Current and recent landscape projects

Below are some examples of our landscape projects.  For further information contact us at  landscape@snh.gov.uk.

National landscape overview

Our programme of Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) has mapped all of Scotland at a local, 1:50,000 scale.  We are looking at how the landscapes of Scotland can be mapped at a broader, whole-Scotland scale, to help show regional identity.

Previously we have summarised the landscape characteristics  of Scotland by amalgamating individual landscape character assessments, and we have also critically reviewed the whole process of LCA.

Landscape capacity studies - review and guidance

A landscape capacity study identifies the capacity of a given landscape to accommodate new development.  Scottish Natural Heritage has produced Landscape Capacity Studies in Scotland - a review and guide for good practice, and an online toolkit  to support the production of new studies.

Climate change, landscape and quality of life

Arising from Scottish Natural Heritage's Climate Change Action Plan this research assesses the possible implications of climate change on Scottish landscapes  and their contribution to quality of life.

Mapping Scotland's cultural landscapes

This project aims to map some of the associations between Scotland's landscape and the works of artists, writers and musicians.

Special qualities of National Scenic Areas and National Parks

We have recently completed work to identify the special landscape qualities of National Scenic Areas and National Parks. The result is a complete picture of Scotland's nationally designated landscapes derived from the application of a standard method.

See the NSA web-pages for details

Windfarms in the landscape

We are reviewing guidance on how to assess the cumulative effects of the increasing number of windfarms in the landscape. 

Wild land

A public opinion survey Public perceptions of wild places and landscapes in Scotland    found that there is overwhelming support in Scotland for keeping our wild land.

Assessing the impacts on wild land  . This guidance helps developers identify the impacts of their development on wild areas.

A review of the benefits and opportunities attributed to Scotland's landscapes of wild character  . This report emphasises that economic and other benefits can accrue from Scotland having wild land.

Assessment of historic trends in the extent of wild land in Scotland: a pilot study  . This report quantifies the loss of wild land over the past 100 years through hydro schemes, forestry and road/track construction.

New housing, settlement expansion and the natural heritage

This report gives guidance on how to work with the planning system to get the best results for the landscape and natural heritage of Scotland.