A Historic Environment Record (HER) consultant is a heritage professional who specialises in accessing, interpreting and using the county-level HER databases that underpin the planning process across England. Every planning application that may affect heritage assets must be informed by a search of the relevant HER, and many applications require a heritage desk-based assessment (DBA) that draws on HER data and other archival sources. HER consultants also contribute new records to HERs following archaeological fieldwork, ensuring the national archaeological and historic environment dataset remains up to date.
What they do
- Access and interpret HER data for planning applications
- Prepare heritage desk-based assessments (DBAs)
- Write EIA heritage chapters drawing on HER and national datasets
- Prepare new HER record entries following fieldwork
- Carry out heritage impact assessments referencing HER data
- Advise on heritage constraints identified through HER search
- Support pre-application meetings with the local Historic Environment Team
- Access the National Heritage List for England and other Historic England datasets
When you need one
An HER consultant is typically engaged as part of the heritage assessment process for planning applications and environmental impact assessments.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| HER search and summary | £400 - £900 |
| Heritage desk-based assessment | £800 - £2,500 |
| EIA heritage chapter contribution | £1,500 - £5,000 |
| New HER record preparation | £300 - £600 |
| Heritage impact assessment | £800 - £3,000 |
| Hourly rate | £60 - £110 / hr |
DBA costs depend heavily on the number and complexity of heritage assets in the area and the level of additional research required beyond the HER search. Large urban sites or sites near designated heritage assets will require more extensive assessment.
Qualifications to look for
Chartered archaeologist status with the CIfA, with relevant specialism in HER management, heritage management or built heritage. Check membership at archaeologists.net.
IHBC membership is relevant for consultants whose HER work focuses primarily on built heritage and historic buildings rather than below-ground archaeology.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Historic Environment Record?
A Historic Environment Record (HER) is a county or local authority database containing records of archaeological sites, historic buildings, parks, gardens and other heritage assets. HERs are the primary source of information for heritage desk-based assessments and planning decisions affecting the historic environment.
Who maintains HERs?
Each county or unitary authority in England maintains an HER - typically managed by the county archaeological service or Historic Environment Team. Historic England maintains the National Heritage List for England (NHLE) which contains listed buildings and scheduled monuments separately.
How do I access an HER?
Most HERs can be accessed by appointment or online. A professional heritage consultant or archaeologist will routinely access the HER and other sources as part of a heritage desk-based assessment. Some authorities charge a search fee. The OASIS online reporting system also links to many HER databases.