How we assess sites and places
Table of contents
Each site or place is assessed individually, using the selection guidance for each designation in Annexes 1–5. These explain what we take into account in our assessments.
Our assessments will normally involve a site visit, and will aim to make use of the best available evidence.
There are three main reasons why we may not take forward a designation assessment:
The site or place is found unlikely to meet the designation criteria
Designation is considered unlikely to be the best mechanism for recognising and protecting the cultural significance of a site or place
A Certificate of Intention Not to List is in place
A Certificate of Intention Not to List only applies to listing. There is no equivalent for other designations.
In some other circumstances, we may decide not to assess a site or place. This is usually because there are development proposals that affect it which are at an advanced stage (see Development proposals and designation).
Where possible, we encourage participation in our decision-making, to include shared knowledge and local understanding. We are primarily concerned with views that relate to the understanding of the cultural significance of the sites or places. We also consider comments on the purpose and implications of designation and whether these are relevant to the case.
We normally publish cases on our online portal when we receive them. Once we have undertaken our assessment we set out our reasoning in a document called a ‘report of handling’, which we also publish on our portal.
We then normally consult with those directly affected before designating. This includes any owners, occupiers or tenants. We also consult the planning authority. We also normally welcome views from interested persons or groups. Once we have done this, we take the decision whether or not to designate.
A consultation period normally lasts 21 days. For historic marine protected areas, the consultation period is normally 12 weeks. The scope and level of participation in the decision-making may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.