What is this report for?

Heritage in NSW is very contentious and very subjective. Consequently, there is much dispute regarding the determination of heritage significance and the assessment of impact. This leads to a lot of dispute surrounding applications to consent authorities in relation to heritage. H21 and its experts, prepare Expert witness reports in which opinion is provided with justification to be used in legal disputes regarding the veracity of a determination in relation to heritage. These expert witness reports are prepared following the guidelines of the pertinent presiding Court.

What is in this report?

Usually when a legal matter is on foot the applicant is given the opportunity to appeal a decision that is made by a consent authority. Once an appeal has been lodged the consent authority prepares a statement of facts and contentions. It is at this point that the applicant’s legal team will appoint a heritage expert witness such as those at Heritage 21. The experts at H21 will respond to all of the contentious issues relating to heritage issues of concern and prepare a statement accordingly. On other occasions a second opinion may be called upon in which H21 is asked to comment on a report or a statement prepared by another heritage consultant. Essentially this report summarises the key heritage issues and provides expert opinion on any heritage matter in contention.

Why do I need this report?

You will need this report if you decide to appeal a decision that the consent authority has made in relation to your application to the extent that you disagree with the decision made and wish to exercise your legal rights under the Land and Environment Court Act 1979.

When do I need this report?

You will need this report once you have lodged your appeal.