Landscape Design Considerations for Holiday Parks

Matters which need to be addressed in preparing a layout / landscaping plan include the following: 1. The creation of an appropriate link with the surrounding landscape (eg a dense tree belt may be appropriate in a heavily treed part of the countryside, but in an open landscape may draw attention to the development rather than allowing it to blend into the surrounding countryside). 2. Appropriate boundary treatment, taking account of point 1 above and reflecting needs for shelter, screening and privacy. Buffer zones of at least 3 metres in width should be retained and kept free of development on the inside of all boundaries. 3. Informal layout of caravan units / motor homes / chalets characterised by the use small informal clusters separated by appropriate landscaping and the avoidance of 'regimented' rows of units that typically results in a detrimental visual impact ( a 'sea' of caravans effect). 4. The avoidance of long straight lines for roads and paths with due regard to the protection of key views from the holiday park. An exception to this may arise where an avenue is an appropriate design element. 5. Integration of ancillary buildings, hard landscaping and facilities such as car parks and water points by reflecting local design characteristics, the use of local materials and appropriate planting. The use of muted colours (usually green tones) for caravan units / chalets may be appropriate particularly for those close to site boundaries. 6. The use of permeable surfaces for caravan pitches, hard landscaped areas and car parking in order to safeguard against flood risk through surface water run off. 7. Appropriate planning and selection of planting taking account of function, suitability for prevailing soil and climatic conditions (eg coastal environments), durability, seasonal changes and ease of maintenance. Planting will be required for a variety of functions including: • linking the holiday park into its wider landscape setting, • enhancing the visual character of the development and promoting a distinctive sense of place, • boundary treatment and screening, • creating visual diversity in the layout,