Emergency Works to Listed Buildings
It is very sad to see that Woolton Hall, a manor house and a Grade I Listed Building, has suffered serious damage after a recent fire. Extensive work will be required to restore this building to its former opulence.
Listed building consent is required for any works which alter or extend a listed building in a way that affects its character or appearance as a building of special architectural or historic interest. Failure to obtain listed building consent for such works is a criminal offence.
The works required to Woolton Hall will no doubt require listed building consent. Preparing the plans and application will take some time, given the former grandeur of the building, and whilst the statutory timeframe for determination of a listed building consent application is 8 weeks, timings often slip.
Given the state of the building now, it would not be surprising if emergency works are required to stabilise it and make it safe. As can be seen from the various news reports, the roof has been largely destroyed and every floor appears to have collapsed. The building is clearly unstable and it could be dangerous to wait for months for listed building consent to be granted.
Fortunately, emergency repairs can be carried out to a listed building without having first obtained listed building consent. However, the person carrying out the repairs must be able to prove that:
- the works were urgently necessary in the interest of safety or health, or for the preservation of the building;
- a temporary solution was not suitable; and
- the works carried out were limited to the minimum measures necessary.
Notice of the works needs to be served on the relevant local authority as soon as reasonably practical.
It is always advisable to contact the local authority prior to carrying out any works to ensure compliance with the legislative requirements.
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