About Me
My name is Ellen Abbi, the face behind ERA Heritage Consultants. I'm a freelance heritage consultant with a strong background in historic environment planning, conservation, and research. I specialise in delivering high-quality Heritage Impact Assessments, Statements of Significance, Landscape and Townscape Visual Impact Assessments for a wide range of clients and project types. I'm based in Haddington, East Lothian but work across the UK.
What I Do
I provide expert, tailored advice on navigating change within historic settings - supporting architects, developers, planners, and private clients. Whether offering design guidance, preparing planning documentation, or historic building research, energy efficiency improvements, I approach every project with clarity, thoroughness, and a genuine commitment to quality and value.
I regularly liaise with local authorities and heritage stakeholders, lead site visits, and attend project meetings—both in person and remotely. My work is informed by detailed research, site analysis, and a strong understanding of conservation best practice.
My Approach
I take pride in being approachable, responsive, and detail-oriented. I care deeply about helping clients achieve their goals while ensuring the significance of heritage assets is properly understood and respected. I’m also actively engaged in ongoing professional development and have done hands-on conservation work through my voluntary role with the National Trust.
Let’s Work Together
I’m always open to new opportunities and collaborations—whether you’re at the early planning stages or looking for support on a complex heritage matter. If you’re seeking friendly, reliable expertise and a thoughtful approach to heritage, I’d be delighted to hear from you.
How I Can Help
Whether you're planning a home extension in a conservation area, restoring a listed building, or working on a larger development with heritage considerations, I’m here to make the process clearer, smoother, and more successful.
As a freelance Historic Environment Consultant, I help individuals, developers, architects, and planning professionals navigate the planning system when historic buildings or areas are involved. My goal is to ensure your project goes forward in a way that respects the heritage of a place—while still achieving your aims.
My Services Include:
Heritage Impact Assessments & Statements of Significance
I provide well-researched, clearly written reports that support planning and listed building consent applications. These show decision-makers how your proposals respond to the character and importance of historic buildings or areas.
Desk-Based Assessments & Site Analysis
I carry out archival and visual research to understand the significance of a site or building. This helps guide development proposals and ensures informed decision-making from the start.
Design Advice & Planning Support
I work closely with your architect or design team to suggest changes that improve your project’s chances of approval—while protecting what’s special about the site. I can spot issues early and help shape designs that work better for planning and heritage goals.
Retrofitting & Climate-Conscious Heritage Advice
Want to improve energy efficiency in a historic property? I can advise on retrofitting measures that meet modern needs without compromising historic character—drawing on expert guidance and certified heritage-based Carbon Literacy training.
Community & Conservation Engagement
I can assist with community-focused projects or initiatives involving heritage, including support for grant applications, regeneration schemes, or local outreach.
Why Work With Me?
✅ Experienced & Qualified: I hold an MSc in Historic Conservation and have worked on a wide range of projects.
✅ Flexible & Independent: As a freelancer, I offer a personal, responsive service tailored to your project needs.
✅ Straightforward Support: I translate technical heritage policy into practical, usable advice—so you can move forward with confidence.
✅ Sustainability-Focused: I help you align heritage projects with climate goals, including retrofitting and low-impact materials.
✅ Locally Engaged: Based in East Lothian, I stay up-to-date on local planning matters, community issues, and conservation initiatives.
If you're unsure whether your project needs heritage input—or you'd like to talk through an idea—I'm happy to offer a friendly, no-obligation chat.