Jan 28, 2016 -- A before and after photomontage, created by CartoConsult, has helped to secure planning permission for a quarry extension in Kent, England. Working with DB Landscape Consultancy (DBLC) on behalf of site owners Ferns, CartoConsult prepared the high resolution visually verified photomontage to illustrate the potential visibility of the proposed extension to the existing Wrotham Quarry.

Located within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB), and a former Dr Who filming location, objection to the extension from the AONB Management Unit and various other parties was considerable. Using the photomontage, DBLC was able to demonstrate that the potential visual impact of the proposed development on people walking on the slopes of the Kent Downs would not be as significant as claimed.    

DBLC was originally commissioned to design the working and restoration scheme for the proposed – now approved – extension, by the former site owners Hanson Aggregates, before ownership of the quarry changed to Ferns, who successfully completed the planning application.

DBLC was also commissioned to prepare a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), which included preparation of a Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) plan. This ZTV identified a number of key viewpoint locations from which the source imagery for CartoConsult’s photomontage was captured. Once collated and georeferenced, the photomontage, complete with detailed written commentary, was submitted within the LVIA to support the planning application.

“Working with CartoConsult, we were able to provide easy to interpret, visual evidence to support the site owner’s plans for expansion and restoration,” commented David Brittain, Director of DBLC. “The topography of the landscape and the sensitivity of its AONB location contributed to both the importance of the project and some of the difficulties encountered during the various stages of the planning application.

“CartoConsult provided a first class service throughout, responding in a knowledgeable and timely manner to both the initial scope of work as well as feedback as the project commenced.”

CartoConsult provides geospatial services that include surveying, data capture, mapping and 3D modelling. The company employs some of the world’s most progressive GIS and 3D technology to create reliable, cost effective and visually stunning products that significantly enhance the planning, consultation and delivery of projects.

Contacts:

Tim Hughes
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www.cartoconsult.co.uk