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There is widespread acknowledgement that we need much more tree planting in the UK, but at the same time there seems to be increasing objection to new commercial forestry planting, despite the fact that reducing UK timber supplies are becoming an increasingly important issue for the UK economy.

Following a couple of well-known (in the forestry sector) Judicial Reviews of Scottish Government approvals for new large-scale commercial afforestation schemes, there is now increasing scrutiny of large-scale commercial forestry planting schemes, including the potential landscape and visual impacts of new planting.

New planting schemes have for years been required to adhere to the requirements of the UK Forestry Standard, and planting design should also, of course, be in line with the Forestry Commission’s 2014 Design Techniques for Forest Management Planning. The vast majority of planting schemes are well-located and well-designed, but the scrutiny still increases, drastically delaying getting the first trees ‘in the ground’.

Landscape and visual assessment should be an integral part of the new woodland design process, rather than the assessment being undertaken once the design is more or less fixed. Early involvement of the landscape assessor in the process should reduce delays once the scheme is submitted to the devolved forestry authorities.

Connected Landscapes can undertake landscape and visual impact assessments (LVIAs) for new woodland creation schemes, as well as higher level Landscape and Visual Appraisals (LVAs). We can also provide accurate ZTV modelling and photo-visualisations. Where I differ from many other landscape planning practices is that I approach the assessment process with a real understanding of the UK forestry sector – after leaving school I spent my gap year working ‘on the tools’ in a sawmill and as an estate forester, and have been involved in the forestry sector at different levels ever since.

If you’re involved in new woodland creation schemes, then get in touch to see how I can smooth the process of getting your scheme approved.

E: rob@connectedlandscapes.co.uk

M: 07976 257010