Buildings and Structures of Character

What is a locally listed building

A locally listed building is a building or other structure which is deemed to be of local architectural or historic interest. It is then included on the Local List drawn up by the council.

You can find buildings and structures on our Local List in the buildings or structures of character supplementary planning document [pdf] 211KB

The difference between listed buildings and Local Lists

Locally listed buildings are recognised by the council and are not graded. They are not protected by law unless they are in a conservation area.

Listed buildings are on the statutory list are selected by the Secretary of State with the guidance of English Heritage. They are graded on their importance (Grade I, II* and II). They are protected by law and listed building consent should be sought before extending, altering or demolishing such a property.

Why have a 'Local List'

Over the last few years central government has been putting growing emphasis on the need to promote 'local distinctiveness'. Local communities are being asked to highlight what they consider to be important within their local environment.

Intensive development pressures have highlighted the need to maintain and protect our local natural and built environment. 

Whilst those buildings and structures which are of national importance are identified as listed buildings, we all know of those local buildings which help to define the areas where we live and work. These buildings make a contribution to the character and historical legacy of the areas in which they are located. Further, they contribute to the local scene or are valued for their local historical associations.

Buildings on the 'Local List' and any additional statutory protection

The 'Local List' is a 'non-statutory' designation. Buildings on the list will not be subject to new or additional controls. The existing planning controls over things like changes of use, external alterations and extensions will continue to apply and will remain unchanged. Where permission is required for works, the council will ensure that any proposal respects the building.

If no additional controls are involved what does the 'Local List' aim to achieve?

Much can be done to help protect the character of locally important buildings by raising their 'profile', without the need for extra controls. The 'Local List' initiative is aimed at:

  • ensuring that these buildings enjoy the recognition which they deserve
  • raising public awareness of the importance of these buildings to the local environment
  • encouraging owners to protect and maintain the character of such buildings
  • ensuring that planners, architects, builders, and others concerned with development proposals are aware of the need to give special attention to such buildings

Do I need additional consents to carry out works to a locally listed building?

No, there are no additional planning controls; normal planning regulations apply. You may therefore need to apply for planning permission for some works. Helpful advice can be found in the duty planner guidance [pdf] 3MB.

Planning policies applying to locally listed buildings

Policy HER DM2 of the Arun Local Plan 2018 applies to Locally Listed Buildings or Structures.

Policy HER DM2 - Locally Listed Buildings or Structures of Character

Locally Listed Buildings or Structures of Character 

16.3.1 The quality of the historic environment is not just about Statutorily Listed Buildings (which are identified on the advice of Historic England), although these are of vital importance. It is also about the contribution of unlisted buildings and structures to local distinctiveness and sense of place, which play a crucial role in anchoring local visual and historic identity and form part of the areas rich built heritage. 

16.3.2 These are known as Buildings or Structures of Character. The Local Planning Authority has worked with local heritage groups and Town and Parish Councils to identify these properties. The properties are contained in what is known as the Local List, which contains approximately 1,300 buildings or structures. 

16.3.3 The Local Plan attaches importance to the protection of Locally Listed Buildings. Although these buildings are not subject to statutory protection, the Local Planning Authority will utilise its planning powers to ensure that wherever possible the special character of such buildings is protected and enhanced. Any works carried out should preserve or enhance the building and any features of architectural or historic interest retained and appropriate materials used. 

Policy HER DM2 

Locally Listed Buildings or Structures of Character 

The Local Planning Authority will continue to identify and compile a list of locally important buildings and structures which make a positive contribution to local distinctiveness using the following criteria: 

  1. Buildings of outstanding design, detailing, appearance or special interest because of the use of materials
  2. Buildings which are extremely good examples of traditional or established style, or of unusual type
  3. In special cases, buildings or structures which contribute towards the local townscape or have important historical or social associations
  4. All buildings must be largely intact and not adversely affected by later extensions or alterations
  5. Preferably, although not exclusively, they should make a positive contribution to their surroundings or the street scene. 

Applications will only be granted for development which results in the loss of existing Locally Listed Buildings or Structures of Character when it can be demonstrated that the building or structure cannot be put to a beneficial use or re-use. Replacement structures will need to be of a high quality design. There may be circumstances where the public benefit from the proposed development outweighs any proposed harm, in such circumstances, the proposal will need to be justified as appropriate. 

Proposals for the alteration or extension of buildings on the Local List will be expected to relate sensitively to the building or structure and its setting and respect its architectural, landscape or historic interest. The Local Planning Authority will seek to preserve features of such buildings which contribute to that interest.

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Does this mean that I won’t be able to alter my property?

No. If you plan on undertaking works to your property that require planning permission, Policy HER DM2 above applies. This requires any work to preserve the appearance and setting of the property.

What should I do if I believe that a property should be included to the list?

If you believe that a property should be included on the list, please contact the Conservation Officer.