges with rock outcrops, screes, and cave systems.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are narrow, shelter belts and small blocks of broadleaved trees on high ground and semi-natural broadleaved woodlands along dale sides.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are narrow, shelter belts and small blocks of broadleaved trees on high ground and semi-natural broadleaved woodlands along dale sides.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rough grazing is found on the highest land and permanent pasture dominates the slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rough grazing on the highest land
Permanent pasture on the slopes


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are usually stocky, low robust buildings constructed of local gritstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of local gritstone


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are usually enclosed by dry gritstone walls, although hedgerows are more common on lower slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Enclosure mainly by dry gritstone walls in rectilinear pattern
Hedgerows more common on lower slopes


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by Carboniferous rocks, including Millstone Grit which creates localised steep edges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by Carboniferous rocks, including Millstone Grit which creates localised steep edges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Industrial heritage is common along the valleys, including remains of the textile industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many Bronze Age barrows around margins of valleys
Remnant early coal mining features
Other industrial heritage, including remains of the textile industry (mills), in the valleys
Parkland on lower ground


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mosaic of heather moorland and upland grassland on higher ground.
•	Herb-rich hay meadows and damp rush pasture occur in fields along the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of heather moorland and upland grassland on higher ground
Herb-rich hay meadows and damp rush pasture along  valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is dispersed through the valleys, with streamside villages and isolated farms on higher ground.
•	Villages have been enlarged by development associated with industry.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is dispersed through the valleys, with streamside villages and isolated farms on higher ground.
•	Villages have been enlarged by development associated with industry.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is a high upland ridge dissected by stream valleys and flanked by undulating slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is a high upland ridge dissected by stream valleys and flanked by undulating slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is largely confined to enclosed valleys, wooded streamlines and occasional conifer plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland largely confined to enclosed valleys and streamsides - in need of protection


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is based on stock rearing, with fields comprising a mixture of variable quality grassland and rough grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agriculture is based on stock rearing, with fields comprising a mixture of variable quality grassland and rough grazing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings such as farmsteads and the cores of older settlements are constructed in characteristic Pennine stone.  Stone walls and winding lanes combine with these buildings to give many parts of the area a consistent, upland feel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings such as farmsteads and the cores of older settlements are constructed in characteristic Pennine stone.  Stone walls and winding lanes combine with these buildings to give many parts of the area a consistent, upland feel.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower, steeply undulating foothills are characterised by a regular pattern of fields, varying in size according to the topography.  Hedges in lower areas give way to stone walls on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The lower, steeply undulating foothills are characterised by a regular pattern of fields, varying in size according to the topography.  Hedges in lower areas give way to stone walls on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	This transitional area runs along the boundary of the Millstone Grit uplands of the Southern Pennines and the Dark Peak and the overlying Coal Measures which dip south and east beneath the Manchester plain.  The smooth, undulating landform has been cut by a series of steep sided valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This transitional area runs along the boundary of the Millstone Grit uplands of the Southern Pennines and the Dark Peak and the overlying Coal Measures which dip south and east beneath the Manchester plain.  The smooth, undulating landform has been cut by a series of steep sided valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	While there are prehistoric and medieval landscape elements (barrows and field systems), 18th and 19th century industrialisation that has had the most significant influence on this landscape.  The area continues to be affected by a number of heavy industries including quarrying, sand and gravel working, landfilling and brick making.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	While there are prehistoric and medieval landscape elements (barrows and field systems), 18th and 19th century industrialisation that has had the most significant influence on this landscape.  The area continues to be affected by a number of heavy industries including quarrying, sand and gravel working, landfilling and brick making.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include unimproved grassland, rushy meadows and herb rich hay meadows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats include unimproved grassland, rushy meadows and herb rich hay meadows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The larger urban areas are located in the valley bottoms and at the foot of escarpments.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The larger urban areas are located in the valley bottoms and at the foot of escarpments.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is sparse overall, though there are concentrated pockets of woodland within the narrow, steep sided stream valleys.  Areas of scrub are also found on steeper slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is sparse overall, though there are concentrated pockets of woodland within the narrow, steep sided stream valleys.  Areas of scrub are also found on steeper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	While the valleys do still include areas of farming (including arable and pastures), some areas are now used for horsiculture or recreational uses (playing fields, golf courses etc), water treatment works and country parks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	While the valleys do still include areas of farming (including arable and pastures), some areas are now used for horsiculture or recreational uses (playing fields, golf courses etc), water treatment works and country parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are few surviving examples of traditional vernacular development, though the area has an increasingly recognised legacy of industrial archaeology.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are few surviving examples of traditional vernacular development, though the area has an increasingly recognised legacy of industrial archaeology.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries, where they occur, include both fences and hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field boundaries, where they occur, include both fences and hedges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Manchester conurbation is centred on low hills which rise above the drift covered plain of New Red Sandstone.  Sands and river alluvium lie along the valleys of the Mersey and its tributaries.  These river valleys contain the most significant stretches of countryside within the otherwise built up area of the conurbation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Manchester conurbation is centred on low hills which rise above the drift covered plain of New Red Sandstone.  Sands and river alluvium lie along the valleys of the Mersey and its tributaries.  These river valleys contain the most significant stretches of countryside within the otherwise built up area of the conurbation.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is significantly influenced by the urban and suburban development that is focused around Manchester.  The river valleys include a number of uses associated with the urban area including water treatment works and waste disposal sites, together with recreation provision.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is significantly influenced by the urban and suburban development that is focused around Manchester.  The river valleys include a number of uses associated with the urban area including water treatment works and waste disposal sites, together with recreation provision.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include sizeable areas of open grassland and some areas of wetland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats include sizeable areas of open grassland and some areas of wetland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many of the river valleys have large areas of woodland along their slopes, providing a buffer with neighbouring areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many of the river valleys have large areas of woodland along their slopes, providing a buffer with neighbouring areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most farming is arable, though in many places the drainage has been severely disrupted by colliery subsidence.  Often the land is little more than recreational open space, used in many cases for horticulture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most farming is arable, though in many places the drainage has been severely disrupted by colliery subsidence.  Often the land is little more than recreational open space, used in many cases for horticulture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most farming is arable, though in many places the drainage has been severely disrupted by colliery subsidence.  Often the land is little more than recreational open space, used in many cases for horsiculture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most farming is arable, though in many places the drainage has been severely disrupted by colliery subsidence.  Often the land is little more than recreational open space, used in many cases for horsiculture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large parts of the area have been affected by mineral extraction and field patterns have often been lost.  Where it survives, the pattern is predominantly rectangular and is defined by degraded hedges or post and wire fencing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large parts of the area have been affected by mineral extraction and field patterns have often been lost.  Where it survives, the pattern is predominantly rectangular and is defined by degraded hedges or post and wire fencing.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by coal measures which are buried under a patchy layer of glacial drift deposits.  This is an elevated landscape, rising to 170 metres at Billinge Hill and falling abruptly to the Lancashire Plain, Merseyside and the Mersey Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by coal measures which are buried under a patchy layer of glacial drift deposits.  This is an elevated landscape, rising to 170 metres at Billinge Hill and falling abruptly to the Lancashire Plain, Merseyside and the Mersey Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes many towns that developed during industrialisation in the nineteenth century.  Allied to these settlements are pits, spoil tips and open cast sites.  Many of these are now being reclaimed and landscaped.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes many towns that developed during industrialisation in the nineteenth century.  Allied to these settlements are pits, spoil tips and open cast sites.  Many of these are now being reclaimed and landscaped.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats have formed on many former industrial sites, particularly where undermining has resulted in the formation of subsidence flashes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats have formed on many former industrial sites, particularly where undermining has resulted in the formation of subsidence flashes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by coal measures which are buried under a patchy layer of glacial drift deposits.  This is an elevated landscape, rising to 170 metres at Billinge Hill and falling abruptly to the Lancashire Plain, Merseyside and the Mersey Valley.
•	Hills and valleys run from north west to south east, creating a landscape of gently corrugated hills

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by coal measures which are buried under a patchy layer of glacial drift deposits.  This is an elevated landscape, rising to 170 metres at Billinge Hill and falling abruptly to the Lancashire Plain, Merseyside and the Mersey Valley.
•	Hills and valleys run from north west to south east, creating a landscape of gently corrugated hills


FG KeyChar:
•	Across most of the area, woodland cover is very limited.  The principal exception is the area to the northwest of Wigan where there is a higher incidence of trees and woodland, creating a more enclosed and small scale landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Across most of the area, woodland cover is very limited.  The principal exception is the area to the northwest of Wigan where there is a higher incidence of trees and woodland, creating a more enclosed and small scale landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes a mixture of agriculture, ranging from open marshes grazed by sheep, areas of reclaimed pasture and enclosed fields supporting dairy or beef cattle and some arable farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes a mixture of agriculture, ranging from open marshes grazed by sheep, areas of reclaimed pasture and enclosed fields supporting dairy or beef cattle and some arable farming.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed of brick or sandstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed of brick or sandstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Dunes of recent wind-blown sand present the dominant feature along much of the coast, rising in places to 20 metres above sea level.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dunes of recent wind-blown sand present the dominant feature along much of the coast, rising in places to 20 metres above sea level.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are defined by a combination of hedgerows and post and wire fencing.
•	Historic features include ancient field patterns and small fishing hamlets which have now grown into larger settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field boundaries are defined by a combination of hedgerows and post and wire fencing.
•	Historic features include ancient field patterns and small fishing hamlets which have now grown into larger settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic sandstone overlain by glacial boulder clay which in turn is overlain by varying amounts of glacial outwash sands and gravels, softer clays, estuarine and river alluvium, blown sand and peat.  Clay cliffs, extensive beaches comprising shingle spits and bars, together with peaty areas in local hollows and valleys are the key underlying features of this landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic sandstone overlain by glacial boulder clay which in turn is overlain by varying amounts of glacial outwash sands and gravels, softer clays, estuarine and river alluvium, blown sand and peat.  Clay cliffs, extensive beaches comprising shingle spits and bars, together with peaty areas in local hollows and valleys are the key underlying features of this landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features include ancient field patterns and small fishing hamlets which have now grown into larger settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Historic features include ancient field patterns and small fishing hamlets which have now grown into larger settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats make a very significant contribution to the character of this area and include intertidal sands and sand dunes, salt marsh and, inland from the coast, areas of species rich grassland and fen.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats make a very significant contribution to the character of this area and include intertidal sands and sand dunes, salt marsh and, inland from the coast, areas of species rich grassland and fen.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features include ancient field patterns and small fishing hamlets which have now grown into larger settlements.
•	The area includes holiday and dormitory towns such as Hightown, Formby and Southport.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Historic features include ancient field patterns and small fishing hamlets which have now grown into larger settlements.
•	The area includes holiday and dormitory towns such as Hightown, Formby and Southport.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is restricted to small isolated copses with only salt tolerant species surviving and a large coniferous plantation at Formby.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland is restricted to small isolated copses with only salt tolerant species surviving and a large coniferous plantation at Formby.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fragments of farmland remain around the fringes of the urban area, representing the continuation of landscapes in surrounding areas.  In most cases the land is versatile and of good quality (often Grade 2), though urban influences such as settlement expansion, transport and utility infrastructure, together with urban fringe pressures, mean they are not cultivated as intensively as in the past.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fragments of farmland remain around the fringes of the urban area, representing the continuation of landscapes in surrounding areas.  In most cases the land is versatile and of good quality (often Grade 2), though urban influences such as settlement expansion, transport and utility infrastructure, together with urban fringe pressures, mean they are not cultivated as intensively as in the past.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower estuary of the River Mersey cuts through the area, but pinched between the sandstone hills it has cut a relatively deep river channel, contributing to the historic development of Liverpool as a port.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The lower estuary of the River Mersey cuts through the area, but pinched between the sandstone hills it has cut a relatively deep river channel, contributing to the historic development of Liverpool as a port.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic sandstone overlain by glacial boulder clay.  These combine to create a low-lying but gently rolling platform punctuated by numerous low sandstone ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic sandstone overlain by glacial boulder clay.  These combine to create a low-lying but gently rolling platform punctuated by numerous low sandstone ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	As would be expected, the urban areas are the dominant influences on this landscape and little rural character remains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	As would be expected, the urban areas are the dominant influences on this landscape and little rural character remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly mixed agricultural land with areas of improved pasture, arable farming and market gardens.  Some remnant coastal marshes traditionally grazed by sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is predominantly mixed agricultural land with areas of improved pasture, arable farming and market gardens.  Some remnant coastal marshes traditionally grazed by sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed of sandstone and some older structures are half timbered, though many of these now lie within settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed of sandstone and some older structures are half timbered, though many of these now lie within settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are linked by an intricate network of lanes, bridleways and footpaths.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are linked by an intricate network of lanes, bridleways and footpaths.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small streams have eroded picturesque gorges through the sandstone outcrops.  Coastal areas include extensive dune systems such as at Meols.  
•	The area is dominated by the Dee estuary to the south west and the Liverpool bay coast to the north.  Field ponds are found across the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small streams have eroded picturesque gorges through the sandstone outcrops.  Coastal areas include extensive dune systems such as at Meols.  
•	The area is dominated by the Dee estuary to the south west and the Liverpool bay coast to the north.  Field ponds are found across the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most field boundaries are marked by clipped hedges, many of which are intermittent and have been replaced by post and wire fences.  In coastal areas, hedges and hedgelines are often characterised by gorse scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most field boundaries are marked by clipped hedges, many of which are intermittent and have been replaced by post and wire fences.  In coastal areas, hedges and hedgelines are often characterised by gorse scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low-lying, undulating landscape underlain by Triassic sandstone overlain by glacial boulder clay.  It is punctuated by numerous low sandstone outcrops.  A dramatic sandstone ridge extends from Bidston hill in the north through Noctorum and Mountwood to Storeton in the south, providing long views over the Dee and Mersey.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Low-lying, undulating landscape underlain by Triassic sandstone overlain by glacial boulder clay.  It is punctuated by numerous low sandstone outcrops.  A dramatic sandstone ridge extends from Bidston hill in the north through Noctorum and Mountwood to Storeton in the south, providing long views over the Dee and Mersey.


JM KeyChar:
•	Characteristic historic landscape features include 18th and 19th century tower mills and mill mounds and large numbers of country house estates based on wealth generated in Liverpool.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include extensive dune systems around Meols and salt marshes and mudflats in the Dee estuary.  Areas of lowland heath are found on the sandstone outcrops with gorse-clad slopes contrasting with the red sandstone rocks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Semi-natural habitats include extensive dune systems around Meols and salt marshes and mudflats in the Dee estuary.  Areas of lowland heath are found on the sandstone outcrops with gorse-clad slopes contrasting with the red sandstone rocks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many towns and villages have expanded to act as dormitory settlements for the nearby urban centres of Birkenhead, Liverpool, Ellesmere Port and Chester.
•	Settlements are linked by an intricate network of lanes, bridleways and footpaths.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many towns and villages have expanded to act as dormitory settlements for the nearby urban centres of Birkenhead, Liverpool, Ellesmere Port and Chester.
•	Settlements are linked by an intricate network of lanes, bridleways and footpaths.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most woodland in the area is mixed, including a high proportion of pines, particularly in coastal area.  Most woodland is associated with the sandstone ridges or country parks, which are characteristic to the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most woodland in the area is mixed, including a high proportion of pines, particularly in coastal area.  Most woodland is associated with the sandstone ridges or country parks, which are characteristic to the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the north of the Mersey, agriculture is dominated by arable farming which, with the poor field boundaries, creates an open, large scale landscape.  To the south of the Mersey mixed arable and dairy farming predominates.  The mosslands are characterised by market gardening with some arable and pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	To the north of the Mersey, agriculture is dominated by arable farming which, with the poor field boundaries, creates an open, large scale landscape.  To the south of the Mersey mixed arable and dairy farming predominates.  The mosslands are characterised by market gardening with some arable and pastures.


FG KeyChar:
•	The predominant building material is red brick though a number of villages are constructed of sandstone.  Many of the area’s oldest buildings are half timbered, though many of these now lie within larger urban areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The predominant building material is red brick though a number of villages are constructed of sandstone.  Many of the area’s oldest buildings are half timbered, though many of these now lie within larger urban areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Inland the Mersey has been widened and channelled to create the Manchester Ship Canal.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Inland the Mersey has been widened and channelled to create the Manchester Ship Canal.


FG KeyChar:
•	The estuary of the River Mersey is a defining element in the landscape, having created the valley landform, the wetland and contributing to the area’s industrial and settlement history.  From many parts of the area, however, the river and its tributaries are not visible.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The estuary of the River Mersey is a defining element in the landscape, having created the valley landform, the wetland and contributing to the area’s industrial and settlement history.  From many parts of the area, however, the river and its tributaries are not visible.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most field boundaries are marked by hedges, many of which are intermittent and have been replaced by post and wire fences.  Field boundaries on the mosses are marked by ditches. Where farmland has been fragmented by industrial or urban development field patterns are becoming fragmented and subject to scrub invasion.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most field boundaries are marked by hedges, many of which are intermittent and have been replaced by post and wire fences.  Field boundaries on the mosses are marked by ditches. Where farmland has been fragmented by industrial or urban development field patterns are becoming fragmented and subject to scrub invasion.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic sandstone which surfaces to the south and east of Runcorn.  Most of the area is overlain with glacial boulder clay, pockets of sand and gravel and, along the valley bottom, estuarine and river alluvium and windblown sand.  Peat has formed in drainage hollows created during the early post glacial period, most common on the western fringes of Manchester.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic sandstone which surfaces to the south and east of Runcorn.  Most of the area is overlain with glacial boulder clay, pockets of sand and gravel and, along the valley bottom, estuarine and river alluvium and windblown sand.  Peat has formed in drainage hollows created during the early post glacial period, most common on the western fringes of Manchester.


FG KeyChar:
•	Important wetland habitats remain along the estuary shores.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Important wetland habitats remain along the estuary shores.


FG KeyChar:
•	Ancient heathy woodlands are found on the northern scarp slopes of the Needwood Forest area and in association with patches of lowland heath on the fringes of Cannock Chase to the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ancient heathy woodlands are found on the northern scarp slopes of the Needwood Forest area and in association with patches of lowland heath on the fringes of Cannock Chase to the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad, open alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Dove, Blithe and Trent typically have a regular pattern of mixed farmland with few woodlands and large settlements. Related minor river floodplains have a pastoral, enclosed character.
•	Small clustered red brick settlements and hamlets, with densely scattered farmsteads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The broad, open alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Dove, Blithe and Trent typically have a regular pattern of mixed farmland with few woodlands and large settlements. Related minor river floodplains have a pastoral, enclosed character.
•	Small clustered red brick settlements and hamlets, with densely scattered farmsteads.


FG KeyChar:
•	The poorly drained till plateau has a gently undulating or rolling landform, dissected by narrow streams which flow to the River Dove in the centre of the character area and to the Trent/Blythe rivers to the south and south east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The poorly drained till plateau has a gently undulating or rolling landform, dissected by narrow streams which flow to the River Dove in the centre of the character area and to the Trent/Blythe rivers to the south and south east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodlands are few on the South Derbyshire Claylands and occur only locally at parklands, but the former Needwood Forest has extensive mixed woodland and there are heathy woodlands on the scarp slopes above the River Dove and on the fringes of Cannock Chase in the far west of the character area.  
•	New broadleaf woodland planting associated with the National Forest tree planting programme is significantly increasing the area of broadleaf and mixed woodland in the Needwood Forest area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodlands are few on the South Derbyshire Claylands and occur only locally at parklands, but the former Needwood Forest has extensive mixed woodland and there are heathy woodlands on the scarp slopes above the River Dove and on the fringes of Cannock Chase in the far west of the character area.  
•	New broadleaf woodland planting associated with the National Forest tree planting programme is significantly increasing the area of broadleaf and mixed woodland in the Needwood Forest area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable farming predominates on the loamy soils of the river terraces, with relatively large fields; pastures and grass leys are more commonly located along the alluvial river floodplains, where the soils are poor draining and subject to frequent flooding.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Arable farming predominates on the loamy soils of the river terraces, with relatively large fields; pastures and grass leys are more commonly located along the alluvial river floodplains, where the soils are poor draining and subject to frequent flooding.


FG KeyChar:
•	Transport routes and urban development are a major feature of all the valleys and the major power stations along the Soar and the Trent dominate the wider landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Transport routes and urban development are a major feature of all the valleys and the major power stations along the Soar and the Trent dominate the wider landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Rivers Blithe, Dove, Derwent and Erewash all drain into the Trent from the north and the Tame, Mease and Soar enter from the south.  The Dove, which flows from the Peak District, increases the river volume by 40%.  
•	The open washlands fulfil a vital floodwater catchment role.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Rivers Blithe, Dove, Derwent and Erewash all drain into the Trent from the north and the Tame, Mease and Soar enter from the south.  The Dove, which flows from the Peak District, increases the river volume by 40%.  
•	The open washlands fulfil a vital floodwater catchment role.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows are low, sparse and often well trimmed on the slightly elevated river terraces where they divide large arable fields, but there are also stretches of permanent pasture, where dense, overgrown hedgerows enclose small riverside meadows.
•	There are few hedgerow trees and those on the terraces are typically stag-headed and in poor condition; hedgerow ash and willow trees occur sporadically in pastoral areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerows are low, sparse and often well trimmed on the slightly elevated river terraces where they divide large arable fields, but there are also stretches of permanent pasture, where dense, overgrown hedgerows enclose small riverside meadows.
•	There are few hedgerow trees and those on the terraces are typically stag-headed and in poor condition; hedgerow ash and willow trees occur sporadically in pastoral areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	These are flat, wide valleys, contained by gentle side slopes, with wide rivers flowing on alluvial floodplains between terraces of sand and gravel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	These are flat, wide valleys, contained by gentle side slopes, with wide rivers flowing on alluvial floodplains between terraces of sand and gravel.


JM KeyChar:
•	Evidence of prehistoric settlement and ceremonial sites is visible as cropmarks along Trent terraces.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are patches of unimproved grassland and rush pasture on river floodplains and open water (arising from gravel extraction) provides some wetland habitat.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are patches of unimproved grassland and rush pasture on river floodplains and open water (arising from gravel extraction) provides some wetland habitat.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is very limited woodland cover, although in places the full growth of riparian trees and shrubs give an impression of woodland cover.
•	There are few hedgerow trees and those on the terraces are typically stag-headed and in poor condition; hedgerow ash and willow trees occur sporadically in pastoral areas.
•	Riparian vegetation is generally more consistent and prominent, with pollarded willows, ash, poplar and alder marking the locations of streams, dykes and rivers, as well as areas of open water arising from worked-out, flooded gravel pits.

JM KeyChar:
Replace with:
•	Woodland cover is relatively sparse, often limited to the pastoral riparian areas where black poplar, pollard willow, alder and withy beds attest to a rural resource no longer managed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is very limited woodland cover, although in places the full growth of riparian trees and shrubs give an impression of woodland cover.
•	There are few hedgerow trees and those on the terraces are typically stag-headed and in poor condition; hedgerow ash and willow trees occur sporadically in pastoral areas.
•	Riparian vegetation is generally more consistent and prominent, with pollarded willows, ash, poplar and alder marking the locations of streams, dykes and rivers, as well as areas of open water arising from worked-out, flooded gravel pits.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an area of mixed farming, with large open arable fields on the broader plateaux and small-scale pastures with more irregular shapes and some historic hedgerow boundaries on heavier soils, steep slopes and around settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an area of mixed farming, with large open arable fields on the broader plateaux and small-scale pastures with more irregular shapes and some historic hedgerow boundaries on heavier soils, steep slopes and around settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are of brick with pantile roofs, with some limestone in are area around Breedon.  The area has a cluster of imposing country houses including Calke Abbey, Langley Priory, Garendon Park with estate villages such as Calke and Ticknall and many large red brick estate farmsteads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings are of brick with pantile roofs, with some limestone in are area around Breedon.  The area has a cluster of imposing country houses including Calke Abbey, Langley Priory, Garendon Park with estate villages such as Calke and Ticknall and many large red brick estate farmsteads.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the clustered red brick villages retain a rural character, but those close to the River Trent valley, including Melbourne, Repton and Castle Donington are larger and Castle Donington is the site of the East Midlands Airport.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the clustered red brick villages retain a rural character, but those close to the River Trent valley, including Melbourne, Repton and Castle Donington are larger and Castle Donington is the site of the East Midlands Airport.


FG KeyChar:
•	The minor streams flowing northwards into the Rivers Trent and Soar have narrow floodplains, but are often prominent in the wider landscape as they are fringed by a ribbon of willow and alder.
•	Several valleys have been dammed to form large reservoirs as at Foremark and Staunton Harold.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The minor streams flowing northwards into the Rivers Trent and Soar have narrow floodplains, but are often prominent in the wider landscape as they are fringed by a ribbon of willow and alder.
•	Several valleys have been dammed to form large reservoirs as at Foremark and Staunton Harold.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows are generally low and well trimmed where they surround large arable fields on shallow slopes, and dense with many scattered hedgerow trees where they enclose permanent pasture or mixed farmland on steep slopes and heavier soils.
•	This is an area of mixed farming, with large open arable fields on the broader plateaux and small-scale pastures with more irregular shapes and some historic hedgerow boundaries on heavier soils, steep slopes and around settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerows are generally low and well trimmed where they surround large arable fields on shallow slopes, and dense with many scattered hedgerow trees where they enclose permanent pasture or mixed farmland on steep slopes and heavier soils.
•	This is an area of mixed farming, with large open arable fields on the broader plateaux and small-scale pastures with more irregular shapes and some historic hedgerow boundaries on heavier soils, steep slopes and around settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has a complex underlying geology, with outcrops of limestone, Millstone Grit and sandstone. It has a steeply undulating landform dissected by minor river valleys which drain northwards towards the Rivers Trent and Soar.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area has a complex underlying geology, with outcrops of limestone, Millstone Grit and sandstone. It has a steeply undulating landform dissected by minor river valleys which drain northwards towards the Rivers Trent and Soar.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive designed parkland landscapes and houses with woodlands, parkland trees, avenues and estate buildings are a dominant influence throughout the character area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive designed parkland landscapes and houses with woodlands, parkland trees, avenues and estate buildings are a dominant influence throughout the character area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Where pasture prevails, particularly in areas of parkland, there are extensive areas of unimproved pasture and remnant acid grassland and heathy scrub and woodland are found on some of the steep, undulating sandstone slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Where pasture prevails, particularly in areas of parkland, there are extensive areas of unimproved pasture and remnant acid grassland and heathy scrub and woodland are found on some of the steep, undulating sandstone slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive designed parkland landscapes and houses with woodlands, parkland trees, avenues and estate buildings are a dominant influence throughout the character area.
•	Most of the clustered red brick villages retain a rural character, but those close to the River Trent valley, including Melbourne, Repton and Castle Donington are larger and Castle Donington is the site of the East Midlands Airport.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive designed parkland landscapes and houses with woodlands, parkland trees, avenues and estate buildings are a dominant influence throughout the character area.
•	Most of the clustered red brick villages retain a rural character, but those close to the River Trent valley, including Melbourne, Repton and Castle Donington are larger and Castle Donington is the site of the East Midlands Airport.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive estate mixed woodlands and new woodland planting associated with the National Forest. Away from the estates, woodlands generally occur as small game coverts and tree belts; many are prominently sited on ridgetops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive estate mixed woodlands and new woodland planting associated with the National Forest. Away from the estates, woodlands generally occur as small game coverts and tree belts; many are prominently sited on ridgetops.


FG KeyChar:
•	The farmland is in mixed arable and pasture use; where arable predominates, some fields have been enlarged and the diverse landscape pattern is eroded.  There is a wide variation in field pattern, with many irregular fields interspersed with areas of parliamentary enclosure with geometric shaped fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The farmland is in mixed arable and pasture use; where arable predominates, some fields have been enlarged and the diverse landscape pattern is eroded.  There is a wide variation in field pattern, with many irregular fields interspersed with areas of parliamentary enclosure with geometric shaped fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has a strong industrial heritage, with the Ashby Canal, Moira Furnace and many tramways, miner’s cottages and old brick buildings, but there are no significant historic landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area has a strong industrial heritage, with the Ashby Canal, Moira Furnace and many tramways, miner’s cottages and old brick buildings, but there are no significant historic landscape features.


FG KeyChar:
•	The coalfield forms part of the watershed between the Rivers Mease and Sence to the south and the River Soar to the east, with numerous small brooks draining the undulating plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The coalfield forms part of the watershed between the Rivers Mease and Sence to the south and the River Soar to the east, with numerous small brooks draining the undulating plateau.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the farmland retains its former character of sparse, low hedgerows with few hedgerow trees, but this pattern is changing as the hedgerow structure is strengthened through new planting.
•	The farmland is in mixed arable and pasture use; where arable predominates, some fields have been enlarged and the diverse landscape pattern is eroded.  There is a wide variation in field pattern, with many irregular fields interspersed with areas of parliamentary enclosure with geometric shaped fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the farmland retains its former character of sparse, low hedgerows with few hedgerow trees, but this pattern is changing as the hedgerow structure is strengthened through new planting.
•	The farmland is in mixed arable and pasture use; where arable predominates, some fields have been enlarged and the diverse landscape pattern is eroded.  There is a wide variation in field pattern, with many irregular fields interspersed with areas of parliamentary enclosure with geometric shaped fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bands of sandstone, mudstone and coal measures combine to form a gently undulating plateau of ridges and shallow valleys.  The topography becomes increasingly shallow towards the south, where there are thick deposits of glacial till.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Bands of sandstone, mudstone and coal measures combine to form a gently undulating plateau of ridges and shallow valleys.  The topography becomes increasingly shallow towards the south, where there are thick deposits of glacial till.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some derelict sites which have been colonised by scrub and secondary woodland have become valuable for nature conservation.  Elsewhere there are remnants of acid grassland over sandstone in the more nutrient rich valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Some derelict sites which have been colonised by scrub and secondary woodland have become valuable for nature conservation.  Elsewhere there are remnants of acid grassland over sandstone in the more nutrient rich valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Prominent settlements with extensive recent housing estates surrounding most mining villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Prominent settlements with extensive recent housing estates surrounding most mining villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	Planting associated with the National Forest is beginning to transform the character of the landscape from one of open farmland and prominent mineral workings to farmland with significant blocks of woodland, numerous copses and a network of hedgerows with groups of hedgerow trees.
•	Scrub and secondary woodland are commonplace on derelict land and along rail and road embankments.
•	Prominent small ribbons of woodland line many of the small stream valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Planting associated with the National Forest is beginning to transform the character of the landscape from one of open farmland and prominent mineral workings to farmland with significant blocks of woodland, numerous copses and a network of hedgerows with groups of hedgerow trees.
•	Scrub and secondary woodland are commonplace on derelict land and along rail and road embankments.
•	Prominent small ribbons of woodland line many of the small stream valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	On steeper ground and heavier clays the land is less intensively farmed and arable and pasture are mixed.  Here hedgerows are more substantial, hedgerow trees more frequent and there is some permanent pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	On steeper ground and heavier clays the land is less intensively farmed and arable and pasture are mixed.  Here hedgerows are more substantial, hedgerow trees more frequent and there is some permanent pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small villages on rising land with red brick buildings and spired churches are often prominent landscape features and isolated large 19th century red brick farmsteads are also conspicuous.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small villages on rising land with red brick buildings and spired churches are often prominent landscape features and isolated large 19th century red brick farmsteads are also conspicuous.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the farmland retains the strongly rectilinear pattern of low hedgerows imposed during the 18th and 19th century enclosures.  This is complemented by scattered hedgerow trees, copses and spinneys on ridgelines and occasional groups of trees along rivers and streams.
•	On steeper ground and heavier clays the land is less intensively farmed and arable and pasture are mixed.  Here hedgerows are more substantial, hedgerow trees more frequent and there is some permanent pasture.
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The majority of the farmland retains the strongly rectilinear pattern of low hedgerows imposed during the 18th and 19th century enclosures.  This is complemented by scattered hedgerow trees, copses and spinneys on ridgelines and occasional groups of trees along rivers and streams.
•	On steeper ground and heavier clays the land is less intensively farmed and arable and pasture are mixed.  Here hedgerows are more substantial, hedgerow trees more frequent and there is some permanent pasture.
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The character area is underlain by the Triassic Mercia Mudstones, which give rise to productive clay soils; outcrops of sandstone extend across the area southwards and westwards, supporting well drained sandy soils and ensuring good arable productivity.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The character area is underlain by the Triassic Mercia Mudstones, which give rise to productive clay soils; outcrops of sandstone extend across the area southwards and westwards, supporting well drained sandy soils and ensuring good arable productivity.


FG KeyChar:
•	The estuary of the River Mersey is a defining element in the landscape, having created the valley landform, the wetland and contributing to the area’s industrial and settlement history.  From many parts of the area, however, the river and its tributaries are not visible.
•	Settlements, including Ellesmere Port, Warrington, Runcorn and Widnes, reflect the area’s industrial character, with docks, chemical and oil refineries and extensive urban and suburban areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The estuary of the River Mersey is a defining element in the landscape, having created the valley landform, the wetland and contributing to the area’s industrial and settlement history.  From many parts of the area, however, the river and its tributaries are not visible.
•	Settlements, including Ellesmere Port, Warrington, Runcorn and Widnes, reflect the area’s industrial character, with docks, chemical and oil refineries and extensive urban and suburban areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a relatively unwooded landscape with some trees along field boundaries, watercourses and ditches and, particularly in the east, isolated woodland blocks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a relatively unwooded landscape with some trees along field boundaries, watercourses and ditches and, particularly in the east, isolated woodland blocks.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by dairy farming although more arable is found in the north and south-east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly pastoral dairy or mixed farming
More arable in the north and south-east


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are predominantly red brick, with sandstone churches and occasional very distinctive black and white half-timbered buildings.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings mainly red brick, with sandstone churches
Distinctive 15th-17th century black and white timber-frame houses


FG KeyChar:
•	Mosses, meres and small ponds are found throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Mosses, meres and small ponds are found throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Strong field patterns are defined by hedgerows, often with dense, mature hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Strong patterns of hedged fields, sometimes ancient and irregular in form


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area is underlain by glacial deposits of clay, sand and gravel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the area is underlain by glacial deposits of clay, sand and gravel.


JM KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include major Roman settlements at Chester and Wroxeter (south east of Shrewsbury); salt workings around Northwich and Middlewich; and 15th-17th century timber-frame houses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Major Roman settlements at Chester and Wroxeter
Salt workings around Northwich and Middlewich
Many small ponds (former brick and marl pits)
Areas of mature parkland


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is sparse with large farmsteads regularly spaced throughout, and dispersed hamlets.
•	The area contains the County towns of Shrewsbury, Chester and Stafford and many other settlements including Macclesfield, Northwich, Congleton, Crewe, Whitchurch, Oswestry, Telford and Stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is sparse with large farmsteads regularly spaced throughout, and dispersed hamlets.
•	The area contains the County towns of Shrewsbury, Chester and Stafford and many other settlements including Macclesfield, Northwich, Congleton, Crewe, Whitchurch, Oswestry, Telford and Stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is an extensive, gently rolling pastoral plain that is interrupted by sandstone ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is an extensive, gently rolling pastoral plain that is interrupted by sandstone ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are small copses and clumps of trees around meres and ponds.
•	Occasional small broadleaved or mixed woodlands cloak the slopes of the sandstone ridges and some wet areas with heavy soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small copses and clumps of trees around meres and ponds
Small broadleaved or mixed woodlands on slopes of sandstone ridges and on heavy ground
Often dense mature hedgerow tree cover
Occasional traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	The farmland is predominantly associated with dairy farming, although some arable is found on gentler slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly dairy farming
Some arable on gentler slopes


FG KeyChar:
•	Red brick is the dominant building material, together with some local sandstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings mainly of red brick, with some local sandstone


FG KeyChar:
•	Small ponds are associated with the lower ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small ponds are associated with the lower ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a regular pattern of hedged fields, with scattered mature hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area forms a prominent, steep-sided sandstone ridge rising from the Cheshire Plain.
•	To the east, the lower slopes of the ridge are cloaked in deposits of glacial sand and gravel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area forms a prominent, steep-sided sandstone ridge rising from the Cheshire Plain.
•	To the east, the lower slopes of the ridge are cloaked in deposits of glacial sand and gravel.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remains of forts and castles are found along the ridge-top.

JM KeyChar:
•	Extensive prehistoric features, including hillforts and ancient field systems, as well as many medieval moated sites, motte and bailey and stone-built castles characterise this landscape.  Remains of forts and castles are concentrated along the ridge-top.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many prehistoric features, including hillforts and ancient field systems
Medieval moated sites, motte and bailey and stone-built castles
Remains of forts and castles along the ridge-top
Small ponds are associated with the lower ground


FG KeyChar:
•	There are small patches of heathland along the ridge top and many remnants of heathland vegetation across the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant heathland across the area, especially on the ridge top
Small remnants of species-rich grasslands and grazing marsh on lower ground


FG KeyChar:
•	Remains of forts and castles are found along the ridge-top.
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of scattered farms and small villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Remains of forts and castles are found along the ridge-top.
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of scattered farms and small villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area forms a prominent, steep-sided sandstone ridge rising from the Cheshire Plain.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area forms a prominent, steep-sided sandstone ridge rising from the Cheshire Plain.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are frequent mixed woodlands along the ridge slopes and on the lower ground towards Northwich.

Edited_KeyChars:
Frequent mixed woodlands along ridge slopes and on  lower ground towards Northwich
Scope for new woodland planting (Cheshire Landscape Assessment)
Mature hedgerow trees


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture is the dominant land use on the higher ground, with mixed, more intensive agriculture on the foothills to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pasture is the dominant land use on the higher ground, with mixed, more intensive agriculture on the foothills to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditionally the buildings are of local stone with slate roofs, and occasionally whitewashed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditionally the buildings are of local stone with slate roofs, and occasionally whitewashed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The hills are dissected by narrow, steep-sided valleys, with larger rivers (the Ceiriog and the Tanat) flowing west to east across the north and south of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The hills are dissected by narrow, steep-sided valleys, with larger rivers (the Ceiriog and the Tanat) flowing west to east across the north and south of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	An irregular field pattern with species-rich hedgerows is found across much of the area, though it is more regular in the north-west where it is of relatively late enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An irregular field pattern with species-rich hedgerows is found across much of the area, though it is more regular in the north-west where it is of relatively late enclosure.


FG KeyChar:
•	Flat topped hills, mostly of limestone, with steep slopes form a band across the western half of the area giving way to gentler foothills and the Shropshire Plain to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Flat topped hills, mostly of limestone, with steep slopes form a band across the western half of the area giving way to gentler foothills and the Shropshire Plain to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Offa’s Dyke is an important historic landscape feature running north-south through the area, along with the Iron Age hillforts such as found at Oswestry.
•	Scattered parks and estates are found, in particular on the lower slopes around Oswestry.
•	There is a strong Welsh influence on place names, dispersed settlement character and farming pattern particularly in the west and south of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Offa’s Dyke is an important historic landscape feature running north-south through the area, along with the Iron Age hillforts such as found at Oswestry.
•	Scattered parks and estates are found, in particular on the lower slopes around Oswestry.
•	There is a strong Welsh influence on place names, dispersed settlement character and farming pattern particularly in the west and south of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	There has been extensive quarrying in the south in the past, but many quarries are now abandoned and have become overgrown with grassland and scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There has been extensive quarrying in the south in the past, but many quarries are now abandoned and have become overgrown with grassland and scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scattered parks and estates are found, in particular on the lower slopes around Oswestry.
•	There is a strong Welsh influence on place names, dispersed settlement character and farming pattern particularly in the west and south of the area.
•	A clustered settlement pattern occurs in the south-west, associated with the mining industry.
•	Industrial and residential development has spread around the market town of Oswestry.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Scattered parks and estates are found, in particular on the lower slopes around Oswestry.
•	There is a strong Welsh influence on place names, dispersed settlement character and farming pattern particularly in the west and south of the area.
•	A clustered settlement pattern occurs in the south-west, associated with the mining industry.
•	Industrial and residential development has spread around the market town of Oswestry.


FG KeyChar:
•	Flat topped hills, mostly of limestone, with steep slopes form a band across the western half of the area giving way to gentler foothills and the Shropshire Plain to the east.
•	The steep slopes are dissected by narrow, often wooded valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Flat topped hills, mostly of limestone, with steep slopes form a band across the western half of the area giving way to gentler foothills and the Shropshire Plain to the east.
•	The steep slopes are dissected by narrow, often wooded valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are scattered patches of broadleaved woodland and coniferous plantations throughout the area, particularly on the steeper slopes and linear woodlands along valley sides.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are scattered patches of broadleaved woodland and coniferous plantations throughout the area, particularly on the steeper slopes and linear woodlands along valley sides.


FG KeyChar:
•	The agricultural land quality is generally poor and three quarters of the area is permanent pasture. There is also some horticultural activity, mostly hardy nursery stock production and in the south there is a small area of arable cropping, mainly of cereals.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The agricultural land quality is generally poor and three quarters of the area is permanent pasture. There is also some horticultural activity, mostly hardy nursery stock production and in the south there is a small area of arable cropping, mainly of cereals.


FG KeyChar:
•	The older vernacular buildings are predominantly brick, although sandstone is commonly used for larger buildings and in the west, Millstone Grit is more common.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The older vernacular buildings are predominantly brick, although sandstone is commonly used for larger buildings and in the west, Millstone Grit is more common.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small streams and the River Churnet are set in incised valleys, with wet valley bottom grassland, while the River Dove flows through a broader floodplain.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small streams and the River Churnet are set in incised valleys, with wet valley bottom grassland, while the River Dove flows through a broader floodplain.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows form the dominant boundary type in the lowlands, while drystone walls are more common on the upland fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerows form the dominant boundary type in the lowlands, while drystone walls are more common on the upland fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Carboniferous and Triassic sandstones, while Coal Measures dominate in the vicinity of the Potteries.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Carboniferous and Triassic sandstones, while Coal Measures dominate in the vicinity of the Potteries.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is rich industrial heritage associated with manufacturing, transport and mining of coal, clay and metal ores.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is rich industrial heritage associated with manufacturing, transport and mining of coal, clay and metal ores.


FG KeyChar:
•	The settlements of the Potteries form a large urban conurbation, although settlements have retained their individual character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The settlements of the Potteries form a large urban conurbation, although settlements have retained their individual character.


FG KeyChar:
•	On higher ground there is rough or unimproved pasture and the highest ground includes open moorland with some heather.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	On higher ground there is rough or unimproved pasture and the highest ground includes open moorland with some heather.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a rural settlement pattern of sheltered villages on low ground with hamlets, scattered farmsteads and cottages elsewhere.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a rural settlement pattern of sheltered villages on low ground with hamlets, scattered farmsteads and cottages elsewhere.


FG KeyChar:
•	This area is a transition from lowland to upland with strongly dissected hills and small plateaux, rising up to the Pennines and cut by major river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This area is a transition from lowland to upland with strongly dissected hills and small plateaux, rising up to the Pennines and cut by major river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is concentrated in the Churnet Valley, where there are large commercial coniferous woodlands and ancient semi-natural woodlands. Elsewhere there are occasional woodlands and scattered trees along field boundaries and watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland is concentrated in the Churnet Valley, where there are large commercial coniferous woodlands and ancient semi-natural woodlands. Elsewhere there are occasional woodlands and scattered trees along field boundaries and watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hill slopes with patchworks of small pasture fields give way to mixed and arable farming in the dales, on the plateaux and on the lower ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hill slopes with patchworks of small pasture fields
Mixed and arable farming on the plateaux and in the dales


FG KeyChar:
•	There is no single building style with a wide variety of materials employed, reflecting the diversity in geology and topography.

Edited_KeyChars:
No single building style; wide variety of materials reflecting diversity in geology and topography


FG KeyChar:
•	The many rivers of the area mostly drain to the south, but the River Severn also crosses in the north-east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The many rivers of the area mostly drain to the south, but the River Severn also crosses in the north-east.


Edited_KeyChars:
Unenclosed tops
Strong regular and semi-regular hedgerow pattern on lower slopes and in dales
Lcalised stone walls e.g. near Norbury - to the east of the Stiperstones.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are occasional Iron-Age hillforts on the hills and castles and mottes on the lower ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Occasional Iron-Age hillforts on the hills
Castles and mottes on the lower ground
Some large country houses and parkland


FG KeyChar:
•	Open grassland and heather moorland are dominant on the hill tops.

Edited_KeyChars:
Moorlands of heather, rough acid grassland and bracken on the hilltops
Remnant areas of species rich grassland often managed as hay meadows
 Damp pastures found in the valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	The settlement pattern is dispersed with scattered farmsteads, villages and occasional small towns.
•	There are localised squatter settlements around commons and quarries.
•	The principal towns are Church Stretton and Ludlow.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The settlement pattern is dispersed with scattered farmsteads, villages and occasional small towns.
•	There are localised squatter settlements around commons and quarries.
•	The principal towns are Church Stretton and Ludlow.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steep, rounded 'whaleback' hills and south-west to north-east ridges, scarps and intervening valleys dominate the landscape.
•	Distinctive and dramatic landmarks, such as the Long Mynd, Wenlock Edge, the Wrekin and Clee peaks are prominent.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steep, rounded 'whaleback' hills and south-west to north-east ridges, scarps and intervening valleys dominate the landscape.
•	Distinctive and dramatic landmarks, such as the Long Mynd, Wenlock Edge, the Wrekin and Clee peaks are prominent.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodlands are largely confined to the slopes, particularly on Wenlock Edge, with occasional localised coniferous plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Deciduous woodlands largely confined to the slopes, particularly on Wenlock Edge, in need of protection
hedgerows often with mature trees
Dense riparian tree cover in the valleys, including pollards
Remnant traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is dominated by intensive arable farming, although pasture is more common on valley sides and on the heavier land in the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is dominated by intensive arable farming, although pasture is more common on valley sides and on the heavier land in the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of older buildings are constructed of brick, with various colours of brick found across the area. Some farms and churches are constructed of local sandstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The majority of older buildings are constructed of brick, with various colours of brick found across the area. Some farms and churches are constructed of local sandstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area contains historic inland ports on the River Severn, including Bridgenorth, Bewdley and Stourport, together with the expanded town of Kidderminster, the western part of Wolverhampton and the new town at Telford.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area contains historic inland ports on the River Severn, including Bridgenorth, Bewdley and Stourport, together with the expanded town of Kidderminster, the western part of Wolverhampton and the new town at Telford.


FG KeyChar:
•	Streams and rivers are set in steep sided valleys throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Streams and rivers are set in steep sided valleys throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	A weak pattern of hedged fields covers much of the area, which contrasts with areas of smaller, irregular fields with more distinctive hedgerows in the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A weak pattern of hedged fields covers much of the area, which contrasts with areas of smaller, irregular fields with more distinctive hedgerows in the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	This landscape is a rolling plateau, with incised valleys, underlain by Permo-Triassic sandstones and localised Carboniferous rocks including Coal Measures.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This landscape is a rolling plateau, with incised valleys, underlain by Permo-Triassic sandstones and localised Carboniferous rocks including Coal Measures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rich industrial heritage is found across the area, particularly along the Severn Valley and at Ironbridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rich industrial heritage is found across the area, particularly along the Severn Valley and at Ironbridge.


FG KeyChar:
•	Patches of lowland heathland are remnants of a much wider coverage of this habitat in the past.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Patches of lowland heathland are remnants of a much wider coverage of this habitat in the past.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of small hamlets and isolated farms, with wayside settlements on areas of former common.
•	The area contains historic inland ports on the River Severn, including Bridgenorth, Bewdley and Stourport, together with the expanded town of Kidderminster, the western part of Wolverhampton and the new town at Telford.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of small hamlets and isolated farms, with wayside settlements on areas of former common.
•	The area contains historic inland ports on the River Severn, including Bridgenorth, Bewdley and Stourport, together with the expanded town of Kidderminster, the western part of Wolverhampton and the new town at Telford.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many ancient and plantation estate woodlands in the centre of the area and dense woodlands cloak the slopes above the River Severn and its tributaries.
•	Extensive, interlocking blocks of mixed woodland characterise the Wyre Forest area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many ancient and plantation estate woodlands in the centre of the area and dense woodlands cloak the slopes above the River Severn and its tributaries.
•	Extensive, interlocking blocks of mixed woodland characterise the Wyre Forest area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Generally mixed farming, together with horticulture is the main agricultural land use, with more demanding crops such as potatoes and sugar beet on the higher quality land. Grassland supporting dairying and other livestock enterprises is generally concentrated further north.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly mixed farming and horticulture
Grassland supporting dairying and other livestock in the north
Narrow floodplain pastures on fringes to east and west


FG KeyChar:
•	Red brick is the dominant building material although some earlier timber framed buildings are found in the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly red brick with some earlier timber framed buildings


FG KeyChar:
•	Streams drain radially from the high ground around Cannock to the surrounding rivers of the Penk, Sow and Trent.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Streams drain radially from the high ground around Cannock to the surrounding rivers of the Penk, Sow and Trent.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are open arable areas with low hedges, areas of smaller hedged fields and large unenclosed areas in Cannock Chase.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large unenclosed areas of Cannock Chase
Open arable areas with low hedges
Areas of smaller fields with dense hedgerows
Canals, ditches and dykes in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the high dissected sandstone plateau of Cannock chase, the northern part of the Black Country plateau and lower fringing landscape of softer Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones.
•	The coalfield area is largely covered by glacial till which gives rise to heavy, poorly drained soils originally covered with heathland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the high dissected sandstone plateau of Cannock chase, the northern part of the Black Country plateau and lower fringing landscape of softer Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones.
•	The coalfield area is largely covered by glacial till which gives rise to heavy, poorly drained soils originally covered with heathland.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are many industrial and archaeological features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Former royal hunting forest
Designed parkland
Many industrial archaeological features including canals


FG KeyChar:
•	Cannock Chase is dominated by lowland heathland and coniferous woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive lowland heathland on Cannock Chase
Heathland remnants found in woodlands, roadside verges and canal corridors
Wet floodplain meadows around fringes
Remnant areas of species-rich lowland meadows


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a strongly contrasting settlement pattern with some areas densely populated, others unpopulated and 'wild'.
•	The area includes the western fringes of Stafford, the settlements of Cannock and Lichfield and the many urban areas in the Black Country and coalfield, including Dudley, Wolverhampton and Walsall.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a strongly contrasting settlement pattern with some areas densely populated, others unpopulated and 'wild'.
•	The area includes the western fringes of Stafford, the settlements of Cannock and Lichfield and the many urban areas in the Black Country and coalfield, including Dudley, Wolverhampton and Walsall.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the high dissected sandstone plateau of Cannock chase, the northern part of the Black Country plateau and lower fringing landscape of softer Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the high dissected sandstone plateau of Cannock chase, the northern part of the Black Country plateau and lower fringing landscape of softer Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are extensive coniferous woodland plantations in Cannock chase. In the surrounding landscapes there is a mixture of ancient, plantation and secondary woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixture of ancient, plantation and secondary woodlands on Cannock Chase
Scope for woodland expansion off the heathland
Dense cover of hedgerow oaks in parts
Riparian trees in river valleys to east and west


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium scale pastures with irregular field patterns predominate, with localised but often extensive areas of larger scale arable land with a rectilinear pattern wherever soil and topographic conditions are favourable.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Medium scale pastures with irregular field patterns predominate, with localised but often extensive areas of larger scale arable land with a rectilinear pattern wherever soil and topographic conditions are favourable.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small clustered red brick settlements and hamlets, with densely scattered farmsteads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small clustered red brick settlements and hamlets, with densely scattered farmsteads.


FG KeyChar:
•	Marl pits with small ponds and wetlands are a feature of many rolling fields on the South Derbyshire plateaux and the stream corridors are often lined with prominent riparian vegetation and rush pastures.
•	The broad, open alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Dove, Blithe and Trent typically have a regular pattern of mixed farmland with few woodlands and large settlements. Related minor river floodplains have a pastoral, enclosed character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Marl pits with small ponds and wetlands are a feature of many rolling fields on the South Derbyshire plateaux and the stream corridors are often lined with prominent riparian vegetation and rush pastures.
•	The broad, open alluvial floodplains of the Rivers Dove, Blithe and Trent typically have a regular pattern of mixed farmland with few woodlands and large settlements. Related minor river floodplains have a pastoral, enclosed character.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is an intact and well maintained framework of hedgerows with numerous mature hedgerow ash and oak trees throughout the area. 
•	Medium scale pastures with irregular field patterns predominate, with localised but often extensive areas of larger scale arable land with a rectilinear pattern wherever soil and topographic conditions are favourable.
•	There is extensive ridge and furrow throughout the settled farmlands of the South Derbyshire Claylands and sunken narrow lanes are also typical on elevated land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is an intact and well maintained framework of hedgerows with numerous mature hedgerow ash and oak trees throughout the area. 
•	Medium scale pastures with irregular field patterns predominate, with localised but often extensive areas of larger scale arable land with a rectilinear pattern wherever soil and topographic conditions are favourable.
•	There is extensive ridge and furrow throughout the settled farmlands of the South Derbyshire Claylands and sunken narrow lanes are also typical on elevated land.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is extensive ridge and furrow throughout the settled farmlands of the South Derbyshire Claylands and sunken narrow lanes are also typical on elevated land.
•	Parkland is locally an important influence throughout the area, but particularly in the former Needwood Forest.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is extensive ridge and furrow throughout the settled farmlands of the South Derbyshire Claylands and sunken narrow lanes are also typical on elevated land.
•	Parkland is locally an important influence throughout the area, but particularly in the former Needwood Forest.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.
•	Small villages on rising land with red brick buildings and spired churches are often prominent landscape features and isolated large 19th century red brick farmsteads are also conspicuous.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.
•	Small villages on rising land with red brick buildings and spired churches are often prominent landscape features and isolated large 19th century red brick farmsteads are also conspicuous.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are occasional patches of unimproved pasture in fields around villages and along streamsides, as well as on the many wide road verges throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are occasional patches of unimproved pasture in fields around villages and along streamsides, as well as on the many wide road verges throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements are found occasionally throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Lowlands are very gently rolling clay ridges and shallow valleys which become virtually flat around the Rivers Mease and Sence; the land to the north west, which drains directly into the River Trent, generally has a more undulating landform.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Lowlands are very gently rolling clay ridges and shallow valleys which become virtually flat around the Rivers Mease and Sence; the land to the north west, which drains directly into the River Trent, generally has a more undulating landform.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally limited, although planting associated with the National Forest has localised impact and there are many extensive wooded parklands, including Gopsall Park, Market Bosworth, Thorpe Constantine and Shenton.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is generally limited, although planting associated with the National Forest has localised impact and there are many extensive wooded parklands, including Gopsall Park, Market Bosworth, Thorpe Constantine and Shenton.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by pasture, with isolated arable fields on a few areas of more fertile land.  Stone walls are characteristic on the more elevated rocky land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is dominated by pasture, with isolated arable fields on a few areas of more fertile land.  Stone walls are characteristic on the more elevated rocky land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.


FG KeyChar:
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Drainage follows the north-west to south-east trend of the landforms.  There are three major reservoirs at Blackbrook, Cropston and Swithland, as well as Groby Pool, a water-filled quarry of medieval origin.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Drainage follows the north-west to south-east trend of the landforms.  There are three major reservoirs at Blackbrook, Cropston and Swithland, as well as Groby Pool, a water-filled quarry of medieval origin.


FG KeyChar:
•	Surrounding the areas of rocky outcrops and heathland, there are extensive areas of pasture enclosed within a rectilinear pattern of 19th hedgerows.  Areas with smaller irregular fields are found around the villages and older farmsteads.
•	In contrast to the surrounding farmland landscapes, Charnwood has a complex mosaic of heathland, woodland, parkland and farmland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Surrounding the areas of rocky outcrops and heathland, there are extensive areas of pasture enclosed within a rectilinear pattern of 19th hedgerows.  Areas with smaller irregular fields are found around the villages and older farmsteads.
•	In contrast to the surrounding farmland landscapes, Charnwood has a complex mosaic of heathland, woodland, parkland and farmland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The underlying structure of the landscape is formed by Precambrian slates and volcanic rocks which form steep slopes and give rise to the infertile soils that support heathlands. The older Precambrian rocks are partially obscured by more fertile Mercia Mudstones which form broader vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The underlying structure of the landscape is formed by Precambrian slates and volcanic rocks which form steep slopes and give rise to the infertile soils that support heathlands. The older Precambrian rocks are partially obscured by more fertile Mercia Mudstones which form broader vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	Charnwood formerly contained several large parks. Some of these, such as Bradgate Park, still survive, containing heathland and huge ancient pollarded oaks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Charnwood formerly contained several large parks. Some of these, such as Bradgate Park, still survive, containing heathland and huge ancient pollarded oaks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Patches of heathland and former commons are concentrated around the Precambrian rock outcrops.  These are now dominated by bracken, but also have patches of heather and wet heath.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Patches of heathland and former commons are concentrated around the Precambrian rock outcrops.  These are now dominated by bracken, but also have patches of heather and wet heath.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the older farmsteads and village buildings are of the local dark stone. Settlements and some large quarries are sited around the edge of the elevated heathland areas and the core of the Charnwood area remains sparsely populated.
•	A pattern of straight enclosure roads with wide grass verges is overlaid on one of earlier winding tracks and lanes leading from villages on the edge of Charnwood to the central woods and heathlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The majority of the woods are secondary woodlands, but there are also conifer woods and mixed plantations, together with a few ancient woodlands and numerous hedgerow oak trees.
•	Charnwood formerly contained several large parks. Some of these, such as Bradgate Park, still survive, containing heathland and huge ancient pollarded oaks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The majority of the woods are secondary woodlands, but there are also conifer woods and mixed plantations, together with a few ancient woodlands and numerous hedgerow oak trees.
•	Charnwood formerly contained several large parks. Some of these, such as Bradgate Park, still survive, containing heathland and huge ancient pollarded oaks.


FG KeyChar:
•	The open ridgetops are under arable cultivation, while the steeper slopes and valleys are predominantly pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The open ridgetops are under arable cultivation, while the steeper slopes and valleys are predominantly pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Wolds form a watershed between the Rivers Wreake, Soar and Trent with streams draining from the central elevated land to each of these rivers.  There is a major inland reservoir at Rutland Water.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Wolds form a watershed between the Rivers Wreake, Soar and Trent with streams draining from the central elevated land to each of these rivers.  There is a major inland reservoir at Rutland Water.


FG KeyChar:
•	The ridges often have the rectilinear pattern of 18th and 19th century enclosures and are bounded by low thorn hedges.  The valleys generally have a more irregular field pattern with dense mixed species hedgerows and more frequent hedgerow trees.  The area generally has exceptionally well managed hedgerows.
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The ridges often have the rectilinear pattern of 18th and 19th century enclosures and are bounded by low thorn hedges.  The valleys generally have a more irregular field pattern with dense mixed species hedgerows and more frequent hedgerow trees.  The area generally has exceptionally well managed hedgerows.
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.


FG KeyChar:
•	The wolds are rolling ridges of glacial till underlain by Jurassic rocks.  The hills are separated by narrow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The wolds are rolling ridges of glacial till underlain by Jurassic rocks.  The hills are separated by narrow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.


FG KeyChar:
•	The wooded escarpments and hills along the northern and western edges of the Wolds have the greatest variety of semi-natural habitats, with woodland, wet flushes and unimproved grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The wooded escarpments and hills along the northern and western edges of the Wolds have the greatest variety of semi-natural habitats, with woodland, wet flushes and unimproved grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In medieval times, the area was well populated and there remain many deserted and shrunken settlements, as well as extensive areas of ridge and furrow.
•	Small villages of mainly red brick buildings clustered around an ironstone or limestone church are regularly spaced across the landscape. There are isolated farms and a few cottages and houses, but the heart of the Wolds is a remote rather empty landscape. Development is concentrated to the south in the Wreake Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a low escarpment with outlying hills to the west, which becomes steeper and more irregular to the north where it forms a prominent escarpment above the Trent valley and the Vale of Belvoir.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a low escarpment with outlying hills to the west, which becomes steeper and more irregular to the north where it forms a prominent escarpment above the Trent valley and the Vale of Belvoir.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, except on the wooded scarps and hills along the northern edge of the Wolds and in the Wreake Valley, which is particularly well treed. Elsewhere, small spinneys, hedgerow and streamside trees predominate, particularly in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, except on the wooded scarps and hills along the northern edge of the Wolds and in the Wreake Valley, which is particularly well treed. Elsewhere, small spinneys, hedgerow and streamside trees predominate, particularly in the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large arable fields predominate on the higher ground, with intermittent clipped hedges, while the river valleys on heavier land provide good grazing for cattle and sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large arable fields predominate on the higher ground, with intermittent clipped hedges, while the river valleys on heavier land provide good grazing for cattle and sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	The local honey-coloured limestone is used in traditional domestic, civic and farm buildings throughout the area and in the south the yellowish local Collyweston slate is used for roofing, while in the north it is replaced by red pantiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The local honey-coloured limestone is used in traditional domestic, civic and farm buildings throughout the area and in the south the yellowish local Collyweston slate is used for roofing, while in the north it is replaced by red pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	The original west-east drainage pattern was altered following the deposition of glacial till. The East and West Glen Rivers now meander south-westwards to a confluence below Bourne; the River Welland flows due west through Stamford towards the Wash and the River Witham rises on the higher land to the west and flows northwards to the Vale of Belvoir.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The original west-east drainage pattern was altered following the deposition of glacial till. The East and West Glen Rivers now meander south-westwards to a confluence below Bourne; the River Welland flows due west through Stamford towards the Wash and the River Witham rises on the higher land to the west and flows northwards to the Vale of Belvoir.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerow cover is variable, but the majority of field hedgerows are well managed with a good scattering of mature hedgerow oak and ash trees.  To the south the local limestone is intermittently used in eroding field stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hedgerow cover is variable, but the majority of field hedgerows are well managed with a good scattering of mature hedgerow oak and ash trees.  To the south the local limestone is intermittently used in eroding field stone walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by limestones, which support shallow, well-drained calcareous loams, but there are also areas of slowly permeable and seasonally waterlogged clayey soils, developed on glacial till.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by limestones, which support shallow, well-drained calcareous loams, but there are also areas of slowly permeable and seasonally waterlogged clayey soils, developed on glacial till.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are a number of fine houses with well managed designed parkland landscapes which have a strong influence on local landscape character, eg Burghley House, Grimsthorpe, Woolsthorpe Manor and Stoke Rochford Hall.
•	This is an archaeologically rich area, containing ancient trackways.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are a number of fine houses with well managed designed parkland landscapes which have a strong influence on local landscape character, eg Burghley House, Grimsthorpe, Woolsthorpe Manor and Stoke Rochford Hall.
•	This is an archaeologically rich area, containing ancient trackways.


FG KeyChar:
•	Aside from the ancient woodlands noted above, many of the river valleys have species-rich meadows and grassland on wide enclosure road verges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Aside from the ancient woodlands noted above, many of the river valleys have species-rich meadows and grassland on wide enclosure road verges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Kesteven Uplands have a dispersed settlement pattern, comprising small traditional villages which are evenly distributed throughout the area.  Exceptions are the line of settlements along the edge of the Fens to the east and the cluster of larger villages around Stamford.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Kesteven Uplands have a dispersed settlement pattern, comprising small traditional villages which are evenly distributed throughout the area.  Exceptions are the line of settlements along the edge of the Fens to the east and the cluster of larger villages around Stamford.


FG KeyChar:
•	The land rises progressively from the edge of the Fens in the east, to the fringes of the Leicestershire Wolds in the west. The landform also becomes more undulating to the west so that the rolling topography becomes a series of low hills between 400-600m.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The land rises progressively from the edge of the Fens in the east, to the fringes of the Leicestershire Wolds in the west. The landform also becomes more undulating to the west so that the rolling topography becomes a series of low hills between 400-600m.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is 6.6% wooded with a variety of ancient and commercial woodlands mingling with parklands.  There is a concentration of numerous medium-sized semi-natural and ancient oak/ash woodlands on the higher land between the East and West Glen Rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is 6.6% wooded with a variety of ancient and commercial woodlands mingling with parklands.  There is a concentration of numerous medium-sized semi-natural and ancient oak/ash woodlands on the higher land between the East and West Glen Rivers.


FG KeyChar:
•	Dominant impression throughout the landscape is of a large-scale geometric 18th century landscape of large rectangular fields containing extensive arable cropping and some areas of mixed farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dominant impression throughout the landscape is of a large-scale geometric 18th century landscape of large rectangular fields containing extensive arable cropping and some areas of mixed farming.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers are more prominent western and northern part of the landscape where they forge a more intimate, pastoral character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers are more prominent western and northern part of the landscape where they forge a more intimate, pastoral character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tall, well-trimmed hawthorn hedges occur throughout and often contain mature hedgerow trees, predominantly oak and beech.  Hedges are often flanked by wide verges.
•	Dominant impression throughout the landscape is of a large-scale geometric 18th century landscape of large rectangular fields containing extensive arable cropping and some areas of mixed farming.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Tall, well-trimmed hawthorn hedges occur throughout and often contain mature hedgerow trees, predominantly oak and beech.  Hedges are often flanked by wide verges.
•	Dominant impression throughout the landscape is of a large-scale geometric 18th century landscape of large rectangular fields containing extensive arable cropping and some areas of mixed farming.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mainly consisting of the shallow dip slope of a low chalk escarpment sloping west to east.  Often referred to as the Good Sands due to fertility of the versatile light soils.
•	Separated from the coastal strip along the Wash by an outcrop of lower greensand.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Mainly consisting of the shallow dip slope of a low chalk escarpment sloping west to east.  Often referred to as the Good Sands due to fertility of the versatile light soils.
•	Separated from the coastal strip along the Wash by an outcrop of lower greensand.


FG KeyChar:
•	Dominant impression throughout the landscape is of a large-scale geometric 18th century landscape of large rectangular fields containing extensive arable cropping and some areas of mixed farming.
•	Dominated by vast estates – unifying and bringing a well-managed quality to the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dominant impression throughout the landscape is of a large-scale geometric 18th century landscape of large rectangular fields containing extensive arable cropping and some areas of mixed farming.
•	Dominated by vast estates – unifying and bringing a well-managed quality to the landscape.


JM KeyChar:
•	Key habitats include lowland heath, dry acid grassland and meadows; calcareous grassland; river corridors; and drainage ditches (with reeds and rushes).


FG KeyChar:
•	Dominated by vast estates – unifying and bringing a well-managed quality to the landscape.
•	The great houses of the big estates – Holkham, Sandringham, Houghton and Raynham are features but often concealed by tree belts fringing their parkland.
•	Villages are widely spaced and often set around village greens or occasionally ponds such as at Great Massingham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dominated by vast estates – unifying and bringing a well-managed quality to the landscape.
•	The great houses of the big estates – Holkham, Sandringham, Houghton and Raynham are features but often concealed by tree belts fringing their parkland.
•	Villages are widely spaced and often set around village greens or occasionally ponds such as at Great Massingham.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large scale landscape of rolling upland terrain and plateau offering long views.
•	For the most part very open with a seemingly ‘high’ and remote character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large scale landscape of rolling upland terrain and plateau offering long views.
•	For the most part very open with a seemingly ‘high’ and remote character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Significant areas of woodland and plantation on the area of Greensand in the west.  
•	There are a number of Parkland landscapes with high amounts of tree cover.
•	Scots pine rows are striking field boundary features.
•	Tall, well-trimmed hawthorn hedges occur throughout and often contain mature hedgerow trees, predominantly oak and beech.  Hedges are often flanked by wide verges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Significant areas of woodland and plantation on the area of Greensand in the west.  
•	There are a number of Parkland landscapes with high amounts of tree cover.
•	Scots pine rows are striking field boundary features.
•	Tall, well-trimmed hawthorn hedges occur throughout and often contain mature hedgerow trees, predominantly oak and beech.  Hedges are often flanked by wide verges.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are some small areas of arable and pasture (where extensive areas have been drained to create freshwater grazing marshes, reedbeds and some arable land) but the abiding impression is a landscape of sand and mud.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some small areas of arable and pasture where land has been reclaimed


FG KeyChar:
•	Lack of settlements and roads on the coastal marshes but distinctive brick and flint villages with landmark flint churches and occasional windmills are strung along the coast road (A149).

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive brick and flint villages with landmark flint churches
Occasional windmills along the coast road


FG KeyChar:
•	A coastal landscape of great variety and texture – including intertidal mudflats, sand dunes, shingle banks, saltmarsh, reedbeds, tidal creeks and harbours. This is therefore an unusual part of Norfolk in not being given over entirely to agriculture.

Edited_KeyChars:
Great variety and texture – intertidal mudflats, sand dunes, shingle banks, saltmarsh, tidal creeks and harbours


FG KeyChar:
•	Low, gappy hawthorn hedges and drainage ditches (with their associated reeds) define field boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low, gappy hawthorn hedges and drainage ditches (with associated reeds) define field boundaries


Edited_KeyChars:
•	A coastal landscape of great variety and texture – including intertidal mudflats, sand dunes, shingle banks, saltmarsh, reedbeds, tidal creeks and harbours. This is therefore an unusual part of Norfolk in not being given over entirely to agriculture.


JM KeyChar:
•	Evidence of historic use of the coastal marshes is widespread, but generally not visible in the landscape today except for some intertidal features such as wrecks and fish traps and early timber quays and jetties.  Flint churches and occasional windmills are landmark features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic use of the coastal marshes
Some intertidal features such as wrecks and fish traps and early timber quays and jetties
Archaeological resource under grassland


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Lack of settlements and roads on the coastal marshes but distinctive brick and flint villages with landmark flint churches and occasional windmills are strung along the coast road (A149).


FG KeyChar:
•	A coastal landscape of great variety and texture – including intertidal mudflats, sand dunes, shingle banks, saltmarsh, reedbeds, tidal creeks and harbours. This is therefore an unusual part of Norfolk in not being given over entirely to agriculture.
•	Separated from inland areas of different landscape character by the north face of Cromer Ridge and the coast road (A149) which act as a dividing line.
•	There is almost no transition zone between character areas e.g. between this extremely low-lying marine landscape and the higher arable land of North West Norfolk (76).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A coastal landscape of great variety and texture – including intertidal mudflats, sand dunes, shingle banks, saltmarsh, reedbeds, tidal creeks and harbours. This is therefore an unusual part of Norfolk in not being given over entirely to agriculture.
•	Separated from inland areas of different landscape character by the north face of Cromer Ridge and the coast road (A149) which act as a dividing line.
•	There is almost no transition zone between character areas e.g. between this extremely low-lying marine landscape and the higher arable land of North West Norfolk (76).


FG KeyChar:
•	The Holkham estate is significant for the shelterbelts of pine trees that protect the park and give vertical definition to the edge of the enormous sandy beach beyond.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland largely confined to enclosed valleys and streamsides


FG KeyChar:
•	Long-settled agricultural character interspersed with woodland and heath.  Formerly mixed agricultural land use with sheep on lighter land an cattle on heavy but now it is predominantly under arable cultivation. 
•	Cereals now dominate with break crops of sugarbeet and oilseed rape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Long-settled agricultural character interspersed with woodland and heath.  Formerly mixed agricultural land use with sheep on lighter land an cattle on heavy but now it is predominantly under arable cultivation. 
•	Cereals now dominate with break crops of sugarbeet and oilseed rape.


JM KeyChar:
•	The coastal landscape of unconsolidated low cliffs and coastal dune formations is undergoing continued marine erosion.  The drainage pattern mainly flows south away from the sea, leaving the area vulnerable to marine flooding.


FG KeyChar:
•	The river valleys provide limited contrast but many are tree lined on the slopes or planted with poplar on the valley floor. The unplanted valleys are wide, lush and pastoral with water meadows divided by reed-filled dykes.
•	Sand and gravel extraction along the Wensum has produced lakes with reeded margins in places.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The river valleys provide limited contrast but many are tree lined on the slopes or planted with poplar on the valley floor. The unplanted valleys are wide, lush and pastoral with water meadows divided by reed-filled dykes.
•	Sand and gravel extraction along the Wensum has produced lakes with reeded margins in places.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some areas are densely planted with mixed hedges and hedgerow oaks. Sunken lanes and mixed hedges are a feature of the Cromer Ridge.
•	Fields are variable in size – small- scale irregularity of early enclosure giving way in many areas to larger more regular patterns (particularly in the west).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Some areas are densely planted with mixed hedges and hedgerow oaks. Sunken lanes and mixed hedges are a feature of the Cromer Ridge.
•	Fields are variable in size – small- scale irregularity of early enclosure giving way in many areas to larger more regular patterns (particularly in the west).


FG KeyChar:
•	Large number of small to medium size 18th century estates with more parkland to the north of the River Wensum and a notable parkland belt between the Rivers Wensum and Bure.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large number of small to medium size 18th century estates with more parkland to the north of the River Wensum and a notable parkland belt between the Rivers Wensum and Bure.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some remnant areas of heathland that have not been reclaimed for agriculture e.g. along the Cromer Ridge and in the west reflecting the lighter soils.
•	The river valleys provide limited contrast but many are tree lined on the slopes or planted with poplar on the valley floor. The unplanted valleys are wide, lush and pastoral with water meadows divided by reed-filled dykes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Some remnant areas of heathland that have not been reclaimed for agriculture e.g. along the Cromer Ridge and in the west reflecting the lighter soils.
•	The river valleys provide limited contrast but many are tree lined on the slopes or planted with poplar on the valley floor. The unplanted valleys are wide, lush and pastoral with water meadows divided by reed-filled dykes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large number of small to medium size 18th century estates with more parkland to the north of the River Wensum and a notable parkland belt between the Rivers Wensum and Bure.
•	An area of dispersed villages and isolated farmhouses within a complex minor road network. The settlement pattern is denser to the south of the river Wensum.  The holiday resorts of Cromer and Sheringham occur on the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large number of small to medium size 18th century estates with more parkland to the north of the River Wensum and a notable parkland belt between the Rivers Wensum and Bure.
•	An area of dispersed villages and isolated farmhouses within a complex minor road network. The settlement pattern is denser to the south of the river Wensum.  The holiday resorts of Cromer and Sheringham occur on the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bounded to the north by Coastal Cliffs, that face out onto the North Sea, and to the north-west by the Cromer Ridge with its steep northern slope and more gentle southern face.
•	Surrounding the Cromer Ridge are outlying spurs and hills.  Elsewhere the landform is variable with some flat areas, minor undulations, a more rolling landform (where the river valleys occur e.g. Wensum and Yare).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Bounded to the north by Coastal Cliffs, that face out onto the North Sea, and to the north-west by the Cromer Ridge with its steep northern slope and more gentle southern face.
•	Surrounding the Cromer Ridge are outlying spurs and hills.  Elsewhere the landform is variable with some flat areas, minor undulations, a more rolling landform (where the river valleys occur e.g. Wensum and Yare).


FG KeyChar:
•	Relatively well-wooded for East Anglia with a variety of woodland types: mixed woodland or pasture woodlands (oak and beech) on heavier soils and conifers on the lighter sands.  Mixed woodland occurs on the valley slopes and poplar plantations are a feature of the valley floor. Woods are variable in size but extensive.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Relatively well-wooded for East Anglia with a variety of woodland types: mixed woodland or pasture woodlands (oak and beech) on heavier soils and conifers on the lighter sands.  Mixed woodland occurs on the valley slopes and poplar plantations are a feature of the valley floor. Woods are variable in size but extensive.


FG KeyChar:
•	Comprising both arable and pastoral land. Due to soil fertility, the area has been subject to extensive post-war agricultural rationalisation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Comprising both arable and pastoral land. Due to soil fertility, the area has been subject to extensive post-war agricultural rationalisation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Strong vernacular style of domestic and agricultural buildings reinforced by use of flint and red brick and roofs typically characterised by thatch or pantiles.
•	Isolated, prominent flint churches – either round-towered Saxo-Norman or medieval wool churches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Strong vernacular style of domestic and agricultural buildings reinforced by use of flint and red brick and roofs typically characterised by thatch or pantiles.
•	Isolated, prominent flint churches – either round-towered Saxo-Norman or medieval wool churches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Influence of the sea can be seen in the sparse vegetation of the northern coastal strip.
•	Collection of settlement along the coast, including the sea-side resort of Great Yarmouth, with the town of North Walsham forming the only substantial settlement inland.

JM KeyChar:
•	Dunes and sea wall coastal defences, characterised by extensive remains of WWII anti-invasion defences, particularly at Winterton-on-Sea, as well as earlier Roman defences at Caister-on-Sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Influence of the sea can be seen in the sparse vegetation of the northern coastal strip.
•	Collection of settlement along the coast, including the sea-side resort of Great Yarmouth, with the town of North Walsham forming the only substantial settlement inland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small to medium scale fields – becoming bleaker and more open towards the coast (defined by soil banks) and more intricate and irregular inland due to early enclosure (defined by high hedges and prominent hedgerow trees).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small to medium scale fields – becoming bleaker and more open towards the coast (defined by soil banks) and more intricate and irregular inland due to early enclosure (defined by high hedges and prominent hedgerow trees).


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils are deep and loamy and among the most fertile in the country.  Dune sands fringe some of the coasts.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils are deep and loamy and among the most fertile in the country.  Dune sands fringe some of the coasts.


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated, prominent flint churches – either round-towered Saxo-Norman or medieval wool churches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Isolated, prominent flint churches – either round-towered Saxo-Norman or medieval wool churches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Collection of settlement along the coast, including the sea-side resort of Great Yarmouth, with the town of North Walsham forming the only substantial settlement inland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Collection of settlement along the coast, including the sea-side resort of Great Yarmouth, with the town of North Walsham forming the only substantial settlement inland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Flat and low-lying, this landscape has limited topographic variation.  It slopes gently from west to east – becoming flatter as it merges with the Broads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Flat and low-lying, this landscape has limited topographic variation.  It slopes gently from west to east – becoming flatter as it merges with the Broads.


FG KeyChar:
•	Blocks of woodland and copses lend an intricate, enclosed character on the Broads margin contrasting with a scarcity of woodland elsewhere.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Blocks of woodland and copses lend an intricate, enclosed character on the Broads margin contrasting with a scarcity of woodland elsewhere.


FG KeyChar:
•	The agriculture of the area is based on a long history of lowland livestock grazing interspersed with arable cropping.
•	The agricultural landscape is dominated by pasture (drained grazing marsh, improved grass leys or pastures in the upper reaches of valleys).
•	Arable cultivation creates areas of uniform texture and colour in this traditional pastoral landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lowland livestock grazing interspersed with arable cropping
Mainly pasture (drained grazing marsh; improved grass leys or pastures in upper valley reaches)
Areas of uniform texture and colour associated with arable


FG KeyChar:
•	Windpumps and isolated farmhouses are the most significant artifacts in the marshes.
•	This is the main area of Norfolk reed thatch in East Anglia.

Edited_KeyChars:
Main area of Norfolk reed thatch in East Anglia


JM KeyChar:
•	Some Broads such as Hickling and Horsey Mere lie at or below sea level and require coastal protection; they are visually separated from the coast as is most of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive areas of open water, containing a wet, low-lying complex of flooded former peat workings ('Broads') of various sizes.
•	Rivers flow between flood banks, above the level of the surrounding land which is drained by dykes and pumps, with ‘rounds’ (areas of reedswamp or saltmarsh) between the rivers and their floodbanks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive areas of open water, containing a wet, low-lying complex of flooded former peat workings ('Broads') of various sizes.
•	Rivers flow between flood banks, above the level of the surrounding land which is drained by dykes and pumps, with ‘rounds’ (areas of reedswamp or saltmarsh) between the rivers and their floodbanks.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are few fences – reed-fringed ditches divide fields in a rectilinear pattern.
•	Hedgerows are present in the upper reaches of the valleys.
•	Field gates are features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Reed-fringed ditches/ dykes in a rectilinear pattern
Hedgerows in upper valley reaches
Field gates a feature


FG KeyChar:
•	Windpumps and isolated farmhouses are the most significant artifacts in the marshes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Former peat workings, dykes and windpumps
Some parkland


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape is a mosaic of semi-natural habitats of species-rich fen, reed beds, marsh, scrub and carr woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive areas of fresh and saline open water - flooded former peat workings (broads)
Mosaic of species-rich fen, reed beds and marsh


FG KeyChar:
•	Houses are located on higher ground in this thinly populated area.
•	An influx of visitors during the summer leads to crowding in tourist towns.
•	Roads cling to the valley sides, linking settlements that cluster along the edges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Houses are located on higher ground in this thinly populated area.
•	An influx of visitors during the summer leads to crowding in tourist towns.
•	Roads cling to the valley sides, linking settlements that cluster along the edges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Broads are a series of river valleys that have been excavated for peat and subsequently flooded.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Broads are a series of river valleys that have been excavated for peat and subsequently flooded.


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadleaved woodland is present as copses and plantations on higher land in the upper reaches of the valleys.
•	Alder carr woodland and willow pollards are typical of the wetter areas, such as the undrained peat fen.

Edited_KeyChars:
Broadleaved woodland copses and plantations in upper valley reaches
Alder carr woodland and scrub in wetter areas/ undrained fen
Willow pollards


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional unimproved wet pasture is grazed with sheep and cattle. 
•	Extensive drained and ploughed productive arable land is protected from floods by sea walls.
•	There are some areas of more mixed agriculture on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Reclaimed farmed marshland
Extensive drained arable land behind sea walls

Traditional unimproved wet pasture grazed with sheep and cattle
Some areas of mixed farming on higher ground


FG KeyChar:
•	The Thames edge marshes are themselves subject to the chaotic activity of various major developments including ports, waste disposal, marine dredging, urbanisation, mineral extraction and prominent power stations plus numerous other industry-related activities such as petrochemical complexes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Thames edge marshes are themselves subject to the chaotic activity of various major developments including ports, waste disposal, marine dredging, urbanisation, mineral extraction and prominent power stations plus numerous other industry-related activities such as petrochemical complexes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The pervasive presence of water and numerous coastal estuaries extends the maritime influence far inland. 
•	A deeply indented coastline with distinctive island and peninsula features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The pervasive presence of water and numerous coastal estuaries extends the maritime influence far inland. 
•	A deeply indented coastline with distinctive island and peninsula features.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows are absent from the large, rectilinear fields.
•	Open grazing pastures are patterned by a network of ancient and modern reed-fringed drainage ditches and dykes, numerous creeks and a few vertical boundaries such as hedges or fences.

Edited_KeyChars:
A landscape of large rectilinear fields demarcated by ditches, general lack of hedgerows 
Remaining grazing pastures patterned bya network of ancient and modern  ditches, dykes and creeks
On the south coast (e.g.Isles of Sheppey, Dengie, Canvey, Isle of Grain and Mersea) some thick hedgerows of scrub elm 
Fringing reed vegetation of ditches gives a strong marshland character


FG KeyChar:
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.
•	Strong feeling of remoteness and wilderness persists on the open beaches and salt marshes, on the reclaimed farmed marshland and also on the mudflats.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.
•	Strong feeling of remoteness and wilderness persists on the open beaches and salt marshes, on the reclaimed farmed marshland and also on the mudflats.


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive military heritage, such as Napoleonic military defences and 20th century pillboxes, occurs on the coastline.
•	The modern day pattern of local parishes reflects the historical layout of settlements, surrounded by farmland on the higher ground inland and giving way to marsh on the waterfront.
•	The historically important coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges' developed as a result of the settlement pattern.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive coastal military heritage eg Napoleonic defences and 20th century pillboxes
Coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges'
Field and decoy ponds
Archaeological resources under grassland and arable cultivation
Remnant areas of parkland on higher ground


FG KeyChar:
•	Numerous small villages and hamlets are related to the coastal economy of fishing (at Mersea), boatbuilding and yachting.  
•	The modern day pattern of local parishes reflects the historical layout of settlements, surrounded by farmland on the higher ground inland and giving way to marsh on the waterfront.
•	The historically important coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges' developed as a result of the settlement pattern.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Numerous small villages and hamlets are related to the coastal economy of fishing (at Mersea), boatbuilding and yachting.  
•	The modern day pattern of local parishes reflects the historical layout of settlements, surrounded by farmland on the higher ground inland and giving way to marsh on the waterfront.
•	The historically important coastal cargo transport network of 'Thames Barges' developed as a result of the settlement pattern.


FG KeyChar:
•	A predominantly flat, low-lying landscape where extensive open spaces are dominated by the sky.
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A predominantly flat, low-lying landscape where extensive open spaces are dominated by the sky.
•	Contrast and variety within the Estuary is provided by Sheppey, a long low island rising from a stretch of very flat marsh along the Swale estuary in Kent with low, steep, clay cliffs facing towards Essex across the Thames estuary.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees begin where the marsh ceases and the ground starts to rise on land overlying the London Clay Lowlands. 
•	Tree cover is limited to farmsteads, dwellings and villages on the higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
General absence of trees and woodland
The trees that there are on rising ground inland of marshes
Tree cover focused around farms and settlement
On the southern Kent shores orchards enclosed be tree lines and windbreaks


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable cultivation dominates much of the remaining area of the Sandlings.  In some areas field boundaries have been removed creating extensive open landscapes.  Elsewhere hedges and tree belts have been retained creating a smaller scale landscape.  Open air pig farming is also found across the area.  Soils are light and sandy often resulting in wind erosion.  The use of large scale irrigation equipment is common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable cultivation on much of Sandling
Open air pig farming
Soils light and sandy often resulting in wind erosion
Use of large scale irrigation equipment common
Traditional pastoral landscapes in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Rural buildings are traditionally constructed from soft hued red bricks with thatch or pantiles.  Some buildings are rendered and painted (often in ‘Suffolk Pink’) while others (including churches) make extensive use of locally occurring split or knapped flint.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional rural buildings in soft-hued red brick with thatch or pantiles
Some buildings rendered and painted (often in ‘Suffolk Pink’)


FG KeyChar:
•	Coastal settlements are distinctive in character, many enjoying a relatively unspoilt atmosphere.  Some show the influence of Dutch architecture.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low lying coast with shingle beaches (including Orford Ness spit)
Eroding clifflines
Intertidal mudflats and saltmarsh characteristic along estuaries
Areas where flood defences have been abandoned, recreating marshes and mudflats


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is laced with lanes and minor roads, many enclosed between hedges and field boundary trees, though in some areas trees have been lost and hedgerows have removed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is laced with lanes and minor roads, many enclosed between hedges and field boundary trees, though in some areas trees have been lost and hedgerows have removed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The coastline is cut by a series of more sheltered estuaries comprising the lower reaches of the Rivers Stour, Orwell, Deben, Butley and Alde, together with low lying valleys of Hundred River, Minsmere River, Dunwich River and the River Blyth.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The coastline is cut by a series of more sheltered estuaries comprising the lower reaches of the Rivers Stour, Orwell, Deben, Butley and Alde, together with low lying valleys of Hundred River, Minsmere River, Dunwich River and the River Blyth.


FG KeyChar:
•	Marshes, wetlands and drained pastures and fields are characteristic of these estuaries and valleys.
•	The estuaries and rivers are separated by rolling areas of the Sandlings, comprising a mosaic of heathland, woodland and farmland.
•	The area is laced with lanes and minor roads, many enclosed between hedges and field boundary trees, though in some areas trees have been lost and hedgerows have removed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Enclosure mainly by hedges, creating a small scale landscape
Some areas have been subject to hedgerow removal creating extensive open landscapes


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s soils comprise glacial sands, gravels and till, covering the crag deposits that lies along the North Sea coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area’s soils comprise glacial sands, gravels and till, covering the crag deposits that lies along the North Sea coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower slopes, particularly the steeper ones, are densely wooded often with patches of ancient woodland and occasional plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Steep lower slopes densely wooded, scrub encroaching upward
Patches of ancient woodland and occasional plantations including wooded dingles and streams
Densely treed hedgerows in areas of small irregular pasture fields
Trees line water courses
Localised orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive arable farming dominates the fertile soils of the lower ground; pasture is more common on the higher ground with steeper slopes.
•	There are many traditional and bush orchards on slopes throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive arable farming on fertile soils of lower ground
Pasture more common on steeper and higher ground
Permanent pasture and meadows along river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Farm buildings to the west are predominantly red sandstone, however to the east of the river Wye include brick, timber framed and grey Silurian limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Farm buildings to west mainly red sandstone
East of River Wye building materials include brick, timber framed and grey Silurian limestone


FG KeyChar:
•	There are several narrow meandering floodplains with rivers important for fishing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are several narrow meandering floodplains with rivers important for fishing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are bounded by hedgerows of variable height, which are often species-rich, particularly along lanes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows often dense and species-rich, particularly along lanes, of variable height


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Old Red Sandstone, although the area around the Woolhope Dome incorporates Silurian limestones, shaley mudstones and siltstones.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Old Red Sandstone, although the area around the Woolhope Dome incorporates Silurian limestones, shaley mudstones and siltstones.


FG KeyChar:
•	Iron Age forts are found on several hill summits.
•	The west of the area was part of Archenfield, giving Welsh character.

Edited_KeyChars:
Iron Age hillforts on several summits
West of area was part of Archenfield, giving Welsh character
Parklands scattered across the landscape


FG KeyChar:
•	Unimproved grassland is found on areas of open common land and occasional remnants in small fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
Acidic unimproved grassland on open common land
Remnant cacareous grasslands on slopes 
Remnants of species rich lowland meadows in valleys
Significant fen and reed bed habitats in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area with small hamlets and clustered settlement around commons.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern throughout the area with small hamlets and clustered settlement around commons.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating landscape with some prominent rounded hills, lower rolling ground and narrow meandering flood plains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating landscape with some prominent rounded hills, lower rolling ground and narrow meandering flood plains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is largely confined to the steeper slopes adjacent to the flood plain and to hillsides.
•	Trees are often found in groups around farmsteads including small areas of parkland style planting.
•	There are also scattered trees along hedgerows and water courses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woods mainly on slopes above floodplain and on hillsides
Distinctive tree clumps and parkland style planting around farmsteads (in need of management)
Scattered hedgerow and riparian trees
Many traditional (and bush) orchards on slopes throughout area


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is primarily dairying with some livestock rearing.  In addition, there are small holdings of small to medium-sized fields supporting market gardening, orchards, livestock rearing and horse grazing.
•	Commons, together with areas of enclosed farmland are used extensively for sheep grazing which tends to be unrestricted.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agriculture is primarily dairying with some livestock rearing.  In addition, there are small holdings of small to medium-sized fields supporting market gardening, orchards, livestock rearing and horse grazing.
•	Commons, together with areas of enclosed farmland are used extensively for sheep grazing which tends to be unrestricted.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings represent a wide range of materials including sandstone, limestone, brick, pebble dash, slate and tiles, whilst more recent buildings are of white render with slate or dark pantile roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings represent a wide range of materials including sandstone, limestone, brick, pebble dash, slate and tiles, whilst more recent buildings are of white render with slate or dark pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Several small rivers drain from the plateau to the south and south east into the Severn, whilst others feed the Wye to the north and west.  Occasional pools are evident.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Several small rivers drain from the plateau to the south and south east into the Severn, whilst others feed the Wye to the north and west.  Occasional pools are evident.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields sizes range from small, irregular enclosures to medium rectilinear fields.  Fields are either bounded by hedgerows or stone walls with few hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fields sizes range from small, irregular enclosures to medium rectilinear fields.  Fields are either bounded by hedgerows or stone walls with few hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating plateau of ridges and valleys contained by an outer rim of limestone and sandstone, creating a strong sense of isolation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating plateau of ridges and valleys contained by an outer rim of limestone and sandstone, creating a strong sense of isolation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Aside from relics of an industrial past (iron ore and coal extraction) evident in tips, shallow iron workings or scowles, quarry faces and disused railway lines, most of which have been subsumed by the forest canopy, there are Norman Castles and Offa’s Dyke formerly marking the border between England and Wales

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Aside from relics of an industrial past (iron ore and coal extraction) evident in tips, shallow iron workings or scowles, quarry faces and disused railway lines, most of which have been subsumed by the forest canopy, there are Norman Castles and Offa’s Dyke formerly marking the border between England and Wales


FG KeyChar:
•	Surrounding the edge of the Forest is a ring of settlements associated with iron ore deposits, often sprawling and linear in nature, where buildings are interspersed with industry and open grazing land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Surrounding the edge of the Forest is a ring of settlements associated with iron ore deposits, often sprawling and linear in nature, where buildings are interspersed with industry and open grazing land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive woodland covers large areas of the Character Area ranging from commercially managed coniferous plantations to broadleaved woodlands, many of which are ancient or semi natural, and designated SSSIs.  
•	In addition there are a significant number of traditional orchards to the north and east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive woodland covers large areas of the Character Area ranging from commercially managed coniferous plantations to broadleaved woodlands, many of which are ancient or semi natural, and designated SSSIs.  
•	In addition there are a significant number of traditional orchards to the north and east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small pasture fields and commons tend to be prevalent in the west whilst in the east agriculture is more intensive; with arable, fruit growing and market gardening.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small pasture fields and commons tend to be prevalent in the west whilst in the east agriculture is more intensive; with arable, fruit growing and market gardening.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are characterised by timber frame and red brick buildings with elegant spired churches, whilst stone is used for larger houses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are characterised by timber frame and red brick buildings with elegant spired churches, whilst stone is used for larger houses.


JM KeyChar:
•	At the mouth of the Severn, the broad estuary and floodplain dominate the landscape.  Inland the floodplain narrows but river and wetland features remain a unifying influence within this large and complex area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The M5, large settlements such as Cheltenham and Gloucester, Avonmouth and riverside power stations are prominent features in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The M5, large settlements such as Cheltenham and Gloucester, Avonmouth and riverside power stations are prominent features in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst fields on the floodplains are divided by ditches with willow pollards and alders, elsewhere there is a regular pattern of parliamentary enclosure with hawthorn hedges and infrequent hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst fields on the floodplains are divided by ditches with willow pollards and alders, elsewhere there is a regular pattern of parliamentary enclosure with hawthorn hedges and infrequent hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Soils range from poor, wet soils on Mercia mudstones in the west to heavy fertile soils of Lias Clay in the east with terrace gravels flanking the edges of watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soils range from poor, wet soils on Mercia mudstones in the west to heavy fertile soils of Lias Clay in the east with terrace gravels flanking the edges of watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive prehistoric activity has left remains of standing stones and hillforts, areas of ridge and furrow from the cultivation of early fields, old sea walls and designed parklands and estates such as Croome, Westbury, Overbury and Hindlip.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive prehistoric activity has left remains of standing stones and hillforts, areas of ridge and furrow from the cultivation of early fields, old sea walls and designed parklands and estates such as Croome, Westbury, Overbury and Hindlip.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are significant areas of unimproved meadow and neutral grassland along the main rivers with fragments of calcareous grassland on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are significant areas of unimproved meadow and neutral grassland along the main rivers with fragments of calcareous grassland on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the Character Area is dominated by towns and nucleated villages; many of which lie along the rivers, to the west settlements are dispersed in nature, linked by a network of lanes leading to the River Severn.  
•	The M5, large settlements such as Cheltenham and Gloucester, Avonmouth and riverside power stations are prominent features in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the Character Area is dominated by towns and nucleated villages; many of which lie along the rivers, to the west settlements are dispersed in nature, linked by a network of lanes leading to the River Severn.  
•	The M5, large settlements such as Cheltenham and Gloucester, Avonmouth and riverside power stations are prominent features in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	A diverse range of flat and gently undulating landscapes, united by the Avon and Severn river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A diverse range of flat and gently undulating landscapes, united by the Avon and Severn river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is limited and the landscape is strongly affected by the presence or absence of hedgerows trees and the survival of older orchards many of which have been replaced by cultivated bush forms surrounded by poplar shelterbelts.
•	Ash and oak dominate ancient woodlands and the remains of parks on higher ground.  Little tree cover is evident alongside the rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Tree cover is limited and the landscape is strongly affected by the presence or absence of hedgerows trees and the survival of older orchards many of which have been replaced by cultivated bush forms surrounded by poplar shelterbelts.
•	Ash and oak dominate ancient woodlands and the remains of parks on higher ground.  Little tree cover is evident alongside the rivers.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the high ground of the plateaux is arable.  Pasture is predominant in the valleys, at least on the steeper slopes.  Meadows and tree-lined watercourses are found along the valley bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable land on high ground of plateaux
Pasture in valleys, especially on steeper slopes
Parkland grazing
Wet meadows in valley bottoms


FG KeyChar:
•	The honey-coloured Cotswold stone from local quarries is used in buildings, with little variety in styles across the Character Area giving the area a strong sense of unity for which the area is renowned.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buldings of Cotswold stone from local quarries, giving strong sense of unity


FG KeyChar:
•	Steeply-incised stream and river valleys cut through the north-west facing scarp, flowing westwards towards the Severn.  The streams and rivers of the dip slope provide the headwaters of the Thames and flow eastward within broad shallow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steeply-incised stream and river valleys cut through the north-west facing scarp, flowing westwards towards the Severn.  The streams and rivers of the dip slope provide the headwaters of the Thames and flow eastward within broad shallow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Limestone walls, constructed from the local honey-coloured stone, form characteristic field boundaries on the higher land.  Hedges are also commonly used, particularly in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local honey-coloured limestone walls on higher land / the plateaux
Hedges also common, particularly in valleys and on the dip slope


FG KeyChar:
•	Parkland estates are also a highly characteristic feature with significant blocks of woodland.
•	Iron Age hillforts and Roman roads form prominent features – the Foss Way runs the full length of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Iron Age hillforts and Roman roads form prominent features
Ancient earthworks often at risk from agriculture
Parkland estates very characteristic, mature trees in need of renewal


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats include unimproved limestone grassland and wet meadows with alder and willow carr.  Woodlands on the flat plateaux tops contain a wide range of calciole shrubs and ground flora.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved limestone grassland/ commons on ridgetop
Wide range of calciole shrubs and ground flora
Valley bottoms including species-rich grassland and grazed water meadows
Marshes and wet meadows vulnerable to drainage


FG KeyChar:
•	The principal towns - Bath, Stroud and Cirencester – lie on the edge of the area.  Small towns and villages lie at the scarp foot, in the valley bottoms or on the gentler valley sides.  Small hamlets and isolated farmsteads are found on the higher ground.  Settlements are linked by a complex network of roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The principal towns - Bath, Stroud and Cirencester – lie on the edge of the area.  Small towns and villages lie at the scarp foot, in the valley bottoms or on the gentler valley sides.  Small hamlets and isolated farmsteads are found on the higher ground.  Settlements are linked by a complex network of roads.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dominant pattern of the Cotswolds landscape is of a steep scarp and long, rolling dip slope cut into a series of plateaux.
•	Within this landscape is a great variety of landform, and a number of distinct landscapes can be seen, from the western scarp face through to the more gently rolling plateaux of the high wolds and valleys to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The dominant pattern of the Cotswolds landscape is of a steep scarp and long, rolling dip slope cut into a series of plateaux.
•	Within this landscape is a great variety of landform, and a number of distinct landscapes can be seen, from the western scarp face through to the more gently rolling plateaux of the high wolds and valleys to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	The beech woodlands on the scarp slopes are an important landscape feature.  Other areas of woodland are concentrated on the upper slopes of the valleys and on the flat plateaux tops.  
•	Parkland estates are also a highly characteristic feature with significant blocks of woodland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Characteristic scarp slope beech woodlands
Other woodlands on upper valley and flat plateau tops
Parkland estates with significant blocks of woodland and infield trees
Well-treed hedgerows in the valleys
Tree-lined watercourses with alder and willow carr
Traditional orchards around farmsteads and in valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Mainly pastoral dominated by stock rearing with some arable farmland particularly the Vale of White Horse, plus unimproved hay meadows on drier areas and wet meadows along the river terraces.
•	Otmoor with its chequerboard patchwork of small pasture and arable fields bound by elm hedgerows is distinctive.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastoral stock rearing, especially to the north of the Midvale Ridge
Extensive areas under arable production, especially Vale of White Horse
Wet meadows along river terraces


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic houses set in designed landscapes are characteristic of the estuaries and river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Redundant military infrastructure along coast, including gun emplacements and pill boxes
Siginificant archaeological resource under arabe cultivation
Historic houses in designed landscapes characteristic of estuaries and river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Surviving areas of heathland create a distinctive lowland and coastal landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heathland creates a distinctive lowland coastal landscape
Marshes and wetlands (some drained), including reedbeds, characteristic of estuaries and valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Most hamlets and villages are small, complementing a scatter of farmsteads, traditional barns and cottages throughout the rural area.
•	Historic houses set in designed landscapes are characteristic of the estuaries and river valleys.
•	Coastal settlements are distinctive in character, many enjoying a relatively unspoilt atmosphere.  Some show the influence of Dutch architecture.
•	Larger urban areas include parts of Ipswich, Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth together with Harwich and Felixstowe.  The area also includes a number of military airfields including Woodbridge and Bentwaters Airfields, together with the nuclear power station at Sizewell.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most hamlets and villages are small, complementing a scatter of farmsteads, traditional barns and cottages throughout the rural area.
•	Historic houses set in designed landscapes are characteristic of the estuaries and river valleys.
•	Coastal settlements are distinctive in character, many enjoying a relatively unspoilt atmosphere.  Some show the influence of Dutch architecture.
•	Larger urban areas include parts of Ipswich, Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth together with Harwich and Felixstowe.  The area also includes a number of military airfields including Woodbridge and Bentwaters Airfields, together with the nuclear power station at Sizewell.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes a low lying coast comprising shingle beaches (including the 14km spit known as Orford Ness) and eroding clifflines.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes a low lying coast comprising shingle beaches (including the 14km spit known as Orford Ness) and eroding clifflines.


FG KeyChar:
•	The estuaries and rivers are separated by rolling areas of the Sandlings, comprising a mosaic of heathland, woodland and farmland.
•	The Sandlings have some substantial areas of woodland including the coniferous Rendlesham, Tunstall and Dunwich Forests.
•	Other tree cover comprises a combination of woodland along the river valley and estuary slopes together with farm woodlands and field boundary trees. The area suffered significant tree loss as a result of Dutch Elm disease.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of heathland, woodland and farmland on Sandlings
Woodland along the river valley and estuary slopes
Farm woodlands
Riparian willow and poplar
Hedgerow trees (diminished in past by Dutch Elm disease)


FG KeyChar:
•	Almost entirely under arable cultivation with the exception of dairying in river valleys, some intensive livestock housing of pig and poultry, remnant parkland, areas of heathland commons and greens.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Almost entirely under arable cultivation with the exception of dairying in river valleys, some intensive livestock housing of pig and poultry, remnant parkland, areas of heathland commons and greens.


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated round-towered Saxo-Norman and medieval churches are prominent features as are the large number of isolated, moated timber-framed farmhouses with steeply pitched pantile or pegtile roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Isolated round-towered Saxo-Norman and medieval churches are prominent features as are the large number of isolated, moated timber-framed farmhouses with steeply pitched pantile or pegtile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Shallow, small-scale river valleys (including the Waveney and Dove) bring a contrast to the flat open drained land of the arable plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Shallow, small-scale river valleys (including the Waveney and Dove) bring a contrast to the flat open drained land of the arable plateau.


FG KeyChar:
•	Boundaries are formed by deep ditches. There are relatively few hedgerows due to field amalgamation but the remaining copses and hedges often contain a variety of species.
•	Mixture of remnant medieval ancient countryside (irregular small fields and pollard hedgerow oaks), early co-axial field patterns and large modern fields largely devoid of hedges and trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Boundaries are formed by deep ditches. There are relatively few hedgerows due to field amalgamation but the remaining copses and hedges often contain a variety of species.
•	Mixture of remnant medieval ancient countryside (irregular small fields and pollard hedgerow oaks), early co-axial field patterns and large modern fields largely devoid of hedges and trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large areas of chalky boulder clay plateau with little relief except where the rivers and streams have incised shallow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large areas of chalky boulder clay plateau with little relief except where the rivers and streams have incised shallow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mixture of remnant medieval ancient countryside (irregular small fields and pollard hedgerow oaks), early co-axial field patterns and large modern fields largely devoid of hedges and trees.
	Isolated round-towered Saxo-Norman and medieval churches are prominent features as are the large number of isolated, moated timber-framed farmhouses with steeply pitched pantile or pegtile roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Mixture of remnant medieval ancient countryside (irregular small fields and pollard hedgerow oaks), early co-axial field patterns and large modern fields largely devoid of hedges and trees.
	Isolated round-towered Saxo-Norman and medieval churches are prominent features as are the large number of isolated, moated timber-framed farmhouses with steeply pitched pantile or pegtile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated round-towered Saxo-Norman and medieval churches are prominent features as are the large number of isolated, moated timber-framed farmhouses with steeply pitched pantile or pegtile roofs.
•	The pattern of settlement (small and dispersed) relates closely to the river valleys and largely retains its medieval character. Settlement is also focused around some areas of common grazing land and greens.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Isolated round-towered Saxo-Norman and medieval churches are prominent features as are the large number of isolated, moated timber-framed farmhouses with steeply pitched pantile or pegtile roofs.
•	The pattern of settlement (small and dispersed) relates closely to the river valleys and largely retains its medieval character. Settlement is also focused around some areas of common grazing land and greens.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees are a notable element of the landscape due largely to treed lanes and hedgerow trees (predominantly oaks).
•	There are some areas of Ancient Woodland but overall there is a relative lack of woodland especially on the plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Trees are a notable element of the landscape due largely to treed lanes and hedgerow trees (predominantly oaks).
•	There are some areas of Ancient Woodland but overall there is a relative lack of woodland especially on the plateau.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agricultural practices such as outdoor pigs, intensive indoor poultry rearing, plastic crop growth and water storage reservoirs are recent developments.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agricultural practices such as outdoor pigs, intensive indoor poultry rearing, plastic crop growth and water storage reservoirs are recent developments.


FG KeyChar:
•	Churches are often isolated, in a state of disrepair and have a considerable impact on the landscape.
•	Thetford is the only town of significant size and together with Brandon and Mildenhall forms the post-war overspill development. Building materials are knapped flint, clunch and yellow brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Churches are often isolated, in a state of disrepair and have a considerable impact on the landscape.
•	Thetford is the only town of significant size and together with Brandon and Mildenhall forms the post-war overspill development. Building materials are knapped flint, clunch and yellow brick.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is crossed by a number of lush, shallow river valleys tucked into the landform notably the Little Ouse, Lark, Black Bourne, Thet and Wissey. Some of these are unusually fast-flowing chalk streams, forming a marked but limited  contrast to the dry uplands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is crossed by a number of lush, shallow river valleys tucked into the landform notably the Little Ouse, Lark, Black Bourne, Thet and Wissey. Some of these are unusually fast-flowing chalk streams, forming a marked but limited  contrast to the dry uplands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Strong geometric field pattern clearly defined by pine shelterbelts or ‘Deal Rows’(originally planted and managed as wind break hedgerows following the Enclosures Act but with the traditional management abandoned, distinctive twisted and gnarled trees remain).
•	Irrigation and fertilisation of the inherently infertile Breckland soils has seen the development of a large scale arable landscape of pale-coloured fields.  This contrasts with areas of open heath and the vertical elements of pine lines, belts and forests.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Strong geometric field pattern clearly defined by pine shelterbelts or ‘Deal Rows’(originally planted and managed as wind break hedgerows following the Enclosures Act but with the traditional management abandoned, distinctive twisted and gnarled trees remain).
•	Irrigation and fertilisation of the inherently infertile Breckland soils has seen the development of a large scale arable landscape of pale-coloured fields.  This contrasts with areas of open heath and the vertical elements of pine lines, belts and forests.


FG KeyChar:
•	One of the most extensive areas of sandy heaths in lowland England with poor, free draining sands with scattered flints over chalk, which are among the least fertile soils in the country.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	One of the most extensive areas of sandy heaths in lowland England with poor, free draining sands with scattered flints over chalk, which are among the least fertile soils in the country.


FG KeyChar:
•	The areas of heaths bring colour and textural variation and are an important biodiversity resource as well as a centre for military sites, camps and training grounds. Scrub, oak, thorn, pine and birch encroach wherever management is not maintained.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The areas of heaths bring colour and textural variation and are an important biodiversity resource as well as a centre for military sites, camps and training grounds. Scrub, oak, thorn, pine and birch encroach wherever management is not maintained.


FG KeyChar:
•	A long history of settlement but now very sparsely populated with nucleated villages in the river valleys and to the west of the Character Area.  Otherwise the landscape comprises of the occasional farm, church or hamlet.
•	Thetford is the only town of significant size and together with Brandon and Mildenhall forms the post-war overspill development. Building materials are knapped flint, clunch and yellow brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A long history of settlement but now very sparsely populated with nucleated villages in the river valleys and to the west of the Character Area.  Otherwise the landscape comprises of the occasional farm, church or hamlet.
•	Thetford is the only town of significant size and together with Brandon and Mildenhall forms the post-war overspill development. Building materials are knapped flint, clunch and yellow brick.


FG KeyChar:
•	Unique combination of climate, rocks and soils has produced a gently undulating, dry plateau with long slopes leading to alluvial flats with shallow, meandering river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Unique combination of climate, rocks and soils has produced a gently undulating, dry plateau with long slopes leading to alluvial flats with shallow, meandering river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Vast commercial conifer plantations which form forest landscape – unique to lowland England.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Vast commercial conifer plantations which form forest landscape – unique to lowland England.


FG KeyChar:
•	The agricultural landscape is predominantly arable with some pasture in the valleys and fruit farms and market gardening on lighter land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable
Some pasture in the valleys
Fruit farms and market gardening on lighter land


FG KeyChar:
•	Timber is the main building material and traditional buildings include timber-framed and colour-washed houses with steeply pitched roofs, sometimes faced with Georgian red brick.  Pegtiles and wheat straw thatch are typical.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings include timber-framed and colour-washed buildings sometimes faced with Georgian red brick
Rich heritage of barns, historic moated sites
Pegtiles and wheat straw thatch also typical


FG KeyChar:
•	The area exhibits the remnants of small-scale irregular medieval enclosure, despite some rationalization of fields.
•	Sunken hollow lanes are a feature, lined with hedgerows, but the impact of Dutch Elm disease is apparent (in Essex).

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnants of small-scale irregular medieval enclosure despite some rationalisation of fields
Gappy hedgerows within valleys, thick hedgerows on bolder clay plateau
Ditches within valleys
Sunken hollow lanes lined with hedgerows


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadly flat, chalky, boulder clay plateau dissected by undulating river valley topography, particularly marked in upper valley reaches, which are much smaller in scale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Broadly flat, chalky, boulder clay plateau dissected by undulating river valley topography, particularly marked in upper valley reaches, which are much smaller in scale.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are a number of impressive churches, a rich heritage of barns and surviving medieval enclosure.
•	There is a concentration of historic moated sites in this Character Area.
•	There are a number of well preserved medieval towns and villages with elaborate timber-frame houses e.g. Lavenham, Finchingfield, Cavendish and Thaxted.

Edited_KeyChars:
Impressive churches, elaborate timber-frame houses
Significant number of archaeological sites under arable or grassland management
Important parklands


Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant meadows and wet pastures in valley floors


FG KeyChar:
•	There are a number of impressive churches, a rich heritage of barns and surviving medieval enclosure.
•	Dedham Vale is a tourist honey pot and has a strong cultural association with Constable.
•	There are several large estates and more 20th century development towards coast.
•	Elsewhere the settlement pattern is dispersed - scattered farmsteads and small settlements around 'tyes' (commons) or strip greens and isolated hamlets are typical.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are a number of impressive churches, a rich heritage of barns and surviving medieval enclosure.
•	Dedham Vale is a tourist honey pot and has a strong cultural association with Constable.
•	There are several large estates and more 20th century development towards coast.
•	Elsewhere the settlement pattern is dispersed - scattered farmsteads and small settlements around 'tyes' (commons) or strip greens and isolated hamlets are typical.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are few large woods (20 acres plus) - ancient deciduous woods occur on the plateau.
•	Copses (or shaws), connected by hedgerows, give a wooded appearance.  
•	Hedgerow trees are typically elm (with hornbeam and field maple) in Essex or oak and ash in Suffolk.
•	Willow pollards are typical features of the valley floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Few large woods but ancient deciduous woods on plateau
Copses (or shaws) linked by hedgerows give wooded character
Hedgerow trees (hornbeam and field maple and formerly elm in Essex; oak and ash in Suffolk)
Willow pollards typical of valley floors
Localised traditonal orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	The large-scale rolling downland is mainly arable.
•	Grazing occurs in smaller fields within the tight river valleys and around Newmarket where the stud farms impose a distinctive, manicured character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The large-scale rolling downland is mainly arable.
•	Grazing occurs in smaller fields within the tight river valleys and around Newmarket where the stud farms impose a distinctive, manicured character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Landscape features include long, straight roads, open grass tracks and isolated 19th century white or yellow brick farmhouses.
•	The landscape has a generally muted colour range with distinctive pale soils and building materials.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Landscape features include long, straight roads, open grass tracks and isolated 19th century white or yellow brick farmhouses.
•	The landscape has a generally muted colour range with distinctive pale soils and building materials.


FG KeyChar:
•	Landscape features include long, straight roads, open grass tracks and isolated 19th century white or yellow brick farmhouses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Landscape features include long, straight roads, open grass tracks and isolated 19th century white or yellow brick farmhouses.


JM KeyChar:
•	Although much of the area lacks surface drainage, the hills are dissected by the two shallow valleys of the Rivers Granta and Rhee, which converge to form the Cam just south of Cambridge.


JM KeyChar:
•	This broad scale landscape has large, very late enclosure fields with low thorn hedges and few trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The distinctive, open, variable topography of the Chalk is a continuation of the Chilterns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The distinctive, open, variable topography of the Chalk is a continuation of the Chilterns.


FG KeyChar:
•	Significant linear ancient or Roman earthworks include Devil’s Dyke, Fleam Dyke and Icknield Way.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Significant linear ancient or Roman earthworks include Devil’s Dyke, Fleam Dyke and Icknield Way.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remnants of chalk grassland remain, often associated with linear features such as road verges and the margins of golf courses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Remnants of chalk grassland remain, often associated with linear features such as road verges and the margins of golf courses.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement comprising distinctive nucleated villages located generally within valleys.
•	Landscape features include long, straight roads, open grass tracks and isolated 19th century white or yellow brick farmhouses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement comprising distinctive nucleated villages located generally within valleys.
•	Landscape features include long, straight roads, open grass tracks and isolated 19th century white or yellow brick farmhouses.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is limited woodland cover across the Character Area comprising beech belts along roads and ash dominated copses and hilltop clumps. 
•	Pine belts begin to take over from the beech towards the Brecklands in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is limited woodland cover across the Character Area comprising beech belts along roads and ash dominated copses and hilltop clumps. 
•	Pine belts begin to take over from the beech towards the Brecklands in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is predominantly an open and intensive arable landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is predominantly an open and intensive arable landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Generally a diversity of building materials are used, including brick, thatch and stone. Limestone villages on the upper Great Ouse.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Generally a diversity of building materials are used, including brick, thatch and stone. Limestone villages on the upper Great Ouse.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a man-made reservoir at Grafham Water. Restored gravel working lakes adjacent to River Ouse, and water-bodies in the Marston Vale have resulted from clay extraction.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a man-made reservoir at Grafham Water. Restored gravel working lakes adjacent to River Ouse, and water-bodies in the Marston Vale have resulted from clay extraction.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are bounded by either open ditches or sparse closely trimmed hedges, both containing a variable number and quality of hedgerow trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fields are bounded by either open ditches or sparse closely trimmed hedges, both containing a variable number and quality of hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Medieval earthworks including deserted villages are key historic landscape features.
•	Brickfields of Marston Vale and Peterborough form a major industrial landscape of extraction, landfill and redundant pits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Medieval earthworks including deserted villages are key historic landscape features.
•	Brickfields of Marston Vale and Peterborough form a major industrial landscape of extraction, landfill and redundant pits.


FG KeyChar:
•	River corridors of the Great Ouse and Ivel compose cohesive sub-areas characterised by flood plain grassland, riverine willows and larger hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	River corridors of the Great Ouse and Ivel compose cohesive sub-areas characterised by flood plain grassland, riverine willows and larger hedges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement pattern clusters around major road and rail corridors (A1 and M1), many with raw built edges. Smaller, dispersed settlements occur elsewhere. Village edge grasslands are an important feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement pattern clusters around major road and rail corridors (A1 and M1), many with raw built edges. Smaller, dispersed settlements occur elsewhere. Village edge grasslands are an important feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Gently undulating topography and plateau areas are divided by broad shallow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Gently undulating topography and plateau areas are divided by broad shallow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is variable. Clusters of ancient deciduous woodland are located on higher plateaux to the north-west of the Character Area between Salcey and Grafham Water. 
•	Smaller plantations and secondary woodland are features within river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is variable. Clusters of ancient deciduous woodland are located on higher plateaux to the north-west of the Character Area between Salcey and Grafham Water. 
•	Smaller plantations and secondary woodland are features within river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mix of arable and pasture land, with arable land on the broader flat river terraces and smaller pastures on the slopes of many minor valleys and on more undulating ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mix of arable and pasture land
Arable land on the broader flat river terraces
Smaller pastures on slopes of minor valleys/ undulating ground
Loss of valley grasslands to arable
Riverside meadows and significant areas of remaining floodplain grazing marsh and fen


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by the major rivers of the Soar, Welland and Nene and their many tributaries which include the Sence, the Ise and the Swift.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is dominated by the major rivers of the Soar, Welland and Nene and their many tributaries which include the Sence, the Ise and the Swift.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is much variety in the distribution and extent of hedgerow and tree cover and density of hedgerows.  On some valley floodplains, such as that of the Welland, there are substantial waterside trees and meadows, but elsewhere flatter areas are arable farmland with low and intermittent hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Much variety in density of hedgerows with some closely flailed
Low and intermittent hedges on flat arable land with past hedgerow removal


FG KeyChar:
•	The area comprises gently undulating clay vales and ridges, with extensive gravel and alluvial deposits along the principal river floodplains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area comprises gently undulating clay vales and ridges, with extensive gravel and alluvial deposits along the principal river floodplains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic designed parklands are quite frequent and are sited at the edge of the area, adjacent to more wooded landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ridge and furrow on gently sloping valley sides
Frequent historic designed parklands (sited at edge of the area, adjacent to more wooded landscapes)


FG KeyChar:
•	Riverside meadows and waterside trees and shrubs are common, along with flooded gravel pits and their associated wetlands which result from reclamation schemes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Riverside meadows, floodplain grazing marsh and fen
Small areas of remnant heathland and limestone pavement
Flooded gravel pits and their associated wetlands


FG KeyChar:
•	The relatively open and densely settled character of this landscape means that urban areas and infrastructure are often visually dominant.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The relatively open and densely settled character of this landscape means that urban areas and infrastructure are often visually dominant.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, except for intermittent small woodlands along the Welland and Nene valleys and small valley-side woods, spinneys and copses on the ridges and more undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland cover generally sparse
Intermittent small woodlands along Welland and Nene valleys
Small valley-side woods, spinneys and copses on ridges
Substantial mature hedgerow and waterside trees (willows - often pollarded) on floodplains contribute to a treed character in places


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium-sized arable and wooded landscape on dip-slope to the south-west.
•	Considerable areas of pasture intersperse arable and wooded land cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Medium-sized arable and wooded landscape on dip-slope to the south-west.
•	Considerable areas of pasture intersperse arable and wooded land cover.


FG KeyChar:
•	Local materials include ironstone, brick, thatch and render. Settlement pattern includes estate villages and hamlets in the fold of the ridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Local materials include ironstone, brick, thatch and render. Settlement pattern includes estate villages and hamlets in the fold of the ridge.


FG KeyChar:
•	The river Ivel breaks the ridge at Sandy and numerous transport corridors traverse the ridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The river Ivel breaks the ridge at Sandy and numerous transport corridors traverse the ridge.


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium-sized arable and wooded landscape on dip-slope to the south-west.
•	Considerable areas of pasture intersperse arable and wooded land cover.
•	Variable field and roadside boundaries – ranging from mature shelterbelts to gappy, short flailed boundaries to intact evergreen hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Medium-sized arable and wooded landscape on dip-slope to the south-west.
•	Considerable areas of pasture intersperse arable and wooded land cover.
•	Variable field and roadside boundaries – ranging from mature shelterbelts to gappy, short flailed boundaries to intact evergreen hedges.


FG KeyChar:
•	A large scale, rolling, elevated landscape providing extensive panoramic views across the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire claylands (Character Area 88).
•	A narrow escarpment formed of Lower Greensand with distinct scarp slope to the north-west and dip slope to south-west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A large scale, rolling, elevated landscape providing extensive panoramic views across the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire claylands (Character Area 88).
•	A narrow escarpment formed of Lower Greensand with distinct scarp slope to the north-west and dip slope to south-west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Number of historic parklands and estates including Woburn, Haynes, Shuttleworth, Sandy Lodge and Southill.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Number of historic parklands and estates including Woburn, Haynes, Shuttleworth, Sandy Lodge and Southill.


FG KeyChar:
•	Existing and disused sand quarries around Leighton Buzzard.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Existing and disused sand quarries around Leighton Buzzard.


JM KeyChar:
•	There are important heathland habitats on the poorer acidic soils of the scarp and upper ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mixed land use on north-west facing scarp slope, including a high proportion of large woodland blocks and plantations (both deciduous and coniferous) – forming wooded horizons and a strong sense of enclosure. 
•	Medium-sized arable and wooded landscape on dip-slope to the south-west.
•	Considerable areas of pasture intersperse arable and wooded land cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Mixed land use on north-west facing scarp slope, including a high proportion of large woodland blocks and plantations (both deciduous and coniferous) – forming wooded horizons and a strong sense of enclosure. 
•	Medium-sized arable and wooded landscape on dip-slope to the south-west.
•	Considerable areas of pasture intersperse arable and wooded land cover.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has a mix of arable, mixed and pastoral farmland with pasture predominant in the west and a more open arable landscape to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area has a mix of arable, mixed and pastoral farmland with pasture predominant in the west and a more open arable landscape to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Building materials are varied and include red brick and the local grey-ochre limestone. There are a number of attractive limestone villages with a unified built character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Building materials are varied and include red brick and the local grey-ochre limestone. There are a number of attractive limestone villages with a unified built character.


FG KeyChar:
•	The ridge forms a low watershed between the catchments of the Nene to the north and the Great Ouse to the south.  The River Tove cuts through the ridge at Grafton Regis and then turns east to flow into the Great Ouse.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The ridge forms a low watershed between the catchments of the Nene to the north and the Great Ouse to the south.  The River Tove cuts through the ridge at Grafton Regis and then turns east to flow into the Great Ouse.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are generally medium-sized, with full hedgerows and hedgerow oaks and ash trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fields are generally medium-sized, with full hedgerows and hedgerow oaks and ash trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape consists of a broad plateau underlain by Jurassic Oolitic limestones and covered by irregular drifts of glacial boulder clay.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landscape consists of a broad plateau underlain by Jurassic Oolitic limestones and covered by irregular drifts of glacial boulder clay.


FG KeyChar:
•	The distinctive character of the ridge stems from its history as the site of a series of Royal Forests from the 13th century.  The remnants of these woodlands at Salcey Forest (Yardley Chase) and Whittlewood remain important landscape features.
•	The area has a number of significant parkland landscapes, including Stowe Park, Castle Ashby, Chase Park, Biddlesen, Melchbourne and Whittlebury.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The distinctive character of the ridge stems from its history as the site of a series of Royal Forests from the 13th century.  The remnants of these woodlands at Salcey Forest (Yardley Chase) and Whittlewood remain important landscape features.
•	The area has a number of significant parkland landscapes, including Stowe Park, Castle Ashby, Chase Park, Biddlesen, Melchbourne and Whittlebury.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a concentration of semi-natural ancient woodlands in the Yardley Chase and Whittlewood areas. Many of the hedgerows are species rich and the minor roads often have species-rich grass verges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a concentration of semi-natural ancient woodlands in the Yardley Chase and Whittlewood areas. Many of the hedgerows are species rich and the minor roads often have species-rich grass verges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are small, relatively few and tend to be sited along the edge of the ridge.  Some of the ridge villages developed as Forest Villages whose residents had rights over the Forest lands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are small, relatively few and tend to be sited along the edge of the ridge.  Some of the ridge villages developed as Forest Villages whose residents had rights over the Forest lands.


FG KeyChar:
•	The plateau has a gently undulating surface and dips gradually from approximately 150m in the west to 80m to the east.  It is physically distinct from the adjacent low lying vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The plateau has a gently undulating surface and dips gradually from approximately 150m in the west to 80m to the east.  It is physically distinct from the adjacent low lying vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	The distinctive character of the ridge stems from its history as the site of a series of Royal Forests from the 13th century.  The remnants of these woodlands at Salcey Forest (Yardley Chase) and Whittlewood remain important landscape features.
•	11% of the character area is wooded and the extensive blocks of oak/ash woodland are supplemented by tracts of more recent conifer plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The distinctive character of the ridge stems from its history as the site of a series of Royal Forests from the 13th century.  The remnants of these woodlands at Salcey Forest (Yardley Chase) and Whittlewood remain important landscape features.
•	11% of the character area is wooded and the extensive blocks of oak/ash woodland are supplemented by tracts of more recent conifer plantations.


FG KeyChar:
•	Older buildings are generally of the creamy-grey limestone in the east and are often steeply roofed with the distinctive Collyweston Slate.  In the west, ironstone is a common building material and brick is common on the fringes of Peterborough.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional stone farm buildings in the east of creamy-grey limestone roofed with Collyweston Slate and in the west of ironstone
Brick common on the fringes of Peterborough


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is bordered to the north by the Welland valley and to the south by the valley of the River Nene.  Rivers and streams rise on the higher land close to the north-west scarp and flow south and eastwards towards the Nene.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is bordered to the north by the Welland valley and to the south by the valley of the River Nene.  Rivers and streams rise on the higher land close to the north-west scarp and flow south and eastwards towards the Nene.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodlands are separated by large arable fields on thinner soils which are separated by low hedgerows and intermittent trees.
•	The mixed farmland to the west of Peterborough has both hedges and stone walls and fields are set out with the distinctive rectilinear pattern of the parliamentary enclosures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low hedgerows and intermittent trees on arable land
West of Peterborough both hedges and stone walls in distinctive rectilinear pattern of parliamentary enclosures
Smaller scale hedged fields in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	The principal landform of the area is a broad, low undulating ridge underlain by Jurassic limestones which falls away from a steep northern scarp overlooking the River Welland.  
•	The highest points are capped by heavy boulder clays which are unsuitable for cultivation and it is here that the extensive ancient woodlands lie, emphasising the relief and providing a strong sense of enclosure.  Linear woodlands mark the scarp slopes to the north.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The principal landform of the area is a broad, low undulating ridge underlain by Jurassic limestones which falls away from a steep northern scarp overlooking the River Welland.  
•	The highest points are capped by heavy boulder clays which are unsuitable for cultivation and it is here that the extensive ancient woodlands lie, emphasising the relief and providing a strong sense of enclosure.  Linear woodlands mark the scarp slopes to the north.


FG KeyChar:
•	Apart from the woodlands, the main tree cover comes from the frequent large historic parks such as Rockingham, Deene, Drayton and Boughton.

Edited_KeyChars:
Former royal hunting forest
Frequent large historic parks such as Rockingham, Deene, Drayton and Boughton
Ridge and furrow on the fringes of settlements


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is exceptionally rich in ancient semi-natural woodlands and former areas of grazing land within the woodland are of particular value.  Regeneration on former quarries has created a complex and attractive mosaic of grassland, woodland and scrub in areas such as the Barnack hills and holes and unimproved grasslands are often marked by ridge and furrow on the fringes of settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Species-rich unimproved grasslands within woodland and on former quarry sites


FG KeyChar:
•	A wooded chalk landscape - Clay-with-flint soils on the upper parts of the dip slope and ridge tops support oak/ash woodland and scrub with beech/ash/maple common on valley sides.  Sweet chestnut coppice is a feature of the dipslope in Kent.  Scarp often wooded or dominated by scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A wooded chalk landscape - Clay-with-flint soils on the upper parts of the dip slope and ridge tops support oak/ash woodland and scrub with beech/ash/maple common on valley sides.  Sweet chestnut coppice is a feature of the dipslope in Kent.  Scarp often wooded or dominated by scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.
•	Historic settlement pattern with parish boundaries that take in an area of downland, scarp foot and chartland form the framework for the present network of settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Drove roads and ancient tracks including North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way
Rich archaeological resource on the downs
Many historic parklands


FG KeyChar:
•	High quality unimproved chalk grassland survives on the scarp slope and dry valleys.  Ancient woodland and shaws characterise the dry valley sides and ridge tops.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved chalk grassland on scarp slope and dry valleys
Localised patches of heathland and chalk heath on the sandy soils on top of the Downs, notably in Surrey
Remnant wet pasture and reed beds on the valley floors
Localised areas of calcareous flushes at the foot of the scarp slope


FG KeyChar:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.
•	Historic settlement pattern with parish boundaries that take in an area of downland, scarp foot and chartland form the framework for the present network of settlements.
•	A predominantly rural landscape with a few large settlements (Guildford, Chatham and Dover).  Where the Downs underlie London towards Croydon and Sutton they are dominated by urban development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.
•	Historic settlement pattern with parish boundaries that take in an area of downland, scarp foot and chartland form the framework for the present network of settlements.
•	A predominantly rural landscape with a few large settlements (Guildford, Chatham and Dover).  Where the Downs underlie London towards Croydon and Sutton they are dominated by urban development.


FG KeyChar:
•	Dramatic and distinctive chalk downland with a continuous and steep scarp giving extensive views across Kent and Surrey towards the South Downs and a broad, gentle dipslope.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dramatic and distinctive chalk downland with a continuous and steep scarp giving extensive views across Kent and Surrey towards the South Downs and a broad, gentle dipslope.


FG KeyChar:
•	A wooded chalk landscape - Clay-with-flint soils on the upper parts of the dip slope and ridge tops support oak/ash woodland and scrub with beech/ash/maple common on valley sides.  Sweet chestnut coppice is a feature of the dipslope in Kent.  Scarp often wooded or dominated by scrub.
•	In Surrey, extensive areas of yew with box woodland are a distinctive feature of the scarp.

Edited_KeyChars:
A wooded chalk landscape with ancient woodland 
Oak-ash woodland and scrub on scarp and higher ground
Beech/ash/maple on valley sides
Sweet chestnut coppice on dip slope in Kent
Extensive areas of yew with box woodland on scarp in Surrey
Thick wooded shaws define many fields on valley sides and in the Kent Downs
Hedgerow trees on valley sides
Meandering tree-lined water courses in the river valleys
Traditional orchards in river valleys and at the foot of the downs in Kent


FG KeyChar:
•	Agricultural land comprises a mosaic of mixed farming, pasture and arable land set within a wooded framework.  A fruit growing orchard belts persists in Kent.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agricultural land comprises a mosaic of mixed farming, pasture and arable land set within a wooded framework.  A fruit growing orchard belts persists in Kent.


FG KeyChar:
•	The local vernacular includes timber framing and weatherboarding plus houses of sandstone laid in rubble courses patterned with dark carstone in the mortar between stones.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The local vernacular includes timber framing and weatherboarding plus houses of sandstone laid in rubble courses patterned with dark carstone in the mortar between stones.


FG KeyChar:
•	Surface water is an important feature across the Greensand with many streams and rivers (e,g Rother, Way, Arun, Medway)  draining off the dipslope.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Surface water is an important feature across the Greensand with many streams and rivers (e,g Rother, Way, Arun, Medway)  draining off the dipslope.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries formed by hedges with character and species reflecting the soils.  On the clay hedges are dense, species rich with occasional standard oaks.  On more acidic soils they generally consist of hawthorn\blackthorn, also with occasional oak trees and trimmed low.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field boundaries formed by hedges with character and species reflecting the soils.  On the clay hedges are dense, species rich with occasional standard oaks.  On more acidic soils they generally consist of hawthorn\blackthorn, also with occasional oak trees and trimmed low.


FG KeyChar:
•	A long, narrow belt of Greensand typified by scarp/dipslope topography.  Includes outcrops of Upper Greensand, Gault clay and Lower Greensand with the Greensand forming escarpments separated by a clay vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A long, narrow belt of Greensand typified by scarp/dipslope topography.  Includes outcrops of Upper Greensand, Gault clay and Lower Greensand with the Greensand forming escarpments separated by a clay vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	A range of historic landscape features including field monuments (tumuli and Iron Age hill forts), numerous landscaped parks, small quarries and relics of the iron industry including hammer ponds.
•	Distinctive sunken lanes cut into the sandstone are a historic and characteristic feature of the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A range of historic landscape features including field monuments (tumuli and Iron Age hill forts), numerous landscaped parks, small quarries and relics of the iron industry including hammer ponds.
•	Distinctive sunken lanes cut into the sandstone are a historic and characteristic feature of the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Important semi-natural habitats include lowland heath (although this is much reduced in area), extensive ancient woodland and pasture plus wetlands associated with the River Arun in West Sussex.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Important semi-natural habitats include lowland heath (although this is much reduced in area), extensive ancient woodland and pasture plus wetlands associated with the River Arun in West Sussex.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small settlements are dispersed through the western and south-west part of the Character Area.  Large houses set within extensive gardens are found through the character area.
•	Much of the eastern Greensand belt is heavily dominated by modern development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small settlements are dispersed through the western and south-west part of the Character Area.  Large houses set within extensive gardens are found through the character area.
•	Much of the eastern Greensand belt is heavily dominated by modern development.


FG KeyChar:
•	A long, narrow belt of Greensand typified by scarp/dipslope topography.  Includes outcrops of Upper Greensand, Gault clay and Lower Greensand with the Greensand forming escarpments separated by a clay vale.
•	The combination of landform and topography creates an intimate, secretive character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A long, narrow belt of Greensand typified by scarp/dipslope topography.  Includes outcrops of Upper Greensand, Gault clay and Lower Greensand with the Greensand forming escarpments separated by a clay vale.
•	The combination of landform and topography creates an intimate, secretive character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive belts of ancient mixed woodland of hazel, oak and birch, chestnut coppice plus more recent coniferous plantation.  Local variations in woodland cover reflect the diverse geology.
•	Field boundaries formed by hedges with character and species reflecting the soils.  On the clay hedges are dense, species rich with occasional standard oaks.  On more acidic soils they generally consist of hawthorn\blackthorn, also with occasional oak trees and trimmed low.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive belts of ancient mixed woodland of hazel, oak and birch, chestnut coppice plus more recent coniferous plantation.  Local variations in woodland cover reflect the diverse geology.
•	Field boundaries formed by hedges with character and species reflecting the soils.  On the clay hedges are dense, species rich with occasional standard oaks.  On more acidic soils they generally consist of hawthorn\blackthorn, also with occasional oak trees and trimmed low.


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent pasture is the main farming land use.  Arable farming is associated with lighter soils on higher ground.
•	Areas of fruit cultivation are present, east of Tunbridge Wells in Kent.

Edited_KeyChars:
Permanent pasture is the dominant land use
Arable farming on lighter soils on higher ground
Wet grasslands in the river valleys
Traditional hop gardens in Kent


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional rural vernacular of local brick, weatherboard and tile-hung buildings plus local use of distinctive Horsham slabs as a roofing material.  Black weatherboard barns are a feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional rural vernacular of local brick, weatherboard and tile-hung buildings plus distinctive Horsham slab roofs
Distinctive black weatherboard barns


FG KeyChar:
•	Rural lanes and tracks with wide grass verges and ditches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rural lanes and tracks with wide grass verges and ditches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Heavily dissected by river floodplains with many small, narrow streams plus main rivers of the Adur, Arun, Beult and Medway.
•	Ponds frequently occur on the edges of fields and woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Heavily dissected by river floodplains with many small, narrow streams plus main rivers of the Adur, Arun, Beult and Medway.
•	Ponds frequently occur on the edges of fields and woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries of hedgerows and shaws enclose small, irregular fields.  Occasional lines of hedgerow trees mark former boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows and shaws enclosing small, irregular fields


FG KeyChar:
•	Broad low-lying gently undulating clay vales with outcrops of limestone or sandstone providing local variation.
•	Sandstone forms raised cliff above Romney Marsh at the eastern boundary of the Character Area

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Broad low-lying gently undulating clay vales with outcrops of limestone or sandstone providing local variation.
•	Sandstone forms raised cliff above Romney Marsh at the eastern boundary of the Character Area


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman iron industry revived in the 15th century has left legacy of hammer ponds.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hammer ponds, relics of Roman iron industry revived in 15th century
Many important parklands and designed landscapes
Wood pasture sites such as Ebernoe Common also notable
Ponds frequent on the edge of fields and woodlands


FG KeyChar:
•	Unimproved permanent pastures, species-rich damp grassland, roadside verges, small streams, rivers and ponds, and extensive ancient woodland are habitats of high nature conservation value.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved permanent pastures now much reduced in extent
Species-rich damp grassland and marshland of conservation value along the many small streams
Outlyers of lowland heathland from the adjacent Greensand


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements tend to be small and scattered forming linear groups along roadsides or centred on greens or commons.
•	Urban influences to west around Gatwick/Horley/Crawley.
•	Rural lanes and tracks with wide grass verges and ditches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements tend to be small and scattered forming linear groups along roadsides or centred on greens or commons.
•	Urban influences to west around Gatwick/Horley/Crawley.
•	Rural lanes and tracks with wide grass verges and ditches.


FG KeyChar:
•	An intricate mix of woodlands (much of it ancient) – including extensive broadleaved oak over hazel coppice, shaws, plus small field copses and tree groups, and lines of riparian trees along watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient, extensive broadleaved oak with hazel coppice
Shaws, small field copses and tree groups (in need of management)
Lines of in-field trees marking former boundaries
Many  ancient trees
Lines of riparian trees along watercourses
Traditional orchards (once a very important orchard area with Hop gardens)


FG KeyChar:
•	A predominantly grazed grassland agricultural landscape – mainly sheep with some cattle and pigs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A predominantly grazed grassland agricultural landscape – mainly sheep with some cattle and pigs.


FG KeyChar:
•	High quality vernacular architecture with distinct local variation.  Timber framed barns are a particular notable and characteristic feature of the High Weald.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High quality vernacular architecture with distinct local variation.  Timber framed barns are a particular notable and characteristic feature of the High Weald.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coastal cliffs to the south at Fairlight.

JM KeyChar:
•	Where the High Weald meets the coast in the east there are highly distinctive, terraced, crumbling cliffs of sandstone separated by deep glens which fall steeply to the sea, ending in cliffs and waterfalls.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Coastal cliffs to the south at Fairlight.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dense network of small, narrow and winding lanes, often sunken and enclosed by high hedgerows or woodland strips.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dense network of small, narrow and winding lanes, often sunken and enclosed by high hedgerows or woodland strips.


FG KeyChar:
•	Main ridges, deeply dissected by tributaries in narrow ghylls.  Major rivers of the Rother, Brede, Ouse and Medway flow in broad valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Main ridges, deeply dissected by tributaries in narrow ghylls.  Major rivers of the Rother, Brede, Ouse and Medway flow in broad valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small and medium sized fields enclosed by a network of hedgerows and wooded shaws.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small and medium sized fields enclosed by a network of hedgerows and wooded shaws.


FG KeyChar:
•	Underlain by sands, soft sandstones and clays – giving rise to hilly country of east-west running ridges and valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Underlain by sands, soft sandstones and clays – giving rise to hilly country of east-west running ridges and valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	An essentially medieval landscape reflected in pattern of settlement, fields and woodland.
•	Strong influence of the Wealden Iron Industry (15th – 17th century) with features such as hammer ponds surviving today.
•	Wealth generated by iron industry resulted in grand houses and parklands, which are a particular feature of the area today.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An essentially medieval landscape reflected in pattern of settlement, fields and woodland.
•	Strong influence of the Wealden Iron Industry (15th – 17th century) with features such as hammer ponds surviving today.
•	Wealth generated by iron industry resulted in grand houses and parklands, which are a particular feature of the area today.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive ancient semi-natural woodland, including ancient oak and beech, notably high number of small ponds, plus heathland, notably at Ashdown Forest, and some remaining unimproved herb-rich meadows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive ancient semi-natural woodland, including ancient oak and beech, notably high number of small ponds, plus heathland, notably at Ashdown Forest, and some remaining unimproved herb-rich meadows.


FG KeyChar:
•	An essentially medieval landscape reflected in pattern of settlement, fields and woodland.
•	A dispersed settlement pattern of hamlets and scattered farmsteads traditionally located on the ridges.  Church towers and spires on the ridges are an important local landmark.
•	Includes several large towns such as Tunbridge Wells, Crowborough, East Grinstead, Bexhill, Hastings and Horsham.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An essentially medieval landscape reflected in pattern of settlement, fields and woodland.
•	A dispersed settlement pattern of hamlets and scattered farmsteads traditionally located on the ridges.  Church towers and spires on the ridges are an important local landmark.
•	Includes several large towns such as Tunbridge Wells, Crowborough, East Grinstead, Bexhill, Hastings and Horsham.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive broadleaved woodland cover with high forest, small woods, shaws, plus steep valleys with ‘ghyll woodland’.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive broadleaved woodland cover with high forest, small woods, shaws, plus steep valleys with ‘ghyll woodland’.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are concentrated in the valleys, where there is typically a small-scale pattern of pastures, more robust hedgerows and occasional stone walls.  Lines of trees mark all the watercourses, with low-lying grasslands and streamside pollards along the broader floodplain of the Nene near Peterborough.
•	Nucleated villages are concentrated in sheltered valleys and retain a rural character, although there is extensive recent development on the fringes of Kettering and Corby.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are concentrated in the valleys, where there is typically a small-scale pattern of pastures, more robust hedgerows and occasional stone walls.  Lines of trees mark all the watercourses, with low-lying grasslands and streamside pollards along the broader floodplain of the Nene near Peterborough.
•	Nucleated villages are concentrated in sheltered valleys and retain a rural character, although there is extensive recent development on the fringes of Kettering and Corby.


FG KeyChar:
•	The principal landform of the area is a broad, low undulating ridge underlain by Jurassic limestones which falls away from a steep northern scarp overlooking the River Welland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The principal landform of the area is a broad, low undulating ridge underlain by Jurassic limestones which falls away from a steep northern scarp overlooking the River Welland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The highest points are capped by heavy boulder clays which are unsuitable for cultivation and it is here that the extensive ancient woodlands lie, emphasising the relief and providing a strong sense of enclosure.  Linear woodlands mark the scarp slopes to the north.
•	Apart from the woodlands, the main tree cover comes from the frequent large historic parks such as Rockingham, Deene, Drayton and Boughton.
•	In some areas deciduous woodlands have been converted to coniferous woodlands and in others wholly new conifer plantations have been established. Much recent planting has been on the reclaimed ironstone workings and larger estates such as Boughton.

Edited_KeyChars:
Much ancient woodland/ coppice on high ground/ boulder clay
Linear woodlands on scarp slopes to north
Tree cover also associated with frequent large historic parks
Mature in-field and hedgerow trees
Streamside willow pollards


FG KeyChar:
•	There is mixed farming with open arable land concentrated on ridge tops and the wider valley bottoms. Field ponds are notable local features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is mixed farming with open arable land concentrated on ridge tops and the wider valley bottoms. Field ponds are notable local features.


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages are typically sited at high points, with ironstone, limestone and/or brick buildings clustered around a prominent church.  Farms are isolated along narrow lanes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Villages are typically sited at high points, with ironstone, limestone and/or brick buildings clustered around a prominent church.  Farms are isolated along narrow lanes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s well treed character is derived from hedgerows, hedgerow trees, copses, spinneys and small ridgetop woodlands, rather than any great extent of large woodlands.
•	Frequent and very prominent ridge and furrow, as well as many deserted settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area’s well treed character is derived from hedgerows, hedgerow trees, copses, spinneys and small ridgetop woodlands, rather than any great extent of large woodlands.
•	Frequent and very prominent ridge and furrow, as well as many deserted settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area is underlain by thick boulder clay, but where this has been eroded the more easily cultivated glacial sands and gravels are the favoured sites for historic villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the area is underlain by thick boulder clay, but where this has been eroded the more easily cultivated glacial sands and gravels are the favoured sites for historic villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	The cluster of oak/ash woodlands on the undulating land around the Eye Brook and River Chater (eg Owston Woods and Launde Big Wood) are generally ancient and survive from the Leighfield Forest.  They are of significant nature conservation interest in an area with relatively limited woodland cover.
•	The area also contains some fine country houses (eg Quenby and Noseley) set within parkland on sheltered sites.  Many parkland landscapes are associated with a nearby deserted medieval settlement.
•	Frequent and very prominent ridge and furrow, as well as many deserted settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The cluster of oak/ash woodlands on the undulating land around the Eye Brook and River Chater (eg Owston Woods and Launde Big Wood) are generally ancient and survive from the Leighfield Forest.  They are of significant nature conservation interest in an area with relatively limited woodland cover.
•	The area also contains some fine country houses (eg Quenby and Noseley) set within parkland on sheltered sites.  Many parkland landscapes are associated with a nearby deserted medieval settlement.
•	Frequent and very prominent ridge and furrow, as well as many deserted settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	The cluster of oak/ash woodlands on the undulating land around the Eye Brook and River Chater (eg Owston Woods and Launde Big Wood) are generally ancient and survive from the Leighfield Forest.  They are of significant nature conservation interest in an area with relatively limited woodland cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The cluster of oak/ash woodlands on the undulating land around the Eye Brook and River Chater (eg Owston Woods and Launde Big Wood) are generally ancient and survive from the Leighfield Forest.  They are of significant nature conservation interest in an area with relatively limited woodland cover.


FG KeyChar:
•	Green lanes, quiet countryside and an empty, remote, rural character.
•	Villages are typically sited at high points, with ironstone, limestone and/or brick buildings clustered around a prominent church.  Farms are isolated along narrow lanes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Green lanes, quiet countryside and an empty, remote, rural character.
•	Villages are typically sited at high points, with ironstone, limestone and/or brick buildings clustered around a prominent church.  Farms are isolated along narrow lanes.


FG KeyChar:
•	An area of broad rolling ridges dissected by radiating river valleys with a varied profile; the majority are steep-sided, but some (eg Queniborough Brook) are deep and relatively wide.  The land rises to central plateau of high ground at Billesdon, with steep scarp slopes on the northern aspect.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	An area of broad rolling ridges dissected by radiating river valleys with a varied profile; the majority are steep-sided, but some (eg Queniborough Brook) are deep and relatively wide.  The land rises to central plateau of high ground at Billesdon, with steep scarp slopes on the northern aspect.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s well treed character is derived from hedgerows, hedgerow trees, copses, spinneys and small ridgetop woodlands, rather than any great extent of large woodlands.
•	The cluster of oak/ash woodlands on the undulating land around the Eye Brook and River Chater (eg Owston Woods and Launde Big Wood) are generally ancient and survive from the Leighfield Forest.  They are of significant nature conservation interest in an area with relatively limited woodland cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area’s well treed character is derived from hedgerows, hedgerow trees, copses, spinneys and small ridgetop woodlands, rather than any great extent of large woodlands.
•	The cluster of oak/ash woodlands on the undulating land around the Eye Brook and River Chater (eg Owston Woods and Launde Big Wood) are generally ancient and survive from the Leighfield Forest.  They are of significant nature conservation interest in an area with relatively limited woodland cover.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a mix of arable and pasture land, with arable land on the broader flat river terraces and smaller pastures on the slopes of many minor valleys and on more undulating ground.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is much variety in the distribution and extent of hedgerow and tree cover and density of hedgerows.  On some valley floodplains, such as that of the Welland, there are substantial waterside trees and meadows, but elsewhere flatter areas are arable farmland with low and intermittent hedges.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Historic designed parklands are quite frequent and are sited at the edge of the area, adjacent to more wooded landscapes.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Riverside meadows and waterside trees and shrubs are common, along with flooded gravel pits and their associated wetlands which result from reclamation schemes.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, except for intermittent small woodlands along the Welland and Nene valleys and small valley-side woods, spinneys and copses on the ridges and more undulating land.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mixture of pasture and arable land, with arable predominant on shallow slopes and pasture on undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable predominant on shallow slopes
Pasture on undulating land


FG KeyChar:
•	The local ironstone has a distinctive orangey-brown colour and is used in combination with red brick, creamy-grey limestone and cob in traditional buildings throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive local ironstone used with red brick, creamy-grey limestone and cob in traditional buildings throughout


FG KeyChar:
Hedgerows form a regular criss-cross rectilinear pattern across the hills.  They are generally sparse and well trimmed in the large-scale arable areas and dense, with numerous hedgerow trees around pastures.
•	There are outstanding and extensive examples of ridge and furrow and deserted villages on pastoral land throughout the character area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Regular rectilinear hedgerow pattern
Hedges sparse and well trimmed in arable areas
Hedges dense (and treed) around pastures


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by clays of the Lias Group, capped locally by the ironstone-bearing Marlstone and Northampton Sands at the high (c. 210m) ironstone hills around Guilsborough and Staverton.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by clays of the Lias Group, capped locally by the ironstone-bearing Marlstone and Northampton Sands at the high (c. 210m) ironstone hills around Guilsborough and Staverton.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are outstanding and extensive examples of ridge and furrow and deserted villages on pastoral land throughout the character area.
•	The area has many impressive mansions and designed historic landscapes, including Althorp Hall, Canons Ashby, Cottesbrooke, Harlestone and Holdenby.

Edited_KeyChars:
Outstanding, extensive examples of ridge and furrow and deserted villages on pasture throughout area
Impressive mansions and designed landscapes eg Althorp Hall, Canons Ashby, Cottesbrooke, Harlestone and Holdenby


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats are fragmented and small in scale.  21% of the woodlands are of ancient origin.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats fragmented and small scale


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages are generally small, with a nucleated form and a rather isolated rural character.  However settlements close to the urban areas of Daventry and Rugby and along strategic routes such as the M1, the A14 and the A425 have significant commuter development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Villages are generally small, with a nucleated form and a rather isolated rural character.  However settlements close to the urban areas of Daventry and Rugby and along strategic routes such as the M1, the A14 and the A425 have significant commuter development.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area has a rolling, gently hilly landform with distinctive isolated ironstone hills, although there are also some extensive clay lowlands where glacial till has masked the landform on the fringes of the undulating hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area has a rolling, gently hilly landform with distinctive isolated ironstone hills, although there are also some extensive clay lowlands where glacial till has masked the landform on the fringes of the undulating hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small broadleaf woodlands, copses and shelterbelts, combined with hedgerow trees create an impression of a well-treed landscape, although overall woodland cover is relatively limited (2%).  Woodlands are concentrated along streams and steeper slopes, with many prominent hilltop copses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small broadleaf woodlands, copses and shelterbelts along streams and steeper slopes
In-field and hedgerow trees suggest a well-treed landscape in pastoral areas (though woodland cover is low)
Many prominent hilltop copses


FG KeyChar:
•	Feldon is dominated by pasture, while in Dunsmore there is more mixed farming, including areas of intensive arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Feldon is dominated by pasture, while in Dunsmore there is more mixed farming, including areas of intensive arable.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are small scattered woodlands and plantations throughout, as well as riparian trees and woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are small scattered woodlands and plantations throughout, as well as riparian trees and woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mosaic of mixed agriculture, intensively cultivated in places, but with less improved pastures on the steeper slopes.
•	Traditional orchards and hops are found scattered throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a mosaic of mixed agriculture, intensively cultivated in places, but with less improved pastures on the steeper slopes.
•	Traditional orchards and hops are found scattered throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional building material is typically the local red, pink or grey sandstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditional building material is typically the local red, pink or grey sandstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The field pattern is typically of irregular, small, hedged fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The field pattern is typically of irregular, small, hedged fields.


JM KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include numerous medieval manors and early timber-framed buildings.


JM KeyChar:
•	Formerly extensive water-meadow systems and hay meadows are now greatly reduced but wet valley bottom grassland remains a key habitat.


FG KeyChar:
•	A dispersed settlement pattern is typical, with scattered farmsteads, hamlets and occasionally small villages, but there is also localised wayside settlement, particularly around commons.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A dispersed settlement pattern is typical, with scattered farmsteads, hamlets and occasionally small villages, but there is also localised wayside settlement, particularly around commons.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating landscape dissected by the River Teme, and with many small, steeply incised tributary valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating landscape dissected by the River Teme, and with many small, steeply incised tributary valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are some substantial broadleaved woodlands, particularly along steep slopes and narrow valleys, and localised blocks of coniferous plantations.
•	There is also scattered tree cover along watercourses and hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are some substantial broadleaved woodlands, particularly along steep slopes and narrow valleys, and localised blocks of coniferous plantations.
•	There is also scattered tree cover along watercourses and hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rough grazing is dominant on the high ground, whilst small pastures are typical of the lower slopes.
•	Localised orchards and hop fields are found throughout the area, whilst larger fields with mixed or arable farming are less common and confined to the lower ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unenclosed rough pasture/ commons on high ground, in need of grazing
Small pastures on slopes
Mixed arable and hop fields on lower ground


FG KeyChar:
•	A diversity of building styles and materials reflects the variations in geology, with locally-quarried stone, occasional timber-framing and more recent use of red brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
Diverse styles and materials including locally-quarried stone, occasional timber-frame and more recent red brick


FG KeyChar:
•	The hills are intersected by the east-west flowing Leigh Brook; otherwise small streams flow from spring lines at the foot of the hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The hills are intersected by the east-west flowing Leigh Brook; otherwise small streams flow from spring lines at the foot of the hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Ancient, mixed species hedges are typical, with localised dense tree cover; open unenclosed land is a distinctive feature of the high ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open unenclosed land distinctive of open commonland of high ground
Ancient, mixed species hedges typical on slopes
Larger regular hedged fields on lower ground


FG KeyChar:
•	Ridges of lower hills, of limestone and mixed shale, are found to the west and south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ridges of lower hills, of limestone and mixed shale, are found to the west and south.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are many dramatically-sited historic sites, including Iron Age hillforts, along the ridge.
•	Several large estates with designed landscapes are found in the foothills, such as at Eastnor.

Edited_KeyChars:
Many historic sites on ridge including Iron Age hillforts
Large estates with designed landscapes in the foothills eg Eastnor


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher hills are dominated by open moorland of acid grassland, bracken and localised heather, with encroaching scrub and woodlands below.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open heathland of acid grassland, bracken and heather on higher hills
Remnant lowland meadows


FG KeyChar:
•	Several large estates with designed landscapes are found in the foothills, such as at Eastnor.
•	The upper slopes and summits are unsettled; elsewhere there are scattered farmsteads and cottages.
•	Parts of the Malvern Victorian Spa towns on the eastern slopes lie within the area, along with associated villas on the slopes around.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Several large estates with designed landscapes are found in the foothills, such as at Eastnor.
•	The upper slopes and summits are unsettled; elsewhere there are scattered farmsteads and cottages.
•	Parts of the Malvern Victorian Spa towns on the eastern slopes lie within the area, along with associated villas on the slopes around.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a narrow, north-south ridge of high, rounded hills of igneous rocks, which rise abruptly from the Severn Vale and form a prominent landmark from long distances.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a narrow, north-south ridge of high, rounded hills of igneous rocks, which rise abruptly from the Severn Vale and form a prominent landmark from long distances.


FG KeyChar:
•	Predominantly brick buildings, with plain tile roofs reflecting use of local clay as a building material.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly brick buildings with plain tile roofs of local clay


FG KeyChar:
•	Drained by a network of rivers and streams including the upper Thames and tributaries. Substantial areas of open water to the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Drained by a network of rivers and streams including the upper Thames and tributaries. Substantial areas of open water to the west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Variable field boundaries with network of thick hedgerows with oak and ash trees on drier gravel terraces, ditches on lower wetland areas, plus lines of willow pollards.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large geometric fields dominate, significant areas of hedgerow loss
Network of thick hedgerows on drier gravel terraces
Ditches on lower wetland areas
Otmoor distinctive patchwork of small fields with elm hedgerows


FG KeyChar:
•	Broad belt of open, flat to gently undulating lowland farmland on clay containing a variety of contrasting landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Broad belt of open, flat to gently undulating lowland farmland on clay containing a variety of contrasting landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Significant visible archaeological features including Roman Roads, ancient field systems including ridge and furrow, plus evidence of early settlements preserved on gravels.  The Icknield Way, a prehistoric trackway runs along foot of chalk scarp.
•	Extensive areas of flooded gravel workings around Cotswold Water Park.

Edited_KeyChars:
Features include Roman roads, ancient field systems, ridge and furrow and evidence of early settlements on gravels
Icknield Way, a prehistoric trackway, along foot of chalk scarp
Parkland a characteristic at the foot of the chalk scarp


FG KeyChar:
•	Important semi natural habitats include open water and floodplains with their  watercourses, willow fringes and pollards.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open water (flooded gravel workings) eg Cotswold Water Park
Semi-natural waterside grassland and grazing marsh (increasingly rare)
Unimproved hay meadows on drier areas of the river corridors


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement pattern comprises villages located on rising land at edges of the area and on raised gravel deposits within the floodplain (e.g. City of Oxford). Elsewhere settlement is sparse.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement pattern comprises villages located on rising land at edges of the area and on raised gravel deposits within the floodplain (e.g. City of Oxford). Elsewhere settlement is sparse.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodlands generally scarce, occasional coniferous shelterbelts around settlements on higher gravel terraces.
•	Variable field boundaries with network of thick hedgerows with oak and ash trees on drier gravel terraces, ditches on lower wetland areas, plus lines of willow pollards.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodlands generally scarce
Some more wooded areas in west assoaciated with the Forest of Bernwood
Hedgerow oak and ash on drier gravel terraces including in the Aylesbury Vale
Area has suffered from extensive hedgerow tree loss with Dutch elm disease
Lines of willow pollards along water courses.   Black poplar a distinctive features of the Aylesbury Vale
Orchards a feature around Alysbury (the Aylsbury plum) and Harwell


FG KeyChar:
•	The agricultural land includes a mix of both arable and pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The agricultural land includes a mix of both arable and pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Stone buildings are typically of local limestone roofed in plain red tiles or thatch.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Stone buildings are typically of local limestone roofed in plain red tiles or thatch.


FG KeyChar:
•	At Oxford the upper Thames carves a steep valley between the limestone hills.  Otherwise very little dissection by rivers along the ridge.  To the east streams and springs drain the lower slopes of the limestone hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	At Oxford the upper Thames carves a steep valley between the limestone hills.  Otherwise very little dissection by rivers along the ridge.  To the east streams and springs drain the lower slopes of the limestone hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Generally large geometric fields divided by regular pattern of hedgerows and hedgerow trees, although a local pattern of small fields surrounds hilltop villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Generally large geometric fields divided by regular pattern of hedgerows and hedgerow trees, although a local pattern of small fields surrounds hilltop villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	Moderately elevated irregular limestone ridge giving way to a series of isolated steep-side tabular hills in the east, rising above the surrounding clay vales.
•	The limestone is overlain in places by clay and on higher parts of the ridge by Greensand.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Moderately elevated irregular limestone ridge giving way to a series of isolated steep-side tabular hills in the east, rising above the surrounding clay vales.
•	The limestone is overlain in places by clay and on higher parts of the ridge by Greensand.


FG KeyChar:
•	There area is important for survival of medieval ridge and furrow and the associated remains of deserted settlements.
•	Visual historic associations with a number of designed parklands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There area is important for survival of medieval ridge and furrow and the associated remains of deserted settlements.
•	Visual historic associations with a number of designed parklands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Important semi-natural habitats include the extensive areas of ancient woodland, including coppice with standards, plus small areas of limestone grassland and isolated patches of heath and acid grassland on the Greensand.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Important semi-natural habitats include the extensive areas of ancient woodland, including coppice with standards, plus small areas of limestone grassland and isolated patches of heath and acid grassland on the Greensand.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small villages perched high up on spurs, hilltops and ridges.  Hilltop villages are often focussed around a village green and church.  Also, in Oxfordshire, small springline villages.
•	A network of winding sunken lanes connects the villages.  
•	Expanding urban centres are at Swindon, to the western end of the ridge, and Oxford.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small villages perched high up on spurs, hilltops and ridges.  Hilltop villages are often focussed around a village green and church.  Also, in Oxfordshire, small springline villages.
•	A network of winding sunken lanes connects the villages.  
•	Expanding urban centres are at Swindon, to the western end of the ridge, and Oxford.


FG KeyChar:
•	Moderately elevated irregular limestone ridge giving way to a series of isolated steep-side tabular hills in the east, rising above the surrounding clay vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Moderately elevated irregular limestone ridge giving way to a series of isolated steep-side tabular hills in the east, rising above the surrounding clay vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive woodland cover, particularly in the west, including blocks of ancient woodland (mainly oak, ash, birch) and coniferous plantation (mainly larch) along the ridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive woodland cover, particularly in the west, including blocks of ancient woodland (mainly oak, ash, birch) and coniferous plantation (mainly larch) along the ridge.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are many surviving areas of semi-open common land on the plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open, intensively farmed arable fields in many areas
Arable landscape affected by loss of winter stubble
Pasture along river corridors


FG KeyChar:
•	A network of small fields ancient hedges, often characterises steep ground. The agricultural landscape features hedges, trees and small woodlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Network of small fields with ancient hedges on steep ground
Larger, more regular hedged fields in other areas


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are often constructed of red brick, sometimes with blue brick or ironstone details; in places buildings are constructed of Lias limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Buildings are often constructed of red brick, sometimes with blue brick or ironstone details; in places buildings are constructed of Lias limestone.


JM KeyChar:
•	River valleys are narrow and mainly arable, but in places there are remnant flood meadows, bankside pollard trees and reedbeds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are usually large, with regular or rectilinear shapes, although there are some smaller fields.
•	Many areas of ridge and furrow show the location of medieval open fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Fields are usually large, with regular or rectilinear shapes, although there are some smaller fields.
•	Many areas of ridge and furrow show the location of medieval open fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by lower Lias clays and Mercia mudstones, with extensive surface deposits of glacial drift.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by lower Lias clays and Mercia mudstones, with extensive surface deposits of glacial drift.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many areas of ridge and furrow show the location of medieval open fields.
•	Large country houses set in mature parkland are a recurring feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many areas of ridge and furrow show the location of medieval open fields.
•	Large country houses set in mature parkland are a recurring feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a nucleated settlement pattern of villages, with occasional outlying farms.
•	Large country houses set in mature parkland are a recurring feature.
•	In some areas there is a strong urban influence, particularly near to the urban centres of Leamington Spa, Coventry and Rugby.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a nucleated settlement pattern of villages, with occasional outlying farms.
•	Large country houses set in mature parkland are a recurring feature.
•	In some areas there is a strong urban influence, particularly near to the urban centres of Leamington Spa, Coventry and Rugby.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the landscape is gently undulating with localised low hills and plateaux.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the landscape is gently undulating with localised low hills and plateaux.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a general lack of woodland cover across the area, although there is a well-wooded character in Dunsmore.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a general lack of woodland cover across the area, although there is a well-wooded character in Dunsmore.


FG KeyChar:
•	Away from the urban areas, the main land uses are pasture grassland and rough grazing, particularly on the thinner and more acidic soils.
•	Arable land-use has increased across the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pasture grassland and rough grazing traditionally the main land use, particularly on thinner and more acidic soils
Narrow alluvial floodplains with grazing meadows, often with patches of wet grassland
Arable land use has increased


FG KeyChar:
•	Most older buildings are constructed of brick and timber.

Edited_KeyChars:
Older buildings mainly of brick and timber


FG KeyChar:
•	River corridors are defined by narrow alluvial floodplains, which are characterised by grazing meadows, often with patches of wet grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	River corridors are defined by narrow alluvial floodplains, which are characterised by grazing meadows, often with patches of wet grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are ancient patterns of well-hedged, irregular fields and small woodlands that contrast with larger semi-regular fields on former deer parks and estates and geometric patterns on former commons.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient patterns of well-hedged, irregular fields
Larger semi-regular hedged fields on former deer parks and estates
Geometric field patterns on former commons
Boundary walls associated with large estates


FG KeyChar:
•	The underlying geology in the north of the area is dominated by Palaeozoic rocks, including coal measures, while the centre and south of the area is underlain by Triassic mudstones and sandstones, with frequent deposits of glacial drift.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The underlying geology in the north of the area is dominated by Palaeozoic rocks, including coal measures, while the centre and south of the area is underlain by Triassic mudstones and sandstones, with frequent deposits of glacial drift.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is Shakespeare's 'Forest of Arden' which was historically a region of wood pasture and heathland.

JM KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include medieval military and ecclesiastical sites and moated manors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medieval military and ecclesiastical sites and moated manors
Shakespeare's 'Forest of Arden', historic region of wood pasture and heathland
Field ponds locally important and marl-pits in need of management


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a strong urban influence in the area, which includes the large urban areas of Birmingham and Coventry and many smaller urban areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a strong urban influence in the area, which includes the large urban areas of Birmingham and Coventry and many smaller urban areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some areas of heathland persist on poorer soils in central and northern areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant heathlands on poorer soils in centre and north
Small areas of remnant lowland meadows
Narrow alluvial floodplains of the rivers, characterised by grazing meadows, with patches of wet grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the Arden landscape is characterised by a dispersed settlement pattern, with just a few villages along the river valleys, and frequent isolated farms. 
•	The former commons attracted settlement by landless labourers which formed the basis for many of the Arden hamlets and the isolated wayside cottages with long, narrow gardens.
•	Small mining settlements, with terraced housing, have developed in the north-east of the area.
•	There is a strong urban influence in the area, which includes the large urban areas of Birmingham and Coventry and many smaller urban areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the Arden landscape is characterised by a dispersed settlement pattern, with just a few villages along the river valleys, and frequent isolated farms. 
•	The former commons attracted settlement by landless labourers which formed the basis for many of the Arden hamlets and the isolated wayside cottages with long, narrow gardens.
•	Small mining settlements, with terraced housing, have developed in the north-east of the area.
•	There is a strong urban influence in the area, which includes the large urban areas of Birmingham and Coventry and many smaller urban areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a rolling landform of low hills and valleys, with narrow meandering flood plains and occasional steeper scarps.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a rolling landform of low hills and valleys, with narrow meandering flood plains and occasional steeper scarps.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mature hedgerow oaks are a defining characteristic of the area, together with ancient woodlands and plantation woodlands that often date from the time of enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mature hedgerow oaks and field trees - a defining characteristic but at risk
Ancient woodlands
belta of mature trees associated with large estates
Plantation woodlands from time of parliamentary enclosure
Wooded fringes to water courses
Remnant traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a mosaic of improved and unimproved grasslands with occasional arable fields on the lower hills and vales and intensive mixed farming in the wide, flat-bottomed valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of improved and unimproved grasslands
Arable fields on lower hills and vales
Intensive mixed farming in wide, flat-bottomed valleys
remaining floodplain grazing marsh in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Rural buildings are traditionally of grey Silurian stone or whitewash.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rural buildings traditionally of grey Silurian stone or whitewash


FG KeyChar:
•	River systems are an important feature of this landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	River systems are an important feature of this landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are irregular field patterns in valleys and around settlements contrasting with large rectilinear fields on higher ground.
•	To the west are open hilltop pastures, rough grazing and moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedges throughout
Irregular field patterns in valleys and around settlements
Large rectilinear fields on higher ground
Open hilltop pastures, rough grazing and moorland to west
Walls bound estates, parklands and old deer parks


FG KeyChar:
•	Offa’s Dyke is an important historic landscape feature, along with several Iron Age hillforts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Offa’s Dyke
Iron Age hillforts
Motte and bailey castles in valleys
Important landscapes parks and deer parks


FG KeyChar:
•	There are occasional species-rich grasslands, heathlands and ancient woodlands throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Occasional species-rich grasslands and heathlands
Rhos Fiddle the most extensively remaining area for moorland (upland heath) with most of it having now been reclaimed for agriculture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Welsh settlement patterns of isolated farmsteads, small fields and Welsh farm names in the western uplands contrast with scattered villages, castles and anglicised names in the valleys.
•	The former market towns of Kington and Bishop’s Castle are the principal settlements in the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Welsh settlement patterns of isolated farmsteads, small fields and Welsh farm names in the western uplands contrast with scattered villages, castles and anglicised names in the valleys.
•	The former market towns of Kington and Bishop’s Castle are the principal settlements in the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rounded upland hills with steep slopes divided by narrow valleys which widen to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rounded upland hills with steep slopes divided by narrow valleys which widen to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large, recent conifer plantations occur alongside or interlocking with remnant, ancient, semi-natural woodland on central hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant, ancient, semi-natural woodland on central hills
Scattered field trees
Waterside trees and pollards in need of management
Localised traditonal orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	The agriculture is variable, ranging from rough grazing in the west, through low to moderate intensity pastoral land use, to intensive arable cultivation on the valley floors of the Golden Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The agriculture is variable, ranging from rough grazing in the west, through low to moderate intensity pastoral land use, to intensive arable cultivation on the valley floors of the Golden Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	The older buildings are of Old Red Sandstone in a mixture of hues from red to grey.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The older buildings are of Old Red Sandstone in a mixture of hues from red to grey.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a predominantly irregular enclosure pattern of small fields with thick, mixed hedges, becoming larger and semi-regular on the lower ground to the east; the high hills to the west are mostly unenclosed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a predominantly irregular enclosure pattern of small fields with thick, mixed hedges, becoming larger and semi-regular on the lower ground to the east; the high hills to the west are mostly unenclosed.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the west, the Black Mountains are a high, steep-sided tableland of Old Red Sandstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	To the west, the Black Mountains are a high, steep-sided tableland of Old Red Sandstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Occasional Iron Age hillforts and older monuments are found in the area.
•	Some areas of parkland occur on the eastern ridges and slopes.
•	There is a strong Welsh influence across much of the area and many defensive mottes are found.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Occasional Iron Age hillforts and older monuments are found in the area.
•	Some areas of parkland occur on the eastern ridges and slopes.
•	There is a strong Welsh influence across much of the area and many defensive mottes are found.


FG KeyChar:
•	On more fertile soils fields are rectangular while in the valleys small, irregular shaped ancient fields are enclosed by traditional Cornish hedges .
•	A mosaic of enclosed pasture with rough grazing fringes the plateau while more productive land is dominated by pasture, with some arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
On fertile soils, rectangular fields
In valleys, small, irregular shaped ancient fields enclosed by traditional Cornish hedges (stone-faced hedgebanks)


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age barrows on the downs, ancient trackways, and prehistoric defended farming settlements (rounds) form important landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Bronze Age barrows on downs
Ancient trackways, and prehistoric defended farming settlements (rounds)


FG KeyChar:
•	Heathland with heather and moorland grasses dominates the plateau while remaining fragments of cliff top heathland also survive, in the past providing common grazing.  The majority of both cliff top and moorland heath forms part of the Lizard National Nature Reserve.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heathland with heather and moorland grasses on plateau 
Localised areas of fen and reedbed in river valleys
Fragments of cliff top heathland that in the past provided common grazing


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement pattern is dispersed and linked by minor lanes, with ancient hamlets and farmsteads concentrated in the valleys and main settlements along the coastline.
•	Tourism-led development around the coastline is often out of keeping with the local vernacular style.  The wind farm and BT Earth station on Goonhilly Down break up the skyline and are dominant features in an otherwise remote and wild landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement pattern is dispersed and linked by minor lanes, with ancient hamlets and farmsteads concentrated in the valleys and main settlements along the coastline.
•	Tourism-led development around the coastline is often out of keeping with the local vernacular style.  The wind farm and BT Earth station on Goonhilly Down break up the skyline and are dominant features in an otherwise remote and wild landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by a gently undulating exposed heathland plateau (downs) cut by narrow river valleys.
•	Off the plateau is a more sheltered, gently rolling landscape with small valleys and derelict coastal quarries.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is dominated by a gently undulating exposed heathland plateau (downs) cut by narrow river valleys.
•	Off the plateau is a more sheltered, gently rolling landscape with small valleys and derelict coastal quarries.


FG KeyChar:
•	Recent conifer plantations disrupt the generally treeless plateau.  Stunted patches of woodland cover are found in the steep valleys which dissect the moorland.  Small woodlands and copses occupy the more sheltered valleys on the lower lying land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Generally treeless plateau
Stunted patches of woodland cover in steep moorland valleys
Small woodlands and copses in more sheltered valleys on lower-lying land
Larger semi-natural woodlands and areas of  invasive species such as rhododendron, pine and laurel in the more sheltered north


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are of a distinctive granite vernacular.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Buildings are of a distinctive granite vernacular.


FG KeyChar:
•	A unique pattern of small bulb fields enclosed by evergreen hedges (Escallonia, Euonymus, Pittosporum and Hebe) intermixed with areas of pasture enclosed by stone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A unique pattern of small bulb fields enclosed by evergreen hedges (Escallonia, Euonymus, Pittosporum and Hebe) intermixed with areas of pasture enclosed by stone walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low, lying granite islands which are dominated by the sea.
•	Many uninhabited islands and offshore rocks, forming complex seascapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Low, lying granite islands which are dominated by the sea.
•	Many uninhabited islands and offshore rocks, forming complex seascapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Outstanding prehistoric monuments including chambered barrows and standing stones of the late Neolithic/early Bronze Age.
•	Forts and castles are a prominent feature on areas of higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Outstanding prehistoric monuments including chambered barrows and standing stones of the late Neolithic/early Bronze Age.
•	Forts and castles are a prominent feature on areas of higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open, unenclosed areas of maritime heath and grassland fringe the islands, now often dominated by gorse and bracken.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open, unenclosed areas of maritime heath and grassland fringe the islands, now often dominated by gorse and bracken.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hughtown on St. Mary’s forms the principal settlement with small hamlets and solitary farmhouses elsewhere.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Hughtown on St. Mary’s forms the principal settlement with small hamlets and solitary farmhouses elsewhere.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low, lying granite islands which are dominated by the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Low, lying granite islands which are dominated by the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	Largely treeless and windswept, part from occasional pine shelterbelts, notably on Tresco, and elm sheltering in the valleys of St. Mary’s.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Largely treeless and windswept, part from occasional pine shelterbelts, notably on Tresco, and elm sheltering in the valleys of St. Mary’s.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open heathland on the plateau is grazed by sheep and goats.  The southern half of the island supports a mixture of arable cultivation and pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open heathland on the plateau is grazed by sheep and goats.  The southern half of the island supports a mixture of arable cultivation and pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	The northern half of the island is open heath, intersected by only three stone walls which run across the whole width of the plateau.  The southern half of the island consists of small fields enclosed by stone walls or wire fencing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The northern half of the island is open heath, intersected by only three stone walls which run across the whole width of the plateau.  The southern half of the island consists of small fields enclosed by stone walls or wire fencing.


FG KeyChar:
•	A small, isolated island with distinctive flat-topped granite landform, steeply sloping sides and vertical cliffs.  The south-eastern peninsular is comprised of Devonian slates.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A small, isolated island with distinctive flat-topped granite landform, steeply sloping sides and vertical cliffs.  The south-eastern peninsular is comprised of Devonian slates.


FG KeyChar:
•	Lundy has a rich archaeological heritage with remains of settlements dating back to c1500BC still visible above ground at the northern end of the island.  Other examples include burial cairns and standing stones, early Christian memorial stones, Celtic field systems, and Second World War anti-aircraft trenches.  The remains of the 13th Century Marisco Castle are a prominent landmark.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Lundy has a rich archaeological heritage with remains of settlements dating back to c1500BC still visible above ground at the northern end of the island.  Other examples include burial cairns and standing stones, early Christian memorial stones, Celtic field systems, and Second World War anti-aircraft trenches.  The remains of the 13th Century Marisco Castle are a prominent landmark.


FG KeyChar:
•	Patchy scrub and maritime grassland cover the cliffs and adjacent steep slopes on the more sheltered eastern coast.  The windward west coast is more rugged, steep and largely bare of vegetation.  The central plateau is dominated by dry heathland vegetation, with some areas of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic, and patches of bracken.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Patchy scrub and maritime grassland cover the cliffs and adjacent steep slopes on the more sheltered eastern coast.  The windward west coast is more rugged, steep and largely bare of vegetation.  The central plateau is dominated by dry heathland vegetation, with some areas of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic, and patches of bracken.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is only one settlement, in the south of the island.  It comprises a small group of farm buildings, cottages, a shop and an inn, together with a church, hotel and the remains of older buildings.  It is also the location of the landing stage for visitors.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is only one settlement, in the south of the island.  It comprises a small group of farm buildings, cottages, a shop and an inn, together with a church, hotel and the remains of older buildings.  It is also the location of the landing stage for visitors.


FG KeyChar:
•	A small, isolated island with distinctive flat-topped granite landform, steeply sloping sides and vertical cliffs.  The south-eastern peninsular is comprised of Devonian slates.
•	It forms a prominent landmark when viewed from the mainland.  Views from the open plateau over the sea are extensive, giving a strong sense of isolation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A small, isolated island with distinctive flat-topped granite landform, steeply sloping sides and vertical cliffs.  The south-eastern peninsular is comprised of Devonian slates.
•	It forms a prominent landmark when viewed from the mainland.  Views from the open plateau over the sea are extensive, giving a strong sense of isolation.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is little tree cover, owing to its exposed nature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is little tree cover, owing to its exposed nature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open heather moorland, acid grassland and extensive areas of bracken are found on the upper hill slopes and summits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open heather moorland, acid grassland and extensive areas of bracken are found on the upper hill slopes and summits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scattered farmsteads and hamlets form a dispersed settlement pattern with occasional villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Scattered farmsteads and hamlets form a dispersed settlement pattern with occasional villages.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the west, the Black Mountains are a high, steep-sided tableland of Old Red Sandstone.
•	The lower landscape to the east has been cut by rivers, giving a north-west to south-east orientated pattern of ridges and valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	To the west, the Black Mountains are a high, steep-sided tableland of Old Red Sandstone.
•	The lower landscape to the east has been cut by rivers, giving a north-west to south-east orientated pattern of ridges and valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is predominantly found on the slopes of the eastern and northern hills, including the ancient deer park at Moccas, and is mostly broadleaved, but with some blocks of mixed and coniferous plantations.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland is predominantly found on the slopes of the eastern and northern hills, including the ancient deer park at Moccas, and is mostly broadleaved, but with some blocks of mixed and coniferous plantations.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the lower lying land is in intensive arable cultivation with localised traditional and bush orchards, and occasional hop fields.
•	Pasture is also frequent with occasional wet meadows and permanent pastures along the rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the lower lying land is in intensive arable cultivation with localised traditional and bush orchards, and occasional hop fields.
•	Pasture is also frequent with occasional wet meadows and permanent pastures along the rivers.


FG KeyChar:
•	Timber framed (black and white) buildings are typical across much of the area but stone and red brick are also frequently used.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Timber framed (black and white) buildings are typical across much of the area but stone and red brick are also frequently used.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are wide meandering river valleys, including the Wye, Lugg and Frome with occasional pollarded willows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are wide meandering river valleys, including the Wye, Lugg and Frome with occasional pollarded willows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Parkland is also a characteristic feature of the Herefordshire lowlands.
•	The hedgerows are often cut low with sparse tree cover, although locally high or planted windbreaks occur around orchards and hop fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Parkland is also a characteristic feature of the Herefordshire lowlands.
•	The hedgerows are often cut low with sparse tree cover, although locally high or planted windbreaks occur around orchards and hop fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Old Red Sandstone, with localised deposits of alluvium and glacial drift.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Much of the area is underlain by Old Red Sandstone, with localised deposits of alluvium and glacial drift.


FG KeyChar:
•	Parkland is also a characteristic feature of the Herefordshire lowlands.
•	The historic market towns of Hereford and Leominster are the principal settlements with dense urban development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Parkland is also a characteristic feature of the Herefordshire lowlands.
•	The historic market towns of Hereford and Leominster are the principal settlements with dense urban development.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pasture is also frequent with occasional wet meadows and permanent pastures along the rivers.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Pasture is also frequent with occasional wet meadows and permanent pastures along the rivers.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern with scattered villages, hamlets and farmsteads throughout, and clustered settlements around commons.
•	The historic market towns of Hereford and Leominster are the principal settlements with dense urban development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern with scattered villages, hamlets and farmsteads throughout, and clustered settlements around commons.
•	The historic market towns of Hereford and Leominster are the principal settlements with dense urban development.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating landscape with localised steep-sided hills and wide flood plains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating landscape with localised steep-sided hills and wide flood plains.


FG KeyChar:
•	The steep slopes of the central hills are dominated by woodlands, but there are scattered copses and plantations throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The steep slopes of the central hills are dominated by woodlands, but there are scattered copses and plantations throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable farming dominates the plateau, although there are areas of pasture and mixed farming.
•	Hops and orchards (traditional and bush) are found throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Arable farming dominates the plateau, although there are areas of pasture and mixed farming.
•	Hops and orchards (traditional and bush) are found throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of scattered hamlets, farms and manor houses throughout the area, with pink and grey Old Red Sandstone traditionally used and occasionally timber-framing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of scattered hamlets, farms and manor houses throughout the area, with pink and grey Old Red Sandstone traditionally used and occasionally timber-framing.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are many streams and rivers, the Frome being the largest, flowing through incised valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are many streams and rivers, the Frome being the largest, flowing through incised valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The fields are medium to large in size on the open, flatter ground of the plateau, whilst smaller, more irregular and with higher hedges on the slopes and in the valleys.
•	Scattered damson trees are a distinctive feature along many hedgerows in this area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The fields are medium to large in size on the open, flatter ground of the plateau, whilst smaller, more irregular and with higher hedges on the slopes and in the valleys.
•	Scattered damson trees are a distinctive feature along many hedgerows in this area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating plateau of Old Red Sandstone, dissected by many radiating, small, narrow valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating plateau of Old Red Sandstone, dissected by many radiating, small, narrow valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Iron Age hillforts are found on some of the higher hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Iron Age hillforts are found on some of the higher hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Localised heaths and commons are found on the hills east of Bromyard.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Localised heaths and commons are found on the hills east of Bromyard.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of scattered hamlets, farms and manor houses throughout the area, with pink and grey Old Red Sandstone traditionally used and occasionally timber-framing.
•	A clustered settlement pattern occurs on and around Bringsty Common and Bromyard Downs.
•	Bromyard is the principal settlement of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a dispersed settlement pattern of scattered hamlets, farms and manor houses throughout the area, with pink and grey Old Red Sandstone traditionally used and occasionally timber-framing.
•	A clustered settlement pattern occurs on and around Bringsty Common and Bromyard Downs.
•	Bromyard is the principal settlement of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating plateau of Old Red Sandstone, dissected by many radiating, small, narrow valleys.
•	The plateau has an abrupt western edge down to the River Lugg, and northern and eastern edges to the River Teme.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating plateau of Old Red Sandstone, dissected by many radiating, small, narrow valleys.
•	The plateau has an abrupt western edge down to the River Lugg, and northern and eastern edges to the River Teme.


FG KeyChar:
•	A formation of Chalk hills and plateau with a prominent escarpment and extensive dip slope with numerous dry valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A formation of Chalk hills and plateau with a prominent escarpment and extensive dip slope with numerous dry valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	A network of ancient green lanes and tracks, including the Ridgeway, links numerous archaeological sites and settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Network of ancient green lanes and tracks, including the Ridgeway
Numerous archaeological sites
Grand country houses and designed landscapes


FG KeyChar:
•	There are remnants of chalk downland on the escarpment and valley sides with extensive areas of downland invaded by scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
Chalk grassland and downland on escarpment and valley sides (often invaded by scrub)
Remnant acid grassland on semi-open common land on plateau
Small areas of flower-rich wet meadows in river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement consists of scattered villages and farmsteads, some of medieval origin, displaying consistent use of traditional building materials including flint, brick and clay tiles.
•	A network of ancient green lanes and tracks, including the Ridgeway, links numerous archaeological sites and settlements.
•	Frequent grand country houses and designed landscapes occupy prominent positions on sloping valley sides.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement consists of scattered villages and farmsteads, some of medieval origin, displaying consistent use of traditional building materials including flint, brick and clay tiles.
•	A network of ancient green lanes and tracks, including the Ridgeway, links numerous archaeological sites and settlements.
•	Frequent grand country houses and designed landscapes occupy prominent positions on sloping valley sides.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive areas of woodland, dominated by beech on the plateau, and ‘hanging’ woodlands in the valleys, make the Chilterns one of the most wooded lowland landscapes in England.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive beech  woodlands on plateau and ‘hanging’ woods
Small ancient woodlands and hedgerow and in-field trees on farmland
Pollarded willows, alders and other trees along river courses
Traditional orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	A varied land use pattern comprising a mix of arable and pasture land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A varied land use pattern comprising a mix of arable and pasture land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers and streams including the broad valleys of the major rivers Ver, Colne and Lea flow through the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers and streams including the broad valleys of the major rivers Ver, Colne and Lea flow through the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are varied and contrast from areas of well-hedged landscape across the Essex Wooded Hills and Ridges to low and gappy across the heathlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Field boundaries are varied and contrast from areas of well-hedged landscape across the Essex Wooded Hills and Ridges to low and gappy across the heathlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	A mixed landscape consisting of four distinct sub-areas; the Hertfordshire Plateau and River Valleys, Essex Wooded Hills and Ridges, London Clay Lowlands and the Essex Heathlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A mixed landscape consisting of four distinct sub-areas; the Hertfordshire Plateau and River Valleys, Essex Wooded Hills and Ridges, London Clay Lowlands and the Essex Heathlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Notable medieval and later historic homes are a feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Notable medieval and later historic homes are a feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of unimproved acid grasslands, heath and fen add texture to the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Areas of unimproved acid grasslands, heath and fen add texture to the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is extensive across the Hertfordshire Plateau and the Essex Wooded Hills and Ridges. Smaller intimate tree-lined valleys provide a strong contrast through un-wooded areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland cover is extensive across the Hertfordshire Plateau and the Essex Wooded Hills and Ridges. Smaller intimate tree-lined valleys provide a strong contrast through un-wooded areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	Intensively cropped arable fields to the west with a greater density of horticulture and orchards to the east.  Pasture is very limited.
•	Rectangular, regular field patterns defined by crops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Intensively cropped arable fields to the west with a greater density of horticulture and orchards to the east.  Pasture is very limited.
•	Rectangular, regular field patterns defined by crops.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings include oast houses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings include oast houses.


JM KeyChar:
•	This area includes, in the east, the extensive, flat Wantsum and Lower Stour river and coastal marshes, as well as coastal flats at Sandwich.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sparse hedgerow pattern with some shelterbelt planting around settlement and farmsteads.
•	To the east, poplar and alder shelter hedges form a distinctive boundary feature.
•	Rectangular, regular field patterns defined by crops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sparse hedgerow pattern with some shelterbelt planting around settlement and farmsteads.
•	To the east, poplar and alder shelter hedges form a distinctive boundary feature.
•	Rectangular, regular field patterns defined by crops.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low and gently undulating landscape characterised by high quality, fertile loam soils.  To the east Thanet is a geological outlier of the chalk.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Low and gently undulating landscape characterised by high quality, fertile loam soils.  To the east Thanet is a geological outlier of the chalk.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings include oast houses.
•	Historic features include Roman roads and defences at Reculver and Richborough.
•	Historic parklands characterise the junction between the plain and the chalk
•	Canterbury is a settlement of significant historical interest with notable buildings and cultural associations.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings include oast houses.
•	Historic features include Roman roads and defences at Reculver and Richborough.
•	Historic parklands characterise the junction between the plain and the chalk
•	Canterbury is a settlement of significant historical interest with notable buildings and cultural associations.


FG KeyChar:
•	Extensive areas of ancient woodland on higher ground at Blean, plus grazing marsh at transition to Character Area 81: Greater Thames Estuary.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Extensive areas of ancient woodland on higher ground at Blean, plus grazing marsh at transition to Character Area 81: Greater Thames Estuary.


FG KeyChar:
•	Dispersed settlement pattern with significant urban centres at Sandwich, Canterbury, Faversham, Sittingbourne and Dartford and the Medway Towns, plus seaside towns along the Thanet coast.
•	Canterbury is a settlement of significant historical interest with notable buildings and cultural associations.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Dispersed settlement pattern with significant urban centres at Sandwich, Canterbury, Faversham, Sittingbourne and Dartford and the Medway Towns, plus seaside towns along the Thanet coast.
•	Canterbury is a settlement of significant historical interest with notable buildings and cultural associations.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open, often treeless landscape with occasional scattered small woodlands - extensive areas of woodland limited to the distinct sub-area area around Blean.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open, often treeless landscape with occasional scattered small woodlands - extensive areas of woodland limited to the distinct sub-area area around Blean.


FG KeyChar:
•	A predominantly pastoral landscape dominated by fields of permanent pasture.
•	A number of large areas of estate land and landscaped parks, particularly along the river valleys, are now intensively farmed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A predominantly pastoral landscape dominated by fields of permanent pasture.
•	A number of large areas of estate land and landscaped parks, particularly along the river valleys, are now intensively farmed.


FG KeyChar:
•	Characterised by small mixed holdings with brick-built farms.
•	The interface between countryside and urban edge is characterised by an unkempt appearance of wire fences, sheds, derelict hedgerows and weed-infested associated with pony paddocks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Characterised by small mixed holdings with brick-built farms.
•	The interface between countryside and urban edge is characterised by an unkempt appearance of wire fences, sheds, derelict hedgerows and weed-infested associated with pony paddocks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some of the essential farmland character has been fragmented by the expansion of London and the associated major roads that dissect this Character Area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Some of the essential farmland character has been fragmented by the expansion of London and the associated major roads that dissect this Character Area.


FG KeyChar:
•	A gentle lowland character reinforced by two rivers, the Mole and the Wey and river tributaries which meander through flat farmed landscapes towards the Thames.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A gentle lowland character reinforced by two rivers, the Mole and the Wey and river tributaries which meander through flat farmed landscapes towards the Thames.


FG KeyChar:
•	A landscape pattern comprising small or medium-sized, farmed, uneven fields.
•	Field boundaries varying from thin, straight, pure hawthorn hedges on flatter land and wider, irregular, mixed-species hedgerows on more undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A landscape pattern comprising small or medium-sized, farmed, uneven fields.
•	Field boundaries varying from thin, straight, pure hawthorn hedges on flatter land and wider, irregular, mixed-species hedgerows on more undulating land.


FG KeyChar:
•	A small-scale lowland farmed landscape lying within a generally flat but gently undulating clay vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A small-scale lowland farmed landscape lying within a generally flat but gently undulating clay vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	A number of large areas of estate land and landscaped parks, particularly along the river valleys, are now intensively farmed.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A number of large areas of estate land and landscaped parks, particularly along the river valleys, are now intensively farmed.


FG KeyChar:
•	A mosaic of field ponds, meadows, remnant heathland and some individual mature tree species.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A mosaic of field ponds, meadows, remnant heathland and some individual mature tree species.


FG KeyChar:
•	The interface between countryside and urban edge is characterised by an unkempt appearance of wire fences, sheds, derelict hedgerows and weed-infested associated with pony paddocks.
•	Some of the essential farmland character has been fragmented by the expansion of London and the associated major roads that dissect this Character Area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The interface between countryside and urban edge is characterised by an unkempt appearance of wire fences, sheds, derelict hedgerows and weed-infested associated with pony paddocks.
•	Some of the essential farmland character has been fragmented by the expansion of London and the associated major roads that dissect this Character Area.


FG KeyChar:
•	A moderately wooded landscape interspersed by oak/ash woods and shaws.
•	Field trees occur in straight lines, marking old hedgerow lines, typically oak, ash and field maple.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A moderately wooded landscape interspersed by oak/ash woods and shaws.
•	Field trees occur in straight lines, marking old hedgerow lines, typically oak, ash and field maple.


FG KeyChar:
•	Overall this Character Area contains fragmented, poor agricultural land.
•	Fertile alluvium and free draining gravel terraces have been utilised for market gardening and fruit growing.
•	The cultivated parts of the Thames floodplain are dominated by grazing land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Overall this Character Area contains fragmented, poor agricultural land.
•	Fertile alluvium and free draining gravel terraces have been utilised for market gardening and fruit growing.
•	The cultivated parts of the Thames floodplain are dominated by grazing land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings include large houses set within ornamental parkland, indicating the wealth of the Thames Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Traditional buildings include large houses set within ornamental parkland, indicating the wealth of the Thames Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are ancient wet meadows on the floodplain.
•	The presence of water is a key feature – in the form of rivers, streams, lakes, canals and open water bodies (the result of restored gravel workings).

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are ancient wet meadows on the floodplain.
•	The presence of water is a key feature – in the form of rivers, streams, lakes, canals and open water bodies (the result of restored gravel workings).


FG KeyChar:
•	Regular field patterns on the floodplain suggest late enclosure.
•	Smaller field patterns on higher ground suggest earlier enclosure of drier land.
•	Hedgerows create landscape structure – mature oaks are a feature of the hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Regular field patterns on the floodplain suggest late enclosure.
•	Smaller field patterns on higher ground suggest earlier enclosure of drier land.
•	Hedgerows create landscape structure – mature oaks are a feature of the hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The underlying geology is dominated by London Clay, with an outcrop of Chalk to the north of the Character Area bordering the Chilterns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The underlying geology is dominated by London Clay, with an outcrop of Chalk to the north of the Character Area bordering the Chilterns.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are ancient wet meadows on the floodplain.
•	Windsor Castle is located on an outcrop of chalk on the edge of the Thames.
•	The sloping banks of the Thames are occasionally dominated by extensive historic parklands, including Windsor Great Park.
•	The ‘lost villages’ of Denham, Shepperton and Upper Halliford are now engulfed by built development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are ancient wet meadows on the floodplain.
•	Windsor Castle is located on an outcrop of chalk on the edge of the Thames.
•	The sloping banks of the Thames are occasionally dominated by extensive historic parklands, including Windsor Great Park.
•	The ‘lost villages’ of Denham, Shepperton and Upper Halliford are now engulfed by built development.


FG KeyChar:
•	Towards London in the east, the natural character of the area is overtaken by urban influences; a dense network of roads including the M25 corridor, Heathrow Airport, railway lines, golf courses, pylon lines, reservoirs and extensive mineral workings.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Towards London in the east, the natural character of the area is overtaken by urban influences; a dense network of roads including the M25 corridor, Heathrow Airport, railway lines, golf courses, pylon lines, reservoirs and extensive mineral workings.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are ancient wet meadows on the floodplain.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are ancient wet meadows on the floodplain.


FG KeyChar:
•	The ‘lost villages’ of Denham, Shepperton and Upper Halliford are now engulfed by built development.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The ‘lost villages’ of Denham, Shepperton and Upper Halliford are now engulfed by built development.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is generally confined to a matrix of small farm woods although woodlands characterise the north-western area, the wooded character extending up to the southern edge of the Chiltern Hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland is generally confined to a matrix of small farm woods although woodlands characterise the north-western area, the wooded character extending up to the southern edge of the Chiltern Hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	Predominantly characterised by intensive arable farmland, plus areas of pasture associated with the valleys and dairying within the vale landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly intensive arable farmland
Areas of pasture associated with valleys and dairying in vales
Remnant traditional water meadows


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic buildings include knapped flint and weathered chalk in walls and locally occurring sarsen stones.

Edited_KeyChars:
Diverse historic building materials including brick, knapped flint, weathered chalk, locally occurring Sarsen stones, weatherboard, cob, tile and thatch


FG KeyChar:
•	The Ridgeway, an ancient chalk track following the top of the scarp, links Avebury with Ivinghoe in Hertfordshire.  There is a wider network of Green Lanes and drove roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Ridgeway, an ancient chalk track following the top of the scarp, links Avebury with Ivinghoe in Hertfordshire.  There is a wider network of Green Lanes and drove roads.


FG KeyChar:
•	Chalk stream and rivers (e.g. Kennet, Lambourn and Pang are key feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Chalk stream and rivers (e.g. Kennet, Lambourn and Pang are key feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large geometric fields on the open downs are characterised by post and wire fencing. Within lower areas woodland, hedgerows and shelterbelts frequently form boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Very large geometric fields enclosed by fencing on open downs
In lower areas, hedgerow and shelterbelt boundaries
Small hedged fields in river valleys
Localised drainage ditches on valley floors
brick and flint walls around major estates


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive valleys incise the chalk and the Vale of Pewsey on Greensand provides a further contrast. 
•	To the west, sarsen stones are a particular feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Distinctive valleys incise the chalk and the Vale of Pewsey on Greensand provides a further contrast. 
•	To the west, sarsen stones are a particular feature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Savernake Forest with its remnant Royal Hunting Forest, ancient trees and historic parkland is a distinctive area.
•	Numerous barrows and other prehistoric earthworks including the Neolithic stone circle at Avebury, Silbury Hill and West Kennet Longbarrow, collectively designated as a World Heritage Site.  Bronze Age and Iron Age hillforts cluster on scarp ridges.  
•	The Ridgeway, an ancient chalk track following the top of the scarp, links Avebury with Ivinghoe in Hertfordshire.  There is a wider network of Green Lanes and drove roads.
•	Chalk cut white horses are a dramatic visual feature.

Edited_KeyChars:
Savernake Forest former royal hunting forest
Extensive historic parkland/ deer parks
Numerous barrows and other prehistoric earthworks
Ridgeway ancient chalk track; chalk-cut white horses
Network of green lanes and drove roads


FG KeyChar:
•	Grazed chalk grassland is largely restricted to the scarps and steep slopes of dry valleys.  Substantial areas of ancient semi-natural woodland persist.

Edited_KeyChars:
Grazed chalk grassland on scarps and steep slopes of dry valleys
Floodplain grazing marsh in the river valleys with associated fen / marsh / carr vegetation
Chalk rivers with watercress beds and wetland habitats


FG KeyChar:
•	Sparse settlement pattern on the open downs of occasional farm buildings and racehorse training establishments, contrasting with compact villages and hamlets clustering in the valleys.  
•	Includes the historic market towns of Marlborough and Hungerford in the Kennet Valley and Pewsey in the Vale. Expanding urban centres border the Character Area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sparse settlement pattern on the open downs of occasional farm buildings and racehorse training establishments, contrasting with compact villages and hamlets clustering in the valleys.  
•	Includes the historic market towns of Marlborough and Hungerford in the Kennet Valley and Pewsey in the Vale. Expanding urban centres border the Character Area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large-scale open downs form a classic chalk landscape with strong escarpment backed by an elevated plateau of rolling or undulating topography extending as the dipslope.
•	Distinctive valleys incise the chalk and the Vale of Pewsey on Greensand provides a further contrast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large-scale open downs form a classic chalk landscape with strong escarpment backed by an elevated plateau of rolling or undulating topography extending as the dipslope.
•	Distinctive valleys incise the chalk and the Vale of Pewsey on Greensand provides a further contrast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Absence of woodland on the open chalk downs apart from characteristic beech clumps.  Woodland blocks are concentrated on areas of clay with flint on the lower parts of the dipslope creating a more enclosed landscape.
•	Savernake Forest with its remnant Royal Hunting Forest, ancient trees and historic parkland is a distinctive area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Generally no woodland on open chalk downs except for characteristic beech clumps
Woodland blocks on clay-with-flints on lower dip slope
Remnant royal hunting forest at Savernake Forest (ancient trees and historic parkland)
Areeas of remnant wood pasture where clay with flints overlie the chalk
Wet woodlands in river valleys (alder, poplar, willow pollards)


FG KeyChar:
•	A mixture of arable and pasture dominates the landscape with pasture often in smaller fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A mixture of arable and pasture dominates the landscape with pasture often in smaller fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive towns such as Malmesbury, Calne, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge are dominated by attractive centres built of limestone ashlar, reflecting their prosperity as centres of the wool trade.  Other stone used throughout the area includes Cotswold stone and Corallian rag.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Distinctive towns such as Malmesbury, Calne, Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge are dominated by attractive centres built of limestone ashlar, reflecting their prosperity as centres of the wool trade.  Other stone used throughout the area includes Cotswold stone and Corallian rag.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the major settlements lie along the Avon, linked by valley bottom and ridge roads, smaller villages are clustered along streams.
•	The Kennet and Avon canal is a prominent feature in the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the major settlements lie along the Avon, linked by valley bottom and ridge roads, smaller villages are clustered along streams.
•	The Kennet and Avon canal is a prominent feature in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating clay vale dominated by Oxford Clay and cut by the River Avon and its tributaries, with gravels and other alluvial deposits in the river bed.  Its eastern boundary is formed of Corallian limestone.
•	The Kennet and Avon canal is a prominent feature in the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating clay vale dominated by Oxford Clay and cut by the River Avon and its tributaries, with gravels and other alluvial deposits in the river bed.  Its eastern boundary is formed of Corallian limestone.
•	The Kennet and Avon canal is a prominent feature in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst hedgecover on arable land is poor, affected by agricultural intensification, overgrown hedgerows and hedgerow trees are a characteristic feature of pasture and low lying wet grasslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst hedgecover on arable land is poor, affected by agricultural intensification, overgrown hedgerows and hedgerow trees are a characteristic feature of pasture and low lying wet grasslands.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an undulating clay vale dominated by Oxford Clay and cut by the River Avon and its tributaries, with gravels and other alluvial deposits in the river bed.  Its eastern boundary is formed of Corallian limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an undulating clay vale dominated by Oxford Clay and cut by the River Avon and its tributaries, with gravels and other alluvial deposits in the river bed.  Its eastern boundary is formed of Corallian limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age hillforts, Bronze Age occupation sites and later medieval forests of Chippenham, Melksham and Chelwood are important features.
•	Extensive areas of ridge and furrow suggest that the area was dominated by arable cultivation.  Large historic mansions and parks, some of which were designed by Capability Brown are surrounded by woodland e.g. Bowood.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age hillforts, Bronze Age occupation sites and later medieval forests of Chippenham, Melksham and Chelwood are important features.
•	Extensive areas of ridge and furrow suggest that the area was dominated by arable cultivation.  Large historic mansions and parks, some of which were designed by Capability Brown are surrounded by woodland e.g. Bowood.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the wide river corridor is influenced by modern development, there are ancient patterns of flood meadows, pollards, alders and rich wetland pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the wide river corridor is influenced by modern development, there are ancient patterns of flood meadows, pollards, alders and rich wetland pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the major settlements lie along the Avon, linked by valley bottom and ridge roads, smaller villages are clustered along streams.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Most of the major settlements lie along the Avon, linked by valley bottom and ridge roads, smaller villages are clustered along streams.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is concentrated in a few areas; notably mixed woodland between Chittoe and Sudley, on former commonland, on steeper slopes and adjacent to streams and river banks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Woodland is concentrated in a few areas; notably mixed woodland between Chittoe and Sudley, on former commonland, on steeper slopes and adjacent to streams and river banks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable is prevalent in the north east and pasture on downland; semi-improved grasslands remain in wetter valley bottoms and on downland slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Arable is prevalent in the north east and pasture on downland; semi-improved grasslands remain in wetter valley bottoms and on downland slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Older village buildings, manor houses and mansions are of local ashlar which includes pale yellow Jurassic oolite, grey Carboniferous and Lias Limestone.  In some locations in the north, buildings are constructed of red or brown sandstone.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Older village buildings, manor houses and mansions are of local ashlar which includes pale yellow Jurassic oolite, grey Carboniferous and Lias Limestone.  In some locations in the north, buildings are constructed of red or brown sandstone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Avon cuts a steep sided valley through the area from the east.  It is joined by the Frome at the centre of Bristol and the Chew near Keynsham.  Other streams and rivers in the south east flow eastwards to join the Avon outside the Character Area and the Yeo on the south western edge flows directly to the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Avon cuts a steep sided valley through the area from the east.  It is joined by the Frome at the centre of Bristol and the Chew near Keynsham.  Other streams and rivers in the south east flow eastwards to join the Avon outside the Character Area and the Yeo on the south western edge flows directly to the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst flatter land and downland consist of large fields with low intermittent hedges and few hedgerow trees, valleys and steeper slopes predominantly in the south east have irregular fields and overgrown species rich hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Whilst flatter land and downland consist of large fields with low intermittent hedges and few hedgerow trees, valleys and steeper slopes predominantly in the south east have irregular fields and overgrown species rich hedges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landform reflects the complex underlying geology, comprised of carboniferous limestones with sandstones, silts, conglomerates, together with muds, clays and alluvium.  Coal measures are also present reflecting the development of the mining industry.
•	Soils range from brown earths on limestone outcrops to poorly draining gleys on clays.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landform reflects the complex underlying geology, comprised of carboniferous limestones with sandstones, silts, conglomerates, together with muds, clays and alluvium.  Coal measures are also present reflecting the development of the mining industry.
•	Soils range from brown earths on limestone outcrops to poorly draining gleys on clays.


FG KeyChar:
•	Neolithic long barrows and stone circles and Iron Age hillforts are important landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Neolithic long barrows and stone circles and Iron Age hillforts are important landscape features.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bristol and its commercial, industrial and residential areas, major roads (M4 and M5), airfields and reservoirs occupy a substantial area around Bristol.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Bristol and its commercial, industrial and residential areas, major roads (M4 and M5), airfields and reservoirs occupy a substantial area around Bristol.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements patterns are clustered around springsheads in limestone areas, whilst in the vales they are scattered, linked by a complex network of lanes with linear mining villages superimposed.  Settlement becomes especially dense in the south with many villages enlarged as commuter settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements patterns are clustered around springsheads in limestone areas, whilst in the vales they are scattered, linked by a complex network of lanes with linear mining villages superimposed.  Settlement becomes especially dense in the south with many villages enlarged as commuter settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low lying, shallow vales contrast sharply with high open downland ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Low lying, shallow vales contrast sharply with high open downland ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	The most extensive areas of woodland lies between Congresbury and the Avon Gorge and on the Failand Ridge.  Elsewhere woodlands are smaller and fragmented mainly confined to steeper land.
•	Parkland is a characteristic feature of  the south and west where the woodlands and mature and exotic trees bring a distinctive local character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The most extensive areas of woodland lies between Congresbury and the Avon Gorge and on the Failand Ridge.  Elsewhere woodlands are smaller and fragmented mainly confined to steeper land.
•	Parkland is a characteristic feature of  the south and west where the woodlands and mature and exotic trees bring a distinctive local character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some areas of open unenclosed downland grazing but mostly dominated by regular arable fields.  Extensive tracts of cereals, root and horticultural crops on the dip slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some open unenclosed downland grazing
Plateau and dip slope characterised by large arable fields
Areas of permanent pasture on steeper slopes and in the mid-Surrey Hills
Wet pasture and wet meadows on the valley floors


FG KeyChar:
•	Local building materials include flint and Wealden bricks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local building materials that include flint and Wealden bricks
Tile hung oast houses especially in the Kent Downs


Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive chalk cliffs at Dover (the White Cliffs of Dover)
Wetland complex in the Medway gap sustained by the tidal river, including intertidal mudflats and grazing marsh


FG KeyChar:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Drove roads, plus ancient tracks including the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way are a feature of the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Cut by valleys of the rivers Stour, Medway, Darent and Mole.  The steep scarp is incised by dry valleys which form gentle wide coombes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Cut by valleys of the rivers Stour, Medway, Darent and Mole.  The steep scarp is incised by dry valleys which form gentle wide coombes.


Edited_KeyChars:
Thick woodland shaws and mixed bushy hedges on slopes
Denuded and often gappy hedgerows around arable land
Historic parish boundaries that take in downland, scarp foot and chartland
Walls associated with the boundary of major estates
Drainage ditches on valley floors


FG KeyChar:
•	High quality agricultural land dominated by large scale arable fields, with some smaller areas of grazed wet pasture.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High quality agricultural land dominated by large scale arable fields, with some smaller areas of grazed wet pasture.


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive architectural character within settlements of weatherboarding and hung tiles, with some fine medieval churches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Distinctive architectural character within settlements of weatherboarding and hung tiles, with some fine medieval churches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Strong contrast of agricultural marshes with the coastal edge shingle and sand dune landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Strong contrast of agricultural marshes with the coastal edge shingle and sand dune landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Crossed by irregular network of linear drainage dykes, channels and banks, some of open water others with marshy vegetation.  Limited hedgerow cover.
•	Extensive areas of open water exist around Rye Harbour and Denge Marshes formed by flooded gravel pits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Crossed by irregular network of linear drainage dykes, channels and banks, some of open water others with marshy vegetation.  Limited hedgerow cover.
•	Extensive areas of open water exist around Rye Harbour and Denge Marshes formed by flooded gravel pits.


FG KeyChar:
•	Crossed by irregular network of linear drainage dykes, channels and banks, some of open water others with marshy vegetation.  Limited hedgerow cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Crossed by irregular network of linear drainage dykes, channels and banks, some of open water others with marshy vegetation.  Limited hedgerow cover.


FG KeyChar:
•	Distinctive architectural character within settlements of weatherboarding and hung tiles, with some fine medieval churches.  
•	The Martello Towers along the coast and the Royal Military Canal, relicts of Napoleonic War are notable historic features.
•	Scattered settlement pattern on raised ground linked by long, straight open roads reflects the piecemeal reclamation process.
•	Extensive areas of open water exist around Rye Harbour and Denge Marshes formed by flooded gravel pits.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Distinctive architectural character within settlements of weatherboarding and hung tiles, with some fine medieval churches.  
•	The Martello Towers along the coast and the Royal Military Canal, relicts of Napoleonic War are notable historic features.
•	Scattered settlement pattern on raised ground linked by long, straight open roads reflects the piecemeal reclamation process.
•	Extensive areas of open water exist around Rye Harbour and Denge Marshes formed by flooded gravel pits.


FG KeyChar:
•	High nature conservation value associated with the wet grazing marshes, dykes, mudflats and coastal sand dunes and shingle ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High nature conservation value associated with the wet grazing marshes, dykes, mudflats and coastal sand dunes and shingle ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scattered settlement pattern on raised ground linked by long, straight open roads reflects the piecemeal reclamation process.
•	Visually prominent power station at Dungeness plus associated transmission lines, on going gravel extraction and holiday resorts along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Scattered settlement pattern on raised ground linked by long, straight open roads reflects the piecemeal reclamation process.
•	Visually prominent power station at Dungeness plus associated transmission lines, on going gravel extraction and holiday resorts along the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	A distinctive remote flat, marshland landscape with an absence of trees and dominant skies.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A distinctive remote flat, marshland landscape with an absence of trees and dominant skies.


FG KeyChar:
•	Open, windswept character with trees limited to clumps on pockets on higher ground around farmsteads and small hamlets such as Romney and Newchurch.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Open, windswept character with trees limited to clumps on pockets on higher ground around farmsteads and small hamlets such as Romney and Newchurch.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly wet pasture, managed for grazing with little converted to arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly wet pasture managed for grazing
Limited arable


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings have flint or brick walls, with weatherboarding or hung tiles.  Plain tiles are commonly used as a roofing material.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of flint or brick, with weatherboarding or hung tiles and plain tile roofs


FG KeyChar:
•	Electricity transmission lines and pylons form dominant features in the flat and open landscape.  Concrete walls form sea defences to prevent flooding and inundation by the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
Concrete wall sea defences to prevent flooding and inundation


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Electricity transmission lines and pylons form dominant features in the flat and open landscape.  Concrete walls form sea defences to prevent flooding and inundation by the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	Patches of standing water reinforce the wetland character of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Patches of standing water reinforce the wetland character of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Infrequent hedges and fences only line roadways.  Drainage ditches and banks divide fields, with channels forming barriers to grazing stock, creating a chequer-board pattern.

Edited_KeyChars:
Infrequent hedges and fences along roads
Drainage ditches and banks divide fields in chequer-board pattern


FG KeyChar:
•	The Levels are a large-scale, open and windswept landscape with underlying loamy soils of high agricultural quality.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Levels are a large-scale, open and windswept landscape with underlying loamy soils of high agricultural quality.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Crooked Ditch, a 14th Century sea defence and its embankment, and Mark Dyke, an ancient drain, are still visible in the landscape.  Pevensey Castle overlooks the Levels and Martello towers along the coast are important features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Crooked Ditch and embankment, a 14th century sea defence
Mark Dyke, an ancient drain still visible in the landscape
Pevensey Castle overlooking the Levels
Martello towers along the coast


FG KeyChar:
•	Reed-fringed drainage ditches, rushy pasture and wet meadows are the key semi-natural habitats found within the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Reed-fringed drainage ditches
Rushy pasture and wet meadows


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are scattered on the pockets of higher land, linked by slightly raised roads.   
•	Eastbourne has a significant urban influence, and modern development around the fringes of the Levels is often unsympathetic to local character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are scattered on the pockets of higher land, linked by slightly raised roads.   
•	Eastbourne has a significant urban influence, and modern development around the fringes of the Levels is often unsympathetic to local character.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Levels are a large-scale, open and windswept landscape with underlying loamy soils of high agricultural quality.
•	Views north are framed by the South Downs – a dramatic and distinctive backdrop.
•	Local landscape diversity is added by ‘eyes’ or islands of higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Levels are a large-scale, open and windswept landscape with underlying loamy soils of high agricultural quality.
•	Views north are framed by the South Downs – a dramatic and distinctive backdrop.
•	Local landscape diversity is added by ‘eyes’ or islands of higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape is largely devoid of significant tree cover; woodland is restricted to areas of higher ground associated with settlements.  Isolated, windswept trees mark the lines of dykes or roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Little significant tree cover
Woodland restricted to higher ground around settlements
Isolated, windswept trees marking lines of dykes or roads


FG KeyChar:
•	A gentle, rolling dip slope of open arable fields with a large-scale geometric pattern flows gradually down to the narrow coastal plain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open grazed downland
Dip slope mainly arable fields in large-scale geometric pattern
More mixed, pastoral character in some river valleys with areas of wet grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Roads and settlements are concentrated in the broad river valleys; elsewhere the land is sparsely settled. Flint is conspicuous in the built environment – in walls, buildings, churches and barns.

Edited_KeyChars:
Use of flint common in walls, buildings, churches and barns


FG KeyChar:
•	The iconic white cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head mark the eastern end of the South Downs where they join the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
Iconic white cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head at eastern end of the South Downs
Other habitats largely confined to the Cuckmere estuary, including salt marsh, vegetated shingle, mudflats and saline lagoons.


FG KeyChar:
•	Public rights of way follow drove roads and ancient routes along the accessible downland tops; they benefit from dramatic panoramic across the downs and the Low Weald.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Public rights of way follow drove roads and ancient routes along the accessible downland tops; they benefit from dramatic panoramic across the downs and the Low Weald.


FG KeyChar:
•	The principal rivers – Arun, Adur, Ouse and Cuckmere – slice through the Downs as steep-sided valleys with flat alluvial floodplains; these fertile river valley landscapes of wet pastures, criss-crossing ditches and meandering river channels support intensive dairying and crops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The principal rivers – Arun, Adur, Ouse and Cuckmere – slice through the Downs as steep-sided valleys with flat alluvial floodplains; these fertile river valley landscapes of wet pastures, criss-crossing ditches and meandering river channels support intensive dairying and crops.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows are rare features on the open eastern downs, but provide enclosure between woodlands and designed parkland landscapes on the more wooded western downs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Thick hedgerow enclosures on the Western Downs
Few hedgerows on open Eastern Downs
Straight reed-filled drainage ditches on river floodplains
Brick and flint walls bounding large estates such as Cowdray Park


FG KeyChar:
•	A broad elevated east-west chalkland spine with a steep north-facing scarp slope of close-cropped grassland, woodland and scrub overlooking the Low Weald to the north.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A broad elevated east-west chalkland spine with a steep north-facing scarp slope of close-cropped grassland, woodland and scrub overlooking the Low Weald to the north.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fragments of semi-natural chalk grassland are found on scarp slopes and combes; lack of grazing often leads to scrub invasion.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural chalk grassland on scarp slopes and combes (lack of grazing may lead to scrub invasion)
Chalk valley wetlands - ponds, marsh and meadows subject to frequent flooding
Largest areas of rare chalk heath in Britain


Edited_KeyChars:
•	Roads and settlements are concentrated in the broad river valleys; elsewhere the land is sparsely settled. Flint is conspicuous in the built environment – in walls, buildings, churches and barns.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is concentrated on steep scarp slopes, but there are also extensive plantations on the broad dip slopes of the western downs in Hampshire and West Sussex where clay-with-flints often overlies the chalk; scattered copses are prominent skyline features on the open eastern downs.
•	Tree cover is either broadleaved woodland, with beech, ash and sycamore, or is mixed with conifers; there are also some large plantations of Corsican pine and western red cedar and isolated remnants of yew forest.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive broadleaved and mixed woodland (mainly beech and ash) on steep scarp (hangers) and broad dip slopes of western downs
Scattered copses forming prominent skyline features
Isolated  yew forest
Hedgerow trees common on the Western Downs
Lines of trees often mark the outer extent of the floodplain of the main river valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	The fertile soils of the lower plain support intensive arable farming and horticulture, with some dairy, beef and poultry.  Permanent grassland is a feature of the poorer quality land.  Mixed farming, including pig rearing and horse paddocks, occurs on the thicker gravel deposits.

Edited_KeyChars:
Intensive arable and horticulture, with some dairy, beef and poultry on lower plain
Permanent grassland on poorer quality land
Mixed farming on  thicker gravel deposits inland
Traditional coastal grazing marshes (in decline)


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are of a mixture of materials – timber frame, flint, cob and thatch are all common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings of timber frame, flint, cob and thatch


FG KeyChar:
•	Sand dune grasses and intertidal marsh communities are characteristic of the coastline while areas of species-rich meadow remain inland

Edited_KeyChars:
Sand dunes, mudflats, saltmarshes, saline lagoons and coastal grazing marshes


FG KeyChar:
•	The continuity of the Plain is interrupted by many streams and rivers flowing to the sea and forming wide, alluvial floodplains.  Flooded gravel pits comprise some of the largest areas of freshwater in the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The continuity of the Plain is interrupted by many streams and rivers flowing to the sea and forming wide, alluvial floodplains.  Flooded gravel pits comprise some of the largest areas of freshwater in the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Drainage ditches, wire fences or low banks are the predominant field boundary features across the lower coastal plain, with few hedgerows and hedgerow trees.  Hedgerows enclose the smaller scale landscape of the upper plain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Drainage ditches and banks across the lower coastal plain, with few hedgerows
Hedgerows enclosing smaller scale landscape on upper plain


FG KeyChar:
•	The South Coast Plain is a flat landscape with an intricately indented shoreline, of flinty marine and valley gravels extending several miles inland, divided into a lower and upper plain.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The South Coast Plain is a flat landscape with an intricately indented shoreline, of flinty marine and valley gravels extending several miles inland, divided into a lower and upper plain.


FG KeyChar:
•	Important Roman villa sites around Chichester are still visible features, as are the Roman fort at Portchester and a post-medieval abbey at Titchfield.

Edited_KeyChars:
Important Roman and medieval sites and features
Parklands at the foot of the Downs
Farm ponds


Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of species-rich meadow inland
Reedbeds at the head of creeks
Remnant areas of coastal heath


FG KeyChar:
•	The Character Area has significant urban development; with settlements along the coastline dominated by suburban villages and the extensive seaside towns between Brighton and Southampton including Portsmouth, Littlehampton and Worthing linked by major road systems.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Character Area has significant urban development; with settlements along the coastline dominated by suburban villages and the extensive seaside towns between Brighton and Southampton including Portsmouth, Littlehampton and Worthing linked by major road systems.


FG KeyChar:
•	Along the exposed open coastal plain and shoreline tree cover is limited to isolated wind-sculpted woodlands and shelterbelts.  A strong network of ancient and semi-natural broadleaved woodlands and coniferous plantations is present on the upper coastal plain.

Edited_KeyChars:
Near coast tree cover limited to isolated wind-sculpted field trees,  woodlands and shelterbelts
On upper coastal plain, strong network of ancient and semi-natural broadleaved woodlands


FG KeyChar:
•	The island is characterised by mixed agricultural use - mainly permanent grassland in the north, intensive arable in the south and horticulture in the east. There are also areas of rough grazing on the chalk ridge and high downs, and some orchards.  Pony paddocks and vineyards are increasingly found on the edges of settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly permanent grassland in north, including some coastal grassland
Intensive arable in south
Horticulture in east
Rough grazing on the chalk ridge and high downs


FG KeyChar:
•	Local limestones and sandstones are the main traditional building materials.  Local brick buildings are common, and a few ancient buildings are roofed with a combination of limestone slabs and tile upper courses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings mainly in local limestones and sandstones or brick
Some ancient buildings roofed with limestone slabs and tile upper courses


FG KeyChar:
•	The Medina and Yar rivers rise near the south coast and flow northwards to the Solent through deep gaps in the central chalk ridge.  Downstream sections form rias.  South flowing streams arise from the base of the chalk ridge to cut the island's distinctive 'chines' in the south-west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Medina and Yar rivers rise near the south coast and flow northwards to the Solent through deep gaps in the central chalk ridge.  Downstream sections form rias.  South flowing streams arise from the base of the chalk ridge to cut the island's distinctive 'chines' in the south-west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Hedgerows are the predominant boundary feature throughout – with variations in field size and pattern.

Edited_KeyChars:
Hedgerows throughout
Large rectilinear fields across much of the island but small areas of irregular medieval enclosure, especially on the south coast
Parklands bounded by brick or brick and flint walls


FG KeyChar:
•	The island has a varied landscape, reflecting its underlying geology.  A central chalk ridge divides the island on an east-west axis.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The island has a varied landscape, reflecting its underlying geology.  A central chalk ridge divides the island on an east-west axis.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historical landscape features include prehistoric burial mounds, former medieval deer parks, and Victorian country houses and parklands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Features include prehistoric burial mounds
Former medieval deer parks and Victorian country houses and parklands (including Osborne House) are a particular feature


FG KeyChar:
•	Ancient woodland, heathland, unimproved meadows and grasslands, marshes, creeks and bogs are the island's key semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heathland over sandy outcrops
Remnant chalk downland
Unimproved meadows and grasslands
Wetland landscapes (marsh, bog and wet meadows)
Reedbeds at the head of  the estuaries of the north coast


FG KeyChar:
•	Patterns of settlement vary.  Small, linear villages connected by winding lanes are located at the base of the chalk.  Victorian seaside resorts, estates and villas are concentrated along the coast.
•	Urban development is spreading into former agricultural land, with waste disposal sites, extensive holiday and industrial developments and caravan parks blurring the edge of settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Patterns of settlement vary.  Small, linear villages connected by winding lanes are located at the base of the chalk.  Victorian seaside resorts, estates and villas are concentrated along the coast.
•	Urban development is spreading into former agricultural land, with waste disposal sites, extensive holiday and industrial developments and caravan parks blurring the edge of settlements.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover varies; small copses, relict wood pastures and large plantations characterise the north of the Island, whilst ancient hangar woodlands and further plantations are found in the south.  Ancient woodland is also found along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient coppiced woodland, small copses, mainly in north
Ancient hangar woodlands, mainly in south
Ancient oak woodland along coast
in the north wood pasture and hedgerow oaks
Plantation woodlands throughout
Some orchards


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape is dominated by grazing land on heavy, clayey soils with small pockets of horticulture and some arable use on higher ground.
•	Intensive market cropping, associated with garden centres, nurseries and smallholdings, is concentrated in the Meon Valley.
•	Former heathland or common, on pockets of acidic soils, are frequently used as paddocks or unintensive grazing land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landscape is dominated by grazing land on heavy, clayey soils with small pockets of horticulture and some arable use on higher ground.
•	Intensive market cropping, associated with garden centres, nurseries and smallholdings, is concentrated in the Meon Valley.
•	Former heathland or common, on pockets of acidic soils, are frequently used as paddocks or unintensive grazing land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Wide lush river valley bottoms, with water meadows and riverine vegetation, afford open views in an otherwise small-scale and intimate landscape.
•	This is a landscape dominated by mixed , well-managed farmland, ancient woodland and a few historic estates.
•	The patchwork of small, intimate and irregular fields are defined by ancient hedgerows.
•	Oaks are prevalent within hedgerows and help to create an impression of a well-wooded landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Wide lush river valley bottoms, with water meadows and riverine vegetation, afford open views in an otherwise small-scale and intimate landscape.
•	This is a landscape dominated by mixed , well-managed farmland, ancient woodland and a few historic estates.
•	The patchwork of small, intimate and irregular fields are defined by ancient hedgerows.
•	Oaks are prevalent within hedgerows and help to create an impression of a well-wooded landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The gently undulating landscape is characterised by a diversity of features and land uses which reflects changing soil types and local variations of topography.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The gently undulating landscape is characterised by a diversity of features and land uses which reflects changing soil types and local variations of topography.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a landscape dominated by mixed , well-managed farmland, ancient woodland and a few historic estates.
•	Historic parks and large estates and their houses indicate the historical prosperity of the Hampshire lowlands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a landscape dominated by mixed , well-managed farmland, ancient woodland and a few historic estates.
•	Historic parks and large estates and their houses indicate the historical prosperity of the Hampshire lowlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Wide, lush river valleys contain unimproved meadows and grazing marshes as well as numerous ponds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Wide, lush river valleys contain unimproved meadows and grazing marshes as well as numerous ponds.


FG KeyChar:
•	A dispersed settlement pattern of villages and scattered farmsteads is linked by winding roads and lanes.
•	There are major urban centres are Southampton, Eastleigh and Havant.
•	Urban expansion and the busy M27/M3 corridors diminish the rural character of the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A dispersed settlement pattern of villages and scattered farmsteads is linked by winding roads and lanes.
•	There are major urban centres are Southampton, Eastleigh and Havant.
•	Urban expansion and the busy M27/M3 corridors diminish the rural character of the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a landscape dominated by mixed , well-managed farmland, ancient woodland and a few historic estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a landscape dominated by mixed , well-managed farmland, ancient woodland and a few historic estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farming is small scale and land use is dominated by pasture and widespread horse grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Farming is small scale and land use is dominated by pasture and widespread horse grazing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Variety and contrast is given by the wide grazed floodplain, drainage ditches, restored gravel workings and lush wetland vegetation associated with the Kennet Valley.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Variety and contrast is given by the wide grazed floodplain, drainage ditches, restored gravel workings and lush wetland vegetation associated with the Kennet Valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	Cultivated farmland and pasture is typically enclosed within small and irregularly shaped fields.
•	Fields are enclosed by hedgerows with hedgerow trees.
•	The unenclosed nature of the remnant heaths is unusual within the context of the south-east region.
•	Winding, sunken lanes are an historic landscape feature, as are henges, long and round barrows and traces of ancient field systems.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Cultivated farmland and pasture is typically enclosed within small and irregularly shaped fields.
•	Fields are enclosed by hedgerows with hedgerow trees.
•	The unenclosed nature of the remnant heaths is unusual within the context of the south-east region.
•	Winding, sunken lanes are an historic landscape feature, as are henges, long and round barrows and traces of ancient field systems.


