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Visual impact, change in landscape character and appropriate mitigation of large scale development proposals is a major consideration in the planning process.

We can provide expert advice from a Chartered Landscape Architect on all aspects of landscape assessment and design, whether for mitigation of potential adverse effects or to maximise development value through high quality landscape infrastructure.

Our landscape character and visual assessment services are carried out in accordance with the latest guidelines from the Countryside Agency (Landscape Assessment Guidance, 2002) and contained in Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Second Edition, 2002).

Landscape Character Assessment

•	Regional analysis and consultation of existing published assessments down to a site specific scale.
•	Assessment of landscape sensitivity and the magnitude of potential impacts arising from a development to establish the significance of impact.
•	Identification of key landscape elements for inclusion in development proposals.
•	Mitigation strategies to minimise impact on landscape character.

Visual Impact Assessment

•	Zone of visual influence (ZVI) mapping from three dimensional topographical data to define the maximum visibility of development proposals.
•	Viewpoint panoramas to illustrate existing and potential visual impact from key viewpoints.
•	Written analysis of the magnitude and significance of potential visual impact related to change through time.
•	Appropriate mitigation to limit visual impact and demonstration of its effectiveness by computer modelling.
•	Photomontage based on accurate three dimensional models to illustrate development proposals.

We have extensive experience of working with other professionals, clients and statutory bodies to satisfactorily overcome landscape and visual objections to development proposals as well as refining schemes to maximise benefits to the client. Relevant areas of work include highways, mineral extraction, water industry and landfill projects using techniques that are applicable to a wide range of other areas.