The National Roads Directorate of the Scottish Office Development Department (SODD-NRD) commissioned a study in September 1995 to review its existing landscape design and management policy and make recommendations for improvement.
The consultation document "Cost Effective Landscape - Working with Nature:
A Review for Discussion" was published in September 1996 and distributed widely for comment.
Interest in the document was enthusiastic and written responses numerous. The consensus of opinion welcomed the open commitment to sustainability and enhancement of natural diversity; the recognition of the importance of landscape character and distinctiveness; and the reaffirmation of the wiser use of resources generally.
There was also a general view that the document was too simplistic and superficial and that the structure of the document should be improved; the concepts expressed more clearly; and supporting evidence included.
This document addresses the comments, criticisms and responses to the Review Document and has developed the concept further.
The title was changed to Learning from Nature because 'Working with Nature'
is such an integral aspect of everyday life many people felt the policy offered
nothing new.
'Learning from Nature' tends to focus the mind on the fact that there will always be something to learn and especially from Nature. It also introduces a note of professional humility. If the policy is to be progressive it must be accepted that there will always be another way to do something and in all probability there will be a better way.
The new title is self explanatory yet requires clarification. Cost effective in this context means 'Best value for money or the delivery of a defined quality at the lowest cost' and Nature means 'Evolution of life and its environment'.
The document sets out the policy in the form of a procedure, written in contractual terms, followed by a selection of illustrated examples to demonstrate the attitude and imagination required to apply the policy successfully. An appendix prescribes a much needed and original procedure for the selection and procurement of native trees and shrubs.
The National Roads Directorate intend to monitor their experience and case studies and encourage others to report their experiences and findings so that the policy can be developed and refined. It may be that further technical support and guidance notes will be issued as a result.
