Heritage Consultancy Services by Rowena Willard-Wright

In November 2025, I was commissioned by Arts Architecture to prepare a Heritage Statement and accompanying drawings for a planning application concerning works at Old Mill House, Salts Lane. As part of my historic site consultancy, I conducted a brief programme of historical research into the site, utilizing online and published sources. Additionally, I performed a visual survey of the building, which enabled me to identify the ages of its various parts through measured drawings, contributing to a comprehensive landscape interpretation.

The reinterpretation work for Runnymede and Ankerwyke developed a research-led interpretive framework that portrayed the landscape as a layered space of historical, political, and spiritual importance, emphasizing its role as a historic site consultancy rather than a mere moment in history. 

Drawing on archaeology, landscape history, myth, and commemoration, this heritage statement explained the connection between Runnymede’s constitutional symbolism and Ankerwyke’s enduring ritual and liminal character. It formed clear narratives to support on-site panels and award-winning digital audio interpretation, ultimately becoming a finalist in the 2025 Landscape Awards for collaboration.

Ruins and the Country Estate is an online toolkit focusing on the preservation and interpretation of ruins in the landscape. It offers fascinating insights into how house ruins have been understood through the ages and provides a comprehensive heritage statement for both large heritage organisations and small groups of volunteers. Additionally, it includes guidance on landscape interpretation and historic site consultancy, helping users approach the preservation of these important sites today. Supported by the Royal Historical Institute. https://blog.royalhistsoc.org/2026/01/09/interpreting-ruins-in-the-country-estate-a-toolkit/

A presenter on the 2025 Christmas Treasures of the National Trust BBC programme, which focuses on heritage statements and the importance of historic site consultancy in preserving our cultural landmarks. You can find more information at https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002nnyl, where landscape interpretation plays a crucial role in showcasing these treasures.