Defra, UK - Forms and Regulation - Environmental Impact Guidance

Environmental Impact Guidance

Impacts on landscape

"Will the policy option involve any material change to the appearance of the landscape or townscape?"

The European landscape convention defines landscape as an ‘area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors’ Landscape can be defined as “an expanse of scenery and objects which can be seen in a single view”. Whilst views of unspoilt countryside are the first thing you think of, the terms landscape and townscape includes the look and form of buildings and includes heritage assets. So, ancient field patterns and the layout of towns fall within the scope of this question.

These short pages help you consider whether your policy may have significant impacts on the landscape or townscape. These effects could be direct or indirect.

Consider if your policy will:

Lead to a change in land-use or farming practices
Lead to visually intrusive construction
Lead to significant land-take (use of land for development)
Lead to the demolition or dereliction of notable buildings
Lead to the loss of local character
Adversely affect land in any National Park or area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

To give you a couple of examples of the types of impacts which may be significant. You should consider if the policy option would: