Expertise
Heritage planning and conservation expertise
Listed buildings, Conservation Areas, non-designated heritage assets and their settings, in both rural and urban environments.
Heritage planning
An informed view from both sides of the planning process
I have extensive experience advising on a wide range of heritage assets, including listed buildings, Conservation Areas, non-designated heritage assets and their settings.
My work has covered both rural and urban environments, with experience ranging from traditional cottages and country houses to agricultural buildings, historic landscapes, bridges, designed settlements and commercial buildings.
My local authority experience includes working as a Conservation Officer at South Oxfordshire District Council (2013–2015) and Bedford Borough Council (2015–2018), followed by a return to Bedford Borough Council as a specialist heritage consultant between November 2020 and June 2022.
During these roles I provided specialist conservation advice on planning applications, Listed Building Consent applications and pre-application enquiries. I also advised on appeals, enforcement matters and the impact of development on the significance and setting of heritage assets, and acted as case officer for Listed Building Consent applications, determining applications.
This has given me a thorough understanding of planning legislation, national and local planning policies and the statutory considerations relating to the historic environment. I understand how conservation advice is considered within the planning process and the importance of well-reasoned, proportionate and practical solutions.
Historic buildings
Understanding historic buildings
A good understanding of traditional buildings is fundamental to providing appropriate conservation advice. I have particular technical knowledge of traditional construction methods and materials.
My work often involves an initial assessment of a building, considering its historic significance, the necessity of proposed works and the potential scope for change. This requires an understanding of traditional building techniques and architectural features, allowing me to advise on the appropriateness of proposed repair methods or solutions.
I am particularly interested in how a building has developed over time and how its significance can inform future proposals. This helps ensure that alterations are based on an understanding of the building itself, rather than simply applying standard solutions.
Conservation projects
Wider conservation experience
Alongside individual planning applications, I have been involved in a number of wider conservation projects, giving me experience of the strategic and practical aspects of managing the historic environment.
- Contributed to the designation of a Conservation Area and jointly prepared a Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, including public consultation events
- Conservation Area boundary reviews, research into Article 4 Directions, Local Plan site assessments and planning policy
- Historic England applications for the designation and de-designation of buildings
- Maintaining and reviewing Buildings at Risk registers and advising on appropriate interventions
- Conservation advice for the Bedford Townscape Heritage Initiative Grant Scheme, working with owners, tenants, planning officers and Historic England
Sustainability
Historic buildings and sustainability
Improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions can present particular challenges for traditional buildings, where inappropriate interventions may affect historic fabric, character and building performance.
I have experience advising on energy efficiency improvements and renewable technologies, including solar panels, insulation and alternative energy installations.
My previous consultancy work included projects involving several Cambridge Colleges, where consideration was given to improving the energy efficiency of historic buildings and supporting more effective energy use. I have also advised on improvements to residential properties, assessing the implications of renewable energy installations and internal and external insulation.
As a Conservation Officer I prepared guidance on solar panels within Conservation Areas, providing more proactive advice on permitted development rights and the implications for historic buildings.
Improving the environmental performance of historic buildings requires a considered approach, taking account of traditional construction, moisture movement and the significance of the building. My aim is to identify appropriate opportunities for improvement whilst minimising harm to historic fabric and character.
Get in touch
Considering work to a historic building?
Clear advice at an early stage helps you understand the opportunities and constraints.