Heritage Statements

A Heritage Statement outlines the history and significance of a site or heritage asset, often incorporating an assessment of its setting to understand how it is experienced. This baseline evidence is then used to evaluate the potential effects of proposed development and, where necessary, to suggest mitigation measures that avoid, reduce, or offset harm.

Local authorities require a Heritage Statement to accompany applications for Listed Building Consent or planning proposals that may affect a heritage asset or its setting. This requirement, set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), ensures decision‑makers have the information needed to fully consider the impact of the proposed works.

What is a Heritage Statement and why do I need one?

A Heritage Statement normally includes:

• A site visit including site photography

• Review of online historic data

• Research at the local record office

• Analysis of historic maps /photographs

• Consultation with the local authority Conservation Officer and national heritage bodies, where necessary

• Assessment of heritage assets and non-designated heritage assets including Conservation Areas or Scheduled Monuments

The assessment culminates in a Statement of Significance, considered under four headings: Architectural & Artistic Interest, Historic Interest, Archaeological Interest, and Setting prepared in line with NPPF national standards, the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists’ (CIfA) guidance. The significance of the heritage asset is then assessed against the impact of the proposed development.

Where necessary, the process can be phased— we can provide a Statement of Significance to inform design development, followed by a Heritage Impact Assessment once the final proposals are complete.

What's Involved?

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