LVIA & TVIA in Somerset

We provide Landscape Technical Notes, Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisals, full LVIAs, and Townscape Appraisals across Somerset, from our Wells office. Our work spans residential, agricultural, commercial, and mixed-use projects in a wide range of landscape settings — from the open Somerset Levels to the heavily designated slopes of the Mendips and Quantocks.

Landscape character in Somerset

Somerset is a diverse county with a rich and varied landscape character. The Somerset Levels and Moors form one of the most distinctive lowland landscapes in England — a flat, open, semi-natural environment of significant ecological and historical importance. The Mendip Hills rise sharply to the north, with limestone plateau, dramatic gorges, and extensive views forming a classic AONB character. The Quantock Hills — England's first designated AONB — form a distinctive range of heathland ridges and wooded combes in the west of the county. Exmoor National Park covers the far west, where open moorland, deep wooded valleys, and a dramatic coastline create one of the most challenging settings for landscape assessment in England.

Planning applications in or near any of these designated areas require landscape evidence that demonstrates clear understanding of local character, designation boundaries, and the specific policy tests that apply — particularly in relation to the special qualities of AONBs and the purposes and special qualities of Exmoor National Park.

Planning policy context

The key planning authorities in Somerset include Somerset Council (the new unitary authority formed in 2023), and the Exmoor National Park Authority. Each authority has its own Local Plan policies applying to landscape, with specific requirements for landscape evidence in designated and sensitive settings. National policy (NPPF paragraph 180) provides strong protections for National Landscapes and National Parks. We are familiar with the relevant development management policies, landscape character assessments, and supplementary guidance applicable across the county.

Our Somerset services

• Landscape Technical Notes — desktop assessment for pre-application or householder applications
• Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisals — proportionate assessments for smaller applications
• Full LVIAs — for major residential, commercial, and renewable energy proposals
• AONB and National Park assessments — prepared in accordance with relevant management plans and special qualities statements
• Expert review of submitted LVIAs on behalf of LPAs or objectors
• Supporting landscape plans and planting strategies

Recent project types in Somerset

A representative cross-section of the kinds of work we have delivered across Somerset:

• Residential schemes in Mendips and Quantocks setting
• Renewable energy proposals on the Somerset Levels
• Agricultural buildings in open countryside
• Glamping and holiday accommodation in National Park fringes
• Conservation area infill in market towns
• Equestrian and stable facility applications

Frequently asked questions

• Do I need an LVIA for a planning application in Somerset?
  Whether an LVIA is required depends on the scale and location of your proposal and the requirements of the local planning authority. In Somerset, applications in or near the Mendip Hills AONB, Quantock Hills AONB, Exmoor National Park, or Somerset Levels will often require landscape evidence. We can advise on the appropriate scope for your specific site.
• Which landscape designations exist in Somerset?
  Somerset contains the Mendip Hills and Quantock Hills National Landscapes (formerly AONBs), Exmoor National Park, and the Somerset Levels and Moors (a nationally important landscape for nature). Many parts of the county also fall within locally designated areas including Areas of Great Landscape Value.
• Do you have an office in Somerset?
  Yes — we have an office in Wells, Somerset, which covers projects across the county and into neighbouring areas including Dorset and Devon.