Visual impacts of informal activities on non-urban roadside scenic landscapes: a case study of Rawana Ella, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The rise of non-urban scenic hotspots within tourist development corridors in Sri Lanka has led to increasing informal developments and user behaviors occurring outside formal landscape planning. These include unpermitted recreation, roadside vending, temporary structures, and informal parking, especially in visually attractive roadside locations. While such practices reflect public engagement with the landscape, they may also produce unintended consequences for scenic quality. This research aims to assess the impact of informal user behaviors and structures on the landscape visual quality of non-urban roadside scenic hotspots, focusing on Rawana Ella, Sri Lanka. Guided by three objectives: to identify informal activities, analyze their visual impact, and assess public perception a mixed-method approach was implemented using photographic surveys and visitor perception studies. Analysis based on complexity, coherence, and impression power revealed that informal activities increase visual clutter and reduce coherence, though natural features retain strong aesthetic appeal. Visitor surveys indicate that while the waterfall and forest canopy enhance the visual experience, unplanned structures disrupt clarity and memorability. The study highlights how informality influences visual quality in scenic sites and emphasizes the need for sensitive design interventions that balance public use with the preservation of scenic character