The big list

IT’S a staggering fact that there are about half a million listed buildings —the precise number is impossible to tally and it changes anyway—on the National Heritage List for England. Notionally, this is a list of all buildings of special architectural or historic interest in this part of the UK. ‘Special’ is a high test—and is distinct from the curious. There are also degrees of listing, with the most important identified as Grade I or Grade II*. Conferring ‘listed’ status triggers the demand for an extra planning consent, so listing carries clear implications for owners.

There is a political aspect to this act of heritage recognition as well:). As in this case, it is her opinion that ultimately prevails if listing is contested.