THE OUTPUTS FROM AN ASSESSMENT
All Landscape Character Assessments must clearly state their purpose. They should make a clear separation between the outputs from the characterisation process, and the outputs associated with making judgements to meet particular needs. This may be achieved by producing two separate reports or two parts of the same report.

Outputs from characterisation (Stage 1) should:

summarise the brief and indicate the scope of the study, including the role
played by stakeholders and the intended audience;

explain the methodology followed;

include a contextual description of the study area;

indicate how the assessment fits with other Landscape Character
Assessments at larger and smaller scales and in adjacent administrative or
geographical areas;

include a clear map or maps, at an appropriate scale, showing the extent of the
landscape character types and/or areas identified;

include clear and accurate descriptions of the landscape character of each type
and/or area identified, avoiding value judgements;

include photographs and illustrations, as appropriate, to illustrate the character
being described;

identify the key characteristics of each landscape type and/or area i.e. those
combinations of elements that make a particular contribution to creating
distinctive character.

Outputs associated with making judgements (Stage 2) should:

make fully transparent the approach adopted to making judgements, including
the specific criteria used;

explain the reasons for adopting a particular approach to making judgements;

state who made the judgements and the role played by stakeholders;

ensure that the judgements made are clearly linked to the results of the
characterisation