33 - Bowland Fringe and Pendle Hill : Summary and Headline Statements of Environmental Opportunity

Summary

The Bowland Fringe and Pendle Hill National Character Area (NCA) is a transitional landscape that wraps around the dramatic upland core of the Bowland Fells, underpinned by Carboniferous geology. Over half of this NCA, along with the Bowland Fells, makes up the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a diverse landscape of herb- rich hay meadows – several of which are nationally and internationally designated – lush pastures, broadleaved woodland, parkland and waterbodies (including rivers and streams supporting nationally and internationally protected species). The numerous river valleys and associated woodlands are a major component of the area. To the west, this NCA includes part of the Bowland Fells Special Protection Area (SPA), designated for its important populations of hen harrier, merlin and lesser black-backed gull. The influence of human habitation and activity, and the area’s long farming history, contribute significantly to its character.

In contrast to the predominantly rural feel of the area, this NCA includes several relatively urban areas including Clitheroe, Bentham and Longridge.

The NCA faces the challenge of managing substantial pressures to accommodate urban expansion around the major centres of population and recreational destinations, while maintaining and protecting its valuable cultural and biodiversity assets. This, however, also offers increased opportunities, such as through the use of the Pennine Bridleway, to encourage visitors to engage with and enjoy the local environment. A priority for the area is the protection of its rich and distinct landscapes, including the substantial extent of semi- natural woodland, tree-fringed rivers, species-rich hay meadows, and irregular field patterns defined by well-maintained hedgerows and hedgerow trees. To protect the rural quality of the open countryside, it is essential to control and manage the development of the urban fringe and farmsteads to ensure the use of appropriate materials and styles.

Headline Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEO)

See the Statements of Environmental Opportunity section for more details on the headlines listed below.

SEO 1

Protect and enhance the distinctive landscape character of the Bowland Fringe and Pendle Hill NCA for its sense of place, historical and cultural heritage, tranquillity, accessibility and recreational opportunities.

SEO 2

Safeguard, manage and enhance the area’s important habitats, including blanket bog, wet heath, waterbodies and woodland, to provide benefits for climate change, flood regulation, soil quality and erosion, and water quality.

SEO 3

Manage and enhance the landscape character and biodiversity of the farmed environment, with its mosaic of pastures and meadows, and strong field patterns defined by drystone walls and hedgerows, to improve ecological networks and strengthen landscape character.

SEO 4

Retain riparian and wetland habitats, and ensure that they are well managed and well connected to the high density of waterbodies. Enhance the network to further increase biodiversity, improve its ability to buffer pollution, increase flood mitigation and improve water quality.