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Consent is normally required from the Council for any works of alteration or extension (internal or external), which would affect the building’s character and for demolition (total or partial). This is in addition to any planning permission that might be required. You should always contact the Planning Team prior to starting any work. A range of guidance notes and leaflets regarding design details for historic buildings are availble from the English Heritage website.
Most owners are pleased to maintain their buildings, and the Council aims to offer guidance and advice where possible. However, if a building becomes dilapidated, the Council does have the power to make owners undertake maintenance work. Furthermore, a building can be added to the list regardless of its state of repair.
Buildings are listed in their entirety: there is no such thing as just a listed facade or interior. Structures and objects within the curtilage of the building may also be listed. Before undertaking work check whether consent is required.
Grants may be available from English Heritage for the repair of Grade I and Grade II* buildings. The Council does have the power to make grants available for other listed buildings but unfortunately none are available at present due to financial restraints. Some works that require listed building consent are exempt from V.A.T.
If you are unhappy with the decision to list a building, you may write to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) within 28 days of notification of the decision, requesting that it be reconsidered. The Department will then be able to indicate the likely timescale for consideration of the request, which will depend on the nature of the particular case. Applications to de-list a building are also dealt by DCMS.