Demolition of Listed Buildings
Policy BE11
A development proposal which involves
the demolition of all or part of a building of special
architectural or historic interest will not be approved other than
in the most exceptional circumstances and, in any case, not unless
the Council is satisfied that the listed building cannot be
repaired or retained in its present form.
Timing of Demolition
Policy BE12
Consent for the complete or partial
demolition of a listed building will only be granted in association
with a detailed scheme for appropriate remedial works or the
appropriate redevelopment of the site and will be subject to
conditions precluding demolition until a contract has been let for
the redevelopment and requiring that access be permitted to record
the building prior to its demolition.
2.40 National guidance makes it clear that
consent will not be given for the total or substantial demolition
of any listed building without convincing evidence that real
efforts have been made to sustain existing uses or find viable new
uses and have failed; or clear evidence that redevelopment would
produce substantial benefits for the community which would
decisively outweigh the loss resulting from demolition. Such
consent is subject to the consideration of the Department of the
Environment and is granted only rarely. It is therefore appropriate
to ensure that demolition only occurs when the proposed demolition
will not adversely affect the architectural or historic value of
the building or structure concerned or where the building is in
such poor condition that it has become impossible to repair and
retain it in its existing form. In order to avoid unnecessary
demolition, when consent for demolition is granted it will be
subject to conditions to ensure that the work is only carried out
when redevelopment is certain to proceed and an opportunity has
been given for the listed building or structure concerned to be
properly recorded.
Development Affecting Listed Buildings
Policy BE13
Development proposals which would
adversely affect the character or setting of a listed building or
result in the loss of important features will not be
permitted.
2.41 It is important that any permitted
alteration to a listed building or structure itself, or work in its
vicinity, does not prejudice the integrity or character of the
building. It is also appropriate that work be carried out to high
standards utilising traditional techniques and materials in keeping
with the originals or suitable modern alternatives. These
principles will be supported where necessary by enforcement action
where works have been carried out without listed building consent
having first been obtained. It should be noted that it is an
offence to alter a listed building without having first obtained
any necessary consent.
2.42 The Council views its responsibility
for the maintenance of listed buildings seriously and to this end
has supported and will continue to support grant schemes which
assist the appropriate repair of such buildings. These schemes seek
to offset the additional expense which is likely to result from the
use of traditional techniques and materials.
Alteration of Listed Buildings
Policy BE14
Minor alterations which are necessary to
facilitate the appropriate change of use of listed buildings or to
improve accessibility will be supported provided they are judged
acceptable in relation to Policy BE13.
2.43 The primary objective with any listed
building must be to preserve its original architectural features
and fabric. However, it is important to encourage the ongoing use
of historic buildings in order to secure their continuing repair
and maintenance. The Council is therefore prepared to facilitate
minor works which will secure the use of such a building or will
improve accessibility for all members of the community including
those with disabilities. All proposals must be appropriate to and
respect the character and fabric of the building concerned.
