Listed Buildings

What is a Listed Building?

They are buildings of special architectural or historic interest.

Why are they listed?

To identify those buildings of importance to the national heritage and to give them legal protection against demolition, or alterations which might adversely affect their character.

Listed Building

What does the grading refer to?

This relates to the quality and relative interest of the building

Grade I	This is the highest grading and relates to the top 4% of buildings of exceptional quality and interest, such as country houses and churches.
	•	51 in Wealden
Grade II*	This category accommodates Grade II buildings with additional features of interest such as a fine staircase.
	•	108 in Wealden
Grade II	The vast majority of listed buildings fall into this class, ranging from a medieval house to a 1930s telephone kiosk.
	•	2440 in Wealden
• Total of individually Listed Buildings in Wealden 2599

What type of work requires consent?

•	demolition (part or total)
•	external alterations
	eg.	•	extensions
		•	replacement of windows and doors
		•	dismantling of chimney stacks
		•	changes to materials or finishes
•	internal alterations
	eg.	•	removal or addition of walls
		•	forming new/blocking existing openings
		•	changes to materials or finishes
•	damp-proofing and non-reversible insulation

Wealden Design Guide

If you are considering submitting an application to extend or alter a listed building, you are advised to look at Chapter 12 of the Wealden Design Guide, a Supplementary Planning Document the purpose of which is to encourage a higher standard of design for development within the District. This chapter provides specific advice to help you through the process of submitting applications and to provide help in ensuring proposals are sympathetic to these special buildings.

The above is not a comprehensive schedule of all the types of work which may require consent and, if you have any doubts as to whether or not an application may be necessary, please contact the Conservation and Design Officers for advice.