About Us

Experience You Can Trust, Insight That Makes a Difference

Founded in 2016 by Principal Consultant Ian Rowan, Ian Rowan Heritage brings together over 35 years of expertise in planning, regeneration, and conservation. Ian has spent his career working within both local authorities and the private sector, gaining a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges that come with caring for Britain’s historic environment. A qualified Town Planner and Conservation Officer, Ian also holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Planning and a Postgraduate Diploma in Conservation and Regeneration — a combination that ensures a balanced, knowledgeable approach to every project.

At the heart of the practice is a simple belief: the historic environment should be valued, shared, and sensitively adapted to meet the needs of future generations. Ian’s pragmatic, collaborative approach helps clients navigate complex planning and conservation processes with confidence. Whether advising on early-stage designs, preparing heritage assessments, or supporting planning appeals, Ian provides clear, expert guidance that helps shape sustainable change while preserving the character and significance of historic places.

Expert Heritage Consultancy Services

Heritage Assessments & Appraisals

We provide detailed heritage appraisals, statements of significance and impact assessments for listed buildings, conservation areas, ancient monuments and non-designated heritage assets — ensuring proposals are fully informed and well supported.

Design & Development Advice

Specialist guidance to help shape sensitive and sustainable design proposals within historic environments, balancing the preservation of character with practical development needs.

Planning Support & Appeals

Clear, pragmatic heritage advice for planning applications and appeals, including preparation of statements and expert representation to support successful consents and positive outcomes.

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 dealin 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