What CAN you do to a Listed Building? Part 1
From Talking Conservation by Stephen Boniface and Rich Alesbury
January 30, 2026 · 43 min
About this episode
This episode discusses what homeowners can do with listed buildings, clarifying myths and providing practical advice.
What can you actually do to a listed building? In this episode of Talking Conservation , we cut through the confusion, myths, and half-truths that surround listed buildings and planning consent. Joined by conservation architect Claire Truman , we explore what homeowners are often told they can’t do, versus what the legislation and real-world practice actually allow. Drawing on professional experience and real case studies, this conversation is about empowerment, understanding the system, and knowing where to get the right help. We discuss: • Common myths about listed buildings and consent • What changes usually do and don’t need permission • How planning and conservation officers think about alterations • When to seek professional advice and how to avoid costly mistakes • Where flexibility exists within the rules This episode is ideal for owners of listed or historic buildings, prospective buyers, and professionals working with older properties. About our guest Claire Truman is a conservation architect and an independent expert available for impartial advice via Expertible. 🔔 Subscribe and hit the notification bell so you don’t miss future episodes, including upcoming…
People in this episode
Hosts: Stephen Boniface, Rich Alesbury
Guest: Claire Truman
Topics covered
- listed buildings
- planning consent
- conservation architecture
- homeowner advice
- myths about alterations
Keywords
- listed buildings
- planning consent
- conservation architect
- homeowner advice
- myths
- alterations
- professional advice
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Expertible, Heritage Revival
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