I've just read an very interesting blog post - Only one chance to get it right - by David Fursdon about an idea "of listing the landscape in the same way as buildings are listed grade I,II or II".
David makes a good point about how any system that might be put in place is in danger of being abused and that the likes of English Heritage are too resource starved to deal with running such a scheme.
As someone who's helped carve out and alter landscapes over many years I can see why, in certain situations, a block should be put on changing landscapes and landscaping features without proper consultation and much thought.
What I would say, however, is that altering a landscape (or a building) does change its dynamics and go on to become an important part of the aforementioned's history.
Any kind of hard or soft landscaping should become a legacy and those who build or alter landscapes has a responsibility which must be taken seriously but sometimes even mistakes can become much loved features over time.
Going back the the issue of listing our landscapes. I cannot see any scheme being easily policed but it will be interesting to see if the idea does have legs.
Many historic parks and gardens are already listed.
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