The Eight Special Landscape Qualities
Introduction
As part of the Landscape Assessment Study we have identified what we think are 8 special qualities of the Mendip District Landscapes.
Landscape can be important to people for very many different reasons; some may be valued just as a place for a regular dog walk others may be much more inspirational or even spiritual. Consultees were invited to tell us what the Mendip Countryside means to them or what makes somewhere special.
Here are the qualities proposed for the area:
- Valuable Collection of Distinct and Interesting Landscapes - as a collection there is a value in these landscapes as a sum greater than the sum of its parts.
- Geological and Geomorphology - the district landscapes encapsulate a complex geological history.
- Biodiversity Potential - the biodiversity interest provides specific contributions to the appearance and interest of the landscape.
- History - the district landscapes include a rich historical story that links across the whole collection.
- Continuous Landscape - there is a continuity of landscapes across the district providing the sense of an area dominated by rural undeveloped countryside.
- Tranquil, Isolated and Semi Natural Landscape Resource - the district landscapes include many different aspects of peaceful and strongly natural landscape.
- Views and Landmarks - exploring most parts of the district presents constantly changing good quality views. Within these, key features recur as interest and orientation points.
- Rich Cultural Heritage and Recreational Resource - the district landscapes accommodate, inspire and attract people for events, creative interest and as a cultural resource. The area includes a comprehensive network of recreational routes and the settings for adventure.
For more information, please refer to Section 7 of the report.
