Services
Our heritage advice and reports are based on rigorous research and expert analysis, taking full account of the physical, historic and policy context. We believe in thinking strategically and pro-actively identifying solutions to unlock the full potential of every site. We have wide experience of working constructively within diverse project teams, and of negotiating with local authorities and Historic England – a process which is greatly helped by the quality of our written reports.
Conservation Plans, Conservation Management Plans and Gazetteers
These reports analyse the historic development of an asset and define what is significant about it, before exploring the issues affecting its future conservation and management, and addressing these through a comprehensive set of policies. The written Plans are a key management tool for historic sites, and are frequently a precondition of Heritage Lottery Fund grants. They are often paired with Gazetteers which record the fabric and contents of each element in detail, assessing their provenance and condition and providing an essential practical reference document for the management of a site.
Heritage Statements, Planning Applications and Appeals
We advise on the design of works affecting listed buildings, conservation areas and locally listed buildings, including negotiating with local authorities and other stakeholders to secure consent. We also produce Heritage Statements to assess the impact of proposals and justify them with regard to heritage policies, supporting applications for Listed Building Consent and/or works in conservation areas.
Conservation Area Appraisals
These are prepared for local authorities and analyse the historic development of a conservation area, define its character, and set out policies for its conservation and potential enhancement.
Characterisation Studies
These studies investigate the historic evolution of sensitive sites, such as market towns undergoing urban expansion. By identifying what gives rise to an area’s particular character, these reports can help inform the design of new development, ensuring that it responds appropriately to the sense of place and helping it to gain the support of stakeholders.
Development Options Appraisals
National and local heritage policies place particular constraints upon development involving listed buildings and conservation areas. We are experienced in reviewing the options available, often working together with an architect and planning consultant to set out the development risks and opportunities and recommend the best way to proceed.
Representations
These reports argue for or against potential changes in planning policy or the heritage status of an asset, for instance the addition of a building to the Statutory List, or the extension of a conservation area.
Views Analysis
This involves assessing historic views and defining their significance, to inform the conservation or management of change in and around historic buildings, landscapes or townscapes.
Historic Building Recording
Changes to historic sites are often permitted on condition that their present state is recorded for posterity. We can carry out documentary and photographic recording as part of this process.
Historical Research
We carry out research on behalf of clients wishing to understand more about the history and former appearance of a building or area, and also offer research services for the benefit of architects and other consultants.
