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Detailed landscape design proposals are likely to be required as part of Reserved Matters or Planning Condition Discharge submissions for a development. These technical submissions need to include details of soft landscape proposals, including planting plans, plant schedules and landscape specifications. Sometimes hard landscape details are included as a related matter and can include requirements for details of paving finishes, landscape fixtures and fittings, walling, fencing and other means of enclosure.

Local planning authorities often use standard or generic condition wording, with catch-all clauses. We understand the requirements of planning and in these circumstances will critically appraise what is relevant and reasonable to include in landscape proposals for planning condition discharge.

For residential development schemes our focus is to provide appropriate landscape structure and definition, rather than predetermine garden design choices which should be left for new occupants.

Tree planting is critical to this as well as appropriate garden hedging or other definition of defensible space and to provide an attractive street scene character.

Where the development includes areas of public open space, the landscape scheme will need to include appropriate design of the park or open space with details of fixtures and fittings such as equipped play sites, bins and benches. These spaces may also include drainage attenuation basins or other features. Public open space areas offer an opportunity to be more expressive with design and can be critical to the distinctive character of the development. When a scheme includes public open space we will look to provide an attractive and functional solution.

To discharge a condition relating to landscaping, your application will need to include the below elements.

A site plan

• at a suitable scale (normally 1:200, 1:100 or 1:50)
• shows the scale
• shows the direction north

For vegetation

• depth and specifications for topsoil and planting material – imported topsoil may need testing and approval
• details of site preparation
• type, depth and specification for mulch – samples may be needed
• details of irrigation and water points
• specifications and sowing rates for grass and wildflower seeded areas
• details of remedial surgery to existing trees, hedges and shrubs – these proposals normally follow a tree survey
• plant set up and maintenance schedules – larger schemes may need a landscape management plan and/or an ecological management plan for up to 10 years after construction

For hard landscaping

• walls, gates, fences, rails, barriers, pergolas and trelliswork
• surface details (soft, hard, steps, ramps, drainage features)
• proposed and existing levels and falls
• details of any play equipment
• seating, litter bins, bollards and other street furniture
• construction details and specifications
• lighting and signage details
• details of existing and proposed services (above and below ground) and routing (depth, height, type, markers)
• details of substations, junction boxes and bus stops
• structures for building services (ventilation outlets, inlets, coolers, bin stores, bike stores, service yards)

Advice and recommendations

Soft landscaping (vegetation)

Select plant species suitable to the local character of the area. Local trees and shrubs should be used where suitable, especially in rural areas. Plants should be supplied, handled and planted in line with British Standards.

Hard landscaping (hard surfaces)

Take into account local building techniques and materials. All equipment and materials should meet safety and design standards.

• We help with it all.