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Special (local) landscape areas

What are they?

There are many areas where the scenery is highly valued locally, and local authorities often give these landscapes a local designation. This is to ensure that the landscape is not damaged by inappropriate development, and in some cases encourage positive landscape management. These designations play an important role in developing an awareness of the landscape qualities that make particular areas distinctive, and promote a communities sense of prode in their surroundings.

The names used for such local landscape designations currently vary from one local authority to another. For example, they are termed 'Areas of Great Landscape Value' in Moray, 'Special Landscape Areas' in Dumfries and Galloway, and 'Sensitive Landscape Character Areas' in Ayrshire. However, guidance published by Scottish Natural Heritage and Historic Scotland (see below) suggests the name be standardised to Special Landscape Area (SLA).

SLAs complement the National Scenic Area designation, which identifies those landscapes that are seen as nationally important owing to their unsurpassed scenery. 

Where are they?

Local landscape designations are found throughout Scotland. The map link below shows the situation as it was in 2007, based on data derived from Landmark Information Group. Note that this is a dynamic situation and updates will be required from local authorities as local and regional plans develop.

This map includes a number of regional landscape designations identified in the original Highland Structure Plan, which is soon to be replaced by the Highland Wide Local Plan. 

How are they protected and managed?

Local landscape designations are shown in local development plans, and have associated policies to safeguard their valued features.

How are they selected and designated?

Scottish Natural Heritage and Historic Scotland have now jointly published guidance to assist local authorities to refresh their approach to landscape designations. This guidance has been developed from a review of local landscape designations initiated in 2003. This review was supported by a working group comprising representatives from the Scottish Executive and COSLA, together with a number of staff from a range of both rural and urban local authorities.