Listed Buildings are categorised into three:

  • Grade I for buildings of the highest significance
  • Grade II* and
  • Grade II

Outbuildings and boundary walls are also usually protected by the listing. 

As they are listed, there is extra control in terms of any alterations to the exterior and interior of the buildings. Listed Building Consent is required for most types of work that affect the special architectural or historic interest of the building.

It is a criminal offence to carry out any works to a Listed Building or structure where prior consent is required. It is advised to consult a qualified professional and builder with experience when intending to carry out any works. Maintenance and repair works which match the original work of a Listed Building does not usually require consent, however, the materials and methods must be similar.

The buildings are listed on the National Heritage List for England

Listed Building Consent is required for most types of work that affect the special architectural or historic interest of the building.

Applying for Listed Building Consent

Checking with the Conservation Officer at the Local Authority would be the first step to see whether consent is required or not. They can provide an outline of what might be acceptable and what changes may need to be made to ensure consent is granted. This would usually be through a formal process known as Pre-application advice. 

An application for LBC is similar to a normal planning application, it would need to meet validation requirements:

  • Ownership certificates
  • Design and access statement
  • Scaled drawings and plans.
  • Heritage statement (depending on local council)
  • Photographs (depending on local council)

The fee for an LBC application is free.

It can take up to eight weeks for a decision to be issued, which includes a 21 day statutory consultation period for interested parties to comment, e.g. neighbours etc.

Planning Permission 

Applying for planning permission is a separate process which would be required where development is beyond permitted development rights or the local authority has an Article 4 Direction removing permitted development rights. In some cases, you may need to apply for Listed Building Consent and planning permission depending on the proposed development.

Submitting a planning application for a Listed Building would be the same as required for a non-listed building.