Listed Buildings

A Listed Building has been identified and protected for either its special architectural or historic interest, its close association with nationally important buildings or events or its value as part of a group of buildings. Oxford city contains 1,551 listed buildings.

Listed buildings are graded to show their relative importance:

• Grade I buildings are those of exceptional interest
• Grade II* are particularly important buildings of more than special interest
• Grade II are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them

With more than twice the national average of grade I and II* buildings in Oxford, few other cities contain more magnificent buildings within a relatively small area or can boast buildings spanning every major period of British architectural history dating back to the 11th Century. 

When buildings are listed they are placed on statutory lists compiled by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, on advice from English Heritage.  As from 1st April 2005 English Heritage take over full responsibility for updating statutory lists through Heritage Protection. English Heritage's website gives details of the procedures and criteria for listing.

Listed Building Controls

Buildings are listed to ensure that the architectural and historic interest of the building is carefully considered before any alterations, either outside or inside, are agreed.  The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 recognizes that any proposal to alter, demolish or extend a listed building will affect its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest and therefore requires listed building consent to be granted.  Even relatively minor works such as painting or simple repair work, in certain circumstances, may require listed building consent. 

If you intend to carry out any works to a listed building you are strongly advised first to contact our Conservation Team using the details on the right of this page.

Page last reviewed 7 Apr 2008