21 May 2025 – Landscape Character Assessment, Appendix A
Landscape character assessment (LCA)
Landscape Character is created by the way the physical components of an area come together and can be defined as “a distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one landscape different from another”.
A ‘Landscape character assessment’ is the process of identifying and describing variation in the character of the landscape. Although landscape character is also about experience and sense of place, it is not about opinions or judgements on whether one landscape is considered better or worse than another, nor is it a basis for deciding if locations are suitable for housing developments; which is the responsibility of the UDC planning office whose eligibility criteria are based on other elements as contained in the UDC local plan.
Wendens Ambo Parish Council commissioned Liz Lake Associates to undertake a locally based Landscape Character Assessment of the Parish, which forms the project area for the Neighbourhood Plan. This study provides a clear and concise evaluation of eight parcels of land to determine their overall landscape sensitivity. The results of this assessment are to form part of the evidence base that Wendens Ambo Parish Council will use in compiling its Neighbourhood Development Plan.
The study concluded that the landscape and visual character of Wendens Ambo has been assessed to have a High overall landscape sensitivity in most areas where a policy of enhancing and reinforcing the rural and undeveloped character of the landscape is required.
A copy of the full Landscape Character Assessment Paper can be obtained for loan from the Parish council but the link below to the Landscape Assessment Study Appendix A; Local Parish Landscape Character Areas: summarizes the eight defined areas in terms of Landscape Character Sensitivity, Visual Sensitivity and Overall Sensitivity.
2839 02 App A LPLCA Document
It is useful to note that a Lower sensitivity rating does not assume greater suitability for housing development.
