Heritage Impact Statement in Guildford Historic Town
Guildford Historic Town is a heritage precinct. Construction, renovation and other changes within it are subject to heritage controls and local planning policies that protect the town's historic fabric.
Our role is to help property owners through the approval process with projects that respect the town's heritage and meet their needs.
The Heritage Impact Statement process
A Heritage Impact Statement (HIS) starts with a discussion with the property owner to understand the intended works and their potential effects on the building, the site and the wider streetscape.
For 7 Martha Street, this was followed by an on-site visual inspection, which involved:
- Evaluation: assessing the property's current condition and architectural elements
- Documentation: using photographs to illustrate the proposed changes
- Heritage analysis: evaluating possible effects on the heritage value of the property, the streetscape and the Guildford Historic Town area.
Desktop analysis
We reviewed the information supplied by the property owner, including architectural plans, and cross-referenced it against:
- official heritage registrations
- existing character statements
- relevant local government policies.
This analysis checked that the proposed design and materials were consistent with the criteria for conserving the property's heritage value.
Outcome
7 Martha Street is identified as a contributory element within Guildford Historic Town and is an example of Federation-era architecture.
Our review concluded that the proposed works would not detract from the property's heritage significance or its contribution to the streetscape, the local area or the town. The assessment provided the justification to support the owner's application.
Contact us if you are planning works within Guildford Historic Town or another heritage precinct.
