Galloper Wind Farm Project - National Infrastructure Planning

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Stour and Orwell Estuaries Regional Seascape Unit
Seascape Unit Boundaries
4.3.35. This regional seascape unit lies to the southwest of the proposed wind farm
site, extending between The Naze to the south and Languard Point to the
north. It includes an eastward facing, concave coastline and is clearly defined
by the promontory of Languard Point and the headland of The Naze. The
seascape unit also includes the Horsey, Hedge-end, Skipper and Pewit Islands,
given their close link with the sea.
Marine, Coastal & Hinterland Components
4.3.36. The coast is defined by a broadly low lying, indented coastline, with large
areas of marshland and drained marshes, as well as significant areas of
settlement and industrial development associated with Harwich and
Felixstowe. This development is most evident where it extends along the
major promontories forming the mouth of Harwich Harbour. The landward
extent of this regional seascape unit is also indented as it includes the gentle,
southeast facing Oakley Ridge which overlooks Hamford Water and extends
inland, flanking the tributaries for a distance of approximately 4km-5km.
Inter-visibility
4.3.37. The major indentations along the coastline contribute to a variety of seaward
panoramic views, which are typically available from eastward facing slopes.
Views around Hamford Water are shaped by the open undeveloped, exposed
character of the mud flats and marshland, whilst, from the more elevated
viewpoints along the Oakley ridgeline to the west, panoramic views are
available across the landscape to the developed coastline and the sea beyond,
with the elevated landform of the Naze providing some containment from
the sea horizon. Closer to Harwich seaward views are characteristically
dominated by the variety and scale of activity connected with the port areas.
Notable features and structures lying beyond the Stour and Orwell Estuaries
regional seascape unit that are visible from within it include distant views
northwards, to the cranes at the Port of Felixstowe. To the south, there are
views towards the seaside pier at Walton-on-the Naze and also towards the
WTGs of the offshore wind farms at Gunfleet Sands. When visibility
conditions are good, there will also be distant views to the southeast towards
the WTGs of the London Array offshore wind farms and when visibility is
very good, there will be very distant views out over the North Sea toward the
WTGs of the GGOWF.