Natural History Museum Collections and Research Centre
Randall Thorp prepared the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment for the Natural History Museum’s proposed collections, research and digitisation centre at Thames Valley Science Park. The facility was designed to accommodate 28 million specimens, supporting scientific research and the care of the museum’s collections.
Natural History Museum Collections and Research Centre
Thames Valley Science Park, Reading
Client
Natural History Museum
Sector
Science and research
Expertise
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
The site presented a sensitive landscape context. At the time of the application, it lay within land designated as countryside, directly adjoining a Local Wildlife Site. The nearby Loddon River Valley was also proposed for designation as a Valued Landscape through the emerging Local Plan.
Throughout the application process, we worked closely with Wokingham Borough Council’s Landscape Officer to assess potential effects on landscape character, landscape features and views. A suite of verified photomontages accompanied the application, illustrating the proposals within their surroundings and supporting consideration of their visual effects.
Planning permission was granted by Wokingham Borough Council, allowing the museum to progress its plans for the new facility.