Local List of Heritage Assets

Following a six-week public consultation period, which ended on 12 May 2024, a further eight heritage assets were added to the  Local List of Heritage Assets [721KB]  on 30 July 2024.

We'll review and update the Local List periodically in response to nominations by the West Berkshire Heritage Forum Selection Panel, where there are changes to assets already identified (for example if an asset is demolished), and where locally-listed assets are included on the National Heritage List for England. Additions to the Local List will be selected following the process set out below.

You can find full copies of the reports submitted by the West Berkshire Heritage Forum on the West Berkshire Historic Environment Record (HER).
 

What is the Local List of Heritage Assets?

The local list is a list of heritage assets within the district considered by the public (and West Berkshire Council) as having special local architectural, archaeological or historic interest. Locally-listed heritage assets are not on Historic England's National Heritage List for England. 

The heritage assets included in the local list are considered to be of significance to the local community and to contribute to the environmental and cultural heritage of the district.

The term 'heritage asset' is described in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) as: 'A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decision, because of its heritage interest. Heritage assets include designated heritage assets and assets identified by the local planning authority (including Local Listing).'

The Local List:

• provides clear, comprehensive and current information about non-designated heritage assets that exist within West Berkshire
• helps to develop a better understanding of what local communities consider to be important in their local historic environments
• celebrates the rich variety of features that give West Berkshire its unique qualities
   

How might being on the Local List affect my property?

Inclusion on the Local List provides no additional planning controls. Unless an asset is listed in the National Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural and Historic Interest, or within a conservation area or a scheduled ancient monument, there is no control over its demolition under current legislation.

Inclusion of an asset on the Local List means that its conservation as a 'heritage asset' is an objective of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Policy CS19 of the West Berkshire Core Strategy (2006-2026) and a material consideration when determining the outcome of a planning application.

The NPPF contains policies that apply to heritage assets, regardless of whether or not they are locally listed. However, local listing provides a sound, consistent and accountable way of identifying local heritage assets to the benefit of good strategic planning for the area, and to the benefit of owners and developers wishing to fully understand local development opportunities and constraints.

Whilst some works may not require planning permission they should still be carefully considered. The removal of historic features or details can harm the special interest of the locally listed building.
 

How are heritage assets selected for the Local List?

Local listing is managed jointly by the West Berkshire Heritage Forum and West Berkshire Council, as the Local Planning Authority (LPA). We approved the Local Listing Process on 27 September 2012.

Nominations for Local Listing are considered by the West Berkshire Heritage Forum (a partnership of parish councils and voluntary heritage societies in West Berkshire), at a Selection Panel meeting and then submitted to us for final consideration.

Prior to the final decision being taken, we will give 21 days notice of our intention to include heritage assets on the Local List. Heritage assets intended to be included on the Local List will be advertised in the local press. Any comments received during this public consultation period will be considered by us. To find past consultations or take part in a current one, please visit our Consultation and Engagement Hub.

Final approval of heritage assets for the Local List is delegated to the Head of Development and Regulation as per the council's constitution (specifically section 11.8).

You can find full details of the process in the Local Listing in West Berkshire Process Description.