Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer : Job description

A conservation officer will advise on and promote the conservation of the historic environment and in particular, its long-term care, preservation and enhancement. Much of their work will be with listed buildings or buildings within conservation areas, so the conservation officer role has many similarities with that of a historic buildings inspector, with the two roles often working together.

Their roles include helping to protect and enhance all forms of buildings including churches, windmills, lighthouses and residential properties. They report and advise on buildings and areas of special historic or architectural interest.

They guide new developments in order to maintain the distinctive character of an area - up to a third of planning applications submitted involve conservation issues. They may also be involved in regeneration projects that have community, economic and environmental benefits.

Typical work activities

Typical work activities include:

• visiting sites, inspecting and surveying historic sites and buildings;
• assessing and recommending buildings and areas for conservation and producing area appraisals and schedules of work;
• representing conservation issues to planning and development policy makers both locally and nationally;
• advising on planning applications and guiding new developments that affect the repair or alteration of historic buildings, areas and sites;
• getting involved in regeneration projects that have community, economic and environmental benefits;
• working alongside heritage and conservation groups as well as local and national government agencies to develop policies and strategies on building conservation;
• canvassing public opinion and dealing with public enquiries, providing information as required;
• providing advice and consultation to residents, landowners, councils and other bodies, which can be in the form of writing leaflets, arranging displays and giving talks;
• planning and supervising long term environmental projects;
• preparing reports as required on the condition of sites or buildings;
• estimating restoration and conservation costs;
• finding suppliers and craftspeople who have the skills and materials required to carry out work in keeping with the age of the building;
• sourcing and applying for grants to help fund work;
• ensuring that all work complies with legislation, including health and safety guidelines;
• assisting with enforcement action to protect threatened buildings or conservation areas.