A Design & Conservation Officer works within UK local authorities to protect heritage assets, support conservation areas and promote high-quality design in new development. They assess planning applications affecting listed buildings, advise on design quality, prepare conservation guidance and help shape character-led place-making.
This role combines heritage expertise with urban design skills, ensuring development respects local character while delivering sustainable and well-designed places.
Main Responsibilities
Assess planning applications affecting listed buildings and conservation areas
Provide expert heritage and design advice to planners, developers and architects
Prepare conservation area appraisals, design guidance and heritage statements
Support enforcement and monitoring of heritage-related planning conditions
Review development proposals for design quality and impact on local character
Engage with communities, heritage groups and statutory consultees
Represent the authority at committees, hearings and public events
Typical Employers
Local authorities
National parks
Urban development corporations
Heritage and conservation bodies
Salary Range
Design & Conservation Officer salaries typically range from £38,000 to £50,000, depending on location and project scale.