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Heritage statement

When is a Heritage Statement needed?

A Heritage Statement is required if your project links to either:

  • work affecting a listed building and/or its setting
  • a new development in a conservation area
  • demolition work in a conservation area
  • work within an area of archaeological potential
  • work within the area of a scheduled ancient monument
  • work within a historic park or garden

What should be included in a Heritage Statement?

The purpose of a Heritage Statement is to:

  • identify the significance of the protected building or area (this is called the heritage asset)
  • justify your project 

The level of detail you should provide depends on the importance of the heritage asset.

Effective statements will:

  • identify the site, including any outbuildings and boundaries
  • identify what type of heritage asset it is (e.g. a Listed Building, Conservation area etc.)
  • describe the asset's nature (e.g. age, building type, materials used, general character) referring to its description on the building list or conservation area appraisal if possible
  • show how the development site links to its surroundings
  • show the asset's significance (use the guidance from Historic England (opens new window))
  • describe the project (including scale, height, construction methods, materials, design, details, and any associated landscaping)
  • show how the project affects the asset and/or its setting including (if needed):
    • loss or concealment of any key features
    • any compromised views
    • any impact on the relationship between buildings
    • any other impacts
  • explain how the project will preserve, enhance, or increase awareness of the asset
  • explain the steps you'll take to minimize or prevent any harm to the asset
  • provide photographs or other evidence which explain or justify the proposal

You can find more information in:

  • our Local Plan 2003 (Policies HE2, HE4, HE5, HE7 - HE10, HE12)
  • our Local Plan: Strategy and Sites 2019 (policy D3)
  • the The National Planning Policy Framework 2019 (para 194)
  • Planning Policy Statement 5 Practice Guide
  • the National Planning Policy Guidance for Conserving and enhancing the historic environment (ID.18, paras 008 - 014)