Policy and guidance
You will need to get listed building consent if you want to demolish a listed building or any part of it, or alter it in any way which would affect its character, inside or out. Repairs which match exactly may not need consent, but your local council will advise you on this as the effect of any repairs is not always straightforward.
Examples of work which may need consent include changing windows and doors, painting over brickwork or removing external surfaces, putting in dormer windows or rooflights, putting up aerials, satellite dishes and burglar alarms, changing roofing materials, moving or removing internal walls, making new doorways, and removing or altering fireplaces, panelling or staircases. Consent to demolish will only be considered in exceptional circumstances. Carrying out work to a Listed Building without the appropriate consent is a criminal offence.
Relevant Legislation
Please refer to the procedure for the Secretary of State to issue a determination:
Future Policy Changes
A full copy of the white paper, 'Heritage Protection for the 21st Century' is available for download.
'Guidance' on Government policy on the application of the Acts of Parliament to specific issues is provided by the relevant Government departments. Advice may be sought from your Local Authority.
At a Local Level:
At a local level, developers and historic building owners need to take account of the policy of the local authority. These reflect local development pressures and requirements, the character of the area, public opinion, and other local issues of relevance.
Policies contained in their development plans, the Local Development Framework, are introduced following extensive public consultation and carry most weight.
Conservation area proposal statements and appraisals, 'Supplementary Planning Guidance' and other policy documents are also very important, particularly when they have been through a public consultation process.