Public consultation launched on proposals to help listed building owners

Plans to reduce red tape burdens for the owners of listed buildings are outlined in new public consultation.

The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 contains a number of heritage provisions to simplify the listed building consent system.

The proposals are focussed on removing red tape without changing the existing levels of protection for listed buildings. Local planning authorities are responsible for ensuring that listed buildings are properly protected and they will still have a duty to consider the impact of any proposals on the special architectural and historic character of the listed buildings affected.

Have your say

This consultation is seeking views on the draft regulations needed to make sure the new provisions work effectively when they commence on 6 April 2014.

Take part in the consultation.

Heritage Minister Ed Vaizey said:

“ These provisions will provide real benefits for owners and local authorities by cutting costs and reducing bureaucracy. But they will also ensure existing levels of heritage protection are maintained whilst allowing local authorities to deliver a more effective and efficient service.”

The consultation will run for 6 weeks and closes on 27 January 2014.