Landscape Character Assessment
Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) emerged in the mid 1980s. It is
a tool for understanding the 'essence' or 'character' of places and for
identifying
what makes one landscape or area different/distinct from another.
Through a systematic process of desk study and field investigation, LCA
is concerned to identify different combinations of recognisable, consistent
and distinct patterns in the landscape (through consideration of a whole
host of natural and cultural factors such as geology, landform, vegetation
cover, settlement patterns and historic elements).
Characterisation
Following on from the classification process, the different areas of Landscape
are mapped and described - the description being an objective, relatively
value-free account that landscape's character. Particular attention is
given to the component parts (characteristics and elements), the presence
and combination of which defines the overall character of the landscape.
Making Judgements
Based on the characterisation process, the LCA can be used for a wide range
of purposes. LCA is typically used for:
- Planning e.g. to inform development plan policies, to help to identify
new sites for development, to input to Environmental Impact Assessment.
- Landscape Conservation, Management and Enhancement e.g. developing landscape
management strategies, informing the targeting of agri-environment schemes
and helping to guide land use change, positively and in a sustainable way.
For further more detailed information, The Countryside Agency (external link) and Scottish
Natural Heritage (external link) have published Landscape Character Assessment - Guidance
for England and Scotland (2002).
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