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Listed buildings are structures of special architectural or historic interest. They are identified by English Heritage on behalf of the Government.
Any kind of building or structure can be listed. Examples include cathedrals, houses, cinemas, factories and even small landmarks such as stocks and lampposts. Only the very best buildings are listed. Less than 2% of buildings are considered to be worthy of the status.
The architectural interest of a building may be due to its design, craftsmanship, technological innovation or because it is the work of a designer of note.
Buildings may be listed if they illustrate aspects of cultural, economic or military history, or if they form fine groups such as squares or terraces.
Age is an important consideration. The older a building is, and the fewer examples of its type remaining, the more likely it is to have historic importance.
You can contact English Heritage if you think any building should be included on the list.
They are part of our heritage, help our understanding of the past and create a pleasant environment for us to enjoy and use.
If our best historic buildings are not protected and preserved, they may well be lost, and once lost they cannot be replaced.
What are the responsibilities of owning a listed building?
If you own or live in a listed building you have certain legal duties and responsibilities that do not apply to other buildings.
You must have Listed Building Consent before carrying out any work that alters the character of a listed building. If you are thinking of extending or altering your listed building in any way, even if it seems quite minor (e.g. painting stone or brick walls, removing chimney pots, replacing guttering, doors or windows) Listed Building Consent may be required.
When determining applications for Listed Building Consent the borough council has to ensure that proposals will not adversely affect the character of the building.
Applications for Listed Building Consent should be made to the council. There is no fee for applying for Listed Building Consent.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations Approval may also be necessary. If in doubt about what consents are required, you should contact Planning Services at the earliest opportunity (ring 0151 356 6670).
Unauthorised alterations or demolition work to a listed building may result in legal action being taken by the council. Prosecution can follow, often leading to fines or imprisonment. In addition, enforcement action can be taken to reverse the unauthorised work.
How far does the listing extend?
Buildings are listed in their entirety. This includes interiors and sometimes other buildings within their curtilage. Listing also covers some of the fixtures and fittings (for example, the removal or alteration of fireplaces may require consent).
Listed buildings should be maintained regularly to prevent expensive problems occurring. When repairs do become necessary, you will need to carry them out in an appropriate and sensitive manner (for example repointing should resemble the original work on the building).
You should also be aware that certain repairs could be considered an alteration (such as inappropriate repointing) or could compromise the long-term performance of the building.
If you contact the council's Conservation Officer on 0151 356 6670 before carrying out any repairs she will be happy to advise you.
If you fail to maintain your property, the council can require you to repair the building.
Using the right materials
To preserve the character of the building, repairs should be carried out with the appropriate materials (e.g. PVC windows are not an acceptable replacement for traditional windows).
Repairs are generally preferable to replacement, and a minimum amount of work will usually produce a serviceable repair at a reasonable cost.
When deciding what work needs to be carried out, you are advised to seek professional advice. This not only saves time and money, but also reduces uncertainty associated with restoring the buildings. Please contact Planning Services if you have any queries.
How we can help you!
Planning Services employs officers with specialist knowledge of the care and conservation of historic buildings who can give you free advice on issues like:
Who should I contact for further information?
Planning Officer, Building Conservation on 0151 356 6670
Mike Stelfox (Group Leader - Development Control) on 0151 356 6683 or email Mike Stelfox
