Listed buildings information

We compile, publish and maintain a List of Buildings of Local Architectural or Historic Interest.

This is separate from the National Heritage List for England (NHLE). The NHLE is the statutory list maintained by Historic England and the Secretary of State.

The local list includes buildings with important local architectural and historic context. Even if they do not meet the stringent criteria for inclusion on the NHLE.

Differences between locally and nationally listed buildings

Locally listed buildings are not:

• graded
• associated with a specific consent regime. But may need to meet normal planning permission requirements. The local heritage status is considered when deciding whether to grant permission

Nationally listed buildings:

• have three listing grades (II, II* and I)
• are subject to Listed Building Consent

Local heritage listing criteria

The purpose of a local heritage list is to:

• identify buildings, structures and monuments of local architectural or historic importance
• preserve their features of interest as far as possible

You can suggest a building for us to add to the list. We accept submissions from individuals, groups, societies or schools. 

To find out how to list a local building in Royal Greenwich, download the local heritage listing procedure note:

The overarching criteria for buildings on the local heritage list are:

• historic interest
• architectural interest
• environmental significance

There are over 500 entries on the local heritage list. These include: 

• houses
• shops
• public houses
• transport structures
• townscape features such as post boxes and cattle troughs

Alterations and extensions to locally listed buildings

Listed Building Consent only applies to listed building on the NHLE. It is not required for buildings on the local list.

But you may still need planning permission:

• for alterations or extensions to a locally listed building
• to demolish a building if it's within a conservation area

Contact us to check or for more information.

Local policy focuses on preserving the significance of locally listed buildings. We expect applications for alterations or extensions to such buildings to:

• preserve or enhance the appearance and character of the building
• retain any features of architectural or historic interest
• use appropriate materials.

Permission is not required for ordinary repairs. We encourage you to use appropriate materials to preserve the character and appearance of the building.

More about planning permission