What is a Heritage Statement?
A Heritage Statement is a short supporting document that helps us understand the historic and archaeological importance of a site or building, and how a proposed development may affect it. It explains why a place is significant and shows how your proposal has been designed to protect, respect, and, where possible, enhance that heritage.
When is a Heritage Statement needed?
You’ll need to submit a Heritage Statement with your application if your proposal involves any of the following:
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Works that require Listed Building Consent, including works to structures within the curtilage of a Listed Building, or proposals that affect the setting of a Listed Building
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Development affecting a building or structure within a Conservation Area, or a site next to a Conservation Area
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Proposals that affect a Locally Listed Building or other Heritage Asset
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Works that affect a Scheduled Ancient Monument, non-scheduled archaeological sites, or areas with significant archaeological potential
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Proposals relating to Historic Parks, Gardens, or battlefields
If you’re not sure whether a Heritage Statement is required, our Building Conservation or Archaeology Teams will be happy to advise you.
What should a Heritage Statement include?
A Heritage Statement should clearly explain the heritage interest of the site and how your proposal has been designed to respect it. As a minimum, it should include:
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Internal and external photographs of the building or structure
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A construction method statement setting out appropriate working methods and practices
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A reference to the Historic Environment Record
The Statement should also:
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Describe the significance of the heritage asset
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Assess the impact of the proposed works on that significance
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Explain how any potential harm has been avoided or minimised, helping to protect and safeguard the asset for the future
Further information regarding Listed Buildings can be found on our website here: Listed buildings
Further information regarding Locally Listed Heritage Assets, including a list of these, can be found on our website here: Local List of heritage assets