Landscape Assessments

Landscape Opportunities and Constraints Plan graphically sets out key landscape constraints and opportunities for development on the Site.  This will be accompanied by a succinct Advice Note, for use by the team as a scheme is progressed.

This is beneficial in that it sets up key constraints from the beginning and therefore ensures that landscape and visual considerations are incorporated from the outset. 

The Opportunities and Constraints Plan is also invaluable during pre-application discussions at early stages of the proposal, where it is useful to agree principles and demonstrate a landscape-led approach with the Local Authority. 

LVAs are different to LVIAs in that they do not assess the effects of development, but rather establishes the principle of development and the capacity of the landscape to accommodate change.  These are useful at site promotion stage and in early stages of discussion with the Local Authority where it is useful to establish principle of development, however there is no fixed scheme to assess (yet).

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) 

LCA identifies and describes the distinctive character of different landscape areas, providing a framework for managing change and conserving landscape diversity. 

LVIA assesses both the landscape and visual impacts of a development, considering how the project will alter the landscape character and how it will be perceived visually. Using our methodology and adhering to best practice national guidance (GLVIA3), we conduct comprehensive landscape assessments for all types of developments. Our reports are thoroughly documented and supported by appropriate illustrative materials, including CGIs, wireframes, and photo-montages.  Our team also have experience as expert witnesses and the work that they undertake is robust and well considered. 

The level of detail in our assessments is tailored to match the scale and sensitivity of the development or its setting. We offer a range of services, from concise initial appraisals for early-stage projects to detailed impact assessments as part of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). All work is undertaken by qualified and experienced staff members. Additionally, we provide consultancy and support to local authorities, community groups, and individuals regarding local developments. 

Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment (TVIA)

Using our methodology and adhering to national guidance (GLVIA3), we conduct comprehensive townscape assessments for all types of developments. Our evaluations are customised to meet the unique requirements of each site, ensuring that the impacts on townscape characteristics and views are meticulously evaluated.

The depth of detail in our assessments varies with the scale and sensitivity of the development and its surroundings.  Additionally, we provide consultancy and support to local authorities and private individuals regarding developments within their locality.

Green Belt Review
Green Belt is a planning designation, not a landscape designation.  However, landscape and visual matters are linked to the understanding and assessment of Green Belt matters, i.e. there is both a physical and visual dimension to matters of ‘openness’. The landscape and visual appraisal work undertaken by landscape architects will therefore aid in addressing these matters.  Green Belt Reviews are typically a separate assessment section within a LVIA / LVA, where the Site is assessed against each of the NPPF purposes of Green Belt, and any relevant local policy relating to Green Belt.  

Landscape Expert Witness 

Our professionals serve as expert witnesses in planning appeals and legal proceedings, providing credible and authoritative testimony.