Home Improvement Advice for Historical Buildings

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Careful Alternative - Conservation Things To Consider

Do it Yourself Tips for Historical Buildings

A listed building is a building placed on a list which has special historical character and of importance to our Country. The list was put together by the Secretary of State for National Heritage. William Morris, in 1877, founded the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB). This was to protect and ensure historical buildings were restored rather than removing their character and background. The buildings are given different grades depending on their importance and interest.

Grade I of exceptional interest, throughout the building

Grade II of particular interest or containing special features

Grade III of special interest and worth every effort to preserve the main features of the building, particularly the external appearance

It?s not only buildings that are listed - but walls, bridges, sign posts, even cranes!

The Government set up the English Heritage in 1984, they provide money for projects and help with information on listed buildings. When renovating a listed building an application must be sent along with the planning permission application. The building will then be surveyed and all details of works will be written in a report. The renovations must be kept to a minimum and only minor repairs will be permitted to be carried out on the historic fabric. Extensions can be added onto listed buildings but must not look out of place, therefore ruining the historical character.