Landmark Suffolk energy rule agreement for listed buildings

The councils are set to allow Grade II-listed buildings to replace windows without applications, while unlisted buildings close to listed properties are going to be allowed to install solar panels.

The two councils believe that thousands of listed properties have poorly fitting windows and single glazing. 

This leads to increased energy use and carbon emissions, because of which Historic England stated that retrofitting historic buildings will be fundamental in achieving net zero.

As a result Babergh and Mid Suffolk, working closely with Historic England, will be the first councils in the country to introduce measures to make improvements quicker and easier.

Clls Andrew Stringer said that they are clearing the way for owners to make upgrades. (Image: Mid Suffolk District Council)

Mid Suffolk cabinet member for heritage, planning and infrastructure Cllr Andrew Stringer said: "For owners, our message is clear – we are clearing the way so they can make sensitive improvements to their buildings.

“This is an extremely ambitious piece of work and we strongly believe this could be of national significance – a template for others to follow."

Currently, owners must apply to the councils for Listed Building Consent, before making upgrades, however, the council are introducing two new orders.

The council are introducing two orders. (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

The first is the Local Listed Building Consent Order, which allows Grade II listed property owners to upgrade or replace windows without having to make individual applications.

Then the Local Development Order allows solar PV and other renewable technologies to be installed on unlisted buildings within the curtilage of a Grade II listed property.

In consultation, the council found that 88% of homeowners are in favour of these changes.

Both of these orders are subject to conditions and will be reviewed annually. 

Cllr Sallie Davies said they need to help the buildings keep warm. (Image: Babergh District Council)

Babergh’s cabinet member for heritage, planning and infrastructure Cllr Sallie Davies said: “Our listed buildings are part of the charm and beauty of our district, but they are hard to keep warm – and this comes at a cost to the owner and our environment. 

“Our innovative action strikes the right balance between preserving our heritage assets and making sensitive energy efficiency improvements quicker and easier."