Policy basis + when required
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) para 200: 'In determining applications, local planning authorities should require an applicant to describe the significance of any heritage assets affected, including any contribution made by their setting.' Required for: applications for Listed Building Consent (always); applications affecting setting of listed building; applications in conservation areas (most London boroughs); applications affecting locally listed (non-designated) heritage assets; applications affecting registered parks + gardens; applications affecting scheduled monuments. Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, Camden, Hackney, Islington all routinely require Heritage Statement for any extension/alteration in CA.
Content + structure
Standard structure per Historic England Good Practice Advice Note 2 ('Managing Significance in Decision-Taking in the Historic Environment'): (1) Introduction — building/site address, listing grade, conservation area; (2) Historic context — historical development of building + area, dating evidence, prior alterations; (3) Significance assessment — architectural, historic, archaeological, artistic interest per Historic England values; significance graded (high/medium/low/intrusive); (4) Description of proposals; (5) Impact assessment — proposal impact on each significant element; (6) Mitigation — design changes reducing harm; (7) Alternatives considered + rejected; (8) Public benefits; (9) Conclusion — balancing harm vs benefit. Length 8–25 pages typical with photos + plans + historic maps + archive research. NPPF tests: 'substantial harm' (paragraph 200 — exceptional justification required) vs 'less than substantial harm' (paragraph 202 — public benefit balance).
Cost + consultant
IHBC-accredited heritage consultant required for credible Heritage Statement. London specialists: Donald Insall Associates, Alan Baxter Associates, Purcell, Heritage Collective, Built Heritage Consultancy. Cost: simple householder LBC £650–£1,250; moderate (multi-room intervention) £1,250–£2,500; complex (Grade I/II* or significant Grade II) £2,500–£8,500. Builderr maintains relationships with 2 consultants (SPAB + IHBC accredited) — typical fee structured as fixed-price + photo survey + 1 site visit + 2 rounds amendments. Heritage Statement often determines application outcome — investing in quality consultant pays back in approval + reduced amendment cycles.
