Written question WQ84899

There are more than 30,000 listed buildings in Wales. The criteria for listing are based on special architectural or historic interest and many buildings of community value are captured by these criteria. Community value can contribute to a building’s historic interest, and Cadw will always consider well-documented requests for listing. The demolition of a listed building is then regulated through the requirement for listed building consent. However, demolition is not prohibited; rather, an exceptionally strong case has to be made to overcome national policy where there is a presumption in favour of preserving listed buildings.

For those buildings that do not meet the national standard for listing, there is the option for local authorities to designate conservation areas of special architectural or historic interest, or to include individual buildings on a local list. Both of these options provide a mechanism for regulating demolition either through the requirement for conservation area consent or planning permission, supported by appropriate local planning policies. Helpful guidance is available on Cadw’s website.

Not all local authorities in Wales have a local list, and where they do exist, they are not always kept up to date. After the local government elections, I will be writing to the leaders of all local authorities to highlight the important role local listing can play to help protect buildings of value to local communities.