Shetland Local Landscape Designation Review: Final Report

Landscape Character Unit
50 Sandwick
Criteria Rank Description
Representativeness
High
A Shetland sense of place, typical of settled coastal areas, though more
developed than most
Rarity Low Does not contain features which are rare or unusual in Shetland
Intactness Medium A relatively densely settled landscape, with clusters of development spread
across the area. Some large commercial buildings are present in the area,
and parts have a ‘settlement fringe’ feel. The peninsula of No Ness and
Mousa are much more intact.
Scenic qualities High The rocky peninsula and Mousa are attractive coastal landscapes, though the
settled areas inland are less remarkable.
Enjoyment High The main attraction in this area are the regular boat trips to Mousa for bird
watching and access to the broch. Also a visitor centre at Hoswick.
Cultural qualities Very high Mousa Broch is very well preserved, and there are other features on Mousa
and brochs on the mainland.
Naturalness Very high Mousa is an important bird reserve, and several coastal edges are unaffected
by development.
Rural pattern Medium The pattern of settlement is derived from the scattered crofting pattern, but
the area is now more built up and no longer reflects the crofting landscape.
Views Very high The area is visible from the A970, and forms the setting of one of the main
settlements on the islands. The northern and eastern coast are also visible
from Mousa. Long views are available along the east coast to the south to
Sumburgh Head, whilst inland views are contained by the central hills.
Unranked criteria
Landscape
consistency
n/a
There is a strong contrast between the settled Sandwick area and the more
natural coastal edge and Mousa.
Landscape n/a Physical relationship with the hills to the west (LCU 49).
relationships
Other
designations
n/a
The island of Mousa is an SPA and also a SSSI, whilst the waters around
Mousa are designated as a SAC.
LPAs at Hoswick and Setter