Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) in Somerset
LVIA Required Before Planning in Somerset?
We support Somerset developments by providing LVIAs that assess effects on countryside views, settlement edges and heritage settings. Supplying an LVIA early helps prevent planning delays and further information requests
Fast, Clear, Planning-Ready Support
Fast response
Calls answered in 2 rings, emails replied to within the hour.
Free expert advice
Clear guidance before you commit.
Cost-effective
Working in partnership with clients to ensure planning approval first time
Typical 10-day turnaround
Industry Leading Standard
Expert Team
We stay with you from first call through to submission.
Do you need a Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) in Somerset?
In simple terms, you’ll need a Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) for your Somerset site if your planning application could affect the character of the landscape or the views experienced by people nearby.
An LVIA is the document that explains how your development will look, how it fits into the surrounding landscape, whether it will change key views, and what can be done to reduce visual impacts. It helps the Local Planning Authority understand the real-world effects of your proposal and decide whether it is acceptable in landscape and visual terms.
Somerset planning authorities frequently require LVIAs where development may be visible from sensitive landscapes, including:
Settlement edges adjoining open countryside or lowland landscapes
River-valley and canal-side locations
Elevated sites with broader visual influence
Areas intervisible with historic buildings or parkland
Infrastructure corridors where cumulative landscape effects need assessment
LVIAs are often requested where visual impact has been highlighted.
We deliver expert Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment services across Somerset, supporting projects in towns, villages and rural landscapes.
Why Planning Authorities in Somerset Request a Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA)
In Somerset, an LVIA is often required where development may alter countryside views or affect heritage settings. Prepared in line with the Landscape Institute’s GLVIA3 guidance and relevant planning policy, an LVIA explains how your proposal will appear in the landscape and identifies the measures taken to minimise visual and landscape effects.
Local Case Insight
How the Landscape Visual Impact Assessment Process Works
We deliver compliant, planning-ready LVIAs that meet Somerset policy standards and support your application with robust visual evidence.
Key LVIA Deliverables for Somerset Projects
Your Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is structured to meet Somerset’s planning requirements and typically includes:
Baseline assessment – Landscape character review, policy context and on-site survey with key viewpoints captured.
Visual outputs – Accurate photography, wireframes and ZTV mapping to show potential visibility and change.
Impact and mitigation analysis – Clear GLVIA3-aligned assessment of landscape and visual effects with proportionate mitigation.
Submission-ready report – A concise, LPA-aligned LVIA formatted for smooth planning submission.
This ensures your LVIA in Somerset can be submitted confidently, supporting a smoother planning process and clear decision-making.
Step 1
Site Survey
Site is assessed to capture potential viewpoints.
Step 2
LVIA Preparation
Desk research of the landscape study area
Step 3
Coordination stage
Collate assessments and evaluate the key components
Step 4
Submission and support
We respond to any LVIA queries or amendments required.
Next Steps
Ready to secure approval and start on site? We’ll confirm what your Somerset site needs and help you move forward without unnecessary delay.
FAQ - LVIA in Somerset
Why are LVIAs required for developments in Somerset?
Somerset includes open countryside, hills and historic landscapes.
Somerset Council – https://www.somerset.gov.uk/
Which Somerset projects typically require LVIA?
Residential developments and infrastructure schemes.
How does LVIA support planning decisions in Somerset?
It assesses visual change across rural landscapes.
Are long-distance views important in Somerset LVIAs?
Yes, particularly in open terrain.
Can LVIA influence development layout in Somerset?
Yes, to minimise visual impact.
Is LVIA required near protected landscapes in Somerset?
Yes, development near designated areas is scrutinised.
