The term Local Heritage Asset is used to describe a building, structure, object, or place that is identified by the local planning authority as having special significance for local heritage. This is different to a listed building, which is seen to have national significance and is designated through Historic England by the government (DCMS). The term locally listed has been used for Local Heritage Assets in the past, but under the National Planning Policy Framework

The Local Heritage Asset Registers provide a consistent and accountable way of identifying local heritage assets.

Inclusion on the register

The register will acknowledge that these assets have special local significance, but inclusion on the register does not prevent change. At present, we are only considering buildings and public monuments, but we will be looking to expand this at a later stage.

Where change is proposed to a heritage asset or its setting, the applicant will be required to demonstrate how their scheme would contribute to an asset’s conservation and preserve or enhance its architectural or historical interest.

Where there is substantial impact, such as demolition, the applicant will need to have investigated the possible continued use, restoration, or conversion of the asset to preserve or enhance its significance and demonstrate that none of these are viable before permission for significant change or demolition will be granted.

In cases where the destruction of the asset is unavoidable, we will seek to ensure that appropriate archaeological or building recording is carried out before demolition. Where the proposal is to develop outdoor spaces such as parkland, gardens and paths, the applicant will have to clearly demonstrate that resulting impact on the significance of the asset is justified. A heritage statement, including a heritage impact assessment will be required, explaining the importance of the asset and how its destruction will affect the historic environment.

While Local Heritage Assets will have additional consideration within the planning process where a planning application is submitted, they do not have any additional statutory protection, such as that offered to a listed building or conservation area.

A revised list, which covers the whole borough, is available by emailing: PlanningTechnicalTeam@maidstone.gov.uk