Expert Heritage Consultancy for Historic Buildings and Places

Independent heritage consultancy providing expert advice on planning, conservation and development projects across the UK. Over 35 years’ experience in preserving and adapting historic environments with care and precision.

Heritage Expertise You Can Trust

For over 35 years, Ian Rowan has worked at the intersection of planning, regeneration and conservation, helping to shape sensitive and sustainable developments across the UK. As a qualified Town Planner and Conservation Officer with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, Ian understands the complexities of the historic environment and the need to balance preservation with practical solutions for the future.

At Ian Rowan Heritage, we believe that historic places are living assets, not obstacles to progress. Our role is to guide change intelligently — conserving what matters most while supporting well-informed development. Whether you’re a homeowner, architect, developer or local authority, we provide clear, pragmatic heritage advice to help you navigate planning processes, protect significance and achieve successful outcomes.

Heritage isn’t about resisting change — it’s about guiding it with respect and understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ian Rowan Heritage works on a wide range of projects involving listed buildings, conservation areas, ancient monuments, and non-designated heritage assets — from extensions and conversions to large redevelopment schemes.

No — although based in the North West of England, Ian works on heritage and planning projects across the UK.

Ideally, as early as possible. Engaging a heritage consultant during the concept or pre-planning stage can help identify potential issues early, shape sensitive design solutions, and support a smoother planning process.

Yes — Ian can prepare heritage statements and impact assessments for applications, as well as provide statements and representations for planning appeals to support your case.

Ian works with a wide range of clients including homeowners, architects, developers, surveyors and local authorities. Whether your project is small or large, expert heritage advice can make a real difference.

Costs vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Ian provides clear, tailored quotations after an initial discussion, ensuring transparency from the outset.

RPS and Ian have collaborated in a number of projects, and his understanding of the historic environment and his advice has been invaluable in navigating complex planning and listed building applications, and in dealing with Local Authority representations.

Seb Salisbury Director RPS Group

Ian provided clear and pragmatic advice in securing Listed Building Consent for a challenging project in Manchester City Centre. His report was thorough and well structured, whilst his calm professional approach in dealing on site with the Local Authority helped make the process easier, and we continue to work with Ian on a number of projects.

Chris Betteridge Associate, De Pol Associates

Here to Help with Your Heritage Project