Planners, architects and developers are being encouraged to work closely with the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) as they develop Greener Buildings to create a greener future for Wales.

CCW staff can offer advice on how developments fit into their local environment, advising, in particular, on a site's specific landscape and wildlife features.

Speaking at the Greener Homes and Buildings Exhibition in Llanelwedd Roger Thomas, CCW Chief Executive, said: "If developers are fully aware of the features of a site before they start work, their design can reflect the natural environment and fit in with the natural features. Considering the natural environment at the outset of a building project can help iron out issues at an early stage and help the scheme move forward quickly.


"CCW staff are here to help. Talking to us at an early stage in planning a development will make it easier to take account of landscape and wildlife issues and prevent problems later on."

CCW has also developed a map-based information system, called LANDMAP, which holds information on all aspects of Welsh landscapes - it shows any area's geological, wildlife, historical, archaeological, cultural, visual and sensory features. Developers and planners are encouraged to explore LANDMAP to identify the character of any area of Wales.

(CD)