Q. What does the term ‘Second Survey’ mean?
A. A first survey was carried out over a 25 year period and finished in the early 1990’s. Since then it has become apparent that the quality and extent of the survey data recorded during this first survey is inadequate and often comprises only a single photograph and a short description. Hence the need for a more comprehensive survey referred to as the ‘Second Survey’. The Second Survey involves contracted surveyors visiting properties and recording through notes and photographs the exterior and the main elements of the interior.
Q. How do I find out if my building is listed?
A. You can telephone the Listing Section on 02890 543075 or 02890543055. Alternatively you can e-mail your enquiry to bh@doeni.gov.uk
Q.Do I have to be the owner in order to request a building is considered for listing?
A. No. Anyone can request a building to be considered for listing. We do ask that you provide as much supporting evidence as possible.
Q.How do I request a building to be considered for listing?
A.There is no formal application form but you can apply in writing, fax, e-mail providing as much information as possible i.e. special architectural/historic interest.
Q What criteria is considered by the Department to justify listing a building.
A. Criteria consists of written external and internal descriptions, historical research together with photographs. Particular attention is paid to areas such as Style, Proportion, Ornamentation, Quality and survival of interiors, Historic Association and Social Importance. A full list of all the criteria can be found on our website. Formal Departmental Guidance is given in Annex C of Planning Policy Statement 6. A public consultation on revised criteria is proposed for 2009.
Q. If a building is listed does it just protect the facade?
A. No. When a building is listed it protects the entire building externally and internally and may also include associated structures within the grounds.
Q. How do I find out which elements of my building is listed?
A. No particular elements are listed as the building is listed in its entirety. You can contact the listing section on 02890 543075 who can supply you with a copy of the schedule which describes thebuilding and a map which shows the area listed.
Q. Do I have the right of appeal against listing?
A. There is no right of appeal against listing, however, an owner/occupier can write to the Department at any time, if they consider that the building is not of special architectural or historic interest to justify listing. This must be supported by factual evidence relating only to the special architectural or historic interest ascribed to the building in the list description. The Department may then reassess the buildings merit in light of this information.
Q. How do I request that my building is delisted?
A. There is no formal application but you can apply in writing providing supporting information as to why you consider your building no longer meets the test of legislation. If it is considered that your building still meets the criteria for listing it will remain on the list.
Q. What is a Building Preservation Notice / Spot listing
A. A Building Preservation Notice is a temporary notice that is served on a building which, while not currently listed, is considered to be of special architectural or historic interest and is deemed to be under threat. This is served under Article 42 A of the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991. It protects the building, as if it were a listed building, for a period of 6 months. This affords the Department sufficient time to fully assess whether the building should be formally listed.
Q. How can I get more information on a particular listed building.
A. NIEA HBU does not allow open access to its files however, you may make a request for any information about a listed building by contacting the office on 028 90543095. Alternatively you can e-mail your enquiry to bh@doeni.gov.uk. We may deal with your request under the terms of the Freedom of Information or Environmental Information Regulations in either case we will acknowledge your request and advise you when you may expect a response in most cases within 20 working days.