Listed buildings play an important role in representing national, regional and local heritage. Listed buildings are categorised by three grades:

• Grade I - are of exceptional interest
• Grade II* - are particularly important
• Grade II – are of special interest

You can search on the National Heritage List for England (NHLE) to find out if a property is listed.

Listed building consent must be applied for to make alterations and extensions which will affect the building’s special character or to demolish the building. The listed status protects the interior and exterior of the building. For example, alterations to walls, windows, doors and fixed features such as fireplaces would require consent. Listing can also extend to buildings and structures within the historic curtilage of the building.

It is a criminal offence to carry out works to a listed building without consent. The consequences can be quite significant, including enforcement action, large fines and imprisonment. There is no time limit for enforcement action on unauthorised works to a listed building.

• Listed Buildings – Conservation Advice Note 1
• Traditional Sash Windows Planning Advice Note 14
• Flooding and historic buildings
• Water in permeable building materials

We are offering grants for the repair and reinstatement of historic timber windows and doors of listed buildings within the Lancaster Conservation Area.

The windows and doors must be along street frontages, but shop fronts are excluded. Grants of 50%, up to a maximum of £1,500, are available for eligible works.

The grant money was secured by the council as a planning contribution for a development within the city centre. The money is limited, but will be allocated until the funds run out. The money has been restricted to listed buildings under the terms of the agreement.

To apply for a grant please read the guidance notes and complete a pre-application form.

• Guidance notes - historic window and door grant scheme
• Grant scheme pre-application enquiry form