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Building Obsolescence and Revitalisation 557
Photograph 11.4 The finished building.
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Preservation. This is concerned with the retention (or reinstatement to its original
form) of a structure deemed to be of cultural importance to society and future
generations.
Restoration. This is concerned with returning a building, or part of a building, to the
condition in which it would have been at some point in the past. Restoration has a role
to play in the preservation and conservation of buildings.
Conservation. This is concerned with retaining (and enhancing) the cultural significance
of a building. Conservation enshrines the idea that buildings are used by people
and thus make up part of the living tapestry of the built environment, so alterations,
improvements and change of use are to be expected to help keep the building alive.
Listing
Listing aims to protect a building from demolition or insensitive alterations and repairs,
helping to retain the architectural character and cultural importance of certain buildings.
Buildings may be listed because of their age, architectural merit, rarity and their method
of construction. Buildings may also be listed because of their cultural significance, for
example, being the birthplace of an important person.
Buildings, ranging from industrial buildings to pubs and post-war schools, may be surveyed
and considered for listing once they are 30 years old. There is an additional rule
which allows exceptional buildings between 10 and 30 years old to be considered for listing
if they are threatened with demolition or alteration. The listing grades for England and