Shetland Local Landscape Designation Review: Final Report

Landscape Character Unit
38 Whalsay
Criteria Rank Description
Representativeness
High
Smooth moorland and relatively dense settlement typical of more settled
coasts
Rarity High Densely populated island with a large fishing port
Intactness High Landscape locally affected by fish processing plant and harbour development,
but elsewhere more intact
Scenic qualities High An attractive island landscape and seascape
Enjoyment High Less commonly visited island but opportunities to experience the landscape
and for recreation, including fishing lochs and coastal walks.
Cultural qualities Medium Aside from crofting patterns and planticrubs, limited contribution to the
landscape
Naturalness High Away from settled areas, expanses of natural moorland and seascape
Rural pattern Medium Some areas of crofting pattern, most prominent around Isbister
Views Medium Visible at a moderate distance from several locations on the Mainland and the
North Isles, but not a prominent landscape. Panoramas of the east coast are
available from summits of the low hills, such as the Wart of Clett.
Unranked criteria
Landscape
consistency
n/a
Contrast between the open heather moorland at the centre of the island and
the settled coast.
Landscape n/a Visual relationship with the east coast of the Mainland (LCU 37).
relationships
Other
designations
n/a
LPA at Kirk Ness