Heritage Statement
Last updated October 29, 2026.
Local validation checklist code A4
When you'll need to provide this
You must include this if you're submitting your planning application to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils.
For applications submitted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils
These requirements apply to applications sumittted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils.
If the proposal will affect a conservation area, a listed building or scheduled monument.
Typical proposals
The heritage statement planning application requirement is typically needed when you're proposing to do any of the following:
Home extension or alteration; New house; New housing development; Converting a building into homes; HMO; Change of use; Commercial development; Retail, restaurant or takeaway; Industrial or warehouse developmentWhat you'll need to provide
What you'll need to include in your application
For applications submitted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils
In all cases the level of detail provided should be proportionate to the importance of the heritage assets and the extent of the proposed development. It should be sufficient to adequately understand the potential impact of the proposal on the significance of the heritage assets and their settings. It will normally include reference to the statutory list description and the Kent County Council Historic Environment Record and details of the expertise and sources that have been consulted. The heritage statement as a minimum should include photographs and an impact assessment.
Why we need you to provide this
Why we need you to include this in your application.
For applications submitted to either Swale or Maidstone borough councils
Applications affecting heritage assets, or their settings should be accompanied by an assessment of significance and impact in line with Section 20 of the National Planning Policy Framework (2026) (NPPF) and the National Planning Practice Guidance. The significance of the heritage assets and the extent of the impact of the proposals on the heritage assets and their settings should be assessed using appropriate expertise.
Heritage Assets are defined in the NPPF as "A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest. It includes designated heritage assets and assets identified by the local planning authority (including local listing).
Where an application site includes or has the potential to include heritage assets with archaeological interest, applicants should submit an appropriate desk-based Assessment. If a desk-based-research is insufficient to properly assess the interest, a field evaluation should also be submitted.
Further information is available at Historic environment - GOV.UK and Historic England Advice
Photos and photomontages provide useful background information and can help to show how large developments can be satisfactorily integrated within the street scene. Photographs should be provided if the proposal involves the demolition of an existing building or development affecting a conservation area or a listed building.