Shetland Local Landscape Designation Review: Final Report

Landscape Character Unit
18 Burravoe
Criteria Rank Description
Representativeness
High
A rocky coastal landscape with very intermittent settlement. Strong sense of
place within the settlements.
Rarity Medium Sea stacks at Ramna are unusual, though within the context of the generally
dramatic coastal landscape of Northmavine.
Intactness High Some large buildings and new houses around North Roe are unsympathetic,
but this is largely an intact coastal landscape, with limited modern
development.
Scenic qualities Very high A dramatic coast of cliffs and sea stacks, with attractive views across Yell
Sound.
Enjoyment High An accessible area for coastal walks, though there are few formal visitor
facilities.
Cultural qualities Medium Giants Grave standing stones and cairn by the A970: a prehistoric settlement
at Kame of Isbister; though these are of limited prominence within the
landscape.
Naturalness Very high A wild coastal landscape, at the edge of the open ocean. Opportunities for
viewing ocean wildlife and seabirds.
Rural pattern High Crofting landscape of North Roe and Sand Voe shows the traditional
Shetland pattern. Some areas are influenced by more recent development.
Views Very high Northern tip and Ramna Stacks are very visible in distant views from south
and from Yell. The area is visible from the northern end of the A970.
Unranked criteria
Landscape
consistency
Landscape
relationships
Other
designations
n/a
n/a
n/a
Southern part comprises a deserted inland valley and smoother sloping
coastline. Northern area is more visually interesting as reflected in its NSA
designation.
The southern area has a similar character to LCU 17 to the south. Close
relationship with LCU 19 to the west also. Distant visual relationship with
Yell and Yell Sound
Shetland NSA covers the northern half of the LCU. Ramna Stacks and
Gruney SPA, North Roe Coast SSSI, North Roe Meadow SSSI