Listed Buildings

Making Changes

Information about Listed Buildings and advice on how to make changes to Listed Buildings.

Making changes to a listed building

Listed building consent

The fact that a building has been listed does not mean that it must remain unaltered forever and in all circumstances. Each listed building has its own special characteristics which need to be respected in any alteration. However, if you wish to demolish, alter or extend a listed building in any way that affects its interior or exterior character, you must have "Listed Building Consent" from the Council. This will be in addition to any Planning Permission or Building Regulations approval you may need.

Examples of work requiring consent:

• changing roof materials
• alterations to interior walls
• work to modify a window
• demolition of outhouses
• painting or other types of cladding over stone or brickwork
• adding structures or fixing objects to a Listed Building
• repairs not carried in matching materials
• fitting of new ovens and stoves, which require new flues

Examples of works that would not normally require consent:

• Internal works, such as redecorating
• installing bathrooms and kitchen fittings
• central heating installations

However, if these works interfere with important internal features such as panelling or mouldings, consent may be required. This list is by no means comprehensive and is included for guidance purposes only. If you are in any doubt as to whether you need Listed Building consent, please contact the Conservation and Design Team before you start work.

Design and Development:

Telephone: 0121 704 8008

Email: planning@solihull.gov.uk

It is a criminal offence to demolish, alter or extend a listed building, in any way that would affect its character or appearance, without Listed Building Consent. The Courts may impose heavy penalties. Any changes made to a listed building without the necessary consent may be required to be rectified.

How Do I Apply?

If you live in a Listed Building, any alteration to the property will require permission. You may wish to contact a Planning Officer to discuss your plans before proceeding.

You will need to submit the following:

• 4 copies - Listed Building Form (with Ownership certificate)
• 4 copies - Plans

Your completed application may be posted or hand delivered to:

Planning Services
Solihull MBC
PO Box 11652
Central Library
Homer Road
Solihull
B91 3YA

The Application for Listed Building Consent is attached at the bottom of this page.

How Long Does It Take?

An application for consent is a matter of public interest. We are required, by regulations to advertise the application on site and in a local newspaper. In Solihull, we also notify adjoining properties by letter. The Council then has to allow 21 days for comments and also to consult special national organisations. Views received must be taken into account before the Council can makes its decision. Usually, the process is completed within 8 weeks. An appeal can be made to the Secretary of State against a refusal of Listed Building consent.

What If I Undertake Works Without Gaining Listed Building Consent?

If unauthorised works to a Listed Building are unsympathetic, the Council can take enforcement action. This may require a building to be restored to its former state or specify action, which would alleviate the effects of the works executed without consent. The Courts do not regard ignorance of listing as a defence where work is undertaken without the necessary consent. It is a criminal offence to demolish, extend or alter a Listed Building in a way that affects its character, without first obtaining Listed Building consent. The penalties on conviction are considerable and can result in fines up to £20,000, imprisonment or both.

What if a listed building is neglected?

Most owners and occupiers recognise that listed buildings are a part of our heritage, and are pleased and proud to maintain their properties. Where a building is falling into disrepair, however, the Council can require the owner to carry out specified necessary repairs. If these are not carried out within a reasonable time the Council can begin compulsory purchase proceedings. In the case of an unoccupied listed building, the Council can, after notifying the owner, carry out emergency works to make the building weatherproof, structurally sound, or to prevent vandalism or theft. The cost of works can then be recovered from the owner.

If You Have Any Further Queries

If you have any further queries or if you are unsure to whether the work you want to carry out to your property requires Listed Building consent please contact: Design and Development

Telephone: 0121 704 8008

Email: planning@solihull.gov.uk