East Dorset Landscape Character Assessment - Dorsetforyou.com

a National Nature Reserve the heathland habitat is still maintained by theregular removal of regenerating pine. Occasional trees have beenallowed to remain, which add considerably to the heath’s visual qualities.The area comprises mostly dry heath, but there are also substantialareas of wet heath, especially in the east where willow and birch arecharacteristic.The Holt -Three Legged Cross road passes through the heath, offeringgood views of the heathland to the south, as well as long-distance viewsto the Needles, near Higher Row, the prospect shifts to the north, withHorton Tower forming a prominent landmark.23) Upton HeathContextLandscape Character Type: Open rolling heathLandscape Description Unit Nos. 415; 417Prominent overhead powerlines pass across the northern part of theheath and along its south-eastern boundary.Holt Heath is also managed for passive recreation, with a wellestablished network of informal paths and tracks. A small informal carpark,concealed by coniferous woodland, has been established atWhitesheet Hill.Key Characteristics• Undulating elevated terrain• Exposed open landscape• Sparsely populated• High ecological value• Viewpoints Upton HeathKey Features• Views towards Bournemouth and Isle of Wight• O/h electricity lines (adverse impact)DescriptionAn area of largely open heath set on the sands and clays of the BagshotBeds overlooking Poole Harbour. From the viewpoint on a cap ofPlateau Gravel at Beacon Hill the land falls to the south and west in aEast Dorset District Council District Landscape Character Assessment 200858