Policy PD-P20

Require the conservation and enhancement of the existing character of the local road network and particularly the minor lanes within the designated landscape.  The pattern and character of the roads of much of the designated landscape contributes appreciably to the character of the area, from sunken and enclosed lanes in wooded valleys to open unenclosed moorland roads. Changes to the roads and lanes in the designated landscape require particular design to ensure that their characteristic form is not lost or compromised.  Widening, straightening, re-routing, kerbing and enclosure of currently unenclosed sections or the inclusion of uncharacteristic standard suburban details and particularly the proliferation of signage should be avoided.  New openings to lanes through existing hedge banks or vegetation which require uncharacteristic contemporary design standards and  uncharacteristic visibility splays will not be supported.  Where new highway works are required these should adopt traditional approaches including locally appropriate Cornish hedge banks and where appropriate characteristic soft passing places and should reflect characteristic local landscape patterns and boundaries.  The management of verges should provide opportunity for biodiversity net gain.