Green Wedge (b) Between Whetstone, Blaby and Countesthorpe - Parcel C
Purpose Question Assessment
that defines or would influence the pattern of development or is there an alternative? The northern part of the wedge abuts Hospital Lane, which forms a clearly defined and defensible boundary along this section. The northern half of the eastern boundary is defined by right of way (footpath) Z55, which runs along a hedgerow and then crosses an open field (with no adjacent hedgerow to follow). It then continues on to (bridleway) Z43 which runs along field boundary hedgerows, and where it meets the old railway line, which includes trees subject to a group Tree Preservation Order. Whilst the use of hedgerows / footpaths in this location is not necessarily the most robust Green Wedge boundary, there is no clear, defensible and robust alternative. The Southern boundary of the parcel is clearly defined by existing settlement boundary of Countesthorpe. This is mostly formed of the rear of the residential properties and reinforced by tree lines and is considered reasonably defensible.
Overall Assessment for Purpose 2 It is considered the northern and southern boundaries of the wedge are clearly defined and reasonably defensible in nature. The area bounded by bridleway Z43 is defined, however is less robust. Purpose Score: Moderate Contribution
Provide a green lung into urban areas Question 3A. Does the land contain wildlife or biodiversity assets that should be retained? Answer 3A: Yes, there are some ecology interests within the parcel including three potential Local Wildlife Sites. There is also ecology potential in and around the dismantled railway cutting, along the south eastern boundary of the Green Wedge in this area. Two ponds are present near to the southern boundary which are both candidate wildlife sites.
A38