• definitions of what makes a building, monument or landscape significant, so it is easier for councils and developers to understand the impact of the proposed change;
  
• greater emphasis on the role the historic environment can play in regeneration and economic development, to encourage heritage to be seen as an asset rather than a barrier to development;
  
• explaining the range of information sources councils and developers can use to assess the impact of their applications on the historic environment; and
  
• reinforcing the presumption in favour of protecting designated heritage assets.
  

Quote:58. In accordance with HE6.1, an applicant will need to undertake an assessment of significance to an extent necessary to understand the potential impact (positive or negative) of the proposal and to a level of thoroughness proportionate to the relative importance of the asset whose fabric or setting is affected. Given the obvious burden of the process, local planning authorities will need to be careful to only ask the applicant for what is genuinely needed to satisfy the policy requirement. Although there is no limit on the sources of information that might be consulted or the exercises that might be carried out to fulfil that requirement, the most common steps an applicant might take are as follows. The first three steps will be undertaken in almost every case.
1.
Check the development plan, main local and national records including the relevant Historic Environment Record, statutory and local lists, the Heritage Gateway, the NMR, and other relevant sources of information that would provide an understanding of the history of the place and the value the asset holds for society.
2.
Examine the asset and its setting.
3.
Consider whether the nature of the affected significance requires an expert assessment to gain the necessary level of understanding.
4.
Consider whether there are any special techniques that need to be employed because of the type of asset.
5.
Seek advice on the best means of assessing the nature and extent of any archaeological interest e.g. geophysical survey, physical appraisal of visible structures and/or trial trenching for buried remains.
6.
Consider, in the case of certain buildings whether physical intervention, such as the removal of plaster, may be needed to reveal important details hidden behind later additions and alterations.
7.
Carry out additional assessment where the initial research has established an architectural, historic, artistic and/or archaeological interest but the extent, nature or importance of which needs to be established more clearly before safe decisions can be made about change to the site. This may require a desk-based assessment and/or on-site evaluation. Such may be necessary for all types of asset, including buildings, areas and wreck sites, where understanding of the asset’s history and significance is incomplete. Where applicants are to commission assessment or evaluation they are advised to discuss the scope of the work with the local planning authority in advance and to agree a written scheme of investigation, if necessary, before commencement.
8.
Consider, and if necessary confirm, whether any investigative work may itself require planning permission or other consent.