Listed Buildings

A Design and Access Statement (D&A) is required for all applications for Listed Building Consent. Applications that require a D&A cannot be registered without a satisfactory Statement. 

A D&A is a short report accompanying the application. The D&A should illustrate the process of design by assessing the special architectural or historic interest of the listed building, and explaining the principles adopted to protect that special interest. The application itself should include justification of the details of the proposal.

Please use the headings set out in bold below. You must address all 7 headings. If you think any section does not relate to your proposal please state NOT RELEVANT.

About the listed building:-

1. Special architectural or historic interest
Analysis of the building’s special interest, including the sequence of its historic evolution.

2. Setting
Analysis of the building’s setting, including the buildings’ relationship and contribution to its surroundings.

3. Fabric
Analysis of the building’s fabric, including the extent of surviving historic materials and construction.

4. Features
Analysis of any features, which contribute to its special interest.

Based on analysis of the building, about the proposal:-

5. Principles
State what principles or approach has been adopted to protect the building’s special interest and setting.

If there is potential impact on the building’s special interest, its features, fabric or setting:-

6. Justification
Explain why the proposal is desirable or necessary.

7. Mitigation
State what measures are proposed to minimise or mitigate the impact.

If your proposal needs both Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent, your D&A must also cover the issues set out in the separate Guidance Note on D&As for planning applications.

Protecting the fabric of historic buildings may restrict the scope for providing reasonable levels of accessibility. If the proposed works include alterations, which provide facilities for people with disabilities, the D&A should explain how the proposal balances the duties imposed by the Disability Discrimination Act and protection of the building’s special architectural or historic interest. The D&A should set out the range of options considered, including any alternative means of providing services or physical access. Complex or radical proposals may need to be supported by an Access Audit prepared by a specialist consultant. Guidance on meeting access requirements at historic buildings is published by English Heritage: Easy Access to Historic Buildings

If you have any queries or need any advice or help please contact the Conservation Officers:

Paul Harrison 01449 724529
Jane Moore 01449 724527