National Character Area 23
Tees Lowlands - Key Characteristics
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A broad, low-lying and open plain of predominantly arable agricultural land, with low woodland cover and large fields, defined by wide views to distant hills.
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A large area of urban and industrial development around the Tees Estuary, much of which is on reclaimed land, contrasts with the quieter rural areas to the south and west.
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Major industrial installations around Teesmouth form a dramatic skyline, but are juxtaposed with expansive mudflats, sand dunes and salt marshes which are nationally and internationally designated for their assemblage of waterfowl.
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Slow-moving rivers Tees and Leven meander through the landscape with steep, well-wooded banks.
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A distinctive area of low-lying farmland with remnants of former wetland habitat in the flood plain of the River Skerne to the north-west.
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Permo-Triassic red mudstones and sandstones are masked by glacial drift and alluvial material but can be seen outcropping at the coast in places.
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Principal transport corridors, power lines and energy infrastructure are conspicuous elements in the landscape. Industrial development fringing the tidal reaches of the River Tees contrasts with the surrounding rural landscape.
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Brownfield sites where semi-natural vegetation has started to regenerate on previously developed land.
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Green corridors such as minor valleys and former railway lines provide links between urban areas and the surrounding countryside.
Relationship with the coast
The adjacent coastline is covered by the following Shoreline Management Plans:
- Northumberland and North Tyneside: River Tyne to Flamborough Head
The adjacent coastline includes the following Marine Plan – Marine Character Areas (MCAs):
- Tyne, Tees and Wear Estuaries and Coastal Waters
Northumberland and North Tyneside: River Tyne to Flamborough Head Shoreline Management Plan
Shoreline Management Plans are developed by Coastal Groups with members mainly from local authorities and the Environment Agency. They identify the most sustainable approach to managing the flood and coastal erosion risks to the coastline in the short, medium and long term. This could inform actions within the NCA.
Description for the Tyne, Tees and Wear Estuaries and Coastal Waters Marine Character Area
Seascape Character Assessments have been produced for all marine plan areas in England, extending along the coast to the High Water Mark. Information in the Seascape Character Assessments could inform actions along the coastline of the NCA.
