The application site is situated in countryside defined as the Charnwood Forest Area of Particularly Attractive Countryside in the adopted Local Plan. Policies EV/1/ and CT/7 of the plan requires new development to harmonise and conform with the established characteristics of the area in order to maintain visual amenities. The northern side of this section of Markfield Lane is characterised by boundaries lined with woodland or hedges and the southern side by the same or open lawn or low boundary features. It is the opinion of the local planning authority, the entrance feature walls with a number of piers and high metal gates would be urban in appearance and have a detrimental impact upon the rural character and appearance of the locality. The proposal, therefore would be contrary to Policies EV/1 and CT/7 of the Borough of Charnwood Local Plan.