Buildings at Risk

North Wiltshire District Council is asking for help from members of the public to recognise listed buildings that are empty or in poor condition and therefore "at risk".

North Wiltshire District Council keeps a register of listed buildings which it considers to be at risk of losing to decay, fire, vandalism or theft. To be included on the list, the building has to be one of the five and a half thousand listed structures in the district and either be empty or in disrepair.

The purpose of the register is to enable North Wiltshire District Council to monitor the number of buildings at risk and therefore try to control some of the factors that threaten our built heritage. For instance, where the buildings require new uses to become financially workable the council can advise owners on the necessary planning permission and Listed Building Consents. The Council can provide technical expertise on historic repair techniques, and has the capacity to carry out complex repair projects. The District Council also keeps a register of approved private sector contractors and consultants who can provide expertise in the repair of old buildings.

As a last resort, North Wiltshire District Council has powers to make owners who neglect a listed property repair their buildings.

The Council is working with agencies and groups such as English Heritage and Society for Protection of Ancient Buildings who are running schemes to control the problem nationally. Most people would be appalled to learn that almost ten percent of the nation's Listed Buildings are "at risk". North Wiltshire, having over five and half thousand listed buildings, is the third "richest" area in terms of built heritage of all areas in England.

North Wiltshire District Council is asking for help from members of the public to notice listed buildings that are empty or in poor condition. If you think you know of a building that should be on the Council's Register of Listed Buildings at Risk, contact the Historic Buildings Officer with the address and a brief description of what you have seen on 01249 706513.