Listed buildings

Most owners and occupiers are proud that their property is listed. Very often the reason they have chosen the building is because of its unique character and history. If you own a listed building, you have to make sure that any repairs, maintenance or alterations suit the design and age of the building.

If a listed building needs work to bring it back to standard, the Council has powers to carry out repairs and recover the costs from the owner. We can, if necessary, buy the property and protect it. But we always try to work with owners, giving them the advice and information they need to take proper care of their building.

Statutory listing does not mean that you cannot make changes. You must take care to match original materials and building methods, and avoid damaging features of historic or architectural value. You should always check if permission is needed before starting any work.

For example, we would not normally give permission to replace original timber windows with UPVC windows or windows of a different design, or to remove chimneys, or to change the original roof materials. Unsuitable alterations not only spoil the appearance of the building, but can also reduce its value. Independent studies show that houses with their original features can sell for more than those that have been poorly modernised.