HELLO@TACTICASA.CO.UK

built heritage consultancy services

Our comprehensive range of built heritage consultancy services is designed to support clients through all stages of assessment, design, planning, development, and conservation processes. We offer expert guidance to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and best practices in heritage management to deliver commercially viable results.

built environments

tacticasa

built heritage assessment

We provide detailed Built Heritage Assessments (BHA) that establish a baseline of current heritage significance to inform proposals for change. This preliminary process:

• Assesses the existing architectural and historical significance

• Evaluates the setting and its contribution to overall significance

• Identifies key elements of heritage value

Our assessments are tailored to each unique site, incorporating appropriate levels of desk research, site visits, and, when necessary, intrusive investigations to fully understand the history and current fabric of the place. The BHA is specific to the subject site and is considered independently of any development proposals. It is considered a live document that should be periodically updated through the life span of the subject site. It can also form the basis of a Conservation Management Plan to guide the long term management and maintenance of the heritage asset.

Following completion of the preliminary assessment, we will work with the wider development team to minimise potential impacts through a considered design process.

heritage impact statement

Building on a preliminary BHA, the next stage of assessment considers the potential effects of a proposed development on the identified significance of the subject site. The Heritage Impact Statement (HIS):

• Describes proposed development and the degree of intervention to the subject site

• Analyses the proposals potential impact on heritage significance, including changes within the setting

• Identifies methods to avoid, minimise, and/or mitigate any identified harm to heritage significance

The HIS is typically presented as an additional chapter to the BHA baseline report. They are specific to each development proposal. The HIS can also form the basis of an Environmental Statement.

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built environments

Heritage and Townscape Visual Impact Assessments (H/TVIAs) are crucial for commercial clients undertaking development projects in sensitive urban areas, historic settings, or where visual changes may significantly affect the local character. This service is particularly valuable for:

• New constructions or major renovations in conservation areas

• Developments near listed buildings or scheduled monuments

• Projects that may alter important viewpoints or skylines

• Proposals requiring planning permission in visually sensitive locations

Our H/TVIA service, aligned with GLVIA3 methodology, provides clear, concise reports that meet requirements for planning applications and Environmental Statements. Our service includes the commission of Accurate Visual Representations and Verified Views and, if required, can form the basis of our expert witness statements for planning inquiries.

conservation areas

Conservation Areas play a crucial role in maintaining important aspects of character and appearance of our communities. However, navigating the regulations around development in these areas can be complex and can include Buildings of Merit or Non-designated Heritage Assets. Our thorough assessments help:

• Identify character and appearance, or significance, early in the planning process

• Assess the potential for development to affect the identified values

• Prevent delays during consultations

• Inform sensitive development approaches that maintain, reveal or enhance character and appearance

Our consultancy services offer expert guidance to property owners, developers, and design professionals to navigate the sometimes complex regulations around development in these areas.

heritage townscape visual impact assessment

built environments

tacticasa

independent expert witness

Our specialists provide Independent Built Heritage Expert Witness Services. We have a successful track record in planning hearings, inquiries and appeals, legal proceedings, and contract resolution processes, offering independent testimony based on extensive professional experience and knowledge.

A complex historic environment often requires interdisciplinary collaboration between heritage disciplines. Through our trusted partners, we offer comprehensive Archaeology Consultancy services to support design development and the planning process, including:

• Desk-based Assessments

• Written Schemes of Investigation

These services ensure compliance with archaeological requirements within the town-planning process.

archaeology consultancy

tacticasa

built environments

architectural design services

Our full-service architectural design approach balances the conservation of historic fabric with the demands of modern living standards, with a particular focus on the transition between planning and construction phases to ensure project viability.

By managing all work stages, high quality design outcomes are better assured, and enforcement issues or penalties during delivery of works are more easily avoided. Our approach offers:

• Comprehensive integration of heritage significance, existing fabric, and contemporary standards of living

• Creative and innovative design solutions for repair, conservation and adaptive reuse

• Expertise in navigating complex heritage regulations and construction contracts

• Consistency of decision making in respect of heritage regulations, stakeholder consultation, and client objectives.

Every heritage site is unique, with its own priorities and challenges. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and how we can help bring your vision to life by developing innovative responses to historic context.

heritage project management

Our Project Management and Programme Management services are designed to ensure the successful delivery of heritage projects, adhering to the highest industry standards. Our services include:

• Project Planning and Execution: We develop a comprehensive project execution plan that outlines roles and responsibilities, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned. This includes establishing communication protocols and managing project meetings to keep the project on track.

• Risk and Budget Management: We identify and manage project risks, establish project budgets, and ensure cost control throughout the project lifecycle. Our team provides regular updates and reports to keep clients informed of progress and financial status.

• Procurement and Tender Management: We manage the procurement process, advising on suitable tenderers, leading pre-tender and post-tender interviews, and preparing tender reports for client approval. Our expertise ensures that the best contractors are selected for the project.

• Performance Monitoring: We monitor the performance of the professional team and contractors, ensuring compliance with project specifications and timelines. We check applications for payment and recommends payments to the client, ensuring financial accuracy and accountability

tacticasa

built environments

heritage assets

From listed buildings to conservation areas and quality townscapes to structures of unknown provenance, society's combined heritage values are represented within the built environment in a myriad of ways.

Our services are designed to meet the requirements of relevant planning and listed building legislation, including the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). We ensure that all assessments and reports comply with local planning policies and Historic England guidance.

By engaging our specialist consultancy services, clients can navigate the complex landscape of heritage conservation and development with confidence, ensuring that their projects meet all necessary legal and regulatory standards en route to delivering a contemporary built environment that celebrates and enhances the values of our combined heritage and the historic environment.

designated

Grade I

Grade II*

Grade II

Conservation Areas

Scheduled Monuments

designated ??

Settings

Buildings of Merit

Old buildings

Modern buildings

Townscapes

Landscapes

Architectural & Historical Values

about us

Founded by Veronica Cassin in 2023, Tacticasa Built Environments was established to offer a comprehensive and integrated approach to large scale and small scale heritage projects.  By providing continuity across all heritage project stages, Tacticasa Built Environments is uniquely positioned to:

• Streamline the development process, reducing inefficiencies and loss of information between project stages.

• Maintain a consistent vision for the project, balancing proportionate heritage conservation with commercial viability.

• Offer in-depth knowledge of a site's history and significance, informing decisions at every stage.

• Navigate complex planning and regulatory requirements more effectively.

• Ensure that the intent and quality of design are carried through to completion.

This approach optimises project outcomes and contributes to creating sustainable places that will resonate with future generations, revealing and celebrating the unique stories and character of each heritage site.

tacticasa

built environments

stay in touch

Contact us to discuss your proposal or just to say a few nice words, we won’t mind at all.

tacticasa

built environments

HELLO@TACTICASA.CO.UK