Study to investigate the potential of an LVIA Quality Mark to support consistency and standards in the landscape profession.
The Landscape Institute (LI) has begun a feasibility study to investigate the potential of developing an LVIA Quality Mark to uphold the standards of this vital landscape assessment tool.
The LI’s rationale for considering the development of a dedicated LVIA Quality Mark scheme is to provide a formal accreditation route.
The LI is aware of a growing concern from its members regarding inconsistencies in standards of LVIA, that could in turn potentially bring the profession into disrepute.
We are taking action to uphold the standards and investigating a combination of initiatives to address this issue, including better guidance and training, and the development of certification for individuals and organisations, in consultation with members.
The crafting of an LVIA Quality Mark would also tackle issues around LVIA terminology and definitions, such as ‘competent expert’ and ‘sufficient expertise’ .
The LI Board has approved a feasibility study to investigate the potential of developing an LVIA Quality Mark that will seek to provide an informed view of the options available to the Landscape Institute.
The Feasibility Study
Greenfriars1 has been appointed by the LI to provide a Report which will be used to consider how we might proceed. The study will include evidence-based recommendations, progressing through three stages of work:
- Stage 1 – Desk based review and research
- Stage 2 – Stakeholder engagement and targeted market research
- Stage 3 – Development of options and recommendations
This methodical approach will evaluate; potential size of registrant market, key barriers, operational considerations (e.g. legal, technical, cultural), opportunities (e.g. partnerships, synergies, routes to market), resources, timeframe for set up, estimate high level set-up and running costs, and income. The Study will also develop in more detail:
- Draft of the LVIA scheme requirements
- Draft of the LVIA scheme procedures and operation
- Draft of the LVIA scheme assessment process
- Outline programme for scheme launch
- Outline the key issues to be considered if the LI were to proceed
- Outline the differences between whether the LI offers a Quality Mark certification for both individuals and organisations, or only one of these – outlining benefits, challenges and possible conflicts
- Explore whether the LI should offer this standalone or partner with ISEP.
Following the Study a report will be produced setting out one of three recommendations, including key evidence points to support the statement:
- Not to proceed with the scheme.
- Carry out further studies/engagement to inform a decision to proceed or not. This is would only be made where there are positive signals indicating a viable scheme, but with key information missing to inform a final decision. Where this advice is given, specific recommendations will be provided regarding the existing evidence and evidence gaps.
- Proceed with LVIA Quality Mark scheme and outline how development of the scheme could progress.
Engagement
A vital driver for the programme is to ensure sufficient stakeholder engagement.
Key Stakeholder & Market Research will be based on the contacts and networks of Greenfriars, the LI and its Members.
In addition to the desk based study, a combination of questionnaire, webinar, meetings and correspondence will be undertaken, including with:
- LI Members
- GLVIA Panel Members and LI Standing Committees
- LVIA professionals within and outside the LI
- Key Statutory Stakeholders (e.g. Natural England, NRW etc.)
- The Planning Inspectorate – Selected Town and Country Planners and LPA officers
- Selected Developers and Consultants who commission LVIAs
Timeline
Stage 1
- Desk based study has already begun.
Stage 2
- w/c 8 September: The LI will circulate and promote a Questionnaire we would encourage LI Members and anyone with expertise in LVIA to complete. Please share with contacts and in your networks.
- w/c 22 September: Greenfriars will host a webinar where you can learn more.
- 20 October: Questionnaire closes.
Stage 3
- December: Final Report produced.
- Early 2026: LI communicates the result and next steps.
What is an LVIA?
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) helps to inform decisions by identifying the effects of new developments on views and on the landscape, along with measures to mitigate any adverse effects.
A depth of analysis and understanding of the two interrelated aspects of landscape and views is required to produce a successful assessment.
The assessment should include a level of detail that is proportionate to the scale and sensitivity of the proposals and contain; a baseline assessment, clear explanation of the methodology employed, assessment of effects on landscape and/or townscape character, effects on views, effects on the site (immediate and wider area), effects on protected areas.
An assessment should be produced in accordance with current recognised best practice guidance. An important resource for this is the Landscape Institute (LI) & Institute of Sustainability & Environmental Professionals (ISEP) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA3) .