Listing does not seek to prevent all changes to a building. The prime objective of listing is to protect a building from demolition and unsympathetic alterations. If you wish to demolish a listed building, or to make any alterations, internal or external, which materially
affect its character, you must first obtain
Listed Building Consent.
Examples of alterations requiring consent include:
- Demolition.
- Additions and extensions (including conservatories).
- New and replacement features, for instance doors, windows and gutters.
- New roofing materials.
- Cleaning, rendering and painting external walls.
- Removal of internal and external features, for instance chimney stacks, fireplaces, floors, walls and decorative plasterwork.
- Works to outbuildings, boundary walls or railings.
It is a criminal offence to carry out works which affect the special character of a listed building without first having obtained Listed Building Consent. If you carry out unauthorised works, you could face a heavy fine or even imprisonment. You can also be required to reinstate the building to its former condition.
Applications for Listed Building Consent should be made to the City
Council although in some cases these must be referred to the Secretary
of State. Please
contact our Planning service to discuss any proposals or proposed applications affecting listed buildings.
The Council will also investigate any reports of unauthorised
works to Listed Buildings. Please see our page: How to report a breach of Planning control.
