The Iveagh Slopes are the northern slopes of Knockiveagh. They support marginal pasture which is grazed by sheep and some cattle; scattered patches of gorse add texture to the landscape. The upper plateau is undulating, with areas of bog within the numerous shallow depressions. These hollows are often emphasised by the hedgerow pattern, which radiates from the centre of the depression. The upper slopes of Knockiveagh are littered with rocky outcrops. There is a distinctive elongated field pattern, with hedgerows running parallel to the slope contours. The landscape is relatively open, with scattered hedgerow trees, particularly on lower slopes. However, many of the narrow roads have a more sheltered character and are bounded by hedgerows with hedgerow trees. The settlement pattern is a regular scattering of farmsteads and their outbuildings; villages are rare, although small clusters have grown up at the main road junctions. The farms are often situated at the end of long, straight lanes which sets them back from the road. There are long views across Northern Ireland to the Sperrins and the Mournes when visibility is clear.
Landscape Condition and Sensitivity to ChangeThe condition of the landscape varies with altitude; the plateau areas are often poorly drained and have lower quality farmland than the upper slopes, where the fields and hedgerows are in good order. In general, this is a high quality landscape, with attractive stone buildings and well-managed, unspoilt farmland. The upland, open character and remote, unspoilt qualities of the landscape results in its relatively high sensitivity to change.
Principles for Landscape Management