Landscape Visual Impact Assessment in Exeter

Visual Character Across Exeter

A historic city in the centre of Devon, Exeter is one of two large urban centres within the county, but despite that, it has a fair balance between urban and rural areas. Not only is the City of Exeter bursting with rich cultural heritage but it is also surrounded by countryside, and outside of the city streets are ancient woodland, thriving farmland and quiet villages.

The Exeter landscape sits between the rough terrain of Dartmoor to the west, the rolling hills of East Devon to the east and a path of the River Exe running through the middle. Other such attractions that contribute to the visual character of the city include Exeter Cathedral, Exeter Quay, Powderham Castle, Riverside Valley Park, RSPB Bowling Green Marsh and St Nicholas Priory.

The Link Between Planning and an LVIA

All new developments have the ability to cause negative impacts on landscape character, especially if they are large and intrusive residential or commercial projects and are likely to significantly alter the appearance of the local setting. Although applicable in all areas, a location such as Exeter surrounded by the particularly rural county of Devon would require a level of investigation into the possible visual impacts caused by a planning project.

If a proposed development could disrupt the existing landscape architecture, hinder areas of cultural or historical importance, or damage the visual experience for anyone living in or visiting the area, local authorities may ask for evidence of how the development plans intend to mitigate damages and counteract severe outcomes. A Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is often used as a suitable way of doing this, giving the local council everything they need to ease any remaining qualms and helping with getting planning applications over the line.

Assessments to Determine Effect on the Landscape

During a Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), the appearance of the environment once the development is complete will be predicted and compared with how it is currently. The outcome will then demonstrate if the changes are drastic enough to require modifications to the plan. Landscape Visual Impact Assessments can either be conducted in isolation or in conjunction with an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and they traditionally include two sections.

In the first section, the land surveyor will focus on a landscape impact assessment, using it as an opportunity to evaluate how the development site could change in terms of its characteristics, patterns and qualities. Factors including bodies of water, landforms, vegetation and cultural or historical features will also be considered. The second section will be a visual impact assessment based on the likely visual effects people will experience from coming into contact with the area in the future, questioning the end result of the project, how people will see it, and the likely level of impact.

An LVIA report will be created by the landscape specialist who conducted the original assessment. It will be made up of a variety of different elements, all with a view to assembling an accurate representation of the development site and project. A summary of the impacts on landscape character will be included, as well as mitigation measures and any recommended steps that will be needed to compromise with the local authority and assist the planning application process.

Speak to Our Team About Your Plans

It could be that you are fully aware that your proposed development is set to cause negative impacts on landscape architecture or maybe you just want assurances to be on the safe side and prevent issues with gaining planning permission. Whatever your situation, speak to Arbtech, and we can arrange Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments on your site and price up a quote based on your details.

Integrating knowledge of theoretical visibility, the public realm and other considerations alongside planning concerns, we can make sure that nothing stands between you and a successful property or land development project. For a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment quote formulated by our team, message us on social media, call us, email us or fill in an online quote form, and we can arrange a date to inspect your site and look over your plans.