Assessing impact. Enabling approval.
A heritage impact statement (HIS) is a document that evaluates the potential impact of a proposed development, alteration or demolition on the cultural heritage significance of a place — and demonstrates to the assessing authority that the proposal has been designed with heritage values in mind and that any adverse impacts have been minimised to the greatest extent possible. In WA, heritage impact statements are required by the State Heritage Office for works affecting State Heritage Register places, by local governments for development applications affecting locally listed heritage places, and by the Development Assessment Panel for larger development proposals where heritage is a consideration.
Trace Archaeology prepares heritage impact statements for property developers, architects, building owners and local governments across the Perth metropolitan area and regional WA. Our HIS documents are prepared by qualified heritage professionals who understand exactly what the State Heritage Office, local government heritage officers and the DAP are looking for — and who know how to structure a heritage argument that is clear, evidence-based and persuasive.
Every heritage impact statement we prepare begins with a thorough assessment of the heritage significance of the place — drawing on archival research, physical inspection and a structured significance evaluation against the HERCON criteria. We then analyse the proposed works in detail — identifying the elements of the place's significant fabric, character and setting that the works will affect, and assessing the degree to which those effects are adverse, neutral or beneficial to heritage values. Where impacts are adverse, we develop and document mitigation strategies — modifications to the design, materials, methods or scope of works that reduce the impact on heritage values while maintaining the viability of the development.
Our HIS documents are written to communicate clearly to heritage decision-makers — presenting the significance of the place, the nature and extent of the proposed impacts and the mitigation measures proposed in a structured, logical sequence that addresses the relevant assessment criteria directly. We work closely with architects and developers throughout the process, providing heritage advice that informs design decisions early — minimising the risk of a heritage impact statement that cannot adequately justify the proposal.
Where heritage consent from the State Heritage Office is required under the Heritage Act 2018, Trace Archaeology manages the full consent application process — preparing the required documentation, submitting the application and engaging with the State Heritage Office through to decision.
Trace Archaeology is a division of Trace Enterprises — Perth's only fully integrated heritage, environmental and planning consultancy.
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Every heritage and environmental project starts with the right conversation.
Whatever your heritage or environmental project needs, Trace Archaeology and Trace Ecology is ready to help. Talk to our team today — no obligation.