Glossary
Glossary:
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is a systematic process used to evaluate the potential impacts of proposed developments on the landscape and visual character of an area. It involves the identification, assessment, and mitigation of changes to the visual environment resulting from development activities, such as new infrastructure, buildings, or land use changes. LVIA considers factors such as landscape character, scenic quality, visual sensitivity, viewpoints, and visual receptors (people who may be affected by the changes). The assessment aims to inform decision-making, planning, and design processes by identifying measures to minimise adverse effects, enhance visual quality, and integrate new development harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. LVIA is often required as part of environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for large-scale projects to ensure that visual impacts are adequately considered and addressed.
Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment (TVIA) – as above but in an urban context.
Landscape and Visual Appraisal
A Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) reviews land sensitivity to development from a landscape and visual perspective. It is often requested by a client to gain a better understanding of the local landscape and the visibility of a potential Site.
The LVA is a valuable tool that can inform a sensitive approach to development. It can also form part of a submission—for example, during site representation stages for a Local Plan—as it identifies the Site’s key landscape and visual opportunities and constraints.
It is important to note that an LVA is not an assessment of the effects of a specific development scheme; rather, it addresses the principle of development.
Townscape and Visual Appraisal (TVA) – as above but in an urban context.
Landscape Character Assessment
The purpose of a Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) is to systematically identify and describe the distinct and diverse features of a landscape, understanding its unique character and the elements that contribute to its sense of place. This assessment helps inform planning and management decisions by providing a framework to evaluate the landscape’s capacity for change, guiding sustainable development, and ensuring that new projects are in harmony with the existing landscape character. An LCA promotes the conservation and enhancement of valued landscapes, supporting informed and balanced decision-making processes in land-use planning.