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Listed buildings

What are listed buildings?

A 'listed building' is a building, object, or structure, that has a special architectural or historic interest which has been recorded in a statutory list by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). English Heritage is responsible for the administration of the listing system.

We have over 1,600 listed buildings in Eden (outside the National Park). Many others are protected because they are within the curtilage of a listed building. The statutory list includes a description of each building, which may refer to some, but not all of, the important features of a historic building. Every part of a building is listed, even if it is not included in the description. This includes the interior and any later alterations or additions. Read more about listed buildings on Historic England's website.

How do I find out if a building is listed?

There are two ways to check if your property is listed:

What do the grades mean?

Under the listing procedure, buildings are classified into grades of relative importance.

  • Grade I Buildings of exceptional national interest - about 2% of all listed buildings nationally;
  • Grade II* Particularly important buildings of more than special interest - about 4% nationally;
  • Grade II Buildings of special interest.

The statutory controls on alterations apply equally to all listed buildings, whatever their grade.

What are the effects of listing?

You will need our consent to demolish a listed building, or for any works of alteration, or extension, which would affect its character as a building of architectural or historic interest. This would be in addition to any other consents required, such as planning permission, advertisement consent, or building regulation approval.

It is a criminal offence to carry out works to a listed building without prior listed building consent, even if you were not aware that the building was listed. To do this could lead to a substantial fine, or imprisonment.

Please contact Development Management for advice, as the need for consent is not always a straightforward issue. The listed building consent process is very similar to the planning process and you will need to fill in listed building consent application forms and supply plans and details as necessary.

Additional detailed guidance on listed buildings and alterations is contained within the Government's National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) on GOV.UK.

For further information: