Listed Buildings
What is a listed building?
A ‘listed building’ is a building, object or structure that has been judged to be of national importance in terms of architectural or historic interest and included on a special register, called the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. This list includes a wide variety of structures from houses to castles.
Listed buildings in England and Wales come in three gradings, these are:
1. Grade I for buildings of the highest significance (exceptional interest, sometimes considered to be internationally important)
2. Grade II*(particularly important buildings of more than special interest)
3. Grade II (nationally important and of special interest)
Scotland currently uses categories A, B and C rather than grades. The assessment criteria for the categories differs slightly from the English and Welsh system, so a category B building in Scotland is not necessarily equivalent to a grade II* building in England.
What part of the building is listed?
When a building is listed, both the interior and exterior are protected unless any parts of it are specifically excluded in the description. It can also cover attached structures and fixtures and extensions and additions. Pre 1948 buildings on land attached to a building are also covered. As all listed buildings are unique and different what is covered by a listing can vary widely; t is therefore best to check with the local authority.
Why are buildings listed?
The creation of the statutory list was prompted after World War II due to the damage caused to buildings. A building is listed to help protect the physical evidence of our past including buildings which are valued and protected as part of our heritage. Buildings are continuously being added to the list as they are identified and become eligible.
You can search the National Heritage List for England for all listed buildings. This list is the only official and up to date database of all nationally protected historic buildings in England. https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/
How does a listing affect owners?
When owning a listing building you must be aware that there will be extra regulations over what changes can be made to a building’s exterior and interior. Owners will need to apply for listed building consent for most types of works to the property. Listed building control is a type of planning control which protects buildings of special architectural or historical interest . These controls are in addition to any planning regulations which would normally apply. This special form of control is in place to prevent unrestricted demolition, alteration, or extension of a listed building without the consent of the local planning authority or the Secretary of State. The controls apply to any works for the demolition of a listed building, or for its alteration or extension, which is likely to affect its character as a building of special architectural or historical interest. It is a criminal offence to carry out work which needs listed building consent without obtaining it before hand and you could be prosecuted.
To apply for Listed Building Consent please follow this link https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200187/your_responsibilities/40/other_permissions_you_may_require/15.