New document will help shape the future of northern Devon landscape

A new document looking at the many types of landscapes across North Devon and Torridge to be used to help decide their future has been created by the region’s two district councils.

The updated Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) for northern Devon – the first since 2011 - provides an insight into the landscapes, their special qualities and the forces for change that have the potential to impact upon them in the future.

It provides an understanding of how landscapes are changing and how they can be strengthened to become resilient to future pressures, including climate change.

It includes detail about local character, sense of place, dark skies and what is changing the landscape and can be used to help inform decisions on things such as planning for development, land management, habitat and nature recovery and improvement.

The councils will use it to make decisions on planning applications and to go toward preparing planning policies on how the area should develop in the future.

The update to the ‘Joint Landscape Character Assessment for North Devon and Torridge District’ has been prepared by Land Use Consultants Limited (LUC) on behalf of the two councils and has included engagement with key people and organisations to ensure it truly reflects the local context.

Lead Member for planning at Torridge, Councillor Rosemary Lock, said: “This invaluable resource will play a pivotal role in understanding and managing our cherished landscape while providing crucial guidance for delivering responsible development proposals.

“It can help ensure that working together, we can preserve the natural beauty of our area for generations to come.”

Lead member for strategic planning and the economy at North Devon Council, Councillor Malcolm Prowse, added: “We all know we live in a beautiful area with amazing landscapes. This resource helps us navigate the ever-evolving landscape, guiding development proposals, and ensuring a sustainable future for our beautiful region.”

The new LCA supersedes the edition adopted by both councils in 2011.

You can find the updated LCA document online at www.torridge.gov.uk/lca and www.northdevon.gov.uk/lca.

An interactive map detailing the assessment can be found at www.torridge.gov.uk/ndtlp/maps.