This is an existing hospital campus occupying a 14.5 hectare ridge-top location in the open countryside at the edge of the High Weald AONB.  The proposed development will re-arrange, improve and rationalise the existing healthcare facility through a phased programme of modernisation and extension works.  This includes demolition and re-development of part of the site for residential use to provide a viable after use and funding for the hospital development.

We carried out initial landscape and visual evaluation studies to inform the scheme development and undertook Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment as part of an EIA supporting a planning application. Landscape Proposals including a comprehensive Landscape and Ecological Management Plan were prepared iteratively with the scheme ecologists and with guidance from the LPA Landscape Officer.  The landscape proposals seek to retain and enhance the mixed rural and parkland character of the site whilst also improving the appearance of the currently unattractive northern section.

A hybrid planning application has been approved by the Local Planning Authority, securing detailed permission for extension and ‘infill’ development to the healthcare facilities and outline permission for the new residential dwellings.

Client: Benenden Hospital Trust