Skip to content

Listed buildings

What is a Listed Building?

A listed building is one that is included on the National Heritage list for England and is protected by law, through the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. This list is put together by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport based on advice given by Historic England.

A building is listed against a set of national criteria which include:

  • Architectural interest
  • Historic interest
  • Close historical association
  • Group value

There are currently three Grades of Listed Buildings
Grade I Buildings of exceptional interest and quality
Grade II* (star) Buildings of particular importance
Grade II Buildings of special interest, which warrant every effort being made to preserve them.

For further information on the listing procedure please see the Historic England website

What is included in the listing?

Listing applies to the whole building including the interior and exterior, together with any outhouse, wall or other structure built before 1st July 1948 within the grounds of the building (often referred to as its curtilage).

Undertaking works to Listed Buildings

Any works to a listed building which will affect its character or appearance will require Listed Building Consent. Like for like repairs and maintenance will not usually require Listed Building Consent but it is strongly advised that, before carrying out such works, you seek advice from the Conservation Officer.

Listed Building Consent is applied for through us, and usually takes about 8 weeks to be decided. You will need to provide full details, including drawings of the proposed works, a heritage statement, a description of the works and a justification as to why the works are necessary. When Listed Building Consent is granted, this is often subject to conditions, such as the approval of further details including bricks and mortar, slates or tiles, and colours and finishes. Learn more about applications for Listed Building Consent

Works carried out without consent, where it is required, are a criminal offence, and can be punishable by prosecution, resulting in a maximum of 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20, 000.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

For detailed and up-to-date guidance, you are strongly advised to check with HM Revenue and Customs.

Financial Help

We do not have a budget to assist owners in undertaking necessary repairs to a Listed Building.

How you can find out if your building is listed

To find out if your property is listed you can search the National Heritage List for England on Historic England's website. The lists give an estimate of the age of the buildings, with a brief description that draws attention to their notable features. These descriptions do not cover the extent of what is protected, but are for recognition purposes only.

 
Website feedback
Was this page useful? Required
Yes, I give permission to store and process my data
We will only contact you regarding this feedback.
Back to top