On behalf of the Forestry Commission, Southern Green Ltd carried out a Landscape and Visual Assessment for a proposed 47ha mixed species forestry plantation, in an upland location north of Hadrian’s Wall. The site was particularly sensitive in the context of its proximity to the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site, the Hadrian’s Wall Strategic Path, and the Pennine Way.

As part of an iterative process, the findings of the Landscape and Visual Assessment were used to inform the extent of the proposed layout, as well as the distribution and appearance of tree species. The LVIA involved consultation throughout with the Northumberland National Park Authority prior to the final submission. The case study was initiated to raise awareness of the value of landscape and visual assessment as a design tool for future forestry design, and to assist the Forestry Commission to decide if the proposal required a full Environmental Statement.