FAQ's
Ian Rowan Heritage provides consultancy for a wide range of projects, from small domestic alterations to large-scale developments. This includes work on listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments and non-designated heritage assets. We support homeowners, architects, developers and local authorities throughout the UK.
You can check your property’s status using your local council’s website or the National Heritage List for England (NHLE). If you’re unsure, we can confirm this for you and explain what it means for your proposed works.
Not always — but seeking professional advice early can save time, cost and frustration later. Heritage input helps identify potential issues, ensures applications meet policy requirements, and reduces the risk of delays or refusals.
A Heritage Statement (also called a Statement of Significance) is a report that assesses the historical and architectural importance of a site or building and explains how proposed changes may affect it. Most planning applications involving heritage assets now require one to support the case for development.
Yes — change is possible, provided it’s well-considered and justified. The key is demonstrating that the proposed work preserves or enhances the building’s significance. We help shape sensitive design solutions that are more likely to gain listed building consent.
Ideally, at the earliest stage of design. Early involvement allows potential heritage constraints to be identified, ensuring proposals evolve in line with planning expectations and avoiding costly redesigns or delays later in the process.
Planning permission deals with land use and development, while listed building consent specifically relates to changes affecting the character or fabric of a listed structure. Many projects require both, and we can help coordinate the necessary documentation.
Yes — sustainability and heritage can work hand in hand. We can advise on appropriate measures such as secondary glazing, roof insulation, or energy-efficient lighting, ensuring that improvements enhance performance without compromising historic character.
Carrying out unauthorised works on a listed building is a criminal offence. If this has happened accidentally, it’s important to seek advice as soon as possible. We can help you engage with the local authority and prepare retrospective applications if necessary.
While heritage projects can require additional planning and documentation, they don’t have to mean higher costs or delays. Early advice and well-prepared heritage assessments make the process smoother and reduce the risk of unexpected issues.
Yes — adaptive reuse is often encouraged when it gives a building a viable future. We provide guidance on conversions such as barns, churches and townhouses, ensuring that new uses respect original character while meeting modern needs.
With over 35 years’ experience in planning, regeneration and conservation, Ian brings a unique understanding of both the heritage and development worlds. His pragmatic, collaborative approach helps clients achieve successful planning outcomes while protecting the integrity of historic places.