To further the application and use of Landscape Character Assessment in England and Scotland, a series of Topic Papers have been prepared to accompany the main LCA guidance.
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Landscape Character Assessment Topic Papers

Hedges
To further the application and use of Landscape Character Assessment in England and Scotland, a series of Topic Papers have been prepared to accompany the main LCA guidance. These cover the following areas of interest:



  • Topic Paper 1 - Recent Practice and the evolution of Landscape Character Assessment 
    An explanation of the development of LCA, together with details of national approaches and other recent initiatives
    Download TP1 (PDF - 1.08Mb) (1mb pdf)

  • Topic Paper 2 - Links to other sustainability tools 
    How LCA can inform a range of other sustainabilioty tools to inform decisions on conservation and enhancement of landscape character
    Download TP2 (PDF - 670k) (671kb pdf)

  • Topic Paper 3 - Landscape Character Assessment
    - how stakeholders can help 
    An explanation of the nature of stakeholder involvement, methods of engagement and pointers to good practice
    Download TP3 (PDF - 565k) (565kb pdf)

  • Topic Paper 4 - Use of GIS and other computer methods 
    An introduction to the use of GIS and other computer methods in Landscape Character Assessment including examples of good practice
    Download TP4 (PDF - 700k) (700kb pdf)

  • Topic Paper 5 - Understanding Historic Landscape Character 
    Explores the relationship between Landscape Character Assessment and Historic Landscape Characterisaion/Land-use Assessment
    Download TP5 (PDF - 3.02MB) (3mb pdf)

  • Topic Paper 6 - Techniques and criteria for judging capacity and sensitivity 
    This discussion paper explores current thinking and recent practice on judging capacity and sensitivty
    Download TP6 (PDF - 1.31Mb)

    (2mb pdf)
  • Topic Paper 7 - Development and new landscape character 
     (Note -  title may change. Forthcoming)
    This paper will look at the use of LCA as a positive tool for setting visions and design principles for better quality sustainable development through the planning process

  • Topic Paper 8 - Wind Energy and LCA
    This Topic Paper will no longer be published.  The need for specific advice will be reviewed in the future.  Please refer to our consultation response (183kb pdf) to the Goverment's draft Planning Policy Statement 22 - Renewable Energy, for our recommendations on the role and use of landscape character assessment.

  • Topic Paper 9 - Climate change and natural forces - the consequences for landscape character 
    This paper outlines how LCA can be used as a tool for responding to potential climate change effects on landscape character.
    Download TP9 (PDF - 351k) (351kb pdf)