Southwest Environmental Limited

Agricultural buildings are getting bigger and bigger and they may sometimes require a visual impact assessment, particularly if they are sited within areas of environmental significance such as SSSIs or AONBs.

This was the case with a large poultry unit planned in Somerset which was some 7 meters in height at the roof appex.

A thorough site survey is the key to a visual impact assessment and no exceptions were made in this instance.

The report includes photo montages and 3D models of the proposed development, the software used can virtualize images as seen from receptors (people living around the area) and give planners an idea of likely impacts.

Visual Impact Assessment  - Report Contents

2.0       Local Plan & Other Local Documentation

2.1       Taunton Deane District Local Plan

2.2       Blackdown Hills Management Plan 2009-2014

2.2.1    Policies

2.2.2    Strategic Environmental Assessment Objectives

3.0       Natural Landscape Character

4.0       Landscape Character Area

5.0       Landscape and Visual Impacts

5.1       Landscape Impacts

5.1.1    Contrast

5.1.2    High Ground

5.1.3    3D Modelling

5.2       Visual Impacts

5.2.1    Photo Location with “No Change” on Visual Impact

5.2.2    Photo Locations with “Low” Visual Impact

5.2.3    Photos Locations with “Medium” Visual Impact

6.0       Mitigation

7.0       Conclusions

8.0       Certification

The below section was written by a machine.

Technical Guidance: Visual Impact of Agricultural Developments

Agricultural developments, such as large-scale livestock sheds, often require a formal assessment of their effect on the surrounding landscape. A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is a critical component of the planning application process, particularly for sites located within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) or National Parks.

Core Objectives of the Assessment

The primary goal is to determine how a new structure alters the character of the landscape and the views available to people in the area. Key technical considerations include:

• Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV): Mapping areas from which the livestock shed may be visible based on digital terrain modeling.
• Visual Receptors: Identifying sensitive observers, such as residents, hikers on public rights of way, or road users.
• Mitigation Through Design: Proposing measures such as sympathetic cladding colours or strategic tree planting to soften the building's profile.
• Landscape Character: Evaluating the impact on the existing "sense of place" and ensuring the development aligns with local Landscape Impact Assessment policies.

Integration with Agricultural Planning

Visual assessments are rarely conducted in isolation. For intensive livestock units, they are often paired with Ammonia Emissions Assessments and Odour Impact Assessments to provide a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). This multi-disciplinary approach ensures that all potential objections from planning officers or statutory consultees are addressed early.

At SWEL, our agricultural consultants provide the technical authority required to navigate these complex regulations. With over 900 projects completed across the UK, we understand the specific requirements for rural developments and provide the evidence needed to secure project consent.

Supporting Technical Documentation

In addition to visual impacts, we assist farmers and developers with Landscape and Ecological Management Plans (LEMP), ensuring that any screening or landscaping provides genuine biodiversity net gain in line with current UK standards.