Isle of Anglesey, Gwynedd and Snowdonia National Park Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study
Protecting landscapes while enabling sustainable development across Anglesey, Gwynedd, and Snowdonia
Wales, UK
Gillespies was appointed to develop a methodology for assessing the landscape and visual sensitivity of Anglesey, Gwynedd, and Snowdonia National Park, focusing on the potential impacts of renewable energy, transmission, telecommunications infrastructure, and tourism developments like caravan and chalet parks.
Whilst the client group fully appreciated the environmental and socio-economic benefits of these developments, it was recognised that there was insufficient guidance available to officers to assess the potential impacts and to ensure that they do not result in unacceptable harm to the landscape of the study area, much of which is designated as National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The study was developed to provide guidance to developers and local planning officers, helping them protect sensitive and distinctive landscapes from inappropriate development whilst encouraging a positive approach to the right development.
The study is highly regarded and used as a supporting document for the Anglesey and Gwynedd Joint Local Development Plan, which was adopted as Supplementary Planning Guidance for the Eryri Local Development Plan.
The work was recognised as a great example of best practice and won a National Landscape Institute Award in 2015.
Project details
Title
Isle of Anglesey, Gwynedd and Snowdonia National Park Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study
Client
Anglesey and Gwynedd Joint Planning Policy Unit (JPPU) and Snowdonia National Park
Status
Complete
Gillespies team
Sarah Gibson, Helen Johnson
