GBR - Listed Buildings and Structures
by bootiebloke
In the UK, listed buildings are legally protected structures recognised for their architectural, historical, or cultural significance. Designation restricts demolition or alteration without consent and is managed by Historic England in England, Cadw in Wales, Historic Environment Scotland, and the Historic Environment Division in Northern Ireland. Listing applies to both external and internal features, and unauthorised changes are a criminal offence. Buildings are listed based on criteria such as age, rarity, and architectural merit, with most pre-1840 structures qualifying.
There are three listing grades in England and Wales:
Grade I – buildings of exceptional interest;
Grade II* – particularly important buildings;
Grade II – buildings of special interest.
In addition, some sites are designated as Scheduled Monuments, meaning they are nationally important archaeological sites or historic structures given legal protection under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. This status applies to a wide range of heritage assets, from prehistoric standing stones to industrial sites, and focuses on preserving them in situ. Consent (known as Scheduled Monument Consent) is required for any works affecting these sites, and unauthorised changes are a criminal offence.
