Statement of Heritage Impact Sydney
A Statement of Heritage Impact (SHI) is a critical document in the NSW planning process. Required for development applications involving heritage-listed properties or properties within Heritage Conservation Areas, an SHI demonstrates how proposed works will affect the heritage significance of a place.
At Trace Heritage, we prepare comprehensive Statements of Heritage Impact that satisfy council requirements while helping our clients achieve their development goals. Our approach balances heritage conservation with practical design outcomes.
When Is an SHI Required?
A Statement of Heritage Impact is generally required when proposing works to:
- —Properties listed as heritage items on a Local Environmental Plan (LEP)
- —Properties listed on the NSW State Heritage Register
- —Properties within a Heritage Conservation Area (HCA)
- —Properties in the vicinity of a heritage item where the proposed works may affect its setting
Our SHI Process
1. Site Inspection & Research
We visit the property to understand its physical characteristics, setting, and condition. We conduct historical research using council records, State archives, and other primary sources to establish the history and significance of the place.
2. Significance Assessment
We assess the heritage significance of the property against the NSW Heritage Assessment Criteria, identifying the key elements that contribute to its heritage value.
3. Impact Assessment
Using the NSW Heritage Office guidelines, we evaluate the potential impact of the proposed works on the identified heritage significance. This includes consideration of visual impacts, fabric loss, changes to setting, and cumulative effects.
4. Recommendations
Where impacts are identified, we provide practical recommendations for design modifications or mitigation measures that can reduce adverse heritage impacts while maintaining the viability of the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Statement of Heritage Impact?
- A Statement of Heritage Impact (SHI) is a document that assesses the potential impact of proposed development works on the heritage significance of a property or place. It is required as part of a development application (DA) for properties that are heritage-listed or located within a Heritage Conservation Area (HCA) in NSW.
- When do I need a Statement of Heritage Impact?
- An SHI is required when you are proposing works to a property that is listed as a heritage item on a Local Environmental Plan (LEP), listed on the State Heritage Register, or located within a Heritage Conservation Area. This includes alterations, additions, demolition, new construction, and changes of use.
- What does a Statement of Heritage Impact include?
- An SHI typically includes a description of the heritage item and its significance, a description of the proposed works, an assessment of the potential heritage impact using NSW Heritage Office guidelines, consideration of relevant policies and controls, and recommendations for mitigating any adverse impacts.
- How long does it take to prepare an SHI?
- Preparation time depends on the complexity of the project and the heritage significance of the property. A straightforward SHI for minor works to a locally listed item may be completed within one to two weeks. More complex projects involving State Heritage Register items or substantial alterations may require several weeks, including site inspection, research, and consultation.
- What is the difference between an SHI and a Heritage Assessment?
- A Heritage Assessment evaluates whether a place has heritage significance and may recommend it for heritage listing. A Statement of Heritage Impact assesses the effect of proposed works on an already-identified heritage item or conservation area. They serve different purposes in the planning process.
Contact our team to discuss your heritage project requirements.
Get in Touch