A landscape and visual impact assessor evaluates the effect of a proposed development on landscape character and on the visual experience of people who live near or view the site. Their Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) follows the methodology set out in GLVIA3 (Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 3rd edition, Landscape Institute / IEMA) and forms a key chapter of Environmental Statements for major planning applications. They may also assess applications in designated landscapes such as National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now National Landscapes) and Green Belt.
What they do
- Carry out landscape baseline surveys and character assessments
- Identify and assess representative viewpoints from the surrounding area
- Produce Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIA) to GLVIA3
- Commission or produce accurate photomontages and wireframes
- Assess cumulative landscape and visual impacts from multiple schemes
- Design and specify mitigation planting and landscape management plans
- Assess impacts in nationally designated landscapes (National Parks, AONBs)
- Respond to statutory consultee queries on landscape and visual matters
When you need one
An LVIA specialist is needed for any scheme where landscape or visual impact is a material planning consideration - particularly for EIA development and applications in sensitive landscapes.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Simple LVIA (small scheme, few viewpoints) | £3,000 - £8,000 |
| LVIA for major housing scheme | £10,000 - £30,000 |
| Wind farm or solar farm LVIA | £20,000 - £80,000 |
| Photomontage (per viewpoint) | £800 - £2,500 |
| Landscape management plan | £2,000 - £8,000 |
| Hourly rate (Chartered Landscape Architect) | £60 - £110 / hr |
Photomontage costs depend heavily on the number of viewpoints, survey equipment requirements and the complexity of the visualisation. Cumulative assessments covering multiple schemes add to cost.
Qualifications to look for
The primary professional qualification for landscape architects in the UK. Requires a recognised degree in landscape architecture accredited by the Landscape Institute, at least two years of post-graduation experience, and submission of a professional practice portfolio. Check membership at landscapeinstitute.org.
Senior grade for experienced Chartered Landscape Architects who have made a significant contribution to the profession. FLI status indicates an experienced practitioner suitable for complex or contested LVIA work.
How to find a reputable landscape visual impact assessor
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What is a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment?
A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) evaluates the effect of a proposed development on the landscape character of an area and on the visual amenity of people who view it. It follows the methodology set out in the third edition of Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA3) published by the Landscape Institute and IEMA. It typically involves field survey, viewpoint photography, assessment of impact significance, and recommendations for mitigation planting.
When is an LVIA required for a planning application?
An LVIA is typically required as part of an Environmental Statement for EIA development, and is routinely requested by local planning authorities for applications in or near designated landscapes (National Parks, AONBs/National Landscapes, Green Belt), for large-scale renewable energy schemes (wind farms, solar farms), and for any development that would significantly affect valued landscape character or visual amenity.
What qualifications should a landscape visual impact assessor have?
Look for Chartered Membership of the Landscape Institute (CMLI). This requires a recognised degree in landscape architecture, at least two years of supervised experience after graduation, and submission of a professional practice portfolio. CMLI members are bound by the Landscape Institute's Code of Professional Conduct. Check membership at landscapeinstitute.org.