Landscape Planning.

Landscape

Planning

Liz Lake Associates | Chartered Landscape Architects

LIZ LAKE ASSOCIATES : LANDSCAPE PLANNING Development, the effective use of land and the protection and enhancement of the landscape have become key issues at the heart of the planning process. Liz Lake Associates has extensive experience in advising clients on developments with a range of expertise that can be tailored to suit each client’s individual needs. We work with land owners and developers, planning consultants

and solicitors, land agents and surveyors, local authorities, architects and engineers as well as energy and utility companies. We offer a full range of landscape planning advice including the strategic promotion of development sites, masterplanning, design, assessments and providing evidence at Public Inquiry.

Liz Lake Associates work in the following areas of development: ■

Residential and urban extensions

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Strategic housing and land promotion

■

Individual dwellings in the countryside

■

Heritage landscapes

■

Minerals development

■

Waste and recycling

■

Renewable energy

■

Utilities and infrastructure

■

Highways and transportation

■

Hydro engineering

■

Retail and commercial

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Following the Localism Act in 2011 and the introduction of a new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), an even greater emphasis on the identification and promotion of development sites at the initial stages of local plans and neighbourhood plan development documents is increasingly important. The landscape and ecological potential of the land and any constraints on development need to be identified early as they are key factors in the suitability of sites for development. Our landscape and ecological evaluations will inform the proposals that are put forward to the Local Planning Authority. They form an integral part in promoting sustainable development that contributes to the environmental, social and economic needs of local communities.

Planning Applications A well-supported planning application significantly increases the chances of a commercially successful outcome. As well as preparing landscape and visual impact assessments, we often co-ordinate the work of other specialist consultants. We have extensive experience in complex planning applications that involve heritage landscapes, as well as contributing the landscape and ecological chapters of the Environmental Statements.

Our experience in the planning process enables the early identification of key planning issues.

Specialist evaluations facilitate the development of mitigation measures that can avoid, reduce or compensate for potential adverse

environmental effects. With early involvement in a scheme, we can help to design out adverse effects – developing design solutions that maximise the potential of a site whilst aiming to avert potential planning objections.

We have considerable experience of negotiations with Local Planning Authorities, as well as organising exhibitions to illustrate and explain proposed schemes and participating in public consultation.

Planning Conditions - helping to satisfy conditions on time and cost effectively We are very familiar with satisfying both predevelopment and pre-occupation planning conditions for a wide range of consented schemes. These can relate to detailed hard and soft landscape proposals, the care and management of trees within a construction site or the implementation of ecological mitigation measures. Successfully obtaining approval of details reserved by condition within the required timescales is essential to securing the planning permission and ensuring that there are no delays in the development programme.

Section 106 Agreements, Unilateral Undertakings – providing details and budgets for planning obligations Despite the Government’s introduction of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), Section 106 (S106) agreements will remain, particularly where local landscape or ecological enhancements are involved. Such

enhancements are often required by a Local Authority in association with large development schemes. We are experienced in co-ordinating detailed proposals for enhancements including the preparation of long term Management Plans and budgets. Putting a cost against the S106 commitments is particularly important for developers to accurately assess the financial viability of their developments.

Following the completion of developments, we are also involved in making sure that all S106 commitments have been met and, where appropriate, there has been a hand-over of land where sites are to be adopted by the Local Authority or managed by local Trusts.

Our approach is based on an informed understanding of the landscape context and setting of a site. We believe that the greatest development potential is achieved when proposals are shown to address key issues such as landscape, townscape and visual amenity, as well as heritage assets, archaeology, ecology and arboriculture.

Working with a broad range of clients, often in sensitive locations, we are able to adapt our approach to address a complex range of issues at different scales.

An initial appraisal of key landscape, ecological and arboriculture issues will provide an early indication as to the opportunities and constraints of a particular site that need to be considered during the planning process.

Landscape: An initial appraisal that looks at aspects such as land use, landscape character, local and national landscape designations, visual influence, topography, amenity and setting, is often a useful starting point to evaluate a site’s role and setting in the landscape and can influence the way in which the site is developed. Landscape opportunities and constraints can positively feed into an emerging layout, offering a landscape-led approach to development.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIAs): A technical study of this type is often required to accompany a planning application to determine both the magnitude and significance of potential effects of a proposed development. It describes the existing baseline characteristics of the landscape and visual quality of the site and surroundings, and then assesses the degree of change in landscape character and in visual quality from a number of key receptors. Our assessments use a wellestablished methodology that builds on the published guidance “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment”, produced by the Landscape Institute (LI) and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The Local Authority or Secretary of State may decide that a proposal is of sufficient scale or has the potential to cause such effects that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required under the EIA Regulations. The

practice can contribute to the EIA process and the Environmental Statement (ES) by preparing chapters on landscape and ecology topics.

Expert Witness – at Public Inquiry, Examinations in Public, Local Plan Inquiries or planning committees Our landscape architects have prepared evidence for a number of Written Representations, Informal Hearings, Public Inquires and Examinations involving a range of strategic and site-specific developments including urban extensions, residential development, leisure and recreation, commercial as well as renewable energy and waste developments.

The considerable success of the practice at Inquiry over the years has been built on meticulous preparation combined with a thorough understanding of the landscape and an appreciation of the planning issues. The development of a robust methodology for assessing Landscape and Visual effects also underpins the evidence presented.

Our approach in all projects is for a senior member of the practice to be involved at every stage. This personal involvement in the original assessment work has been noted at Inquiry, where it has been recognised to give weight to the evidence presented.

Ecology: A Phase 1 Habitat Survey will identify the range of existing habitats on a site and

provide an indication as to the scope of wildlife issues, which might include recommendations for further Protected Species surveys or hedgerow surveys. Such surveys are often necessary to comply with current legislation (Countryside and Wildlife Act 1981 and Habitats Regulations 2010) and/or designations. For example, the presence or absence of reptiles on a site might influence the site layout, approach or programme.

Habitat creation as part of the masterplanning process can contribute to local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) and Green Infrastructure Networks at both local and strategic levels.

Arboriculture: The extent to which existing trees contribute to a site or setting can be of benefit to an emerging scheme, particularly when identifying tree issues early on in the process. A tree survey carried out to British Standard BS5837: 2012 will provide the detail needed to establish the extent of a developable footprint, the Root Protection Area (RPA), canopy spread and life expectancy of a particular tree or group of trees, as well as management for health and safety, required as part of a planning application. The potential effects of development on trees to be retained and their root systems can be minimised to ensure that trees are well integrated into a proposal.

Key skills that we cover:

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Appeals and Local Plan allocations

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Design guidance as part of statutory documentation

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Enforcement Notices

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Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

■

Evidence base for local development documents

■

Expert witness

■

Green Belt reviews

■

Landscape and Green Infrastructure

■

Landscape Character Assessment

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Lighting assessment

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Opportunities and constraints appraisals

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Public consultation

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Townscape analysis and appraisal

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Townscape assessment

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Verified visual modelling

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Visual Impact Assessment

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Visualizations and photomontage

LAND WEST OF MEAD PARK

M

North Devon

ark Flatman (CMLI), Director at Liz Lake

The Council alleged as part of their reasons for

Associates, was appointed by Cavanna

refusal, harm to a green wedge (policy BAR22),

Homes (South West) Ltd as expert witness on the

however the Inspector did not agree and concluded

Landscape and Visual Issues as a result of North

“there would be no harm, environmental or social,

Devon District Council’s refusal of planning

through the development of the site to the green

permission for up to 61 dwellings on a parcel

wedge between Bickington and Fremington”.

of land to the settlement edge of Bickington, Barnstaple.

We also argued and the inspector agreed “…that the provision of additional landscaping in the form of a

Whilst it was acknowledged that development

woodland belt, as suggested by the Council officers

on the appeal site would change its character,

in their recommendation to the Council, to mitigate

the impacts would be very localised and, when

the effects of the development on views from the

seen alongside an adjacent development (under

west while beneficial is not necessary”.

construction) to the northern edge of the site, it would be bound by residential development on

Overall, the inspector concluded that there was no

three sides making it a logical site for development.

harm, either on its own, or cumulatively, which

The inspector noted that “…properties outside

significantly

the development boundary could, in visual and

benefits of the development when assessed against

functional terms, still form part of the settlement”

the Framework. The appeal was successful and the

and that the proposed site boundary “…would mark

planning permission for construction of up to 61

a logical end point for the western extent of the

dwellings was granted.

or

demonstrably

outweighs

the

proposed development”. This was contrary to the Council’s evidence which challenged the extent and position of the appeal site boundary.

Client

Images

Cavanna Homes (South West) Ltd

Land parcel to edge of Bickington Wider Landscape Context The proposed site

THE APPEAL WAS SUCCESSFUL AND THE PLANNING PERMISSION FOR CONSTRUCTION OF UP TO 61 DWELLINGS WAS GRANTED

EBBSFLEET GREEN

L

Northfleet, Kent

iz Lake Associates was asked to prepare a

Our work included a series of photomontages

landscape and visual impact assessment, and

which were prepared from four key viewpoints

open space strategy report for a revised outline

agreed with the local authority. The photomontages

planning application for up to 950 dwellings in

illustrated the scheme at year 1 and year 15 and

Dartford, Kent.

were submitted alongside the visual impact assessment as part of the environmental statement

The site forms part of the Ebbsfleet Valley

for the scheme.

Strategic site, an area of land which has been subject to extensive quarrying and infrastructure

A cumulative landscape and visual assessment

works over the past years, which is now planned

of the scheme was carried out together with the

for strategic redevelopment including 10,000 new

various surrounding planned Ebbsfleet Valley

homes, employment uses and leisure facilities.

development applications.

The site itself is former National Grid land and

The

includes a decommissioned substation as well as

commitment by the Government as a new

overhead power lines. The proposed development

‘Garden City’, which Chancellor George Osborne

sought to transform the site into a new urban

announced on Sunday, will deliver up to 15,000

centre, enhancing the visual amenity of the site

new homes. Osborne said it would be a “proper

with a strong landscape strategy and removing

garden city”, the first since Welwyn Garden City

substantial infrastructure from the site.

was founded in 1920.

Ebbsfleet

Valley

is

now

subject

to

a

Client

Images

Redrow Homes

Ebbsfleet Valley Proposals Proposal LAP / POS Photomontage (15 years)

OUR LANDSCAPE MASTERPLAN SOUGHT TO CREATE A NEW URBAN CENTRE SUPPORTED

BY A STRONG LANDSCAPE SCHEME, INCLUDING SUDS, ALLOTMENTS, POS & ENHANCED WOODLANDS

LAND AT DINGLEY ROAD

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Great Bowden

iz Lake Associates were appointed to prepare

Landscape and close to Northamptonshire Special

a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

Landscape Area, the site made a very positive

(LVIA) for a planning application for a residential

contribution to the local landscape character, it had

development in the historic village of Great

a medium to high susceptibility to accommodate

Bowden. Set on the edge of a rural village,

the proposed development. Given the constraints,

with several listed buildings, heritage features,

the scheme was amended to include a reduced

including the church, a cemetery as well as on site

number

archaeology constraints, there was a need for a

landscape proposals and open space to integrate

very careful approach to the design and planning

it into its village surroundings. In addition, the site

of any new development or proposed change in

itself was assessed not to lie within the Council’s

this sensitive location.

area relating to a proposed area of separation

of

new

dwellings

with

associated

between the settlements of Great Bowden and Working closely with La Ronde Wright planning consultants,

Liz

Lake

Associates

Market Harborough, subject to a policy constraint.

undertook

thorough analysis of the baseline conditions

The development (following amendment) was

through desk study, field work and photographic

approved

survey of the site and its surroundings. Located in an

Planning Committee.

by

Harborough

District

Council’s

area designated as an Area of Particularly Attractive

Client

Architect

Images

Name

Name

Gateway into the heart of the village The local village church Single road into the proposed site

GIVEN THE CONSTRAINTS, THE SCHEME WAS AMENDED TO INCLUDE A REDUCED NUMBER OF NEW DWELLINGS WITH ASSOCIATED LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS AND OPEN SPACE TO INTEGRATE IT INTO ITS VILLAGE SURROUNDINGS

BRENTWOOD ENTERPRISE PARK

L

iz

Lake

Associates

were

commissioned

to prepare a Landscape & Visual Impact

Brentwood, Essex

A strong landscape framework was established within

the

overarching

development

vision

Assessment and a Green Belt Assessment for the

and

Skanska Depot redevelopment in association

Statement. Within the 23.5 ha site the retention

with the allocation of employment land at M25

and enhancement of existing trees and hedge lines

Junction 29 to form the Brentwood Enterprise

within a central riparian spine, the provision of off-

Park. The proposals include a mix of unit sizes,

site woodland block plantings and establishment of

car parking and service facilities set within a

dense internal street tree plantings, coupled with

landscaped framework of green corridors, treed

the establishment of appropriate building lines

streets and sustainable urban drainage features.

and sensitive ground modelling aim to reduce the

objectives

identified

within

the

Vision

long term visual impact of the development within Review of the site with regards to the five

the locality and the broader landscape. The site

purposes of the Green Belt established the degree

provides an opportunity to establish an improved

to which the existing Site can successfully meet

landscape setting and sense of place, creating a

the purposes of Green Belt Policy. The proposed

high quality business environment that is well

allocation for employment purposes was assessed

located, well landscaped and well maintained.

to be appropriate and consistent with the existing nature of the Site and the potential removal from Green Belt land.

Client

Location

Images

Strutt & Parker LLP

GMTW Architects

Landscape designations Landscape topography Early landscape sketch

A STRONG LANDSCAPE FRAMEWORK WAS ESTABLISHED WITHIN THE OVERARCHING DEVELOPMENT VISION AND OBJECTIVES IDENTIFIED WITHIN THE VISION STATEMENT

THE FORMER DORCHESTER PRISON

West Dorset

L

iz Lake Associates were appointed to prepare an LVIA for this sensitive site and to work closely with the Architects, Heritage Specialists, Local Authority and local residents to design in a sympathetic and economically viable development proposal. This project formed part

architects, engineers and heritage specialists Liz Lake Associates undertook a thorough analysis of the baseline conditions through desk study, field work and a photographic survey of the site and its surroundings. With the prison containing numerous Listed Buildings and being bounded on

of the first ever batch of prison conversions undertaken, following the Ministry of Justice (MoJ)’s sale of several of their major assets, which was initiated in 2015. LLA were delighted to be a part of this initiative of MoJ asset adaption. The Former Dorchester Prison was decommissioned and vacated in 2013, and is now owned by City & Country Residential Limited. The historic prison buildings are to be retained and converted into residences, accompanied by the construction of new buildings to form Mansion Blocks within the prison walls, open landscape terraces and courtyard gardens. Our brief was to prepare a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), addressing the issues relevant to the proposals for the site, to accompany the planning application.

three sides by the Dorchester Conservation Area, the local landscape was deemed to be of a high susceptibility to change. Producing an LVIA, we assessed the impact the development will have on this surrounding landscape and visual receptors.

Throughout the design process, Liz Lake Associates worked closely with the multi-disciplinary team to suggest mitigation methods, in order to reduce any adverse effects of proposed changes to the prison in its conversion to residential use.

Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team of

Our valuable input into the building conversion and design has enabled the proposals to integrate sympathetically into the surroundings, with detailed considerations given to the existing neighbourhood. Our digital wireframes team produced visualisations to inform the design process.

Client

Heritage Specialists

Architect

Images

City & Country Residential Limited

City & Country

Purcell

One of the old prison building entrances Wire frame model of the proposed buildings Movement sketch

OUR VALUABLE INPUT INTO THE BUILDING CONVERSION AND DESIGN HAS ENABLED THE PROPOSALS TO INTEGRATE SYMPATHETICALLY INTO THE SURROUNDINGS

MADINGLEY ROAD

L

Cambridge

iz Lake Associates was asked to produce a

The Landscape Strategy plan took into account

Landscape Visual Appraisal and Landscape

comments from a team of consultants and council

Strategy

Plan

for

the

development

of

two

officers.

buildings to house 16 residential units adjacent to a conservation area within the urban setting of

Visualisations were produced to demonstrate how

west Cambridge.

the suggested mitigation would be applied in order to minimise the impact of the development on the

The LVA included a desk top study and site visits to

public space.

determine the Site’s context and it’s relation to the proposed development. This involved reviewing

Our work was submitted to support the planning

the Local Plan and key character areas at various

application for the development. A decision on the

scales with a particular focus on the adjacent

application is pending.

conservation area.

Client

Architect

Images

Private

DPA

Landscape concept sketch Our CGI render of Architect's proposed building Landscape strategy plan

VISUALISATIONS WERE PRODUCED TO DEMONSTRATE HOW THE SUGGESTED MITIGATION WOULD BE APPLIED IN ORDER TO MINIMISE THE IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT

NEWHALL (FUSION)

Harlow

C

ommissioned by Bellway Homes, Liz Lake Associates were tasked with creating landscape proposals for the award winning Newhall development in Harlow. ‘Fusion’ is one part of a phased development consisting of large land parcels that connect to create a large new community. This phase of the development will link into future adjacent residential areas and thereafter into the extensive network of public open space, play areas, sports pitches, landscape infrastructure and ecological corridors that are currently in existence or planned for the wider Newhall neighbourhood. 42% of the land within the overall Newhall masterplan area will ultimately be retained as woodland, parks and green infrastructure.

doorstop ‘garden greens’ have been created and these will feature seating, ornamental planting as well as opportunities for informal toddler play.

The development consists of an array of forward thinking, unique houses and the landscape was designed to create the perfect foil for these dwellings to sit in and a stand out piece of landscape architecture. Working closely with Architects, Engineers and Planning Consultants, the design concepts developed to accommodate the site setting and the aspirations of the Local Planning Authority in combination with the needs of the Client. A number of publically accessible

This phase of the development features a strong framework of new street tree planting in the form of avenues and single lines of street trees. Street trees in hard landscape areas will be planted into special tree pits featuring root deflectors/underground root cells and watering tubes providing for the trees long term requirements. The combination of quality landscape surfacing materials and street tree planting will help to create a high quality public realm where pedestrians clearly have priority.

Like all of our planting designs, the site was separated into character areas (6 in total) that are each defined by a different style of planting, thus creating a number of interesting planting combinations that prevent any monotony in the soft landscaped areas. Much thought has been put into this to ensure varying colour, winter structure and low maintenance planting. Further to the planting proposals, Liz Lake Associates also developed a full landscape management plan for this development phase, ensuring that plants are well maintained in the future.

Client

Architect

Images

Bellway Homes

CHBC

Section drawing through doorstep garden green Landscape masterplan Exciting interconnected public realm

THE DEVELOPMENT CONSISTS OF AN ARRAY OF FORWARD THINKING, UNIQUE HOUSES AND THE LANDSCAPE WAS DESIGNED TO CREATE THE PERFECT FOIL FOR THESE DWELLINGS

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT

Thaxted

L

iz Lake Associates was appointed by Thaxted

and key views into the village from the surrounding

Parish Council to undertake a Landscape

countryside were identified, in order to evaluate

Character Assessment (LCA) of the expansive

the sensitivity and capacity of the landscape,

rural landscape surrounding the historic town of

parcel by parcel, to accommodate future residential

Thaxted. With its strongly undeveloped character,

development.

considerable panoramic

time-depth views,

the

and

landscape

far-reaching contributes

The results of this assessment form part Thaxted

strongly towards - and forms an intrinsic part

Parish Council’s evidence base for compiling its

of - the character, visual amenity and historic

Neighbourhood Development Plan. The study

significance of Thaxted. The landscape is also

will assist the Parish Council in making informed

valuable in its own right.

decisions

as

to

whether

future

residential

developments can be appropriately absorbed into the A combination of desktop study, fieldwork and

landscape surrounding Thaxted, and, if so, where,

stakeholder consultation was used to identify

at what scale and with what associated mitigation

parcels of land within the study area with common

measures, to ensure that no unacceptable effects on

characteristics. A range of landscape character and

the landscape result and that its special qualities are

visual amenity criteria were identified and assessed,

maintained and, where possible, enhanced.

Client

Images

Thaxted Parish Council

View towards Thaxted Landscape topography The windmill, an iconic mark on the landscape

THE RESULTS OF THIS ASSESSMENT FORM PART THAXTED PARISH COUNCIL’S EVIDENCE BASE FOR COMPILING ITS NEIGHBOURHOOD DEVELOPMENT PLAN

BENTLEY PRIORY

T

Stanmore, London

he historic landscape of Bentley Priory is

at the previous RAF Bentley Priory site on behalf

registered Grade 2 on English Heritage’s

of Barratt North London.

The detailed planting

Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic

designs reflect and reinforce the historic setting

Interest in England. The Bentley Priory parkland

whilst providing valuable, usable green space

forms part of a major picturesque landscape

for modern living.

influenced by Uvedale Price. Liz Lake Associates

landscape designs and planting plans for the show

led the landscape team that produced the

home, sales office, walled garden podium terraces

Landscape Conservation Management Plan and

as well as the individual gardens and the wider

all landscape-related documents and plans that

parkland.

formed part of the planning permission granted

management plan for the public spaces and BRE

in July 2008 on behalf of RAF Bentley Priory.

homes assessment.

We have produced detailed

We have also produced a landscape

The RAF have now vacated the site and it has been purchased by two developers.

All landscape works have now been implemented and residential units are open for viewing and

Liz Lake Associates is part of a comprehensive

purchase. Bentley Priory has won numerous

detailed design team including Structa and Clague

Awards, and most recently was voted ‘Developer

implementing the planning permission for the

Award’ by the Urban Design Group.

residential aspects of this major redevelopment

Client

Architect

Engineer

Images

Barratt North London

Clague

Halcrow Yolles

Private spaces are created within the park Planting to rear garden spaces Planting to frontages

THIS HISTORIC PARK WILL FORM PART OF THE LANDSCAPE AROUND NEW HOMES AND ONCE MORE BE ENJOYED BY MANY

GROVELANDS

T

Chudleigh

aylor Wimpey appointed Liz Lake Associates

of building materials to reflect those within the

to prepare documents to support a planning

adjacent Conservation Area, the arrangement

application for a residential development on land

of built form to allow framed views through the

at Grovelands. This parcel of land lies on the edge

development to the countryside beyond, the

of Chudleigh, a small town in Central Devon,

retention of existing trees and hedgerows on site

and has recently become encapsulated on three

and the reinforcement of boundary screening to

sides by urban development, thereby presenting

mitigate the visual impact of the development

a rational case for residential infill.

from surrounding properties and local footpaths.

A 10m wide bat flight corridor was incorporated

Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team, Liz

into the scheme and scattered trees were proposed

Lake Associates produced documentation for a

throughout the development to break up the built

full planning application for 70 houses located

form and mass. Such measures informed the

within a sensitive study area (which included a

landscape masterplan, public open space design

Conservation Area, Registered Park and Garden,

and detailed planting proposals.

numerous

Listed

Buildings,

Areas

of

Great

Landscape Value, Scheduled Ancient Monuments,

The

Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Special

by Teignbridge Council. Our input into the

application

is

currently

under

review

Areas of Conservation). Our Landscape Appraisal

design stage will help to significantly reduce

(LA) identified the impacts of the development

the impact of the proposed development upon

and proposed mitigation measures to reduce

the local landscape, ensuring that the scheme

any significant adverse effects, including the use

sympathetically integrates into its surroundings.

Client

Images

Taylor Wimpey

Landscape designations Picture viewpoint Landscape masterplan

WE IDENTIFIED THE IMPACTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES TO REDUCE ANY SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE EFFECTS

KENTFORD

L

Forest Heath

iz Lake Associates was commissioned by

planting palette that complements the existing

Pigeon Investment Management to provide

village composition and local area flora. Overall

landscape

planning

and

design

services

to

the scheme responds positively to the surrounding

promote a 12 acre site in Kentford, located in

village character and environment. The sensitive

a sensitive area including a number of Listed

integration of the scheme using trees and shrub

Buildings. With a shortfall in a five year housing

species of local origin and the retention of existing

land supply in Forest Heath District, the client

semi-mature trees, ‘settles’ the proposal into the

opted to submit an early application.

surrounding landscape. The use of natural hedges for boundary treatment creates green ‘fingers’ that

The landscape proposals help to contribute to the

tie the landscape to the surrounding rural fringe.

quality of the semi-rural character by creating a series of open spaces and pedestrian networks

Planning permission for the mixed use site

that enrich the local environment establishing a

comprising employment land and 60 dwellings

distinct sense of place. The landscape composition

was granted.

responds to the site context providing a layout and

Client

Architect

Images

Pigeon

Parc Design

Boundary proposals Landscape sketch design Semi-mature woodland strip to be retained

WE ACHIEVED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR OUR CLIENT IN RELATION TO EMPLOYMENT LAND AND RESIDENTIAL DWELLINGS

TOLLGATE VILLAGE

Stanway, Essex

L

iz Lake Associated were appointed to design

The aim of the landscape design was to create a

the Landscape Masterplan for the new Tollgate

distinctive scheme and a new element of urban

development in Colchester. The proposal includes

fabric that integrated, in a contemporary way with

a mix of units sizes, allocated for retails and

the new development and with the existing context,

recreational activities, and car parking facilities set

complementing and enhancing the built forms of

within a landscape framework of treed streets and

the master plan proposals. A public realm that would

green pedestrian paths. For the complete planning

be of significant value to Colchester, encourage a

application, a Landscape and Visual Landscape

sense of place and become a retail destination in its

Assessment was prepared and submitted.

own right.

The Tollgate development proposed a new urban

Representations and LVIA report were submitted to

fabric, a leisure and retail-led exterior environment

the Local Planning Authority.

traversed with new pedestrian routes and spaces.

This vibrant and distinctive retail experience would provide a new public realm of unique character and function.

Client

Architect

Images

Tollgate Partnership Ltd

Emptage

Landscape character area The west plaza Cultural heritage designations

A NEW RETAIL OFFER FOR THE COLCHESTER AREA

IPSWICH NORTHERN FRINGE

L

iz

Lake

Associates

were

Ipswich, Suffolk

commissioned

a detailed application for the development of 80

by David Lock Associates to prepare the

homes combined with an outline application for

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA)

an additional 735 homes, a primary school, district

Chapter of an Environmental Statement to support

centre and amenity space. The development also

a hybrid planning application for a sustainable

made provision for extensive green infrastructure

urban extension to Ipswich of up to 815 dwellings

comprising of parks and gardens; natural and

to the north of Ipswich.

semi-natural greenspace; green corridors; amenity green space; play space; outdoor sports facilities,

The land at the northern edge of Ipswich, also known

and, allotments, community gardens and orchards.

as the Northern Fringe has been identified as being capable of accommodating up to 3,500 dwellings

Mersea

alongside associated transport, open space, local

submitted a hybrid planning application for the

Homes

and

CBRE

Global

Investors

facilities and community infrastructure. This

first phase of the Ipswich Northern Fringe.

application is Phase 1 of the proposals and included

Client

Lead Consultant

Images

CBRE Global Investors/ Mersea Homes

David Lock Associates

Topography The Fonnereau Way Land at the Fringe

STRATEGIC LAND IDENTIFIED AS PART OF THE IPSWICH GARDEN SUBURB

BRISTOL ARENA

Bristol

L

iz Lake Associates were appointed by Bristol City Council to prepare a Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment for Phase 1 of the Bristol Arena development on land adjacent to the central train station and a short walk from the city centre. A former diesel depot, the site will be

was given to local planning policy guidance on tall buildings, which highlighted a number of important views across the city which take in the site. With no Landscape Character Assessment to inform the baseline, a comprehensive Townscape Character Assessment was undertaken to identify

radically transformed into an iconic landmark, providing Bristol with a much needed, worldclass, 12,000 capacity entertainment venue, due to open in 2018. Phase 2 of the development will follow and comprises of commercial units and residential blocks on the Bristol Arena Island.

the widely contrasting character areas around the site; Residential, Industrial, Business District and City Centre Mixed Use areas.

This one of a kind project for the city of Bristol demanded an in-depth analysis of current baseline conditions through desk study, field work and photographic study. This identified a number of sensitive receptors including the adjacent Grade I listed Temple Meads Railway Station, Conservation Areas, the Arnos Vale Cemetery and residents of nearby neighbourhoods. High resolution LIDAR mapping data, which can identify individual buildings, was used to produce a detailed ZTV which informed our chosen viewpoints. Consideration

The TVIA was submitted within the Environmental Impact Assessment as part of the planning application and the scheme has now been approved. The TVIA assessed the impact which the development might have on the local townscape character and the visual amenity during the construction phase and also at completion.

During the assessment process architectural and landscape mitigation measures were developed to integrate this large-scale of project into the surrounding industrial, residential and commercial neighbourhoods. The assessment also considered the potential cumulative impacts of a second phase of development on the adjacent space.

Client

Planners

Architect

Images

Bristol City Council

CSJ Planning

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

Landscape character areas Key view to arena entrance Landscape masterplan

THIS ONE OF A KIND PROJECT FOR THE CITY OF BRISTOL DEMANDED AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF CURRENT BASELINE CONDITIONS THROUGH DESK STUDY, FIELD WORK AND PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDY

BERWICK SOLAR FARM

L

iz

Lake

Associates

representations

for

a

prepared private

written client

in

opposition to the proposed 12MW solar farm near

Berwick, East Sussex

used by the local opposition group at Public Inquiry to demonstrate impacts on surrounding views, including views from the South Downs AONB.

Berwick, East Sussex.

Despite allowing the development the inspector Liz Lake Associates reviewed the submitted EIA,

took note of our evidence, reducing the number

and carried out a comprehensive site assessment.

of Solar Panels and increased the landscape

Addressing the impacts of the development to

mitigation requirements, which lead to a reduction

landscape character and visual amenity, Liz Lake

in the land scope and visual effects associated with

Associates submitted Written Reps, which were

the development .

Client

Images

Private

The Site An LVIA assess the impacts associated with solar development Views from the South Downs AONB were considered

LIZ LAKE ASSOCIATES SUBMITTED WRITTEN REPS, WHICH WERE USED BY THE LOCAL OPPOSITION GROUP AT PUBLIC INQUIRY

THAMES TIDEWAY TUNNEL

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London Borough of Tower Hamlets

iz Lake Associates acted as a consultant to the

works sites within the Borough. In particular,

Temple Group, advising the London Borough

relating both to Thames Water’s preferred option,

of Tower Hamlets on whether landscape and visual

information was analysed regarding the King

impact issues had been adequately addressed in

Edward Memorial Park Foreshore site and the

the Environmental Statement for this major and

short-listed site referred to as the Heckford

controversial engineering project as it affected

Street site.

the King Edward Memorial Park.

We produced a review concerning landscape and The London Borough of Tower Hamlets (LBTH)

visual effects and socio-economic impacts relating

appointed a number of environmental specialists

to park use, as well as briefly considering some

to analyse the environmental information collected

comments on the effects on cultural heritage as

and produced by Thames Water to support the

they related to the setting of heritage assets.

development of proposed Thames Tideway Tunnel

Client

Images

Temple Group Limited

Preferred site boundary and preferred line of tunnel The ANGSt assessment Grade II listed Rotherhithe ventilation shaft building

CLARIFYING AN IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR A CONTROVERSIAL PROJECT

NiMR

L

Mill Hill, London

iz Lake Associates are working in partnership

and place that varies in different areas of the site

with Barratt London on the redevelopment

through well-designed planting appropriate to

of the National Institute for Medical Research

the locality and promote opportunities for habitat

to deliver 462 new homes and 1951 sqm of

enhancement and connectivity with the local

commercial space for small businesses and cafe.

context. The landscape proposal incorporates

The site, located on the Ridgeway compromises

clear visual connections and way finding between

of a steep landscape overlooking the Totteridge

spaces -as well as places to sojourn for daily use

Valley to the north with some of the apartments

and social gatherings.

having view across to London’s skyline. As well as the built form, the development consists of open

The threshold between rural and semi-urban

grasslands and woodlands that are retained and

landscape is softened and has increased access

opened for public access. The steep topography

throughout the development to outdoor recreation

offers unique opportunities to create cascading

areas that incorporates a Trim Trail with a strategic

landscapes and podium gardens with views

network of interlinking play spaces; sports fields

across the valley.

and natural habitat to explore.

Liz

Lake

Associates

worked

alongside

a

multidisciplinary team to create a sense of scale

Client Barratt London

Architect Hawkins /Brown DMFK

Planner Tyler Grange

The development proposals have been submitted for planning.

Images Colour sketch masterplan Early concept sketch CGI of woodland cluster apartments

CGI: ©Pictureplane

THE STEEP TOPOGRAPHY OFFERS UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES TO CREATE CASCADING LANDSCAPES AND PODIUM GARDENS WITH VIEWS ACROSS THE VALLEY

FEN DITTON

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Fen Ditton, Cambridge

iz Lake Associates undertook a Green Belt

Associates were able to identify the opportunities

Assessment and a Landscape and Visual

and constraints associated with both parcels, as

Appraisal on two parcels of land within the village

well as assess their contribution to the NPPFs

of Fen Ditton to the north east of Cambridge.

criteria of Green Belt.

Our reports assessed the suitability of both parcels

Liz Lake Associates produced a Green Belt

to accommodate potential development.

Assessment and a Landscape and Visual Appraisal which were used to feed into the Local Planning

Liz Lake Associates carried out desktop assessment

Authorities Strategic Housing Land Availability

and site visits to prepare both documents and

Assessment (SHLAA).

using our in house Methodology’s, Liz Lake

Client

Images

Carter Jonas LLP

Visual assessment Local fields nearby Site option

ALL OF GREEN BELT LAND ARE BEING ASSESSED FOR THEIR ABILITY TO MEET GREEN BELT REQUIREMENTS

RECYCLING & ENERGY RECOVERY FACILITY

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Hertfordshire

iz Lake Associates were employed by Welwyn

Inspector David Richards decision was announced,

and

give

recommending to the Secretary of State that the

evidence as Expert Witness after the proposals for

application be refused. Inspector Richards Wrote in

a Resource and Energy Recovery Facility (RERF)

his decision to refuse the RERF that; " The proposal

with a capacity of 380,000 tonnes per annum and

is the wrong proposal, in the wrong place, at the

volume of 585,000 m3 on land at New Barnfield,

wrong time".

Hatfield, Hertfordshire were called in for decision by the Secretary of State following the resolution of the county council to approve it.

Inspector Richards agreed with LLA evidence

Hatfield

Borough

Council

to

confirming

that

appropriate

attention

the

proposals to

the

"fails

to

pay

character

and

Liz Lake Associates examined the Landscape and

appearance of the surroundings, and would be

Visual chapters of the appellants Environmental

viewed as an alien and intrusive structure in the

Statement, producing a detailed assessment of

landscape and surrounding area".

the applicants Landscape and Visual chapters, Photomontage and ZTV. Acting on Behalf on

The

Welwyn and Hatfield Borough Council who had

Richards reasons for refusal and refused planning

been granted Rule 6 status, Liz Lake Associates

permission for the RERF.

Secretary

of

State

supported

Inspector

gave expert evidence at Public Inquiry.

Client

Barrister

Images

Welwyn and Hatfield Borough Council

Cornerstone

Photomontage of proposed site entrance Photomontage The RERF

THE PROPOSAL IS THE WRONG PROPOSAL, IN THE WRONG PLACE, AT THE WRONG TIME (I.E. PREMATURE)

LOWER HALL PUMPING STATION

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Chingford, North London

iz Lake Associates were instructed by Essex

for a site-specific planting design to be suggested

and Suffolk Water to produce a Landscape

which offers necessary screening but also bring

and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), detailed

ecological and biodiversity benefits to the site.

planting proposals and Verified Photomontages for a proposed water pumping station within the

Once the final designs were completed, Liz Lake

Lee Valley. The proposals for this infrastructure

Associates put together presentation boards to

project included a new 462m2 Pumping Station,

inform the local community at public consultation.

146m2 switchgear and transformer building,

Working closely with the client, Liz Lake Associates

associated hard standing and related pumping

were able to inform the final site layout and design

infrastructure.

proposals to help facilitate a smooth planning application for this infrastructure project.

The LVIA and the Verified Photomontages helped identify visual and landscape issues associated

Our work was submitted as part of a detailed

with the development.

planning

These were addressed

early in the application process which allowed

application

to

the

Local

Planning

Authority. The application was granted approval.

Client

Engineers

Images

Essex and Suffolk Water

MPW Global

Photomontage of development Site location The wider Lee Valley

OUR DESIGN ALLOWED FOR THIS NECESSARY PIECE OF INFRASTRUCTURE TO SYMPATHETICALLY FIT INTO THE SURROUNDING LANDSCAPE, REDUCING ITS VISUAL IMPACT & CONSISTING TO LOCAL LANDSCAPE POLICY

LAWFORD

L

Lawford, Essex

iz Lake Associates were commissioned by Rose

the settled and rural landscape and to protect the

Builders to prepare an Landscape & Visual

setting of the AONB.

Appraisal to support a planning application for 150 dwellings and the erection of 'approximately

Once outline Planning Permission was successfully

700m2' of B1 use buildings with associated

obtained, LLA were commissioned to prepare a

infrastructure, Public Open Space, footpaths/

landscape Masterplan including detailed planting

cycle routes and boundary landscaping on land

plans for the Site. LLA produced a Landscape

at Dale Hall, east of Cox’s Hill, Lawford, Essex

Management Plan to provide a framework for the

immediately adjacent to the Dedham Vale Area of

initial establishment maintenance and on-going,

Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

longer term routine management of the areas of open space and other public realm landscape,

The Dedham Vale AONB is famous worldwide through the paintings of the landscape artist John Constable and our report considered the existing situation, including the Sites proximity to the AONB and the potential landscape and visual effects of the development and included a proposed landscape strategy to address these. Key

associated with the proposals.

The location of open space within the scheme and incorporation of supplementary planting, including trees and hedge lines were designed to help integrate the proposals while providing links to the wider landscape.

landscape strategies were prepared based upon site

The

investigations, landscape character assessment

alignment and composition of the site framework

proposed

development

layout,

and visual effects considerations to maintain and

responds to our LVA and recognises the important

enhance the quality of the transition between

setting of the AONB.

Client

Images

Rose Builders

Housing landscape masterplan

building

The site Cultural Heritage within close proximity figure

THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT LAYOUT, BUILDING ALIGNMENT AND COMPOSITION OF THE SITE FRAMEWORK RESPONDS TO OUR LVA AND RECOGNISES THE IMPORTANT SETTING OF THE AONB

WYMONDHAM

L

iz

Lake

Associates

Norfolk

represented

South

Norfolk District Council at Public Inquiry

Illustrative

photomontages

were

prepared

to

support Marks Evidence.

regarding the development of 70 dwellings on a Site at Wymondham. Acting as expert witness

Working closely with the team at SNDC and their

Mark Flatman gave expert evidence outlining

Barrister, Mark gave evidence at Public Inquiry as

the Landscape and Visual harm that would be

an expert witness.

associated with the development. Marks evidence specifically focused on visual effects associated

The appeal was recovered for the Secretary of State's

with the historic and culturally significant, Grade

determination who agreed with the Inspector’s

1 Wymondham Abbey, as well as the landscape

conclusions and recommendation that the appeal

effects associated with developing within a

be dismissed and planning permission refused.

[protected] valley landscape.

The Secretary of State agreed with the Inspector’s Following a comprehensive site assessment, a

conclusions outlining that the proposal would

comprehensive Proof of Evidence was produced

have an unacceptable effect on the landscape when

outlining

impacts

seen from Chapel Lane and from the Tiffey Valley

associated with the proposed development. Marks

and agreed with the Inspector’s conclusion that

evidence focused on the important views across

harm would be caused to the setting of the Abbey

the rural Tiffey Valley of Wymondham Abbey

when on Chapel Lane which would significantly

from Chapel Lane, and outlined how the proposed

and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.

the

landscape

and

visual

development would be detrimental to these views.

Client

Images

South Norfolk District Council

Wymondham Abbey Appellants proposed layout Illustrative photomontage of the proposals

OUR EVIDENCE FOCUSED ON VISUAL EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE NATIONALLY IMPORTANT GRADE I WYMONDHAM ABBEY AND ITS VALLEY SETTING

BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH

L

Essex

iz Lake Associates were instructed by Pigeon

suitability for their inclusion within the SHLAA. On

Investments to assist in the Site Allocation

receiving the Site allocation, LLA produced a LVIA

Process being undertaken by [Maldon District

which identified and assessed the Landscape and

Council] as part of their [Strategic Housing Land

Visual Impacts associated with the development.

Availability Assessment (SHLAA)], and to prepare

The LVIA fed into the Landscape Masterplan for the

an Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

Site, minimising the developments impact across

(LVIA) to feed into the Landscape Masterplan

the wider Landscape and suggested mitigation

for the Site. Considerations also had to be made

measures for the protection an enhancement of

for the [creation of Great Crested Newt habitats

the GCN habitats and detailing important site

within the Site]

features such as trees and hedgerows.

Liz Lake Associates undertook a detailed appraisal

Our work was submitted as part of a detailed

of proposed Sites within Burnham on Crouch,

planning

highlighting individual Sites opportunities and

Authority.

application

to

the

Local

Planning

Client

Images

Pigeon Investments

Local topography The site Proposed site layout

LIZ LAKE ASSOCIATES HELPED CREATE A NEW GATEWAY TO BURNHAM ON CROUCH

THORLEY HALL FARM

L

Bishops Stortford, Essex

iz Lake Associates advised Hertfordshire

and proposal drawings and then carried out

County Council (HCC), in regard to a planning

an independent Site assessment.

application

for

the

extraction

and

This looked

removal

at effects on the local landscape character and

of materials (sand, gravel and soil) to enable

landscape resource as well as the impact to visual

construction of a 44 million gallon agricultural

amenity on local residential properties and public

reservoir and related infrastructure.

rights of way. Our report not only looked at the final design proposal, but also effects associated

Liz

Lake

Associates

reviewed

the

submitted

with the mineral extraction process.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA)

Client

Images

Hertfordshire County Council

The Site location Reservoir details The SAL (Photo)

LIZ LAKE ASSOCIATES REVIEWED THE PLANNING APPLICATION ON BEHALF OF HCC

LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT

T

Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex

o help celebrate the Millennium, Liz Lake

the international London Stansted Airport.

Associates undertook a community project to

general strategy is to conserve and enhance the

assess the Landscape Character within the parish

countryside of the Parish, with its scattered hamlets

boundary of Stansted Mountfitchet, the Essex

and individual houses, which is integral to the

village in which our office has always been

setting of the village. Individual strategies outlining

located.

the opportunities to reinforce and strengthen the

The

landscape character are also proposed for each A desktop survey was undertaken using aerial

area.

photography and Ordnance Survey mapping to identify the topography, natural features, land use

When presented to the community at a public

and vegetation; this was then verified on site.

meeting the Landscape Strategy was well received.

Statutory and local designations were identified

As part of a summer internship three French

and Essex Wildlife Trust provided a Phase 1 Habitat

students

Survey. Key characteristics were identified in the

Preservation Order records for the Parish under the

landscape outside the urban area and ten individual

direction of the practice. Landscape Architecture

local landscape character areas identified. These

students from Writtle School of Design revisited

include rural farmland, a historic park and part of

and updated the Landscape Strategy.

subsequently

updated

all

the

Tree

Client

Images

Stansted Parish Council

View down Chapel Hill to Stansted Park Landscape character map London Stansted Airport

A SURVEY OF THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER REVEALED TEN DIFFERENT LANDSCAPE TYPES, INCLUDING STANSTED PARK

CHARLESTOWN

L

Cornwall

iz Lake Associates was commissioned by

landscape and visual effects associated with the

Wainhomes (South West) Holdings Ltd to

proposed developments. Our evidence focused

provide evidence for a Written Representations

on impacts on the World Heritage Site and the

appeal against the refusal of planning permission

Charlestown Conservation Area, as well as impacts

for residential development on land at two sites in

to the visual amenity of local residents and users

the Harbour village of Charlestown in Cornwall.

of locally and nationally important Public Rights of Way. Liz Lake Associates produced an Appeal

Charlestown is part of the Cornwall and West

Statement identifying the Landscape and Visual

Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site

Issues associated with the two sites, including

which includes select mining landscapes across

the production of a series of verified view

Cornwall and West Devon in the south west of the

photomontages to illustrate the proposals within

United Kingdom

the Charlestown landscape.

Woking for the appellant, Liz Lake Associates carried out a site visit to Charlestown to assess the

Client

Images

Wainhomes (South West) Holdings Ltd.

Planning layout The site location The harbour at Charlestown

THE HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE OF CHARLESTOWN IS RECOGNISED BY UNESCO AS A WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Maps reproduced from Ordnance Survey map data by permission of Ordnance Survey © Crown copyright 2017 Licence No.100007196 © Crown copyright and database rights 2017 Ordnance Survey Licence No.0100031673. Aerial imagery © 2017 Google

Liz Lake Associates offers the following services:

■ Landscape Design

■ Restoration and Conversion

■ Urban Design

■ Residential

■ Public Realm

■ Education

■ Masterplanning

■ Retail & Leisure

■ Landscape Planning

■ Community Consultation

■ Expert Witness

■ Ecology

■ Heritage Landscapes

■ Arboriculture

■ Gardens and Estates

■ 3D / Graphic Design

WWW.LIZLAKE.COM Liz Lake Associates Chartered Landscape Architects Stansted: Unit 1, The Exchange, 9 Station Road, Stansted, Essex, CM24 8BE t +44 (0)1279 647044 e office@lizlake.com www.lizlake.com

Nottingham: Suite 201, 20 Fletcher Gate, Nottingham NG1 2FZ t +44 (0)115 784 3566 e office@lizlake.com www.lizlake.com

Bristol: 1 Host Street, Bristol, BS1 5BU t +44 (0)117 927 1786 e office@lizlake.com www.lizlake.com