Listed Buildings

The process of listing identifies and protects the nation's rich historic and architectural inheritance.

It ensures that any alterations to the exterior or interior of a listed building are carefully considered so the character of the building is not adversely affected.

What does listing mean ?

Historic buildings are a constant reminder to all of the work and way of life of earlier generations.

The country's rich historic and architectural inheritance is identified and protected through a process of listing. Under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has a statutory duty to compile lists of buildings of special architectural or historic interest.

Listing ensures that the architectural and historic interest of the building is considered carefully before any alterations to the exterior or interior can be sanctioned.

The lists comprise a wide variety of structures - from castles to railway viaducts. Buildings can be listed because of:

• age

• rarity

• architectural merit or method of construction

The older a building the more likely it is to be listed.

Who Administers The System ?

English Heritage, an independent body, is the government's statutory adviser on conservation issues and policy and is responsible for advising on the listing and scheduling of buildings and monuments.Anyone can request the Government to list any building, but not all proposals are successful. Inspectors will make an initial appraisal based on written information sent to them. If the proposal is not rejected, a site inspection will be made followed by a recommendation that the building be listed.