Frequently Asked Questions

For more detailed information download leaflets from the Advice and Guidance section.

The listing includes:

How can I obtain a copy of the list entry for a listed building?

English Heritage administers the Statutory List of Buildings of Architectural or Historic Interest on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. You can view the National Heritage List on the English Heritage website. Images of England at www.imagesofengland.org.uk also hold photographs of many of the Island's listed buildings.

A copy of the list entry can also be obtained from the Local Planning Authority by contacting the Customer Information Team at Seaclose Offices, on 01983 823552 or via email at [email protected] or alternatively, you can visit Seaclose Offices reception. Copies of list entries cost £1.00.

Please note that list entries are merely descriptions of listed buildings for identification purposes. They are not comprehensive records of all that is considered to be of special architectural or historic interest.

What type of work requires consent?

Listed Buildings have legal protection under planning law, specifically Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. This legislation results in the need to obtain listed building consent for works of demolition, alteration or extension which affect its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest.

The small-scale replacement in replica of worn out elements is classed as 'repair' and Listed Building Consent may not be required. However, it is essential to check with the Conservation & Design Team because the scale of this work may sometimes necessitate formal consent

Examples of what Listed Building Consent is required for:

e.g - extensions

- replacement of windows and doors
- dismantling of chimney stacks
- changes to materials or finishes such as painting and rendering.

e.g - removal or addition of walls (whether or no they are loading bearing)

- forming new/blocking existing openings
- changes to materials or finishes

Further information concerning alterations to listed buildings can be found in Planning Policy Statement 5.

Please note that the above list is not comprehensive and is for information purposes only. If you are in any doubt please contact the Conservation and Design Team before you carry out any work.

How do I apply?

Listed building consent forms can be downloaded by clicking here.

How much does Listed Building Consent cost?

There is currently no cost for Listed Building Consent.

Can I have double glazing or PVCu in a listed building?

The use of double glazing whether its PVCu, aluminium or timber is likely to harm the special/architectural interest of the building as well as resulting in the loss of original windows. However secondary double glazing may be allowed providing its visual impact is limited and it can be installed, and removed without damage being caused to the fabric of the listed building. Please contact the Conservation and Design Team for further information.

How can I request that a building be listed or de-listed?

English heritage are responsible for the administration of the listing system. Anyone can apply for a building to be listed or de-listed. If you wish to have a building considered for listing or de-listing, you should write to:

English Heritage
Heritage Protection Operations Team
1 Waterhouse Square
138-142 Holborn
London
EC1N 2ST

Or alternatively visit the English Heritage website by clicking here to download application forms and guidance notes

When making an application please include as many details as possible, including:

Decisions to list a building are taken by the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, on the advice of English Heritage. When making such applications it would be helpful if a copy of the application could be sent to the Conservation & Design Team.

Are there grants available to help finance works to a Listed Building or a building within a Conservation Area?

No. Unfortunately the Isle of Wight Council are unable to offer any financial assistance.

What is the current VAT position with regards to works carried out on Listed Buildings?

Provided that the works were carried out by a VAT registered builder and with listed building consent, VAT may not apply to the cost of alterations to listed buildings, although it does apply to repairs and ordinary maintenance. For further information please contact HM Revenues and Customs National Advice Service on 0845 010 9000

The Government has also introduced a range of tax incentives to encourage the reuse of empty property. VAT is levied at a reduced rate of 5% on the cost of renovating dwellings that have been empty for 2 years or more or for converting non residential property into a dwelling or number of dwellings. A zero rate of VAT applies to the sale of renovated houses that have been empty for 10 years or more. There is also a scheme to allow property owners to claim 100% capital allowances on expenditure incurred renovating or converting derelict, vacant or underused space above shops which are brought back into residential flats for letting. For further information please contact: The Empty Property Officer Housing and Community Support Services, High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1SS, Tel: 01983 821000