Making changes to listed buildings

You may have to apply for listed building consent from the Council if you want to do one of the following:

• demolish a listed building
• alter or extend it in any way that affects its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest

Starting work without such consent will result in a criminal offence being committed under current legislation, for which the penalties can be heavy.

Listed building status applies to the interior and exterior of the building and any objects or structures fixed to the building, whether original or later additions.

It also covers any objects or structures within the curtilage of the building which, although not fixed to it, form part of the land and have done so since before 1 July 1948, such as outbuildings, statues and boundary walls.

Consequently, applications for listed building consent may be required for various works, including internal alterations, replacement windows and the conversion of curtilage buildings.

Pre-application advice

Even fairly minor proposals such as redecoration and repointing may require consent. It is, therefore, always advisable to submit a pre-application enquiry to find out whether an application is needed and whether it is likely to be approved.

Fees and charges

There is currently no charge for seeking advice about works to a listed building, where those works also involve additions requiring a planning application. However, you will be charged a fee if pre-application advice is sought. Visit our pre-application advice page for further details on the Council's range of services.

Further information

View Historic England's A Guide for Owners of Listed Buildings which answers some of the most commonly asked questions by those living in or caring for listed properties.