The majority of the population live and work in the urban landscape. Many of our urban landscapes have been populated for over 1000 years and have experienced great changes. The pressure for change is now more intense than ever and it is important to understand the character of urban landscapes in order to manage that change. Understanding the character helps us to understand how the place has evolved, its unique identity and the special qualities which should be protected and enhanced. It is important to understand the character of urban landscapes in order to retain the identity of towns and cities and create sustainable places.