22. Heritage Impact Assessment
What is it?
Policy BH1 relates to development affecting the setting of a Listed Building. Planning legislation requires that special regard must be had to the desirability of preserving a Listed Building or its setting or any features of special architectural or historic interest which it possesses.
Policy BH2 relates to proposals for development within or affecting the setting of a Conservation Area. Planning legislation requires that special regard must be hard to the desirability of preserving the character or appearance of a Conservation Area where opportunity does not arise to enhance it; and to enhance the character or appearance of the Conservation Area where an opportunity to do so does arise.
A Heritage Impact Assessment assesses the impact of new development on built heritage, including the setting of a Listed Building or Scheduled Monument; or the character or appearance of a Conservation Area and its setting.
When is it required?
A Heritage Impact Assessment is required with planning applications for proposals that would:
- likely significantly impact on the character and appearance of a Conservation Area or its setting; or
- likely significantly impact on the setting of a Listed Building or Scheduled Monument.
What should be included?
A Heritage Impact Assessment should identify the impacted heritage assets; define and analyse its setting; and assess the change.
Guidance
A Heritage Impact Assessment can form part of a Design and Access Statement.
Historic environment advice and guidance in the planning process is provided on the Department for Communities’ website (link opens in new window).
