There are over 5000 listed buildings in Bath graded I, II* and II to show their relative national importance. There is a statutory requirement, set out in the Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990, to protect listed buildings from inappropriate development that would harm their architectural or historic significance. Listed building consent is required for any works of demolition, alteration or extension that would in any way affect the character of the building. Local planning policies aim to protect the significance and character of listed buildings and their settings. National policies for listed buildings are detailed in Section 12 of the NPPF and English Heritage provide further guidance.
Listed buildings are listed according to a set of criteria that includes age, architectural style, historic associations, its ability to illustrate history, rarity, aesthetic value and other factors. For a full account of how to understand the special interest of heritage assets, refer to Historic England’s publication Conservation Principles. Historic England also provide a wealth of information on listing.
Search the The National Heritage List to see information on every listed building in the country; there is also a map search by postcode or location name.
We have produced a Bath specific guide called Making Changes for owners of listed buildings looking to repair, extend, alter and change their buildings, including a section on demystifying the planning process.
B&NES also have information pages on their website which detail the planning process and their formal and informal pre-application services, which look to provide pre-planning advice to applicants.
