Summary:

The article discusses the problem of landscape capacity assessment - the degree to which the landscape is able to accept further changes in the spatial structure, without losing their existing visual qualities. The study are presented on example of Sulistrowice village, situated in Sobotka municipality, located within the functional area of Wroclaw, about 40 km from Wroclaw. Discussion of tools and methods to assess the landscape is particularly important in relation to areas of high landscape values (analyzed area is located within Slęzanski Landscape Park), which should be considered as priority in terms of the rules for sustainable management of the landscape. Proposed method based on the analysis of cartographic materials and inventory of landscape elements that have an impact on ability to hide the changes in the spatial structure. The study allowed to identify areas where changes in the spatial structure, especially the location of new buildings, resulting in a substantial loss of scenic values, and areas where the loss of these qualities will occur after distinguish the form, dimensions or color of new buildings.
Planning decisions regarding the designation of new built-up areas which are often inadequate for current demands of society, are made without considering the consequences of those decisions and changes that will result in the landscape. Landscape capacity assessment can be an excellent tool for the sustainable management of the landscape, which can be used even before creating the local plan or choosing location of investment. This will determine which area, due to the protection of the landscape, should be excluded from development and that could be built.