Listed Building Planning Consent

The procedure for Listed Building Consent is similar to that for planning permission. Currently no fee is payable.

An application must be made using forms available from Ipswich Borough Council. Applications should be accompanied by sufficient details to identify the building and show in sufficient detail the proposals and their effect on the character of the building. This is usually done by means of 'before' and 'after' plans and elevations.

The application forms and associated certificates can be downloaded here.

Justification of works to a listed building

Applicants for Listed Building Consent must be able to justify their proposals. They need to show why works that would affect the character of a listed building are desirable or necessary. The Council can decline to accept applications where insufficient information is provided.

If you decide to employ an agent, it is recommended that you use one who is experienced with historic buildings and sound conservation practice. Some agents may also be able to specify the works and advise on suitable materials.

For some types of alteration, you will also need Planning Permission and Building Regulations approval, for which there is a fee. Advice can be given on what is required.

The Council has the power to relax certain requirements of the Building Regulations where their strict application would be unreasonable concerning work that will affect the character of a listed building.

If the work involves alteration or demolition of the building and is classified as Grade I or II* Listed, it is necessary for the Council to consult English Heritage.

Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent

It is often the case that work requiring Listed Building Consent will also require Planning Permission. If this is the case, it is strongly advised that the two applications are submitted together. If this is not done, unexpected problems may arise since the granting of Planning Permission does not in every case imply that Listed Building Consent will also be given.

For example, a building owner may obtain Planning Permission to change the use of a listed building without having any clear idea of the work this alteration may require. Later, when the alterations have been designed, they may be found to be detrimental to the special interest of the building and this could lead to a refusal of Listed Building Consent and possible legal action.

Please note, some works that do not require Planning Permission at all (particularly internal alterations) may still require Listed Building Consent.

How long can it take to get Consent?

It usually takes eight weeks to process a Listed Building Consent application. However, this can take longer in complex cases or where English Heritage are involved.

Some kinds of applications, principally those involving demolition of a Listed building, have to be referred to the Secretary of State before they are determined. If the Secretary of State thinks fit, they may then decide this themselves.

The Council must advertise application for consent both on site and in the local press and must allow at least 21 days for public comment. Work should never begin until a notice giving consent has been received.

Before submitting an application for Listed Building Consent, it can often save time and trouble in the long run, to ask for informal advice before proposals are firmly drawn up. Advice can be given on site if necessary.