The quality of the environment is of importance when new
planning applications are considered. The protection and
enhancement of the landscape is essential if the quality and
biodiversity of our townscape and landscape is not to be eroded
significantly.
The preparation of a landscape scheme is often left as an
afterthought following the acceptance of new development. This
means that any available space for the planting of significant
trees or hedgerows may have already been occupied by structures or
services or simply cannot be sustainable for the long term.
Landscape should be used to blend a development in to its
surroundings and take account of local character and
distinctiveness. Planting should not be a token gesture or designed
to hide a poor development. A good landscape and design scheme for
the external areas can improve the appearance and function of a
development. Consideration should be given to hard and soft
landscape and discussed at the pre-submission stage.
At full planning or outline application stage a design plan for
landscape should be produced showing the location of existing
landscape elements to be retained and new areas of landscape
proposed. A full planting plan and planting schedule is normally
required to satisfy a planning condition once the principle of a
scheme has been established.
Advice is given to developers and the public on a range of
matters including integrating new buildings into the countryside,
managing the landscape, the creation of new outdoor spaces, trees
and planting schemes on new developments.
Further information can be found in the following
publications:
There are a number of local private practitioners in the
professions of landscape architecture, garden design and ecology
who offer a consultancy service where this is needed.
For more information contact the Landscape Officer on
01394 444420 or email
community&economic@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk
You will also find further information on the following
websites: