# Tbl_FG_JM_KeyChars

FG KeyChar:
•	Ball clay extraction in the Bovey basin gives rise to a distinctive local landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Ball clay extraction in the Bovey basin gives rise to a distinctive local landscape.


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:
Open in north with few stone walls as boundaries
In south small fields enclosed by stone walls or wire fences


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:
Rich archaeological heritage with remains of settlements from 1500BC
Other remains from prehistory to WW2
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:
Mainly dry heathland with areas of acid grassland and patches of bracken
Patchy scrub and maritime grassland on the coast


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:
The few buildings are of locally quarried granite with slate roofs


Edited_KeyChars:
Scrub and maritime grassland on cliffs and steep slopes in the east
More rugged and steep and mostly bare of vegetation in the west


# Tbl_FG_JM_KeyChars_Maria

FG KeyChar:
•	The exposed moorland areas are heavily grazed by sheep and are characterised by both heather and improved grassland.
•	The main agricultural land use is rough or semi-improved pasture for cattle and sheep rearing, with semi-improved or improved in-bye land in sheltered valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixture of rough, semi-improved and improved pasture for cattle and sheep. Moors managed for grouse.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings comprise scattered farmhouses and cottages of Fell sandstone with slate roofs on the upper slopes, with a few hamlets in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Local traditional buildings of Fell sandstone with slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a network of small rivers and streams in narrow gorges with sandstone crags, loughs and mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a network of small rivers and streams in narrow gorges with sandstone crags, loughs and mires.


FG KeyChar:
•	In places these woodlands are broken up by isolated and enclosed valleys with pastures and settlements.
•	Fields are large, open, rectangular, windswept, often poorly drained and subdivided by dry stone walls or wire fences.

Edited_KeyChars:
Valley farmland with large, rectangular fields bounded by dry stone walls or wire fences.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are important archaeological landscapes with evidence of settlements, tracks, field systems, sheilings, burial areas and Roman forts and camps.

Edited_KeyChars:
Evidence of settlements, tracks, field systems, sheilings, burial areas and Roman forts and camps


FG KeyChar:
•	The exposed moorland areas are heavily grazed by sheep and are characterised by both heather and improved grassland.
•	There are numerous peaty mires and mosses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Moorlands dominated by heather, with blanket bog, peaty mires and mosses.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is very sparsely populated overall.
•	Military training areas at Spadeadam Forest and Otterburn affect perceptions of remoteness and solitude.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is very sparsely populated overall.
•	Military training areas at Spadeadam Forest and Otterburn affect perceptions of remoteness and solitude.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a large-scale dissected landscape of high, rolling or undulating plateau with expanses of sweeping moorland, extensive coniferous woodlands, large reservoirs, and wide, long distance views.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a large-scale dissected landscape of high, rolling or undulating plateau with expanses of sweeping moorland, extensive coniferous woodlands, large reservoirs, and wide, long distance views.


FG KeyChar:
•	The treeless moorlands contrast with the vast areas of coniferous forest that dominate large parts of the area.
•	The extensive conifer plantations mainly consist of a patchwork of felled areas and different age-classes of non-native conifers.
•	There are few broadleaved trees, largely restricted to small woodland blocks, hedgerows and remnant semi-natural woodland in the more sheltered valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive non-native conifer plantations, with few broadleaved trees in small blocks and hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	The inland plain comprises improved pasture grazed by dairy cattle and sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
Improved pasture for dairy cattle and sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes Carlisle and numerous smaller towns and villages.  Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed, reflecting the physical characteristics and varied history of the Solway Basin.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed.


FG KeyChar:
•	At the northern end of the area, the Solway Firth foreshore comprises extensive intertidal mudflats, backed by saltmarsh with a seaward edge characterised by dendretic creeks and low soft river cliffs.
•	The southern part of the Solway coast is characterised by low cliffs formed by eroding coastal drumlins, sand and pebble beaches with sand dunes and raised beaches which were formed by changes in sea levels.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low lying cliffs with raised peat bogs, heath and coastal mosses.


FG KeyChar:
•	The large rectilinear pastoral fields tend to be defined by drainage ditches, small streams, low hedgerows and stone faced hedgebanks or ‘kests’.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields bounded by drainage ditches, streams, low hedgerows and stone faced hedgebanks.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is rich in archaeological remains, being located close to the English-Scottish Border and particularly in relation to Roman and medieval monastic remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Raised peat bogs, locally known as ‘mosses’ provide a contrast with the improved pasture which forms a large part of the coastal fringe area.
•	At the northern end of the area, the Solway Firth foreshore comprises extensive intertidal mudflats, backed by saltmarsh with a seaward edge characterised by dendretic creeks and low soft river cliffs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal mudflats, saltmarsh, dune heathland, and raised peat bogs, heath and mosses.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes Carlisle and numerous smaller towns and villages.  Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed, reflecting the physical characteristics and varied history of the Solway Basin.
•	Dispersed nucleated inland settlements have grown around the core of a set of farm buildings, and along the coast towns and villages, including Victorian coastal resorts, have followed a more linear pattern of growth.
•	New, sometimes large scale development, is particularly apparent on the Carlisle urban fringe and also on several former 1940s airfields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes Carlisle and numerous smaller towns and villages.  Traditional materials and styles in the area are mixed, reflecting the physical characteristics and varied history of the Solway Basin.
•	Dispersed nucleated inland settlements have grown around the core of a set of farm buildings, and along the coast towns and villages, including Victorian coastal resorts, have followed a more linear pattern of growth.
•	New, sometimes large scale development, is particularly apparent on the Carlisle urban fringe and also on several former 1940s airfields.


FG KeyChar:
•	A flat, open landscape lying between more dramatic upland areas - the Cumbria High Fells and the Southern Uplands.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A flat, open landscape lying between more dramatic upland areas - the Cumbria High Fells and the Southern Uplands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees and woodland are limited, with some broadleaved trees in river valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Restricted woodland predominantly willow carr and birch scrub in river valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low undulating pasture inland from the coast.  Intensive grazing by sheep and cattle in the Derwent valley which is a flat, linear pastoral landscape
•	Semi natural habitats include saltmarsh and sand dunes backing the beaches. There are areas of managed and unmanged moorland towards the south of the area and inland, which is used for rough grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly improved pasture for cattle and sheep grazing with occasional arable fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area’s towns tend to be largely industrial, the use of local red sandstone is apparent in both urban and more rural settlements.  It is either used alone or in combination with render or red brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
Use of local red sandstone in local buildings.


FG KeyChar:
•	Urban areas on the coast reflecting the area’s role as a coastal industry and communications centre, and characterised by barbed wire fencing, small waste dumps, derelict buildings and industrial wasteland, contrasting with the rich agricultural land and views of the high fells to the north and east.
•	Semi natural habitats include saltmarsh and sand dunes backing the beaches. There are areas of managed and unmanged moorland towards the south of the area and inland, which is used for rough grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi natural habitats include saltmarsh and sand dunes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Perceptions of the area are influenced by industrial development, coastal defence works, beach tipping or pylons, overhead lines and wind farms.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Perceptions of the area are influenced by industrial development, coastal defence works, beach tipping or pylons, overhead lines and wind farms.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium to large sized fields of improved pasture inland from the coast, are subdivided by a mix of hedgerows, hedgerow trees and wire fences.  Stone walls and hedges established on stone banks form boundaries along minor roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medium to large fields subdivided by a mix of hedgerows with trees, wire fences and slate or stone walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	Underlying geology of coal measures, Hensingham Group and Chief Limestone Groups of Carboniferous age to the north of St. Bees Head, and to the south, an outcrop of the Permo-Triassic rocks mainly composed of the Steerton Bees Sandstone, with some overlying mudstones.  Strikingly high coastal cliffs at St. Bees Head formed by dull red sandstone.
•	Intertidal flats, a mix of shingle and pebble beaches at the northern end of the area, red sea cliffs on the central coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Underlying geology of coal measures, Hensingham Group and Chief Limestone Groups of Carboniferous age to the north of St. Bees Head, and to the south, an outcrop of the Permo-Triassic rocks mainly composed of the Steerton Bees Sandstone, with some overlying mudstones.  Strikingly high coastal cliffs at St. Bees Head formed by dull red sandstone.
•	Intertidal flats, a mix of shingle and pebble beaches at the northern end of the area, red sea cliffs on the central coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Roman coastal forts form part of the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site.  The spread of monasticism in the 12th century had a key influence on patterns of agricultural activity in the area, as well as woodland management.  Perhaps most evident is the more recent industrial past of the area.  There are some historic landscapes and estates in the area including Fitz Park, Cockermouth and Curwen Park, and Workington.

Edited_KeyChars:
Presence of historic park landscapes and estates in addition to Roman forts and monastic remains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi natural habitats include saltmarsh and sand dunes backing the beaches. There are areas of managed and unmanged moorland towards the south of the area and inland, which is used for rough grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Areas of managed and unmanged heather moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The main towns are Maryport, Cockermouth, Workington, Whitehaven, Millom and Barrow.  Views within the landscape are affected by the visibility of ports, manufacturing industrial buildings and chemical works, as well as Sellafield nuclear power station.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The main towns are Maryport, Cockermouth, Workington, Whitehaven, Millom and Barrow.  Views within the landscape are affected by the visibility of ports, manufacturing industrial buildings and chemical works, as well as Sellafield nuclear power station.
•	Development is quite extensive in the lowland ridge, with wind turbines, masts and pylons and roads.  Open-cast coalmining is also a feature on the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	A decline in cattle and an increase in sheep numbers, a reduction in shepherding and an increase in the overwintering of stock on the fells has influenced the character of the area.
•	There is largely unimproved rough grazing land in the higher areas, with semi-improved and improved pasture and rectilinear fields in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
On higher land mainly unimproved rough grazing land, with semi-improved and improved pasture for cattle and sheep with some arable in the valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed of local stone with slate roofs

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed of local stone with slate roofs


FG KeyChar:
•	Glacial erosion and deposition has formed lakes and tarns in the area through over-deepening of valley floors, formation of rock basins and the creation of natural dams.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.
•	Linear watercourses are lined with broadleaved trees and shrubs.  Lakes are surrounded by relatively open land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Glacial erosion and deposition has formed lakes and tarns in the area through over-deepening of valley floors, formation of rock basins and the creation of natural dams.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.
•	Linear watercourses are lined with broadleaved trees and shrubs.  Lakes are surrounded by relatively open land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Boundaries are formed by stone walls, with hedgerows and hedgerow trees in the valleys.  
•	There is largely unimproved rough grazing land in the higher areas, with semi-improved and improved pasture and rectilinear fields in the valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear fields bounded by stone walls and hedgerows with trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.


JM KeyChar:
•	There is widespread evidence of prehistoric settlement (burial cairns, stone circles, enclosures); Roman influence (forts, roads such as High Street, farmstead sites); and early cultivation (ridge and furrow and lynchets).
•	Many farmhouses and other domestic buildings date from 1650-1750, a period of prosperity here.  18th and 19th century mining and processing is visible in the landscape in many areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Prehistoric, Roman and early farming archaeological evidence and remains. Many 17th century domestic buildings and mining evidence from the industrial revolution.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mires, marshy grasslands and reed swamp in low lying areas are valued semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved wetland habitats such as mires, marshy grasslands and reed swamp in low lying areas are valued semi-natural habitats. Upland heah moorland,


FG KeyChar:
•	Agricultural settlements are found in the valleys.  The valleys also contain market towns which have expanded in response to the area’s popularity for tourism and recreation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Agricultural settlements are found in the valleys.  The valleys also contain market towns which have expanded in response to the area’s popularity for tourism and recreation.


FG KeyChar:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.
•	U-shaped valleys, hanging valleys and corries higher on the mountains.  The sheltered U-shaped valleys have sloping sides and flat valley floors.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	High fells, with deep U-shaped glaciated valleys forming steep open fellsides with rocky outcrops.  The underlying geology is composed of rocks of the Skiddaw Group, together with an outcrop of the Borrowdale Volcanic group in the Sca Fell Range towards the centre of the area.  The volcanic rock provides rugged, spectacular scenery whilst the Skiddaw group forms smooth sided mountains such as Skiddaw.  Mineral veins run through all of the rocks in the area. Scree slopes are common.
•	U-shaped valleys, hanging valleys and corries higher on the mountains.  The sheltered U-shaped valleys have sloping sides and flat valley floors.
•	Silting of lakes has produced some large alluvial flats and fans.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are relatively few trees on the exposed higher land.  Large individual trees surround lakes.  On the more sheltered sites there are extensive areas of ancient, semi-natural broadleaved, mixed and conifer woodlands.
•	Linear watercourses are lined with broadleaved trees and shrubs.  Lakes are surrounded by relatively open land.

Edited_KeyChars:
Few trees on higher land. In sheltered areas and along watercourses are extensive areas of ancient, semi-natural broadleaved, mixed and conifer woodlands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Restoration has created large tracts of simple, relatively featureless agricultural land with strips of plantation.
•	Large, open, regular arable fields are interspersed with pastures grazed by sheep and cattle and urban fringe pony paddocks on the poorer, reclaimed soils.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large, open, regular arable fields are interspersed with pastures grazed by sheep and cattle and pony paddocks on the poorer, reclaimed soils.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is little tree cover, owing to its exposed nature.


FG KeyChar:
•	Very few trees throughout the area, with the exception of small areas of semi-natural ancient woodland along the lowland river valleys and small woodlands and copses within fields.  Winds off the Irish Sea have an effect on both the growth rate and form of hedgerows and mature trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse semi-natural deciduous ancient woodland along river valleys and within fields.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree and woodland cover is generally limited to clumps near farmhouses and settlements, some river valley woodlands, and occasional shelterbelts and blocks of coniferous trees.
•	Some local areas are more wooded, for example around Craster.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large rectilinear fields are enclosed by low-cut thorn hedges or fences, with sandstone walls in parts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields are enclosed by low-cut thorn hedges with few trees or fences with sandstone walls in parts.


FG KeyChar:
•	This rolling low upland landscape of ridges and valleys has a strong east-west grain with panoramic views from higher ground.
•	The valleys are broad with moderate slopes and occasional narrow flood plains.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This rolling low upland landscape of ridges and valleys has a strong east-west grain with panoramic views from higher ground.
•	The valleys are broad with moderate slopes and occasional narrow flood plains.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coniferous plantations are found on the higher valley sides and ridges.
•	Ancient oak woods are found in narrow steep-sided denes and along the banks of rivers and streams.
•	Occasional parklands and wooded estates surround small country houses.
•	Fields in the valleys are generally smaller and bounded by hawthorn hedges with scattered hedgerow oak and ash.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak and oak-birch woods are found in narrow steep-sided denes and along the banks of rivers and streams. Hedgerow trees generally scattered oak and ash.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is limited and generally on the lower land around the central upland, and the villages of Orton, Crosby Ravensworth, Ravenstonedale and Shap are historic settlements with limestone buildings and walls.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers through the area include the River Lune along the southern edge, River Lyennet and River Lowther.  These are generally slow flowing as a result of their permeable limestone bedrock.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers through the area include the River Lune along the southern edge, River Lyennet and River Lowther.  These are generally slow flowing as a result of their permeable limestone bedrock.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has a strong field pattern with high limestone walls and isolated ash trees forming the field boundaries.


FG KeyChar:
•	A distinctive block of rolling upland farmland with limestone outcrops, scars and pavements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	A distinctive block of rolling upland farmland with limestone outcrops, scars and pavements.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are rich archaeological resources in the area.

JM KeyChar:
•	This area has very rich archaeological and historic resources including stone circles, evidence of prehistoric settlement and cultivation, Roman roads, monastic granges, planned medieval limestone villages, associated field patterns and droveways, tower houses and deer parks.


FG KeyChar:
•	Landcover is predominantly moorland with remnant heather in the upland areas, together with limestone upland.  There are extensive limestone pavement areas and scars.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is limited and generally on the lower land around the central upland, and the villages of Orton, Crosby Ravensworth, Ravenstonedale and Shap are historic settlements with limestone buildings and walls.
•	Development has mainly included limestone quarrying and stone extraction for rockeries from limestone pavements.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is limited and generally on the lower land around the central upland, and the villages of Orton, Crosby Ravensworth, Ravenstonedale and Shap are historic settlements with limestone buildings and walls.
•	Development has mainly included limestone quarrying and stone extraction for rockeries from limestone pavements.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is limited woodland, with sheltering clumps around farmsteads, small copses of semi-natural broadleaved trees, coniferous and mixed woodlands.  The fields have scattered individual ash trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is largely rough grazing for both sheep and cattle.  The higher areas have open moorland, whilst the slopes have rough grassland, heather and bracken and are used for grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is largely rough grazing for both sheep and cattle.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has few settlements due to the inaccessible and exposed landform.  There are limited, small hamlets and farmsteadings scattered across the area.  Traditional materials used are gritstone or sandstone with flagged roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional building materials used are gritstone or sandstone with flagged roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some small streams flow down the gills, extending from the centre of the area outwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Some small streams flow down the gills, extending from the centre of the area outwards.


FG KeyChar:
•	Pastures are bounded by stone walls, and confined to the lower areas, whilst the higher areas and moorland are largely unenclosed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastures are bounded by stone walls in the lower areas, whilst the higher areas and moorland are largely unenclosed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The hills have complex underlying geology which is resistant to erosion and has thus resulted in the hills having a smooth rounded shape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The hills have complex underlying geology which is resistant to erosion and has thus resulted in the hills having a smooth rounded shape.


JM KeyChar:
•	Fells utilised since prehistoric times for summer grazing, peat, heather and bracken and continue to support commoning.  Medieval trackways and shielings can be found in many places, especially on the lower western slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fells utilised since prehistoric times for summer grazing, peat, heather and bracken and continue to support commoning.  Medieval trackways and shielings can be found in many places, especially on the lower western slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	In terms of semi-natural areas, the moorland is poorly drained and has blanket bog underlain by deep peat which forms an important habitat.  Most of the area is covered with acidic grassland.
•	The area is largely rough grazing for both sheep and cattle.  The higher areas have open moorland, whilst the slopes have rough grassland, heather and bracken and are used for grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
The moorland has blanket bog underlain by deep peat which forms an important habitat.  Most of the area is covered with acidic grassland. The slopes have rough grassland, heather and bracken.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area has few settlements due to the inaccessible and exposed landform.  There are limited, small hamlets and farmsteadings scattered across the area.  Traditional materials used are gritstone or sandstone with flagged roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Steep sided distinctive smooth hills and pronounced ridges and valleys and incised by a number of narrow inaccessible gills.  The hills have steep scree slopes and occasional waterfalls and crags, and they reach heights of 600m.
•	The River Lune Valley provides a contrast with the upland landscape of the Howgill Fells.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Steep sided distinctive smooth hills and pronounced ridges and valleys and incised by a number of narrow inaccessible gills.  The hills have steep scree slopes and occasional waterfalls and crags, and they reach heights of 600m.
•	The River Lune Valley provides a contrast with the upland landscape of the Howgill Fells.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area has very limited tree cover although there are some blocks of coniferous woodland on the lower slopes near Sedbergh.  Trees are prominent around villages and farmsteads and along water courses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Limited tree cover; some blocks of conifer woodland. Trees around villages and along watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	A pastoral landscape, with improved undulating pastures and some areas being particularly well managed to provide a parkland character, particularly around the edges of the lakes (e.g. adjacent to Windermere and Coniston), on the valley bottoms and within estates.  Semi improved pasture with ridges and hollows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly improved/ semi-improved undulating pastures


FG KeyChar:
•	Building materials include local limestone and slate (Silurian) in the south, and local sandstone elsewhere.

Edited_KeyChars:
Building materials of local limestone and slate (Silurian) in the south and local sandstone elsewhere
Redundant barns at risk


FG KeyChar:
•	Large lakes, including Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, streams and minor river valleys are characteristic features of the area.  Rivers are fast flowing over rocky beds.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large lakes, including Lake Windermere and Coniston Water, streams and minor river valleys are characteristic features of the area.  Rivers are fast flowing over rocky beds.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are generally dry stone walls (local sandstone, or limestone in the south) and field sizes in the lower areas are generally small to medium, increasing towards the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Dry stone walls (local sandstone, or limestone in the south)
Small to medium size hedged fields in lower areas, increasing to east (hedgerow loss in Lune valley)


FG KeyChar:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic field systems date from medieval times and there are several deer parks in the area. Sheep walks, established on the fells from the 13th century, are also historic landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic medieval field systems, sheep walks and deer parks
Some areas of parkland  character, particularly around lakes, on valley bottoms and within estates


FG KeyChar:
•	The low fells include heathland, tarns and becks, small wetlands and mires, rough grassland and bracken. Undulating fields of species-rich grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Heathland
Small wetlands and mires
Species-rich grassland


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement is largely in small hamlets and villages on the lower slopes, linked by a network of minor roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement is largely in small hamlets and villages on the lower slopes, linked by a network of minor roads.


FG KeyChar:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.
•	Glacial erosion formed long, straight U-shaped valleys with lakes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Undulating low fells and ridges, together with 300m+ high rugged fells.  Underlying Silurian slates and shales contribute to the area’s gentler, undulating character and form.
•	Glacial erosion formed long, straight U-shaped valleys with lakes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes substantial woodland and large mature trees.  Small broadleaved and coniferous copses are found on the rugged fells and coniferous and broadleaved woodland on the small valley slopes and ridges.  At higher levels, tree cover is much more limited.

Edited_KeyChars:
Substantial woodland and large mature trees
Broadleaved woodland on the slopes and ridges
Small broadleaved copses on the fells - in need of protection
Tree cover more limited at higher levels


FG KeyChar:
•	Sheep and cattle graze the coastal pasture and intertidal commons.  Lowland raised mires surrounding the limestone outcrops have been reclaimed for agriculture.  Rough grazing is a feature of the higher grounds on unimproved limestone grassland or rough fell vegetation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal pasture and intertidal commons with sheep and cattle
Lowland raised mires reclaimed for agriculture
Unimproved rough grazing on limestone outcrops and fells


FG KeyChar:
•	The coastline consists of shifting intertidal sandflats and saltmarsh with minor channels and pools. Areas of scaurs and pebble patches, mudflats, sandy beaches, bedrock and pebble and shingle beaches are exposed at low tide.  The Rivers Leven and Kent flow into Morecambe Bay.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The coastline consists of shifting intertidal sandflats and saltmarsh with minor channels and pools. Areas of scaurs and pebble patches, mudflats, sandy beaches, bedrock and pebble and shingle beaches are exposed at low tide.  The Rivers Leven and Kent flow into Morecambe Bay.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are generally enclosed by limestone walls or hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields generally enclosed by limestone walls or hedges


FG KeyChar:
•	The margins of Morecambe Bay have been formed by faulted outcrops of Lower Carboniferous limestone, forming upstanding blocks and bare limestone scars, pavements and cliffs.  Low limestone beaches are found at Arnside and Silverdale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The margins of Morecambe Bay have been formed by faulted outcrops of Lower Carboniferous limestone, forming upstanding blocks and bare limestone scars, pavements and cliffs.  Low limestone beaches are found at Arnside and Silverdale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic features include burial mounds and stone circles on higher grounds, prehistoric settlements and enclosures on Birkrigg Common and medieval field patterns. Coppice woodlands are a further feature of the area which reflect past traditional management practices.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic features that include burial mounds, stone circles, prehistoric settlements and enclosures and medieval field patterns


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi natural areas include a mosaic of species rich grassland, limestone pavements, scrub, semi-natural coppice woodland, herb-rich grasslands, peaty fenlands and mosslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of species-rich grassland and limestone pavements
Peaty fenlands and mosslands - affected by drainage and scrub encroachment


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are generally dispersed and rural in character, having usually grown around large farmsteads.  
•	Larger centres include Grange-over-Sands, Arnside, Silverdale and Milnthorpe which have a seaside resort character, reflecting the growth in the use of the area for recreation from the 18th Century onwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are generally dispersed and rural in character, having usually grown around large farmsteads.  
•	Larger centres include Grange-over-Sands, Arnside, Silverdale and Milnthorpe which have a seaside resort character, reflecting the growth in the use of the area for recreation from the 18th Century onwards.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is mainly covered by improved pasture.  Arable farming is a feature of the valley floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is mainly productive improved pasture.  Arable farming is a feature of the valley floors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Red sandstone is the distinctive building material which is used throughout the area, although there has also been localised use of limestone.

Edited_KeyChars:
Distinctive red sandstone buildings, also use of limestone.


FG KeyChar:
•	The River Eden and River Petterill run broadly north-south through the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The River Eden and River Petterill run broadly north-south through the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Predominant field boundaries are fences and walls, but there are also a significant proportion of hedges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectangular fields mainly bounded by fences and drystone walls but also a significant amount of hedges with trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Largely low lying ground between the Lake District Fells and the Pennine escarpment, with Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones. Soil in the valleys tends to be clay.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Largely low lying ground between the Lake District Fells and the Pennine escarpment, with Permo-Triassic sandstones and mudstones. Soil in the valleys tends to be clay.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include Roman roads and the remains of Roman forts, and ruined castles associated with cross border strategic positions.

Edited_KeyChars:
Roman and medieval landscape features. Parkland and estate landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Around 12% of the area is classed as semi natural, with lowland heath being the predominant natural land cover, and there are also mosaics of neutral grassland, heather and unimproved acid grassland in different parts of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lowland heath is the main semi-natural habitat, with mosaics of moorland, neutral grassland, heather and unimproved acid grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The main towns in the area are Appleby-in-Westmorland and Penrith.  The Eden Valley has numerous attractive villages, including Langwathby, Temple Sowerby, Warcop and Great Musgrave.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The main towns in the area are Appleby-in-Westmorland and Penrith.  The Eden Valley has numerous attractive villages, including Langwathby, Temple Sowerby, Warcop and Great Musgrave.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coniferous plantations and significant broadleaved and ancient woodlands are characteristic features.  Estate and farm woodlands, hedgerows, shelterbelts, hedgerow trees and small copses cover parts of the area.  There are also some hanging woodlands along the River Eden Corridor.

Edited_KeyChars:
Conifer plantations and ancient semi-natural broadleaved woodlands along gorge and river and in estates and parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The broad ridges of heather moorland and acid grassland that separate the principal dales in the north and east are managed for sheep and grouse.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed arable and pasture grazed by sheep. Unimproved rough grazing on upper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the dales there are small villages and scattered farmsteads, mainly of local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs, giving a strong vernacular character.
•	The whitewashed buildings of the Raby Estate in Teesdale are also distinctive.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings characterised by local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs. Distinctive whitewashed buildings of the Raby Estate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Reservoirs are scattered throughout the dales and moorland margins.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Reservoirs are scattered throughout the dales and moorland margins.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dales themselves provide sheltered pastures and hay meadows bounded by dry stone walls and hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastoral enclosures bounded by dry stone walls and hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Alternating limestones, sandstones and shales give a stepped profile to hills and dalesides.
•	Millstone Grits cap the higher fells and form distinctive flat-topped summits.
•	Igneous intrusions of the Great Whin Sill form dramatic outcrops and waterfalls.
•	The area is of international importance for its geological sites and features, including the Whin Sill, and has been identified as a European Geopark.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Alternating limestones, sandstones and shales give a stepped profile to hills and dalesides.
•	Millstone Grits cap the higher fells and form distinctive flat-topped summits.
•	Igneous intrusions of the Great Whin Sill form dramatic outcrops and waterfalls.
•	The area is of international importance for its geological sites and features, including the Whin Sill, and has been identified as a European Geopark.


FG KeyChar:
•	In places the landscape is heavily scarred by mineral extraction, with many active and abandoned quarries and relics of widespread lead workings.

Edited_KeyChars:
Much relict evidence of mining and quarrying.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are important limestone grasslands, arctic-alpine flora and juniper scrub habitats in Teesdale and elsewhere.
•	The broad ridges of heather moorland and acid grassland that separate the principal dales in the north and east are managed for sheep and grouse.
•	The remote moorland summits and high plateau of blanket bog that occur to the east of the summit ridge have a unique wilderness quality.

Edited_KeyChars:
Important limestone grasslands, arctic-alpine flora and juniper scrub habitats. Broad ridges of heather moorland and acid grassland. High plateau of blanket bog. In valleys flower rich meadows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the dales there are small villages and scattered farmsteads, mainly of local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs, giving a strong vernacular character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Within the dales there are small villages and scattered farmsteads, mainly of local sandstone with stone slate or slate roofs, giving a strong vernacular character.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an upland landscape of high moorland ridges divided by broad pastoral dales; it shows slow change and cultural continuity.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is an upland landscape of high moorland ridges divided by broad pastoral dales; it shows slow change and cultural continuity.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is sparse with woodlands being restricted to river gorges, gills, streamsides and larger coniferous plantations on the moorland ridges.

Edited_KeyChars:
Spare tree cover, oak-ash woodlands restricted to gorges and watercourses. Large confierous plantations on moorland ridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmland is pastoral in the west, merging to mixed and arable in the east.
•	North of the Whin Sill there is open, windswept semi-improved and rough grazing on elevated land, with loughs and rushy pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Pastoral in the west, merging to mixed and arable in the east. Semi-improved and rough grazing on elevated land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Vernacular buildings are generally of Millstone Grit and include scattered large farmsteads, sometimes with bastle and pele tower fortifications.


JM KeyChar:
•	The main Tyne valley is flat, open floodplain with some wetland areas associated with former gravel workings; the side valleys to north and south are incised with springs and waterfalls.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a variety of enclosure patterns, with large, walled enclosures predominant in the west and hedged enclosures in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large walled enclosures in the west and large hedged fields in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Bronze Age stone circles and cairns and Iron Age hillforts are common.
•	Very evident remains of the Roman wall, forts and associated features occur on the Whin Sill scarp.
•	There are many large country houses, often incorporating earlier medieval fortified structures and set in designed parklands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive managed estate woodlands.  Important prehistoric, Roman and medieval remains, particularly Hadrian's Wall.


FG KeyChar:
•	North of the Whin Sill there is open, windswept semi-improved and rough grazing on elevated land, with loughs and rushy pastures.
•	This contrasts with the more fertile floodplain land along the South Tyne.

JM KeyChar:
•	Ancient, semi-natural riparian woodlands are common in the tributary valleys; while higher ground on the valley sides has grass moorland, wet pastures, loughs and mires.  In the North Tyne valley hay meadows and calcareous grassland also occur.

Edited_KeyChars:
High ground has grass moorland, wet pastures, loughs and mires. Calcareous grassland and hya meadows in the North Tyne valley.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are located strategically along the valley, which is a significant transport route through the Pennines.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are located strategically along the valley, which is a significant transport route through the Pennines.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a narrow east-west lowland corridor that runs through a gap in the Pennine uplands, which are visible to north and south.
•	It is visually contained to the north by the parallel scarps of the Whin Sill.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a narrow east-west lowland corridor that runs through a gap in the Pennine uplands, which are visible to north and south.
•	It is visually contained to the north by the parallel scarps of the Whin Sill.


FG KeyChar:
•	Broadleaved woodland and conifer plantations occur on the side slopes and in the intimate wooded valley of the North Tyne.

Edited_KeyChars:
Deciduous and mixed broadleaved woodland and conifer plantations occur on side slopes and in the valley of the North Tyne. Ancient, semi-natural riparian woodlands in tributary valleys. Extensive park and estate woodland. Hedgerow trees of ash and sycamore.


FG KeyChar:
•	Arable and cattle farming on the lower land merge into sheep farming on higher ground and moorland to the west.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable and cattle farming on the lower land merge into sheep farming on higher ground to the west


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone, with gritstone at higher altitudes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone, with gritstone at higher altitudes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large reservoirs and ornamental lakes provide distinctive areas of open water.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large reservoirs and ornamental lakes provide distinctive areas of open water.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the area has large rectilinear fields enclosed by stone walls or hedgerows.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most of the area has large rectilinear fields enclosed by stone walls or hedgerows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sandstone and dolerite crags (the latter associated with the Whin Sill) form local landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sandstone and dolerite crags (the latter associated with the Whin Sill) form local landscape features.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are frequent country houses and fortified defensive structures, typically set in landscaped parklands.
•	Large reservoirs and ornamental lakes provide distinctive areas of open water.
•	The ancient market town of Morpeth serves a surrounding medieval pattern of small, nucleated villages.
•	Villages are often centred on greens and surrounded by extensive medieval ridge and furrow and earthworks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Frequent landscaped parklands and estates with extensive woodland. Large reserviors and ornamental lakes within parkland.


JM KeyChar:
•	Riparian woodlands (often ancient in origin) and wet pasture are key habitats, and species-rich pastures and meadows are found along the course of Hadrian’s Wall.

Edited_KeyChars:
Riparian woodlands (often ancient in origin) and wet pasture are key habitats, and species-rich pastures and meadows along the course of Hadrian’s Wall.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are frequent country houses and fortified defensive structures, typically set in landscaped parklands.
•	The ancient market town of Morpeth serves a surrounding medieval pattern of small, nucleated villages.
•	Villages are often centred on greens and surrounded by extensive medieval ridge and furrow and earthworks.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are frequent country houses and fortified defensive structures, typically set in landscaped parklands.
•	The ancient market town of Morpeth serves a surrounding medieval pattern of small, nucleated villages.
•	Villages are often centred on greens and surrounded by extensive medieval ridge and furrow and earthworks.


FG KeyChar:
•	This intermediate upland fringe plateau comprises a series of ridges and intimate river valleys in the north, opening out to a broader, flatter landscape in the south and east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This intermediate upland fringe plateau comprises a series of ridges and intimate river valleys in the north, opening out to a broader, flatter landscape in the south and east.


FG KeyChar:
•	The valleys of the rivers Font, Wansbeck and Coquet are well-wooded.
•	In addition, there are mixed and ornamental woodlands and parklands within the country estates.
•	Small coniferous blocks and belts of trees occur on the more open farmland to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
Oak, ash and alder woodland along river valleys, with mixed ornamental woodland in parklands. Small coniferous blocks on farmland to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent pasture and semi-natural grassland are typical of the valleys and coastal fringes; inland is an open, mixed and arable landscape, with intensive cereal, beef and sheep production.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixed land use with some permanent pasture for beef and sheep production and some arable land with intensive cereal production.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone with pantile or slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone with pantile or slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The coast and islands provide rich wildlife habitats, particularly for sea birds.
•	There are intertidal flats backed by saltmarsh with patches of coastal grazing marsh in the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
The coast and islands include coastal fringe grasslands, saltmarshes, intertidal mudflats and sand dunes with coastal heath and scrub,  provide a rich wildlife habitat for seabirds.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Aln, Coquet and Tweed, as well as smaller rivers, meander across the coastal plain to the sea.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Aln, Coquet and Tweed, as well as smaller rivers, meander across the coastal plain to the sea.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area’s heritage reflects ecclesiastical influences and the need for border defence, including prominent medieval castles, fortifications and structures, and religious buildings, often forming outstanding coastal landmarks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historical features include prominent medieval castles, fortifications and structures, and religious buildings. Complex early field systems.


FG KeyChar:
•	Permanent pasture and semi-natural grassland are typical of the valleys and coastal fringes; inland is an open, mixed and arable landscape, with intensive cereal, beef and sheep production.
•	On the Whin Sill intrusions are rare, semi-natural whinstone grasslands.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi natural acid and neutral grassland and heath on coastal fringes, including rare whinstone grasslands. Saltmarshes, intertidal mudflats and sand dunes with coastal heath and scrub.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlement comprises dispersed farmsteads, small nucleated villages, fishing villages and small coastal resort towns.
•	The area south-west of Berwick-Upon-Tweed is affected by whinstone quarrying and opencast coal mining.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlement comprises dispersed farmsteads, small nucleated villages, fishing villages and small coastal resort towns.
•	The area south-west of Berwick-Upon-Tweed is affected by whinstone quarrying and opencast coal mining.


FG KeyChar:
•	This narrow, low-lying, windswept coastal plain has wide views east to the sea and west to the Cheviots, with striking views along the coast itself.
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.
•	The Whin Sill intrusions produce dramatic landscape features, including the coastal cliffs at Bamburgh and the Farne Islands and distinctive inland outcrops.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This narrow, low-lying, windswept coastal plain has wide views east to the sea and west to the Cheviots, with striking views along the coast itself.
•	There is diverse coastal scenery dominated by high cliffs and offshore islands in the north, and by sweeping sandy bays and dunes in the south.
•	The Whin Sill intrusions produce dramatic landscape features, including the coastal cliffs at Bamburgh and the Farne Islands and distinctive inland outcrops.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings were of sandstone and thatch, later replaced by stone slates and Welsh slates.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings were of sandstone and thatch, later replaced by stone slates and Welsh slates.


FG KeyChar:
•	Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmland comprises rectangular patterns of large open fields, bounded by drystone walls, dating from the time of the parliamentary enclosures.
•	However, blocks and belts of coniferous woodland often break up the patterns.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large, open, rectangular fields bounded by drystone walls and occasionally broken up by coniferous woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.


FG KeyChar:
•	The parkland settings of the large country mansions that fringe the lower fellside slopes, eg Chillingham, Cragside and Alnwick Castle, have distinctive ‘landscaped’ features and much semi-natural broadleaved woodland cover.
•	This is an important prehistoric archaeological landscape, with ‘cup and ring’ marked rocks, Bronze Age burial cists, earthwork remains of Iron Age hillfort systems, standing stones, enclosures and cairns.
•	Remains of deserted medieval villages and ridge and furrow cultivation are common, especially on land to the east and south of the main plateau area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic designated parkland landscapes with an abundance of semi-natural broadleaved woodland cover. Important prehistoric evidence.


FG KeyChar:
•	Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.
•	Varied moorland communities, dominated by heather and rough acid grassland mosaics, are found on the thin, sandy soils of the higher and steeper slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Varied moorland communities, dominated by heather and rough acid grassland mosaics on the higher and steeper slopes. Wet peaty flushes, mires, loughs and small reservoirs occur throughout the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are scattered farmsteads and small hamlets, served by the market towns of Alnwick and Rothbury.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are scattered farmsteads and small hamlets, served by the market towns of Alnwick and Rothbury.


FG KeyChar:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.
•	They are highest in the south, where they reach over 400m AOD.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	These sandstone hills form distinctive skyline features with generally level tops, north-west facing scarps, and craggy outcrops with exceptional views.
•	They are highest in the south, where they reach over 400m AOD.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a transition from heather and grass moor on the higher ground, through scrub and woodland, to improved farmland and parkland on the lower slopes.
•	Extensive plantations of coniferous woodland occur in some areas.
•	Broadleaved woodland is associated with rivers and scarp slopes.
•	The parkland settings of the large country mansions that fringe the lower fellside slopes, eg Chillingham, Cragside and Alnwick Castle, have distinctive ‘landscaped’ features and much semi-natural broadleaved woodland cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some extensive plantations of coniferous woodland.
Broadleaved woodland associated with historic parkland and rivers and scarp slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The flatter, more open arable farmland to the north contrasts with the strong patchwork of mixed farmland, hedgerows and hedgerow trees within the vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
Predominantly flat, open, arable farmland, with limited rough grazing on the northern and eastern edges of the Cheviots. Mixed farmland in regular medium sized fields in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or sandstone rubble with clay tile or stone slate roofs (formerly thatch, which survives in pockets such as at Etal).

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or sandstone rubble with clay tile or stone slate roofs (formerly thatch)


FG KeyChar:
•	Other rivers and streams are often tree-lined and meander between raised terraces and flat gravel benches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Other rivers and streams are often tree-lined and meander between raised terraces and flat gravel benches.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a rectilinear pattern of small coniferous woodland blocks and shelterbelts.
•	The flatter, more open arable farmland to the north contrasts with the strong patchwork of mixed farmland, hedgerows and hedgerow trees within the vales.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields mainly large and medium sized, strong patchwork pattern in the vales. Contrast between hedgerows, fragmented and largely treeless in the north but with many trees in the southern vales.


FG KeyChar:
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fortified castles, ‘bastle houses’, ‘tower houses’ and other defensive structures are common.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fortified castles, ‘bastle houses’, ‘tower houses’ and other defensive structures are common.


JM KeyChar:
•	The River Tweed and its English tributaries form an outstanding example of a sandstone and limestone river.  There are also some areas of wet grassland (for example within the Millfield Plain) and fragments of broadleaved woodland on steep river banks.

Edited_KeyChars:
Outstanding example of a sandstone and limestone river. Areas of wet grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Small traditional villages are strategically sited at river bridging points and on the break of slope at the edge of the valley floor.
•	River Tweed has a mix of deciduous woodland and estate landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Small traditional villages are strategically sited at river bridging points and on the break of slope at the edge of the valley floor.
•	River Tweed has a mix of deciduous woodland and estate landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	This tranquil, agricultural, valley and plain landscape drains northwards to the Tweed and eastwards to the North Sea.
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This tranquil, agricultural, valley and plain landscape drains northwards to the Tweed and eastwards to the North Sea.
•	It has many features shaped by glaciation, including drumlin fields within the Tweed valley lowlands, extensive clay and sand deposits around Millfield, and moraines, eskers and kames within the undulating vales of Coquetdale and Whittingham Vale to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	River Tweed has a mix of deciduous woodland and estate landscapes.
•	There is a rectilinear pattern of small coniferous woodland blocks and shelterbelts.

Edited_KeyChars:
Deciduous woodland along the River Tweed and small coniferous woodland blocks and shelterbelts.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower, steeper slopes have a greener appearance indicative of more productive grassland, but show signs of bracken invasion.
•	The open moorland plateaux are managed as grouse moors and for grazing by distinctive white-faced Cheviot and black-faced Border sheep; there are also elusive wild goats.
•	Better quality grassland on the lower slopes is grazed by both beef cattle and sheep.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open moorland plateaux are managed as grouse moors and for grazing by distinctive white-faced Cheviot and black-faced Border sheep whilst the grassland on the lower slopes is grazed by cattle and sheep.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are commonly of sandstone and slate; but clay pantile roofs are a distinctive feature of the northern valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are commonly of sandstone and slate; but clay pantile roofs are a distinctive feature of the northern valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.


FG KeyChar:
•	The lower, steeper slopes have a greener appearance indicative of more productive grassland, but show signs of bracken invasion.
•	The hills are largely open although the lower slopes have large regular fields defined by dry stone walls or ‘dykes’ dating from parliamentary enclosures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large regular fields from 19th century enclosures bound by dry stone walls on the lower slopes. Hills mainly open.


FG KeyChar:
•	The valleys also provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets on strategic sites, sometimes with medieval fortified buildings.
•	The well-preserved remains of extensive tracts of prehistoric landscape (hillforts, settlements and prehistoric field systems) can be clearly seen; the hills are also criss-crossed by ancient Roman tracks and border drove roads.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive prehistoric remains relating to defence, settlement and argiculture. Also ancient roman roads and medieval defence buildings.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland.
•	There are rare arctic-alpine flora on the scree slopes and species-rich semi-natural grasslands and wet flushes in the valleys eg the Coquet valley.
•	The summit is characterised by mixed areas of blanket bog and heather and by the sculpted forms of granitic ‘tors’; the treeless upper hillsides have coarse ‘white’ grassland and heather moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland. Rare arctic-alpine flora and species-rich grassland and wet flushes. On the summit, mixed areas of blanket bog and coarse grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	The valleys also provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets on strategic sites, sometimes with medieval fortified buildings.
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.
•	Perceptions of remoteness and solitude are affected by military training, as the south-western part of the Character Area lies within the Otterburn Training Area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The valleys also provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets on strategic sites, sometimes with medieval fortified buildings.
•	There are no modern-day cross-border roads through the Cheviots, however, and this helps maintain a sense of isolation and wilderness.
•	Perceptions of remoteness and solitude are affected by military training, as the south-western part of the Character Area lies within the Otterburn Training Area.


FG KeyChar:
•	This smooth, sinuous cluster of hills of volcanic origin rises to over 800m AOD and forms a wild, open, windswept landscape with broad moorland horizons.
•	There are extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland.
•	On the northern flanks of the hills are deep ravines and rocky outcrops with dramatic scree slopes, glacial meltwater channels and ice-gouged hollows.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This smooth, sinuous cluster of hills of volcanic origin rises to over 800m AOD and forms a wild, open, windswept landscape with broad moorland horizons.
•	There are extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland.
•	On the northern flanks of the hills are deep ravines and rocky outcrops with dramatic scree slopes, glacial meltwater channels and ice-gouged hollows.


FG KeyChar:
•	Coniferous woodland plantations occur on some upper valley slopes where they tend to interrupt the smooth lines of an otherwise open, rounded landscape.
•	Steep-sided valleys with fast-flowing burns radiate outwards and have relict semi-natural broadleaved woodland (oak, birch, alder and hazel) and gorse scrub.

Edited_KeyChars:
Relict semi-natural braodleaved woodland (oak, birch, alder and hazel) on steep valley sides. Confierous plantations on some upper valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are generally of red brick and slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are generally of red brick and slate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Mudflats and saltmarshes are found within the river estuaries and there are expansive sandy beaches backed by dunes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mudflats and saltmarshes found in river estuaries and sanddunes on beaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Areas of open water and wetland occur in areas of mining subsidence and as features within restored landscapes; in places these have been developed as recreational landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Areas of open water and wetland occur in areas of mining subsidence and as features within restored landscapes; in places these have been developed as recreational landscapes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fields are bounded by post and wire fences or by hedges.
•	Hedgerows are generally low and gappy, with no hedgerow trees, although hedgerow condition tends to be better in the more rural, northern areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields are bounded by post and wire fences or by hedgerows which are generally low and gappy.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, scattered country houses, institutions (hospital, prisons, colleges), and an extensive urban fringe effect near settlements, where pit villages have often merged.
•	Broadleaved woods occur on steeper valley sides and within estate parkland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Estate parklands with broadleaved woodland.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, scattered country houses, institutions (hospital, prisons, colleges), and an extensive urban fringe effect near settlements, where pit villages have often merged.
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are large, scattered country houses, institutions (hospital, prisons, colleges), and an extensive urban fringe effect near settlements, where pit villages have often merged.
•	In the southern part of the area large-scale industry, urban settlements and major road and rail routes dominate the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Sweeping sandy beaches and rocky headlands remain although much of the coast is developed.
•	It is heavily influenced by large-scale opencast coal mining sites, deep mine spoil heaps and colliery restoration.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Sweeping sandy beaches and rocky headlands remain although much of the coast is developed.
•	It is heavily influenced by large-scale opencast coal mining sites, deep mine spoil heaps and colliery restoration.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are prominent blocks of mixed and coniferous woodland, many of which are still maturing, mainly on reclaimed colliery sites.
•	Broadleaved woods occur on steeper valley sides and within estate parkland.
•	The coast is open, largely treeless and windswept.
•	Restoration has created large tracts of simple, relatively featureless agricultural land with strips of plantation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Blocks of mixed and coniferous woodland on colliery sites, with broadleaved woods on steeper valley sides and in estate parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Gently rolling terraces of open arable and mixed farmland with low hedges and few trees or woodlands occupy much of the area.
•	On land restored from spoil heaps or opencast mining, pastures for sheep grazing are divided by fences or strips of mixed or coniferous plantation; these landscapes lack maturity.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly arable and mixed improved farmland, with pasture for sheep grazing on steeper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are scattered ‘green’ villages with buildings of local sandstone and roofs of red clay pantile or slate, as well as numerous mining and industrial terraces of Victorian brick and slate, and later estate housing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings of local sandstone and roofs of red clay pantile or slate, as well as industrial terraces of Victorian brick and slate.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.
•	Coal mining has resulted in locally-prominent opencast extraction areas, spoil heaps and recently restored sites.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.
•	Coal mining has resulted in locally-prominent opencast extraction areas, spoil heaps and recently restored sites.


JM KeyChar:
•	Most field systems have their origins in town field enclosures of the 16th and 17th centuries and have suffered in varying degrees from field enlargement in the 20th century.

Edited_KeyChars:
16th and 17th century field patterns that have been enlarged in places in the 20th century. Divided by low hawthorn hedges, fences or strips of conifer plantation.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.


FG KeyChar:
•	Higher ground offers panoramic views within which the Tyne bridges and Durham Cathedral are prominent landmarks.
•	Parkland and wooded estates surrounding castles and country houses lie along the river corridors.
•	The historic riverside cities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham are strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear.

Edited_KeyChars:
Parkland and wooded estate farmland surrounding castles and country houses lie along the river corridors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.
•	The area is dominated by widespread urban and industrial development and a dense network of major road and rail links.


JM KeyChar:
•	Ancient oak woods are found in denes and gorges and on steep river bluffs, and there are some remnant heaths and valley mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak woods are found in denes and gorges and on steep river bluffs, and there are some remnant heaths and valley mires.


FG KeyChar:
•	Urban fringe land uses such as pony grazing are also found around settlements.
•	The historic riverside cities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham are strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear.
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Urban fringe land uses such as pony grazing are also found around settlements.
•	The historic riverside cities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham are strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear.
•	Settlements include the spreading conurbation of Tyneside, the planned structures of new towns, and more dispersed large towns and villages further south.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.
•	Steep gorges and denes open up in places into broad floodplains overlooked by steep bluffs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area comprises gently undulating or rolling land, underlain by sandstones, shales and coal with thick layers of glacial clays, sands and gravels, and incised by the meandering rivers Tyne and Wear and their tributaries.
•	Steep gorges and denes open up in places into broad floodplains overlooked by steep bluffs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse but the valley sides and bluffs are well wooded (sometimes with ancient oak woods).
•	Parkland and wooded estates surrounding castles and country houses lie along the river corridors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ancient oak woodland concentrated in valley sides and bluffs. Parkland woodland elsewhere. In valleys abundant hedgerow trees; oak, ash, sycamore and beech.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, regular fields bounded by low, clipped hedges and few hedgerow trees; most farmland is open arable.
•	The land around the larger settlements shows strong urban fringe influences such as pony paddocks, sheds and allotments.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most farmland is open arable with occasional improved pasture, with urban fringe land used for pony paddocks and allotments.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional villages of the plateau, which still have some local stone-built houses clustered around central greens, contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional, local stone-built houses contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are large, regular fields bounded by low, clipped hedges and few hedgerow trees; most farmland is open arable.

Edited_KeyChars:
There are large, regular fields bounded by low, clipped hawthorn hedges and few hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is varied coastal topography of low limestone cliffs and clay slopes, sandy bays and rocky headlands, despoiled in places by tipping of colliery wastes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is varied coastal topography of low limestone cliffs and clay slopes, sandy bays and rocky headlands, despoiled in places by tipping of colliery wastes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Limestone quarries are prominent on the escarpment and areas of derelict or recently restored colliery land lie close to settlements.

Edited_KeyChars:
Presence of parkland and estates rich in hedgerows and woodland. Prominent limestone quarries and areas of restored colliery land.


FG KeyChar:
•	Remnants of Magnesian Limestone grassland occur on thin calcareous soils on steeper escarpment slopes and drift-free ridges and there are limestone plant communities in old quarries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnants of Magnesian Limestone grassland on steeper escarpment slopes and limestone plant communities in old quarries. Coastal scrub of blackthorn, hazel and juniper.


FG KeyChar:
•	The traditional villages of the plateau, which still have some local stone-built houses clustered around central greens, contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The traditional villages of the plateau, which still have some local stone-built houses clustered around central greens, contrast with Victorian brick-built terraces.
•	There is widespread urban development with major infrastructure corridors, scattered mining towns and villages near the coast, and large industrial estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	This gently rolling low plateau of soft Magnesian Limestones, overlain by thick glacial boulder clays, dips south-eastwards and is incised by steep-sided denes at the coast.
•	A low west-facing escarpment is dissected in the north by minor valleys separated by spurs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This gently rolling low plateau of soft Magnesian Limestones, overlain by thick glacial boulder clays, dips south-eastwards and is incised by steep-sided denes at the coast.
•	A low west-facing escarpment is dissected in the north by minor valleys separated by spurs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is low, but ancient ash woods are found in steep-sided limestone denes towards the coast and on the escarpment, and occasional broadleaved woodlands occur within parkland and country estates.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sparse woodland cover with ancient ash, oak, wych elm and yew woods in steep-sided limestone denes and occasional broadleaved woodlands in country estates.


FG KeyChar:
•	On the ridges, most farmland is used for sheep and cattle grazing; in the valleys there is a mixture of arable fields and improved pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
On the ridges, most farmland is used for sheep and cattle grazing; in the valleys there is a mixture of arable fields and improved pastures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Old agricultural villages lie on the ridge tops or valley floors and have buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.


FG KeyChar:
•	Recently reclaimed land and ongoing opencast coal mining are locally prominent in the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Recently reclaimed land and ongoing opencast coal mining are locally prominent in the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The ridges are characterised by large, regular grids of dry stone walls and gappy thorn hedges, crossed by straight enclosure roads and lanes.
•	Fields in the valleys are generally smaller and bounded by hawthorn hedges with scattered hedgerow oak and ash.

Edited_KeyChars:
Ridges are characterised by large, regular grids of dry stone walls and gappy thorn hedges and fields in the valleys are generally smaller and bounded by hawthorn hedges with scattered hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	Soft and thinly bedded sandstones, shales and coals give rise to gently rounded ridges with occasional steeper bluffs; boulder clay on lower valley slopes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Soft and thinly bedded sandstones, shales and coals give rise to gently rounded ridges with occasional steeper bluffs; boulder clay on lower valley slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are numerous relics of the mining industry.
•	Occasional parklands and wooded estates surround small country houses.

Edited_KeyChars:
Occasional parklands and wooded estates. Relics of the mining industry and small ponds, oxbow lakes and wetlands in former gravel works.


FG KeyChar:
•	Fragments of heathland and scrub occur on infertile acidic soils on higher ground.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fragments of heathland and scrub occur on infertile acidic soils on higher ground. Heathland and scrub vegetation on the upland fringe.


FG KeyChar:
•	Old agricultural villages lie on the ridge tops or valley floors and have buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.
•	Mining villages with Victorian terraced housing of brick or stone and slate and later estate housing are scattered across the landscape, contributing an urban fringe character, particularly in the north-eastern part of the Character.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Old agricultural villages lie on the ridge tops or valley floors and have buildings of local sandstone with roofs of stone or slate.
•	Mining villages with Victorian terraced housing of brick or stone and slate and later estate housing are scattered across the landscape, contributing an urban fringe character, particularly in the north-eastern part of the Character.


FG KeyChar:
•	Lower lying undulating pastoral areas are found between the hills and the coast, including a larger scale rolling landscape to the west and a smaller scale landscape of contrasts with the surrounding limestone hills to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Lower lying undulating pastoral areas are found between the hills and the coast, including a larger scale rolling landscape to the west and a smaller scale landscape of contrasts with the surrounding limestone hills to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some scrub and broadleaved woodland is found in the inland areas, with some areas of ancient and semi-natural woodland.   There are relatively few trees on the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Scrub and broadleaved woodland including ancient and semi-natural woodland and traditional coppice
Relatively few trees on the coast


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is based on upland sheep farming and cattle grazing.  Rough grazing on the upper hill slopes gives way to permanent pastures on the dales sides and hay meadows and silage fields on the more fertile dale floor.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rough grazing for sheep and cattle on the upper hill slopes gives way to permanent pastures on the dales sides and hay meadows and silage fields on the more fertile dale floor.


FG KeyChar:
•	The dales are characterised by distinctive stone-built barns, often roofed with large slabs of stone.

Edited_KeyChars:
The dales are characterised by distinctive stone-built barns, often roofed with large slabs of stone.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are few naturally occurring waterbodies, reflecting the predominance of limestone.  The principal exceptions occur where carboniferous rocks have been eroded away to reveal impermeable rocks below, such as at Malham Tarn.  Reservoirs and associated water gathering grounds influence the landscape in Nidderdale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are few naturally occurring waterbodies, reflecting the predominance of limestone.  The principal exceptions occur where carboniferous rocks have been eroded away to reveal impermeable rocks below, such as at Malham Tarn.  Reservoirs and associated water gathering grounds influence the landscape in Nidderdale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries comprise distinctive drystone walls, enclosing large, rectilinear fields on the higher fells and smaller, older and irregular fields within the dales and particularly around villages.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are drystone walls, enclosing large, rectilinear fields on the higher fells and smaller, older and irregular fields within the dales.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Dales are underlain by Millstone Grit in the east, the Yoredale Series (comprising alternating limestone, sandstone and shales) in the north and west and Great Scar Limestone in the south and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Yorkshire Dales are underlain by Millstone Grit in the east, the Yoredale Series (comprising alternating limestone, sandstone and shales) in the north and west and Great Scar Limestone in the south and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is an historic landscape with remnants of strip lynchet field systems and the sites of Norse settlements.  The networks of stone field boundaries, barns and lanes are perhaps the most visible components of the historic landscape. Extensive remains from the lead mining industry, and the Settle to Carlisle Railway with its famous Ribblehead viaduct, are also prominent historic features within the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
The networks of stone field boundaries, barns and lanes are perhaps the most visible components of the historic landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	The fells comprise a mixture of heather moorland in the drier east and cotton grass bog in the wetter west.  In the south west, there are limestone outcrops in the form of pavements, scars and screes.

Edited_KeyChars:
There is a mixture of heather moorland in the drier east and cotton grass bog in the wetter west. Alkaline-loving wild-flowers on limestone moorland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the area is predominantly rural in nature, it has a number of limestone and sandstone quarries.
•	Stone villages tend to be nucleated and focused on key transport routes and at bridging points.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the area is predominantly rural in nature, it has a number of limestone and sandstone quarries.
•	Stone villages tend to be nucleated and focused on key transport routes and at bridging points.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Millstone Grit gives rise to a plateau of high moorland.  The Yoredale Series gives rise to typically stepped profiles along dales sides.  The Great Scar Limestone gives rise to classic glacio-karst landscapes with limestone pavements, gorges, gills, scars, outcrops and cave systems.
•	The high moorland, which rises in places to over 600m AOD, contrasts with deep, glacially enlarged dales.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Millstone Grit gives rise to a plateau of high moorland.  The Yoredale Series gives rise to typically stepped profiles along dales sides.  The Great Scar Limestone gives rise to classic glacio-karst landscapes with limestone pavements, gorges, gills, scars, outcrops and cave systems.
•	The high moorland, which rises in places to over 600m AOD, contrasts with deep, glacially enlarged dales.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Dales have limited tree cover.  Woodland tends to be limited to woods planted around villages and farmsteads to provide shelter, and sparse ancient and semi-natural woodlands on steeper slopes along gills and dalesides.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland tends to be limited to woods planted around villages and sparse ancient and semi-natural woodlands on steeper slopes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly pastoral though some arable farming is found on lighter soils in the north and east of the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
The area is mainly pastoral with some arable farming in the north and east of the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages, farms and larger settlements are built of local stone, complementing stone walls where they occur.  Most buildings are of Millstone Grit, but Magnesian Limestone is also used in the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most buildings are of Millstone Grit, but Magnesian Limestone is also used in the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers such as the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf are often important landscape features, flowing through broad, glacially widened valleys.  Smaller rivers, such as the Burn, Laver, Kex Beck and the Skell flow through steep sided valleys following courses cut by glacial meltwaters.  The River Washburn, a tributary of the Wharf, has been dammed to create a series of reservoirs.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers such as the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf are often important landscape features, flowing through broad, glacially widened valleys.  Smaller rivers, such as the Burn, Laver, Kex Beck and the Skell flow through steep sided valleys following courses cut by glacial meltwaters.  The River Washburn, a tributary of the Wharf, has been dammed to create a series of reservoirs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries include stone walls on higher ground and hedges in lower areas.  Around villages, fields are often small, reflecting their medieval origins and the combination of dairy farming with textile weaving.  Fields on higher ground tend to be larger and more regular, dating from parliamentary enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries include stone walls on higher ground and hedges in lower areas. Fields on lower ground tend to be smaller and of medieval origin whilst are larger and more regular on higher ground.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.


JM KeyChar:
•	In the north of this area, landscape patterns have been influenced by Roman settlement along Dere Street (A1).  Medieval abbeys and castles, packhorse and masonry bridges across the area’s many rivers, and country houses and parks (often former medieval deer parks) are distinctive historic landscape features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Country houses and former medieval deer parks are present. Landscape patterns influenced by Roman and medieval usage.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats are generally confined to the upper fringes in the north and west where improved grassland gives way to rough moorland grazing.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats are generally confined to rough moorland grazing in the north and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Catterick military camp, developed in the twentieth century, together with the ‘golf balls’ of the military installation at Menwith Hill, are prominent features.
•	The area has a number of small, historic market towns including Kirkby Malzeard, Middleham, Masham, Richmond and Barnard Castle, as well as the spa town of Harrogate.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Catterick military camp, developed in the twentieth century, together with the ‘golf balls’ of the military installation at Menwith Hill, are prominent features.
•	The area has a number of small, historic market towns including Kirkby Malzeard, Middleham, Masham, Richmond and Barnard Castle, as well as the spa town of Harrogate.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.
•	The area is generally orientated eastwards, the moorlands of the Pennines forming a physical and visual barrier to the east.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Pennine Dales Fringe is underlain by resistant Millstone Grit which dips gently to the east, forming the eastern flank of the Pennines.  The flanks are dissected by a series of river valleys including those of the Tees, Ure, Nidd and Wharf.
•	The area is generally orientated eastwards, the moorlands of the Pennines forming a physical and visual barrier to the east.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is comparatively well-wooded in contrast to the open landscapes to the west.  Woodland is found along valley slopes, in copses and plantations in the lower agricultural landscape and along hedgerows. Many of the larger coniferous and mixed woodlands are found on estates.  Some lower lying, arable areas in the north east of the area have lower levels of tree cover.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland is found along valley slopes, in copses and plantations in the lower agricultural landscape, along hedgerows and in parkland.


FG KeyChar:
•	To the west is a broad area of open arable and mixed farmland, large in scale, with limited hedgerow trees of ash and sycamore.
•	To the north the land rises gently and is more undulating with permanent pastures and leys grazed by sheep and cattle.
•	To the south is an attractive, rolling, mixed farming landscape on the edge of the Vale of Mowbray and the North York Moors National Park.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open arable and mixed farmland to the west, permanent pasture in the north, and mixed farming in the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or brick with red pantiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings are generally of sandstone or brick with red pantiles.


FG KeyChar:
•	At the mouth of the River Tees are extensive mud flats, saltmarshes, wetlands, beaches and dunes such as Seal Sands, Cowpen Marshes and Seaton Sands.

Edited_KeyChars:
At the mouth of the River Tees are extensive mud flats, saltmarshes, wetlands, beaches and dunes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Large-scale chemical and oil refining works, docks and other heavy industries along the estuary form a distinctive skyline, and transport and infrastructure corridors are also prominent.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Large-scale chemical and oil refining works, docks and other heavy industries along the estuary form a distinctive skyline, and transport and infrastructure corridors are also prominent.


FG KeyChar:
•	Skerne Carrs, near Sedgefield, is an extensive and distinctive area of essentially flat, peaty fenland and carrs with frequent watercourses.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Skerne Carrs, near Sedgefield, is an extensive and distinctive area of essentially flat, peaty fenland and carrs with frequent watercourses.


FG KeyChar:
•	Minor valleys and linear strips of open land extend as green corridors from rural farmland into the heart of the conurbation.
•	Field boundaries are hawthorn hedges, usually low-cut
•	The semi-regular patterns of old (17th century) enclosures have been fragmented by field amalgamation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are hawthorn hedges, usually low-cut. 17th century field pattern are being lost to field amalgamation.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.


FG KeyChar:
•	The southern part of the area has a series of attractive Georgian market towns.
•	The semi-regular patterns of old (17th century) enclosures have been fragmented by field amalgamation.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field patterns are the remnants of 17th century enclosures. Heavily wooded parkland and estates.


Edited_KeyChars:
Skerne Carrs is a distinctive area of essentially flat, peaty fenland and carrs with frequent watercourses. Mudflats, saltmarshes, wetlands and dunes are improtant for waders and wildfowl.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a nucleated pattern of small green villages connected by winding lanes, and scattered farms.
•	The southern part of the area has a series of attractive Georgian market towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There is a nucleated pattern of small green villages connected by winding lanes, and scattered farms.
•	The southern part of the area has a series of attractive Georgian market towns.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.
•	The meandering, slow-moving river Tees flows through the heart of the area, with distinctive incised meanders in its middle reaches.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a broad, low-lying plain of gently undulating or flat land on glacial clays, sands and gravels, with wide views to distant hills.
•	The meandering, slow-moving river Tees flows through the heart of the area, with distinctive incised meanders in its middle reaches.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is generally sparse, with exceptions such as the steep banks of the middle Tees and Leven, semi-natural woodland on heathy soils north of Billingham, and parkland and managed estates.
•	Orchards historically were important in the area south of the river Tees
•	To the west is a broad area of open arable and mixed farmland, large in scale, with limited hedgerow trees of ash and sycamore.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland cover is generally sparse except for narrow riparian woods of willow and alder, and ancient oak woods on steep river banks. Semi-natural woodland found on parkland and managed estates as well as orchards. Hedgerow trees of oak, ash and sycamore.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture is a combination of arable and mixed dairy and cropping with some poultry and pig rearing.  Agriculture tends to be more intensive in the south and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
Agriculture is a combination of arable and mixed dairy and cropping with some poultry and pig rearing, and is  more intensive in the south and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Farmsteads and cottages, which are frequently prominent in this open landscape, tend to be built in local brick with pantile roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings tend to be built in local brick with pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is drained by the River Swale and its tributaries the River Wiske and the Cod Beck.  These watercourses meander within narrower valleys in the north and broader floodplains in the south.  The rivers are sometimes confined within flood defence embankments, particularly in the lower lying southern part of the Vale.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is drained by the River Swale and its tributaries the River Wiske and the Cod Beck.  These watercourses meander within narrower valleys in the north and broader floodplains in the south.  The rivers are sometimes confined within flood defence embankments, particularly in the lower lying southern part of the Vale.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most fields are medium sized, though they tend to be larger in the south and west.  Boundaries are defined by low hedges or post and wire fences.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most fields are medium sized, but larger in the south and west. Boundaries are defined by low hedges or post and wire fences.


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.
•	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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Lowland heath found to the west, and rush pastures and riparian vegetation are common along streams. Wetlands on the South Derbyshire Plateaux.


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.
•	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:
Woodlands occur mainly in parkland on the South Derbyshire Claylands.
The west of the area has extensive mixed woodland and Needwood Forest has new broadleaf planting. Mature oak and ash in hedgerows.


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 most common on the river terraces, with pasture along the river floodplains.


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:
Arable fields' hedgerows low, sparse and trimmed, more overgrown on permanent pasture. Few hedgerow trees.


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.

Edited_KeyChars:
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:
Patches of unimproved grassland and rush pasture on river floodplains and open water (arising from gravel extraction) and flood meadows in the Soar valley 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:
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.


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:
Mixed farming, with arable fields on the plateaux and small scale pasture on 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. Large country houses abound and there are 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:
Mainly medium/large regular arable fields, with small, irregular pasture in places. Bound by low, well maintained hedgerows with scattered trees.


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 with woodlands and parkland trees.


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:
Extensive areas of unimproved pasture with remnant acid grassland and patches of gorse and bracken on 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. Also larger ancient woodland sites in the lowlands and oak/ash in hedgerows.


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:
Mixed farmland; generally large open arable fields predominate with small scale pastoral land.


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:
Old brick buildings with an industrial heritage.


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:
Improving sparse, low, hedgerows with few hedgerow trees. Arable fields tend to be enlarged and there is a network of small, irregular pastures.


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.


Edited_KeyChars:
No significant historic landscape features. Small woodlands associated with former parkland and estates.


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:
Derelict sites colonised by scrub and secondary woodland. Remnants of acid grassland in 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:
New planting in the National Forest changing the landscape. Network of hedgerows with groups of mature hedgerow trees.


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:
Agricultural use is mainly arable, with areas of improved 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:
Traditional buildings are predominantly of red brick.


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:
Medium/large regular rectilinear fields found throughout. Enclosed by hawthorn hedges with hedgerow trees. Areas of ridge and furrow.


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 Vale of Mowbray is a low lying area underlain by Triassic sandstones and mudstones blanketed by a thick layer of glacial boulder clay with moraines and ridges of sands and gravels.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Vale of Mowbray is a low lying area underlain by Triassic sandstones and mudstones blanketed by a thick layer of glacial boulder clay with moraines and ridges of sands and gravels.


FG KeyChar:
•	Unlike surrounding upland areas where change has been slow and many historic sites have survived, the Vale of Mowbray has comparatively few historic sites, reflecting the processes of enclosure and drainage that took place in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Number of parklands. Few historic sites, reflecting the processes of enclosure and drainage that took place in the 18th and 19th centuries.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats are few, tending to be limited to areas of riparian rough grazing, particularly in rivers’ more northerly sections.

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats are limited to areas of riparian rough grazing, particularly in rivers’ more northerly sections.


FG KeyChar:
•	Villages, which are often located on higher ground, tend to be linear in form.  Some have village greens and many have churches with spire or towers, providing landmarks in the wider landscape.
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Villages, which are often located on higher ground, tend to be linear in form.  Some have village greens and many have churches with spire or towers, providing landmarks in the wider landscape.
•	The area includes the county town of Northallerton together with Thirsk.  Its lowland character means it has long been favoured as a transport route, and is crossed by the East Coast Mainline and the A1.  The area includes a number of active and disused airfields.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is flatter in the south and west (formed on glacial lake deposits) and more undulating in the east, marking the transition to the North Yorkshire Moors.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is flatter in the south and west (formed on glacial lake deposits) and more undulating in the east, marking the transition to the North Yorkshire Moors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Tree cover is generally sparse, comprising small woodlands (many associated with hunting) and a number of parklands.  The eastern part of the area is more wooded

Edited_KeyChars:
Tree cover is generally sparse, with small woodlands and a number of parklands.  The eastern part of the area is more wooded


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture comprises rough grazing on the higher moorlands, mixed, predominantly pastoral farming in the Dales and arable on the lighter soils of lower areas to the south.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rough grazing on the higher moorlands, mixed, predominantly pastoral farming in the Dales and arable to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most historic buildings are constructed in rubble limestone or dressed sandstone with red pantile or slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most historic buildings are constructed in rubble limestone or dressed sandstone with red pantile or slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The upland reaches the coast to form one of the highest stretches of cliffs in England.  These cliffs are punctuated by sandy or rocky bays.   Most rivers flow south, east or north east, radiating out from the upland mass.

Edited_KeyChars:
The upland coast is one of the highest stretches of cliffs in England.  These cliffs are punctuated by sandy or rocky bays.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The upland reaches the coast to form one of the highest stretches of cliffs in England.  These cliffs are punctuated by sandy or rocky bays.   Most rivers flow south, east or north east, radiating out from the upland mass.


FG KeyChar:
•	The pattern of field boundaries varies across the area with a combination of stone walls in the Dales (smaller around villages, larger on the hillslopes) and hedges in lower areas.  Many have deteriorated and have been replaced or supplemented by fences.  The higher moorland areas are largely unenclosed.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries vary with  stone walls in the Dales and hedges in lower areas.  Many hedges have been replaced or supplemented by fences.  The higher moorland areas are largely unenclosed.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by sandstones and mudstones from the Middle Jurassic in the north and sandstones and limestone from the Upper Jurassic in the south.  Shales from the Lower Jurassic (with alum, jet and cement stone) are revealed along the coast and where rivers have eroded deep valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by sandstones and mudstones from the Middle Jurassic in the north and sandstones and limestone from the Upper Jurassic in the south.  Shales from the Lower Jurassic (with alum, jet and cement stone) are revealed along the coast and where rivers have eroded deep valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	The higher moorland represents the most extensive area of heather moorland in England and Wales.

Edited_KeyChars:
The higher moorland is the most extensive area of heather moorland in England and Wales.


FG KeyChar:
•	Within the upland dales and along the coast, settlement tends to be nucleated.  Elsewhere it is typically more dispersed with a scatter of farmsteads and roadside cottages.  Small fishing villages cling to steep valley sides.
•	The area includes industrial facilities such as the potash works at Boulby and the military communications infrastructure at Fylingdales.  Large caravan parks are found along the coast and tourism is an important part of the economy of settlements such as Whitby, Scarborough and Saltburn.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Within the upland dales and along the coast, settlement tends to be nucleated.  Elsewhere it is typically more dispersed with a scatter of farmsteads and roadside cottages.  Small fishing villages cling to steep valley sides.
•	The area includes industrial facilities such as the potash works at Boulby and the military communications infrastructure at Fylingdales.  Large caravan parks are found along the coast and tourism is an important part of the economy of settlements such as Whitby, Scarborough and Saltburn.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landform is dominated by a high moorland plateau which is tilted to the south, creating a steep escarpment along its northern edge and more gentle, though still pronounced slopes along the Vale of Pickering to the south.  The Cleveland Hills blend into the Hambledon Hills to the south and the North York Moors to the east.  Outlying hills to the north include the distinctive landmark of Roseberry Topping.
•	The high moorland is dissected by a series of dales, deepened by glacial meltwaters.  These dales are generally broad and sweeping but are steep sided in places.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landform is dominated by a high moorland plateau which is tilted to the south, creating a steep escarpment along its northern edge and more gentle, though still pronounced slopes along the Vale of Pickering to the south.  The Cleveland Hills blend into the Hambledon Hills to the south and the North York Moors to the east.  Outlying hills to the north include the distinctive landmark of Roseberry Topping.
•	The high moorland is dissected by a series of dales, deepened by glacial meltwaters.  These dales are generally broad and sweeping but are steep sided in places.


FG KeyChar:
•	Whilst the higher moors are mainly treeless, broadleaf woodlands are found in the sheltered dales and lower areas to the south.  Extensive areas of coniferous plantations are located on the lower areas of moorland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Higher moors are mainly treeless, broadleaf woodlands are found in the sheltered dales and lower areas to the south.


FG KeyChar:
•	Agriculture reflects the difference in soils within the vale.  To the east, arable farming dominates, with large rectilinear fields enclosed by low hedges having been created as the wetlands were drained.  Pastures are found along some of the river floodplains.  The west is characterised by mixed farming with a higher proportion of pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Arable farming dominates in the east. Pastures are found along some of the river floodplains.  The west is mixed farming with a higher proportion of pastures.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional buildings are constructed of brick or sandstone imported from surrounding uplands.  Most historic buildings are roofed using pantiles, though many were originally thatched.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed brick or sandstone from uplands.  Most historic buildings are roofed using pantiles.


JM KeyChar:
•	The coastal landscape along the eastern edge of the area has a different character from the rest of the vale, with beaches, cliffs, short coastal stream valleys and the rock spit of Filey Brig.

Edited_KeyChars:
The coast has cliffs, beaches, short  coastal stream valleys and the rock spit of Filey Brig.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers include the River Derwent which flows south westwards along the Vale, cutting through the Howardian Hills to the south.  A series of tributaries drain higher ground to the north and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers include the River Derwent which flows south westwards along the Vale, cutting through the Howardian Hills to the south.  A series of tributaries drain higher ground to the north and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries comprise a combination of low hedges and, particularly in lower parts of the eastern Vale, drained ditches and dykes.  Fences are common where hedges have declined or been lost.
•	Agriculture reflects the difference in soils within the vale.  To the east, arable farming dominates, with large rectilinear fields enclosed by low hedges having been created as the wetlands were drained.  Pastures are found along some of the river floodplains.  The west is characterised by mixed farming with a higher proportion of pastures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear fields in the south are mainly bound by low hedges, drainage ditches and dykes. There are fences where hedges have declined/disappeared.


FG KeyChar:
•	Although the Vale of Pickering is underlain by Kimmeridge Clay, buried deeply beneath layers of glacial and fluvial clays and sands.  The flatter and more low lying areas, with peaty soils, are found in the eastern part of the Vale.  The western part is more undulating in nature with clay soils.  An area of glacial moraine along the coast forms a further area of undulating land.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Although the Vale of Pickering is underlain by Kimmeridge Clay, buried deeply beneath layers of glacial and fluvial clays and sands.  The flatter and more low lying areas, with peaty soils, are found in the eastern part of the Vale.  The western part is more undulating in nature with clay soils.  An area of glacial moraine along the coast forms a further area of undulating land.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Vale is rich in historic features including the remains of Mesolithic settlements where archaeological finds have been preserved in waterlogged conditions.  The Vale also includes Neolithic sites (earthen long barrows) and Bronze and Iron Age sites around the fringes.  Medieval sites include castles, fortified manor houses and churches, together with medieval strip fields.  17th and 18th century country houses and designed landscapes are also key features.

Edited_KeyChars:
17th and 18th century country houses and designed landscapes are key features. Preserved historic remains from prehistory to medieval times.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic linear settlements are located above the flood level close to springs and shallow wells, with long thin burgage plots running back from the main street.  On the higher ground, settlement is a dispersed pattern of cottages, small hamlets and farmsteads.  Villages are linked by a network of straight roads and tracks.
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Historic linear settlements are located above the flood level close to springs and shallow wells, with long thin burgage plots running back from the main street.  On the higher ground, settlement is a dispersed pattern of cottages, small hamlets and farmsteads.  Villages are linked by a network of straight roads and tracks.
•	There are relatively few urban or industrial influences on the landscape  The principal settlements include Pickering, Norton, Eastfield and Filey.  The Scarborough to York railway line crosses the area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is limited in the lower lying eastern part of the Vale, but is more extensive in western areas and around the fringes with copses and more field boundary trees.

Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland cover is limited in the lower lying eastern part of the Vale, but is more extensive in western areas with copses, carr woodlands and more field boundary trees (oak, ash and holly).


FG KeyChar:
•	The fertile, chalky soils support mainly arable farming, though there are remnants of unimproved or semi-improved chalk grassland in steep side dry valleys defined by a hedge at the break of slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
The fertile, chalky soils support mainly arable farming. Some intensive livestock rearing.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a generally lightly settled landscape with predominantly brick - but sometimes chalk and pantile - buildings, large scattered farmsteads on high ground, small villages in valleys, and small market towns at the fringes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Predominantly brick buildings, but sometimes chalk and pantile.


FG KeyChar:
•	Rivers and streams are few on the permeable in chalk, being limited to a number of short streams draining steep valleys along the escarpment and the Gypsey Race which runs through the Great Wolds Valley near Bridlington.  The Wolds rise from the Humber estuary in the south and form high chalk cliffs where they reach the coast at Flamborough Head.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Rivers and streams are few on the permeable in chalk, being limited to a number of short streams draining steep valleys along the escarpment and the Gypsey Race which runs through the Great Wolds Valley near Bridlington.  The Wolds rise from the Humber estuary in the south and form high chalk cliffs where they reach the coast at Flamborough Head.


FG KeyChar:
•	A combination of hedges and fences enclose large, regular shaped fields dating back to Parliamentary enclosure.

Edited_KeyChars:
A combination of hedges and fences enclose large, regular shaped fields dating back to Parliamentary enclosure.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.


JM KeyChar:
•	Notable historic landscape features include extensive evidence of prehistoric settlement, high concentrations of deserted medieval villages such as Wharram Percy, and large estates and parks such as Sledmere developed from the 18th century onwards.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large estates and parks from 18th century onwards. Extensive evidence of prehistoric settlement and deserted medieval villages.


Edited_KeyChars:
Remnants of unimproved or semi-improved chalk grassland in steep side dry valleys. Remnant heath on fringes.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a generally lightly settled landscape with predominantly brick - but sometimes chalk and pantile - buildings, large scattered farmsteads on high ground, small villages in valleys, and small market towns at the fringes.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.
•	This is a large-scale landscape with big skies and long views from the escarpment and plateaux which contrast with the more enclosed chalk valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Yorkshire Wolds are underlain by Chalk with some small areas of Jurassic Rocks along their western fringe.  The chalk is reflected in the steep and prominent north and west facing escarpment and a more gently rolling, east and south facing dip slope.
•	This is a large-scale landscape with big skies and long views from the escarpment and plateaux which contrast with the more enclosed chalk valleys.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland is limited in extent, particularly on the chalk.  Most woodland is confined to steeper slopes, including escarpments and on the hills formed from Jurassic rocks.  Woodland is also associated with historic parklands.  Most woodland is broadleaf.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most woodland is broadleaved, and confined to steeper slopes, including escarpments. Woodland is also associated with historic parklands.


FG KeyChar:
•	Some areas of heathland remain on poorer, sandy soils where agricultural improvement has not occurred.  Some of these heathy areas have been afforested.  Washlands and hay meadows are found along the river floodplains.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Vale of York includes the floodplains of several major rivers, notably the Ouse, the Derwent and the Wharfe, but also the Ure, Nidd and Foss.  Most historic buildings are constructed in mottled brick with pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.


Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Vale of York includes the floodplains of several major rivers, notably the Ouse, the Derwent and the Wharfe, but also the Ure, Nidd and Foss.  Most historic buildings are constructed in mottled brick with pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Low, flailed and intermittent hedges enclose medium to large sized fields.  There are scattered field boundary trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The solid geology of the Vale of York comprises Triassic sandstone and mudstone and Lower Jurassic mudstone completely buried beneath glacial till, sand, gravel and moraines. These moraines form a number of curving ridges across the Vale.  The northern part of the Vale is underlain by glacial clay, sand and gravel.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The solid geology of the Vale of York comprises Triassic sandstone and mudstone and Lower Jurassic mudstone completely buried beneath glacial till, sand, gravel and moraines. These moraines form a number of curving ridges across the Vale.  The northern part of the Vale is underlain by glacial clay, sand and gravel.


JM KeyChar:
•	Key historic landscape features include Roman remains, early timber frame buildings, designed parklands and fine masonry bridges.


FG KeyChar:
•	Settlements are distinctive with a linear form with buildings set back behind wide grass verges.  The Vale is scattered with large, brick built farmsteads.
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Settlements are distinctive with a linear form with buildings set back behind wide grass verges.  The Vale is scattered with large, brick built farmsteads.
•	The City of York provides a visual focus for the Vale.  Roads radiate from the city while the Minster provides a focal point for the surrounding area.


FG KeyChar:
•	Scattered small woods with more extensive conifer plantations are found on sandy soils, together creating the impression of more wooded farmland in some areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is predominantly under arable cultivation with some areas of pastures and improved grassland.  The latter are most common on steeper slopes and damper valley floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable cultivation with some areas of pastures and improved grassland.  The latter are most common on steeper slopes and damper valley floors.


FG KeyChar:
•	Buildings are constructed in local limestone and sandstone with red pantile roofs.  The stones vary in colour from rich reds to pale creams.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings are constructed in local limestone and sandstone with red pantile roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the headwaters of rivers draining the Vale of Pickering, to the east and the Vale of York to the west.  The river Derwent cuts a deep gorge through the hills to the south west of Malton.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the headwaters of rivers draining the Vale of Pickering, to the east and the Vale of York to the west.  The river Derwent cuts a deep gorge through the hills to the south west of Malton.


FG KeyChar:
•	Field boundaries are predominantly hedges with some fences and some areas of walls in higher areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries are predominantly hedges with some fences and walls in higher areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Howardian Hills are formed from the sandstones and mudstones of the Middle Jurassic period and the calcareous sandstone and limestone of the Upper Jurassic.  Numerous east west faults cross the hills, giving rise to irregular ridges and valleys.  Prominent scarps of limestone are notable features along the outermost ridges.  Glacial drift deposits contribute to the more undulating landform in the south and west.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The Howardian Hills are formed from the sandstones and mudstones of the Middle Jurassic period and the calcareous sandstone and limestone of the Upper Jurassic.  Numerous east west faults cross the hills, giving rise to irregular ridges and valleys.  Prominent scarps of limestone are notable features along the outermost ridges.  Glacial drift deposits contribute to the more undulating landform in the south and west.


FG KeyChar:
•	Historic sites date back the Bronze Age. 17th and 18th century enclosure created the straight sided, rectangular fields characteristic to the area. 18th century country houses and ornamental houses, such as Castle Howard, are key historic features.

Edited_KeyChars:
18th century country houses and associated designed landscapes and field patterns are key historic features.


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural habitats principally comprise areas of woodland and unimproved grassland.

Edited_KeyChars:
Limited semi-natural habitat of woodland and unimproved grassland.


FG KeyChar:
•	Many villages are linear in form with wide verges forming village greens.  In other villages, houses are clustered around a single village green. The simplicity and scale of these villages contrasts with the grandeur of the area’s many stately homes.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Many villages are linear in form with wide verges forming village greens.  In other villages, houses are clustered around a single village green. The simplicity and scale of these villages contrasts with the grandeur of the area’s many stately homes.


FG KeyChar:
•	Varied patterns of woodland create a contrasting landscape, the principal contrast being between the sheltered valleys with their extensive areas of broadleaved woodlands and parkland landscapes, and the much more open plateau areas characterised by woodland blocks and large scale plantations.  Alder woodlands remain a feature of damper valley bottoms.

Edited_KeyChars:
Varied woodland cover, with extensive broadleaved woodlands and parkland landscapes in valleys and woodland blocks and plantations on plateaus.


FG KeyChar:
•	Most of the farming in the area is intensive and arable.  Small areas of permanent pasture exist, especially on steeper slopes or in the narrow valley bottoms, comprising a characteristic component of the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mostly intensive arable
Distinctive small areas of permanent pasture on steeper slopes and in narrow valley bottoms


FG KeyChar:
•	The creamy white Magnesium Limestone is widely used in local buildings,occasionally combined with brick or stone cobbles, and the roofing material is commonly red pantiles.

Edited_KeyChars:
Creamy white Magnesian Limestone widely used locally, occasionally with brick or stone cobbles
Roofing material commonly red pantiles


FG KeyChar:
The ridge is cut in several places along its length by a series of rivers, some with dramatic river gorges, including Nidd Gorge at Knaresborough.  The waterbodies of recently restored mineral workings form a feature in the landscape south of Ripon.

Edited_KeyChars:
The ridge is cut in several places along its length by a series of rivers, some with dramatic river gorges, including Nidd Gorge at Knaresborough.  The waterbodies of recently restored mineral workings form a feature in the landscape south of Ripon.


FG KeyChar:
•	The field boundaries are usually low, flailed thorn hedges, although stone walls also occur in many places.  Hedges often follow the topography and serve to emphasise the smooth, rolling landform.  Hedgerow trees are relatively sparse which adds to the open character of farmed landscapes.

Edited_KeyChars:
Low, flailed thorn hedges with few hedgerow trees
Hedges that follow landform, emphasising smooth, rolling form
Stone walls also common


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by predominantly Magnesium Limestone geology which is covered in many places by drift deposits.  This forms an escarpment in the west and a gently dipping landform in the east.  Coal deposits are found in the west along with the associated spoil tips, mineral lines and stocking areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by predominantly Magnesium Limestone geology which is covered in many places by drift deposits.  This forms an escarpment in the west and a gently dipping landform in the east.  Coal deposits are found in the west along with the associated spoil tips, mineral lines and stocking areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape has been influenced by the Roman occupation, with Ermine Street and Dere Street forming the basis for much of the route of the modern A1.  Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge have an important influence on the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
Roman influence of Ermine Street and Dere Street, basis of much of modern A1
Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge


FG KeyChar:
•	Semi-natural ancient woodlands are key habitats, found on the ridge, hill tops, steeper slopes and along small valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant limestone grasslands at risk from agricultural intensification


FG KeyChar:
•	The landscape has been influenced by the Roman occupation, with Ermine Street and Dere Street forming the basis for much of the route of the modern A1.  Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge have an important influence on the landscape.
•	The settlement pattern varies from large scattered farmsteads and small nucleated villages to larger towns on the plateau. The area is more heavily settled near Nottingham, where there is also a greater intensity of industrial activity. 
•	Limestone quarrying influences the landscape, especially in the central and southern parts of the ridge.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The landscape has been influenced by the Roman occupation, with Ermine Street and Dere Street forming the basis for much of the route of the modern A1.  Country houses and designed parklands along the ridge have an important influence on the landscape.
•	The settlement pattern varies from large scattered farmsteads and small nucleated villages to larger towns on the plateau. The area is more heavily settled near Nottingham, where there is also a greater intensity of industrial activity. 
•	Limestone quarrying influences the landscape, especially in the central and southern parts of the ridge.


FG KeyChar:
•	Woodland cover is significant - mainly due to the presence of a number of large country houses and their managed estates - with extensive areas of estate woodlands, plantations and game coverts.  There are also a number of semi-natural, sometimes ancient woodlands on the ridge, sometimes on hill tops or steeper slopes and also along small valleys.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive areas of estate woodland, plantation and game covert
Semi-natural/ ancient woodlands on ridge, hilltops and steeper slopes and along small valleys


FG KeyChar:
•	The inland plain comprises improved pasture which is grazed by dairy cattle.  The poorer draining clays and coastal marsh areas are grazed by cattle and sheep.  Drained areas of moss and coastal plain are under arable cultivation or intensive market gardening.

Edited_KeyChars:
Sheep and cattle grazing on poorly drained clays/ coastal marsh
Arable and market gardening on drained mosses/ coastal plain
Dairy cattle on improved pasture inland


FG KeyChar:
•	Most traditional buildings are constructed of red brick.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional buildings mainly of red brick


FG KeyChar:
•	Along the coast, the foreshore comprises extensive intertidal mudflats and sand banks, backed by saltmarsh with a seaward edge characterised by dendretic creeks and low cliffs
•	Caravan parks and other holiday related developments are found along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive intertidal mudflats and sand banks, backed by saltmarsh, dendritic creeks and low cliffs


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees are scarce in this low landscape, generally confined to low, often wind sculpted trees and bushes along field boundaries.  
•	The large rectilinear pastoral fields are defined by drainage ditches, low hedgerows and, in some higher areas, drystone walls.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large rectilinear pastures enclosed by drainage ditches and low hedgerows
Drystone walls in some higher areas


FG KeyChar:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic mudstones and sandstones which are buried beneath glacial deposits of boulder clay and marine alluvium.  A carboniferous Millstone Grit Sandstones outcrop is found at Heysham Head, creating cliffs and a rocky foreshore.  Drumlins characterise much of the area - drowned in places where they meet the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area is underlain by Triassic mudstones and sandstones which are buried beneath glacial deposits of boulder clay and marine alluvium.  A carboniferous Millstone Grit Sandstones outcrop is found at Heysham Head, creating cliffs and a rocky foreshore.  Drumlins characterise much of the area - drowned in places where they meet the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the former county town of Lancaster and the seaside town of Morecombe.  It also has a range of industrial influences including iron work, landfilling and the nuclear power station at Heysham.

JM KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include early churches, drainage works and canals.

Edited_KeyChars:
Historic landscape features that include early churches, drainage works and canals


FG KeyChar:
•	Most areas of moss have been drained and improved for agriculture, though some areas of moss, comprising raised mire, remain near Heysham and are valued semi-natural habitats.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some surviving areas of moss (raised mire) near Heysham


FG KeyChar:
•	The area includes the former county town of Lancaster and the seaside town of Morecombe.  It also has a range of industrial influences including iron work, landfilling and the nuclear power station at Heysham.
•	Caravan parks and other holiday related developments are found along the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The area includes the former county town of Lancaster and the seaside town of Morecombe.  It also has a range of industrial influences including iron work, landfilling and the nuclear power station at Heysham.
•	Caravan parks and other holiday related developments are found along the coast.


FG KeyChar:
•	Trees are scarce in this low landscape, generally confined to low, often wind sculpted trees and bushes along field boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Tree cover limited to low, often wind sculpted trees and bushes along field boundaries


FG KeyChar:
•	Medium to large fields form an open, large-scale agricultural landscape with a rich patchwork of lush pasture and arable land.  Localised areas of intensive market gardening provide seasonally varied colours and textures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Patchwork of lush pasture and arable land
Issue of loss of permananent grassland
Seasonally varied colours and textures from market gardening


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated brick farmsteads occur in rural areas.


FG KeyChar:
•	There is a high density of field ponds, salt marshes are prominent at the heads of estuaries and sand dunes occur along some sections of the coast.

Edited_KeyChars:
Salt marshes prominent at the heads of estuaries
Sand dunes along some sections of the coast


FG KeyChar:
•	The complex network of raised drainage ditches and dykes with localised reedbeds is a reminder of the area’s heritage of wetland reclamation.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	The complex network of raised drainage ditches and dykes with localised reedbeds is a reminder of the area’s heritage of wetland reclamation.


FG KeyChar:
•	Designed landscapes associated with large houses are locally common in the south, where they provide enclosure in an otherwise open landscape.
•	A rectilinear network of lanes and tracks, usually without fences or hedges, subdivides the landscape.
•	Medium to large fields form an open, large-scale agricultural landscape with a rich patchwork of lush pasture and arable land.  Localised areas of intensive market gardening provide seasonally varied colours and textures.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medium to large fields usually without fences or hedges
Issue of hedgerow neglect and removal
Complex network of raised drainage ditches and dykes


FG KeyChar:
•	It is thickly blanketed by glacial till, with poorly-drained peat-filled hollows that give rise to mosses and meres.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	It is thickly blanketed by glacial till, with poorly-drained peat-filled hollows that give rise to mosses and meres.


Edited_KeyChars:
Heritage of wetland reclamation
Designed landscapes associated with large houses locally common in south
Many meres and field ponds (former brick and marl pits) - at risk of drainage


FG KeyChar:
•	Designed landscapes associated with large houses are locally common in the south, where they provide enclosure in an otherwise open landscape.
•	Isolated brick farmsteads occur in rural areas.
•	Urban settlement is concentrated in the planned Victorian coastal resorts and inland towns.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Designed landscapes associated with large houses are locally common in the south, where they provide enclosure in an otherwise open landscape.
•	Isolated brick farmsteads occur in rural areas.
•	Urban settlement is concentrated in the planned Victorian coastal resorts and inland towns.


FG KeyChar:
•	This is a relatively flat and gently rolling plain, broken by isolated hills such as Parbold Hill, Beacon Park and Ashurst’s Beacon.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	This is a relatively flat and gently rolling plain, broken by isolated hills such as Parbold Hill, Beacon Park and Ashurst’s Beacon.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are extensive views across the plain, within which small to medium blocks of mixed woodland (wind-sculpted near coast) provide punctuation and vertical accents.

Edited_KeyChars:
Open landscape with prominent small to medium blocks of mixed woodland (wind-sculpted near coast) that are important landmarks


FG KeyChar:
•	Land use is mainly permanent, improved pasture for dairy and livestock farming.
•	There are lush hay meadows and some rough grazing at higher elevations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Land use is mainly permanent, improved pasture for dairy and livestock farming. On higher ground, hay meadows and rough grazing.


FG KeyChar:
•	Traditional stone barns are commonplace on higher ground and are of stone with stone flag or slate roofs.

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional barns made of stone with stone flag or slate roofs.


FG KeyChar:
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.

Edited_KeyChars:
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.
•	Meandering and commonly tree-fringed rivers with ox-bow lakes are prominent features within the landscape.


FG KeyChar:
•	Isolated country houses set in well-maintained formal parkland are typical of the area and may be enclosed by belts of woodland and estate fencing.
•	Metal railings around estate boundaries are characteristic of the southern and western edges of the Character Area.
•	Medium- to small-scale fields are defined by hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees, growth of which is particularly vigorous in the north. Dry stone walls are also common in some areas.

Edited_KeyChars:
Medium to small-scale fields defined by hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees,  particularly in the north. Dry stone walls are also common in some areas. Metal railings around estate boundaries are characteristic.


FG KeyChar:
•	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:
•	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:
•	Isolated country houses set in well-maintained formal parkland are typical of the area and may be enclosed by belts of woodland and estate fencing.

JM KeyChar:
•	Country house estates, often with well wooded parkland, are commonplace.  Small mill settlements, lead mining remains and derelict lime kilns along the Ribble Valley are also characteristic features.

Edited_KeyChars:
Country house estates with well maintained wooded parkland are common. Remains of mining and mill activities and settlement.


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.
•	There are lush hay meadows and some rough grazing at higher elevations.

Edited_KeyChars:
Herb rich hay meadows and moorland grasses on higher ground. Semi natural acidic, neutral or wet grassland.


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 valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.
Mature hedgerow trees.


FG KeyChar:
•	The open, rolling heather moorland and blanket bog are managed for grouse shooting and grazed by sheep.
•	These upland pastures are criss-crossed by dry stone walls and grazed mainly by sheep, with some cattle.

Edited_KeyChars:
Largely improved pasture grazed by sheep and moorland managed for grouse shooting.


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:
Fields are bound by dry stone walls, with more regular fields on higher ground becoming more irregular on the slopes.


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, providing hunting ground for wolves and deer


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:
Moorland with a mosaic of woodland, unimproved meadows, pasture, marshes and streams. Blanket bog with wet and dry heathland and acid grassland.  Species-rich meadows found in 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:
Semi-natural clough woodlands reflecting topography. Small copses on farmland and extensive conifer plantations to the east and south-east.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are remnants of agricultural land, fragmented by industry and scattered development.
•	Most land is pasture, with areas of acid and neutral grassland, flushes and mires.

Edited_KeyChars:
Most agriculture is large, semi-improved pasture for sheep and cattle grazing.


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:
Victorian stone buildings and terraces and textile industry heritage.


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, and are hedges with few hedgerow trees at lower elevation and gritstone walls and wire fences higher up.


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 designed parklands occur, particularly on the northern valley sides. Historical textile industry remnants,


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Heather moorland on hill tops. Areas of acid and neutral grassland, flushes and mires. Hay meadows with rushes and gorse on higher ground.


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. Mature floodplain oak and ash trees.


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:
Mainly 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:
Small to medium sized fields are mainnly enclosed by stone walls with hedges in some areas.


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:
Predominantly historic influences from 18th and 19th century textile industry.


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, moors, 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.


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:
Rough grazing and pastoral farming in the west transitioning to arable cultivation in the east.


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:
Most fields small/medium sized, bound by stone walls in the higher west and hedges in the lower east.


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 woollen mills and associated settlements.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Semi-natural habitats include remnant moorland areas, rough grazing, 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:
Tree cover sparse overall, but network of hedgerow trees, small woods, and extensive broadleaved woods on valley slopes.


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


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Open water 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 trees of oak and ash in some areas
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 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


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
Traditional unimproved wet pasture with sheep and cattle
Extensive drained arable land behind sea walls
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:
Large rectilinear fews with no hedgerows
Grazing pastures patterned by a network of ancient and modern reed-fringed drainage ditches, dykes and creeks
Few vertical boundaries such as hedges or fences


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'


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:
Trees on rising ground inland of marsh
Tree cover focused around farms and settlement


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 Sandlings
Also 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) and eroding clifflines
Intertidal mudflats and saltmarsh characteristic along estuaries


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 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
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


FG KeyChar:
•	Unimproved grassland is found on areas of open common land and occasional remnants in small fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
Unimproved grassland on open common land and as remnants in small fields


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, also small to medium-sized fields supporting market gardening, orchards, livestock rearing and horse grazing and commons used for sheep. Wet meadows on valley floor.


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


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:
Predominantly arable farmland with some pasture 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 with some limestone. 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.

Edited_KeyChars:
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 divided by ditches on the floodplain and hedges with trees 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:
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:
Small remaining fragments of marshland and meres.  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:
Woodland limited and 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:
Main agricultural use is arable with some grassland 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 of soft red brick and red pantiles,  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:
Historical coastal reclamation and industrial building and settlement along the Humber. Spern peninsula is a sand and shingle spit.


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:
Historic coastal reclamation with drainage channels, enlarging watercourses, flood protection berms and sluice and pumping systems.


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:
Reedbeds and other wetland vegetation around disused clay pits are of value for birds. Relict areas of salt marsh, marshy grassland and mudflats.


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:
Sparse woodland cover with some blocks of medium sized, regularly shaped deciduous woodland.


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:
Mixed arable farmland to the west and drained pasture with some vegetable crops 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:
Ancient calcareous dune system and extensive dunes and saltmarshes, managed for nature conservation.


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:
Regular rectilinear fields with occasional hedgerows in the west but devoid of hedgerows in the east.


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 and evidence of ancient salt works.


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:
Sparse woodland and hedge cover. Increases close to settlement and farmland.


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 is used for arable farming, with some pastoral in the valleys of the south west.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Diverse underlying geology in the area reflected in buildings. Claxby Ironstone and Tealby Limestone in the north. Brick in the south west.


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:
Large, rectilinear fields enclosed by hawthorn hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees. Some localised dry stone walls.


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.


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:
Fairly open with prominent individual oak and ash trees. Some small semi-natural oak/birch woodland.


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


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 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


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:
Mainly arable farming in the north, with permanent pasture and flood meadow in the river meadowlands.


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:
Large rectilinear arable fields are devoid of trees and 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:
Extensive historic estates with ornamental parklands throughout the area. Man made lakes along river valleys. Remnants of the coal industry evident.


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:
Extensive heathland, with bracken, gorse and broom on woodland edges.


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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Extensive woodland cover, particularly secondary oak-birch broadleaved woodland and conifers. Alder and willow carrs in the river meadowlands.


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:
Mainly pastoral farming, with rough grazing on the highest land and some arable 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:
Variable field pattern 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 along the Derwent Valley, and a large reservior at Carsington.


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:
Localised acid and calcareous grassland. Heathland remnants with bracken and gorse. Unimproved grassland and hay meadows in the valleys.


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.


FG KeyChar:
•	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.


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:
Rough coastal grassland and scrub and sand dunes with varied flora.


Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal grassland on indented, low coastline.


Edited_KeyChars:
Coastal sand dune, dune pastures and maritime heath.


Edited_KeyChars:
Dunes with a thicket of sea buckthorn, storm gravel beaches and mudflats along the estuary.


FG KeyChar:
•	The Exe and Teign estuaries have extensive reedbeds, saltmarshes and sand dunes.

Edited_KeyChars:
The Exe and Teign estuaries have extensive reedbeds, saltmarshes and sand dunes.


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:
Historic manor parkland and estates, with associted tree plantings. Rich in archaeological evidence including ancient trackways, tumuli and deserted villages.


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.
•	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:
In the southwest valleys there are valley marshes, acid mires and alder carr. Isolated chalk grassland.  Rough pasture and scrub on the north-west scarp.


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


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:
Sparsley wooded area, with beech hanger woodland in valleys and mature beech trees in clumps in hedgerows. Ancient oak-ash woodland in the south-east. Semi-natural chalk woodland at Tetford.


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:
Mainly arable with pastoral farming on heavy clays. In some areas, localised hay meadows and drained open flatlands.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Traditional building materials are 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:
Regular, medium sized rectilinear fields enclosed mainly by hedgerows. Predominantly hawthorn but more diverse when linked with limewoods.


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.


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, with acid grassland and gorse. Occasional wetlands on the fen borderlands.


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:
Little woodland on central and northern clays, but conifer blocks 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.
•	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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly arable fields with some field vegetables.


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:
Large rectilinear fields with low thorn hedgerows with limited trees on the north edge. Large open fields with no hedgerows predominate on the coversands.


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:
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.


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.


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.


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.


FG KeyChar:
•	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.


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:
Mostly arable fields with some mixed pasture for grazing.


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.


Edited_KeyChars:
Mainly open, rectilinear arable fields enclosed by limestone walls and sparse hedgerows. More irregular fields for grazing have denser hedgerows and areas of woodland.


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.


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.
•	Outside the settlements, there are small, isolated stone barns located beside field boundaries.

Edited_KeyChars:
Buildings and barns in villages are often constructed of limestone. In towns, gritstone is also used.


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:
Fields are enclosed by white, limestone, dry stone walls and walled up lead rakes. Fields are small and narrow near villages and large and rectangular away from them.


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.
•	Poorly vegetated dew ponds, lined with concrete, limestone or clay, are common over the whole plateau.

Edited_KeyChars:
Fields of medieval origin around villages. Dew ponds common over the plateau. Features from disused limestone ore works.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Mosaic of herb-rich grassland and scrub on dale-sides and steep slopes.


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:
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
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.

JM KeyChar:
•	Many Bronze Age barrows are visible around the margins of the valleys.  There are many remnant early coal mining features and, within the valleys, other industrial heritage, 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, in the valleys


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 in 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.


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.


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.


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.


FG KeyChar:
•	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.


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:
Valleys have areas of arable and pastoral farming, but increased recreational use.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Few surviving examples of traditional vernacular development.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Field boundaries 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.


Edited_KeyChars:
The area has a legacy of industrial archaeology.


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


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:
Few buildings and features predating industrialisation.


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:
Field patterns have largely been lost, but are mainly rectangular with 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:
Common reclamation and landscaping of features from mining and industrialisation.


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:
Scrub habitat on former industrial sites. On the Wigan Flashes, wetlands and marsh are present.


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:
•	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:
Limited woodland cover, associated with field boundaries and parks. In the northwest of wigan there are well wooded valleys.


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:
Mixed agricultural use, with sheep grazed open marshes, reclaimed pasture, and enclosed fields for 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.
•	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:
Sand dunes rise to 20m above sea level and coastal habitats of saltmarsh and intertidal sands.


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:
Ancient field patterns defined by a combination of hedgerows and post and wire fencing.


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.


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:
Species rich grassland and fen habitat inland and coastal dunes, saltmarsh and intertidal sands.


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 restricted to field boundary trees and small copses with only salt tolerant species.


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.


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:
Predominantly mixed agricultural land with areas of improved pasture, arable farming and market gardens.  
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.


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:
Field boundaries marked by clipped, gappy hedges, replaced in areas by post and wire fences. At the coast, hedges 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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Large number of country house estates and  associated parkland.


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:
Areas of lowland heath and gorse-clad slopes on sandstone. Coastal habitats of dunes, salt marshes and mudflats.


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:
Woodland in the area is mixed, with a high proportion of pines in coastal areas. Most woodland associated with sandstone ridges or country parks.


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:
North is mainly open arable farming, whilst the south is mixed arable and dairy. Mossland are characterised by market gardening.


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. Oldest buildings are half timbered.


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 hedges with gaps replaced by post and wire fences, or ditches on the mosses. Field patterns have become fragmented due to development.


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.


Edited_KeyChars:
The estuary of the River Mersey created the valley, the wetland and contributing to the area’s industrial and settlement history.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Important wetland habitats remain along the estuary shores.


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:
Trees are limited to field boundaries, watercourses, ditches and isolated woodland blocks in the east.


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 with 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)
Some 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


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, as well as medieval moated sites, motte and bailey and stone-built castles
Remains of forts and castles along the ridge-top


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


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
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:
Irregular field pattern with species-rich hedgerows across much of the area, though more regular in the north-west.


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:
Scattered parkland and estates throughout. Offa’s Dyke is an important historic landscape feature.


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:
Abandoned quarries overgrown with grassland and scrub. Localised bracken and gorse on hill tops.


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:
Scattered patches of broadleaved woodland and coniferous plantations, particularly on steeper slopes and linear woodlands along valley sides. Trees fround in hedgerows and parkland.


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:
Most of the area is permanent pasture with limited horticulture and arable cropping.


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:
Older vernacular buildings are predominantly brick, although sandstone is used for larger buildings and in the west, Millstone Grit.


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:
Varied field pattern, with hedgerows forming 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:
Rich industrial heritage related to mineral workings, vegetated spoil heaps in the Churnet Valley.


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:
Commercial coniferous woodlands and ancient semi-natural woodlands are concentrated in the Churnet Valley. Occasional woodland and trees along field boundaries and watercourses elsewhere.


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 elsewhere


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, acid grassland and bracken on the hilltops


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
Dense riparian tree cover in the valleys, including pollards


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:
The area is dominated by intensive arable farming, although pasture is more common on valley sides and 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 some farms and churches of limestone.


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:
Mainly a weak pattern of hedged fields, contrasting with small, irregular fields with distinctive hedges 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. Several areas of parkland with large houses.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant patches of lowland heathland and wet grassland.


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:
Ancient and plantation estate woodlands in the centre of the area and dense woodlands cloak the river slopes. Mixed woodland in the Wyre Forest. Dense hedgerow trees in places.


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 in 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 in Cannock Chase
Open arable areas with low hedges; also 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 at Cannock Chase
Wet floodplain meadows around fringes


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
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:
Pastoral land predominates but arable land is present when conditions are favourable.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
Settlements mostly constructed of  red brick.


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:
Irregular, medium sized pastoral and  rectilinear, large scale arable land is bounded by intact, well maintained hedgerows with mature trees.


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:
Parkland is common in the area, but particularly in the former Needwood Forest. Marl pits with small ponds a feature.


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.
•	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:
Historic parklands are extensively wooded. Areas of ridge and furrow and deserted settlements found throughout.


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:
Occasional unimproved pasture with localised patches of rushes in damp hollows.


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:
Limited woodland, but planting associated with the National Forest has local impact. Extensive wooded parklands.


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.


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.


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.
•	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:
Rectilinear fields bound by thorn hedges predominate, with some small irregular pasture with mixed hedgerows. Stone walls are characteristic on the more elevated rocky land.


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:
Surviving large parklands with heathland and large ancient 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 dominated by bracken with 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:
Mainly secondary woodland, with some plantation and a few ancient woodland. Numerous oak trees in hedgerows and parkland.


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:
Mainly red brick buildings with churches of ironstone or limestone.


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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Rectilinear pattern bound by low thorn hedges on the ridges. Irregular fields bound by well managed mixed hedgerows with frequent trees.


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:
Deserted medieval settlements and extensive areas of ridge and furrow. Parkland on fringes.


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:
Areas of unimproved grassland,  with some wet flushes and wet meadows.


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:
Sparse woodland cover apart from wooded scarps and hills. In the valleys, small spinneys, hedgerow and streamside trees predominate.


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 higher ground while the river valleys provide  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:
Traditional buildings made of honey-coloured limestone, with yellow Collyweston slate used for roofing in the south and red pantile in the north.


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:
Variable hedgerows, mainly well managed with mature oak/ash trees. Some limestone walls in the south.


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:
An archaeologically rich area, containing ancient trackways. Many well managed designed parklands.


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:
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:
Variety of ancient and commercial woodlands mingling with parklands. Numerous medium-sized semi-natural and ancient oak/ash woodlands on the higher land


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:
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.
•	Scots pine rows are striking field boundary features.
•	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:
Large rectangular fields bound by tall, well trimmed hedges with mature trees. Sometimes bound by rows of Scots pine.


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:
Many vast estates with associated parklands.


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

Edited_KeyChars:
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 to the west and in the parkland landscapes. Scots pine and mature oak and beech hedgerow trees in field boundaries.


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


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:
Predominantly arable cereal farming with some sheep and cattle.


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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Marine erosion of coastal landscape of unconsolidated low cliffs and coastal dune formations


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:
Variable field size, with irregular early enclosures enlarged and more regular in the west. Densley planted with mixed hedges and hedgerow oaks.


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:
Notable amount of parkland on country estates.


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:
Remnant heathland, along with water meadows with reed-filled dykes on valley floors.


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:
Extensive mixed woodland on valley slopes and pasture woodlands of oak and beech.


FG KeyChar:
•	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:
Buildings of flint and red brick and roofs characterised by thatch or pantiles. Prominent flint 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:
Extensive dunes with some coastal marsh and historical sea wall coastal defences.


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/medium fields, irregular inland with high hedges with trees, and more open and enclosed by soil banks towards the coast.


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.


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:
Woodland scarce apart from the blocks of woodland and copses on the Broads.


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:
Old royal hunting forest and parkland remains. Relics of an industrial past (iron ore and coal extraction) evident throughout, as well as Norman Castles and Offa's Dyke.


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 areasin the form of commercially managed coniferous plantations to designated ancient or semi natural broadleaved woodlands. Small number of traditional orchards.


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.

Edited_KeyChars:
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:
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:
A number of designed parklands and estates and extensive evidence of prehistoric activity.


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:
Ash and oak dominate ancient woodlands and the remains of parks on higher ground. Tree cover limited elswhere and most evident in hedgerow trees and old orchards.


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
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
Hedges also common, particularly in valleys


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
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
Tree-lined watercourses with alder and willow carr


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:
Mainly pastoral stock rearing
Some arable farmland particularly Vale of White Horse
Unimproved hay meadows on drier areas
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
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 arable with limited intensive livestock production.


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:
Medieval churches and isolated 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:
Mixture of irregular historic field pattern and large modern fields, mainly bound by deep ditches with a few hedges.


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:
Some parkland estates and ancient field patterns.


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:
Some areas of ancient woodland and trees found along lanes and in hedgerows (oaks).


FG KeyChar:
•	Agricultural practices such as outdoor pigs, intensive indoor poultry rearing, plastic crop growth and water storage reservoirs are recent developments.

Edited_KeyChars:
Mixture of farming, with improved arable and both unimproved and intensive pastoral farming.


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:
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:
Large scale geometric field pattern defined by lines of pine. Smaller medium sized fields lined by hedges with trees in the river valleys.


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:
Areas of heath, unimproved pasture and wet meadow. Scrub and gorse encroachment.


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:
Extensive plantation forest with areas of deciduous tree cover in the river valleys .


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 houses sometimes faced with Georgian red brick
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
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, rich heritage of barns, historic moated sites


JM KeyChar:
•	Some remnant water meadows and wet pastures can be found within the valley floors.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remnant water 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


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.


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.


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.


FG KeyChar:
•	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.


FG KeyChar:
•	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.


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.


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.


FG KeyChar:
•	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.


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


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
Low and intermittent hedges on flat arable land


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:
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
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 on floodplains contribute 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:
Variable fields, mainly arable interspersed with pasture.


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.


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:
Mainly medium sized arable fields with variable boundaries from mature shelterbelts to intact hedges or more degraded hedgerows with post and wire fences.


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 and associated woodland.


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.

Edited_KeyChars:
There are important heathland habitats on the poorer acidic soils of the scarp and upper ridges. Wetlands with fen, swamp, acid and neutral grassland.


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:
•	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:
High proportion of large ancient woodland blocks and plantations (both deciduous and coniferous) in the north and woods interspersed with farmland elsewhere.


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.


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 area has a number of significant parkland landscapes and remnants of Royal Forests and hunting woodlands.


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:
Species rich hedgerows and 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:
Extensive blocks of ancient oak/ash woodland are supplemented by tracts of more recent conifer plantations. Remnants of Royal Forests.


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:
•	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 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:
Buildings typically ironstone, limestone and/or brick.


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:
Rectilinear field patterns with intact hedgerows with trees. Frequent and very prominent ridge and furrow.


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:
Significant wooded parklands and ancient hunting forest.


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:
Eye Brook reservoir is an important habitat for birds.


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 trees are in hedgerow trees, copses, spinneys and small ridgetop woodlands. Ancient remnant of oak/ash woodland from Leighfield Forest.


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.


Edited_KeyChars:
Variety of farming, mainly medium sized mixed farming with some large arable fields. Hedgerow cover and condition varibale, more intact and with more trees on valley floodplains.


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. Localised heath grassland.


Edited_KeyChars:
Woodland cover is generally sparse; intermittent small woodlands along the Welland and Nene valleys and small valley-side woods, spinneys and copses on the ridges.


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 the area
Iimpressive 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
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.


FG KeyChar:
•	There are small scattered woodlands and plantations throughout, as well as riparian trees and woodlands.
•	Scattered damson trees are a distinctive feature along many hedgerows in this area.
•	Hops and orchards (traditional and bush) are found throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Small scattered woodlands and plantations, riparian trees and woodlands associated with parkland. Hops and orchards are present throughout as are damson trees in hedgerows.


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:
Mixed agriculture, intensively cultivated in places, but with less improved pastures on the steeper slopes. Localised orchards.


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. Some buildings of brick and timber.


FG KeyChar:
•	The field pattern is typically of irregular, small, hedged fields.

Edited_KeyChars:
The field pattern is typically of irregular, small fields with hedgerows with mature trees.


JM KeyChar:
•	Historic landscape features include numerous medieval manors and early timber-framed buildings.

Edited_KeyChars:
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.

Edited_KeyChars:
Remaining 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.
•	Traditional orchards and hops are found scattered throughout the area.

Edited_KeyChars:
Some substantial broadleaved woodlands, particularly along steep slopes and narrow valleys, scattered trees along rivers and hedgerows and localised orchards.


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
Some 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 high ground
Ancient, mixed species hedges typical on slopes
Larger 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 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 moorland of acid grassland, bracken and heather on higher hills


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:
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


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
River corridor hay meadows and waterside grassland (increasingly rare)


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
Hedgerow oak and ash trees on drier gravel terraces
Lines of willow pollards


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.


