Listed buildings, conservation areas and archaeological sites represent a precious and irreplaceable resource.
They give distinctiveness, meaning and quality to the places where we live, work and visit and make an important contribution to our quality of life and sense of place. When a scheme is proposed for development, alteration or repair it is therefore essential to consider how these actions may affect the significance of that building or site, its constituent parts and its setting. This understanding of significance and the potential impact of proposals, forms the basis against which the merits of any scheme can be judged. When the local planning authority receives a listed building application, or many types of planning applications, it must have sufficient information to understand fully the implications of the proposal. The potential impact of a scheme and the steps that have been taken to avoid or minimise damage should be demonstrated through a Heritage Statement.
The scope and degree of detail necessary in a Heritage Statement will vary according to the particular circumstances of each application. Applicants are advised to discuss proposals before any application is made. The following is a guide to the sort of information that may be required for different types of application.
All works to, or affecting, a Listed Building
All development within a Conservation Area
All development affecting a site of archaeological interest
Works affecting a scheduled ancient monument
All works to locally listed buildings
There may be other examples when a heritage statement is necessary.