There are over 5000 Grade I, II*, and II listed buildings in Bath that are on the National Heritage List for England 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 character as a “building of special architectural or historic interest”. Listed building consent is required for any works of demolition, alteration or extension that would in any way affect the character of the building.