Local List for Norwich

Discover Norwich’s Local List highlighting buildings of local historic and architectural importance that shape the city’s unique character.

What is the Local List?

The Local List highlights buildings in Norwich that have special local architectural or historic interest. These buildings aren’t statutory listed by the government but they’re still important to the city’s character and heritage. You might hear them called non-designated heritage assets.

Being on the Local List doesn’t add extra planning rules, but it does mean that if someone wants to make changes to a locally listed building, its historical and architectural value must be taken into account during the planning process. This helps protect the building’s character and its surroundings.

How are buildings chosen?

Buildings are scored based on the following criteria:

1. Townscape value

  • 3 points: A landmark or focal point in the area (e.g. churches, chapels)
  • 2 points: Adds something special to the character of the area
  • 1 point: Fits in well with the surrounding buildings

2. Architectural value

  • 0 points: Plain, functional buildings with no design features
  • 1 point: Typical buildings of their time
  • 2 points: Designed with aesthetic quality in mind
  • 3 points: Designed by a notable architect (e.g. A.F. Scott)

3. Historic value

Based on how historically significant the building is, especially post-1840 buildings not already listed.

4. Archaeological value

Includes older buildings with historic features (like flintwork or old windows), and even wartime structures like bunkers.

5. Community value

  • 2 points: Important to the local community (e.g. pubs, shops, halls)
    4 points: Significant to the city’s history (e.g. Hillary House)

6. Condition (visible from public areas)

  • 0 points: Heavily altered and no longer resembles the original
  • 1 point: Has visible changes but still retains its main features
  • 2 points: Minor changes that can be reversed
  • 3 points: Appears unchanged and in original condition

Group value

Buildings that form a group (like a row of terrace houses) are considered together. At least 80% of the group should still have their original features.

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