Landscape Character Assessment
Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) is an approach to understanding the differences between landscapes, and can serve as a framework for decision-making that respects local distinctiveness. It is a way of 'unpacking' the landscape and understanding how its distinctive elements contribute to a sense of place.
Countryscape provides services to support all stages of Landscape Character Assessment, including desk study, field survey, landscape classification, description, evaluation and decision-making. Our experienced team has been closely involved in the development of Landscape Character Assessment methodology, so clients can be assured of services that match current best practice. In addition, our in-house communications expertise helps to ensure that stakeholders are fully involved in the assessment and that outputs are clear, engaging and effective.
Countryscape's approach to Landscape Character Assessment involves working in close partnership with clients and stakeholders to maximise understanding and ownership of the end product. We use Geographical Information Systems (GIS) throughout the assessment process, resulting in a live, updatable spatial database that can be used as a framework for landscape planning.
Countryscape has undertaken Landscape Character Assessment work for clients including Herefordshire Council, High Peak Borough Council and Hampshire County Council, amongst others. We also coordinate the Landscape Character Network, supported by The Countryside Agency.
To find out more, visit the Landscape Character Network website at www.landscapecharacter.org.uk
