There are many planning situations that might require the preparation of a heritage statement. One might think heritage statements are only required when dealing with the potential development of a listed building. The reality is there is a much wider range of situations where a heritage statement may be required in support of a planning application. In addition to that, the complexity of the situation can affect the necessary detail in the heritage statement.
We’ll look at some scenarios to try and help you understand when a heritage statement is required.
Changes to Listed Buildings
As you might expect, any proposed changes to a listed building would require a heritage statement to be prepared. For grade I and II* listed buildings, it is recommended that the heritage statement is prepared by an experienced professional. Obtaining planning permission for changes to such buildings can take time and effort. However, with a comprehensive and well-researched heritage statement prepared by a professional, planning is often obtainable.
Development In a Conservation Area
Any planned development that would take place in or adjacent to a conservation area would require the preparation of a heritage statement. The preservation of conservation areas is quite rightly of significant importance. Therefore a heritage statement prepared for planned development in or around conservation areas must be meticulous in outlining the fine detail about how the planned work is going to fit in with the area. Once more, an experienced professional should be engaged to produce such a statement.
Areas of Archaeological Interest
You will be required to prepare a heritage statement to carry out work in an area defined as having archaeological interest. That is, an area that holds or potentially holds evidence of historical human activity potentially worthy of expert investigation at some point in time, according to the National Planning Policy Framework. Due to the sensitive and unique planning situations that arise when seeking permission to develop an area of archaeological interest. The best advice has to always be to seek the advice and assistance of a planning specialist with archaeological planning knowledge.
In Summary
To summarise and answer the question of ‘When is a heritage Statement Required?’.
Simply, whenever planned development work is going to take place in ANY area deemed to be of historic significance.
This covers –
- Listed buildings
- Conservation areas
- Areas of archaeological interest
- Monuments
- Registered parks and greens
The National Planning Policy Framework expects heritage statements to be prepared with a level of detail proportionate to the assets’ importance.
Bearing that instruction in mind, you really should consider getting in touch with Simple Planning Solutions. As a qualified professional in the field, I am best placed to offer the services required to achieve planning permission in these tricky situations and avoid expensive pitfalls that can occur further down the line.
Michelle Hill MRTPI
As a leading planning consultant I can help with the topics covered in this post. Contact me and I can find you a solution to your planning problem.
