Shetland Local Landscape Designation Review: Final Report

Landscape Character Unit
3 Belmont to Herma Ness
Criteria Rank Description
Representativeness
High
A combination of seascapes, with rural crofting backdrops and hills behind.
The coastline is composed of a pattern of small headlands and coves with
geos and stacks.
Rarity Low Typical of much of Shetland’s coast, an often remote rocky coastline.
Intactness High Generally intact, with limited modern development. Some disused croft
buildings, though the house and landscape at Belmont House have been
restored.
Scenic qualities Very high Attractive coast with beaches and imposing cliff in the north. A peaceful
backwater feel. Attractive sandy bays and dramatic headlands.
Enjoyment Medium Informal walking access, as well as some signposted walks. Areas of NTS
land. Popular access point at Hermaness NNR and some attractions within
the southern area between Belmont and Lund.
Cultural qualities Very high Prominent features include Belmont House and the ruined church at Lunda
Wick, as well as the remnant crofting landscape and a number of standing
stones in the south.
Naturalness Very high To the north, an undisturbed natural coastline with a remote and tranquil
feel.
Rural pattern High The relict crofting pattern is clearly apparent around Burragarth and
Westing.
Views High Visible from the A968 and from the ferry crossing from Yell. Attractive
views from the road approaching Westing are noted.
Unranked criteria
Landscape
consistency
Landscape
relationships
Other
designations
n/a
n/a
n/a
A generally consistent landscape, although more settled to the south and
wilder to the north. The area is more visually contained and sheltered within
the Bluemull Sound, becoming more open to the sea in the north.
Strong physical relationship with Valla Field to the east (LCU 2), and visually
with LCU 6 across Bluemull Sound
NSA covers the northern section, north of Tonga
Belmont Garden and Designed Landscape
Hermaness and Valla Field SPA and SSSIs
Hermaness NNR
Lunda Wick SSSI