Protected Views feature is designed to safeguard and visualise key sightlines within urban landscapes, which are regulated by local planning authorities to preserve the visual integrity and heritage of a city. These protected views ensure that certain landmarks or vistas remain unobstructed by new developments. Respecting these views is crucial for gaining planning permission and integrating new projects seamlessly into the existing cityscape.

Accessing Protected Views

• Access any protected view from the Tools menu by clicking on the location pin icon, which brings you to the protected view using the orbit camera.

  

• Alternatively, click on the camera icon to enter the view camera directly.

  

Using the Protected View camera

When using the protected view camera, users have the below control:

• Zooming: Zoom in and out using the mouse scroll or the slide bar at the top of the screen.
• Rotating the Camera: Rotate the camera up to 90° around each axis using the mouse or arrows.
• Minimap: The minimap follows the camera rotation.
• Photo Integration: Fade between the real-life photograph of the protected view using the photo slide bar. Change between summer and winter photos using the labels below the slide bar. If no photos are available, the slide bar is hidden.
• Resetting the View: Restore the protected view to its initial position by clicking the reset button in the top-right corner.
  

Key features

Historical context
The Protected Views feature allows users to visualise historical sightlines and understand how they have shaped urban development over time.

Future projections
Incorporate planned and proposed developments to see future changes to the urban environment, aiding in strategic planning and decision-making.

Scenario planning
Create and compare different development scenarios, assessing their impacts on the urban fabric over time.

Regulatory compliance

This not only aids in compliance with local regulations but also promotes a harmonious balance between new development and the preservation of a city’s character and heritage. The functionality serves as a bridge between innovative urban development and historical preservation, enabling professionals to design projects that respect the cultural and visual significance of key landmarks.

Collaboration with stakeholders

By integrating such considerations from the outset, VU.CITY users can more effectively collaborate with stakeholders and planning authorities, ensuring that new developments contribute positively to the urban environment while maintaining respect for its historical and visual context.