This proposal related to the replacement of two cottages with a single dwelling, as well as the conversion of several old farm buildings for residential use. The site is located within the Cranbourne Chase National Landscape, which at the time the assessment was undertaken was bidding to attain International Dark Sky Reserve status.

As such WHLandscape were not only asked to provide an appraisal of the potential landscape and visual effects of the redevelopment but also to look at the effect of the proposals on the nocturnal environment.

WHLandscape successfully argued that while the scheme would see a larger area of the site given over to residential use, the proposed development actually provided an opportunity to reduce light spill from Down Barn Farm. A sensitive lighting strategy was developed in line with the ‘Good Lighting Advice’ detailed on the National Landscapes website Chasing Stars, with WHLandscape working with St Ann’s Gate Architects LLP to fully integrate the proposed development into the wider landscape.

The scheme was approved, with no objections being raised by the council’s landscape officer or the National Landscape team.