Building Preservation Notice (BPN): Temporary Protection for Historic Buildings

A Building Preservation Notice (BPN) is a temporary measure used by local authorities in the UK to protect buildings of historic or architectural significance that are at risk of alteration or demolition. This legal tool allows councils to safeguard important structures while they assess whether the building should receive listed status.

At Fraser Bond, we provide expert guidance on heritage property regulations, building preservation notices, and development strategies to help property owners and investors navigate legal protections and planning constraints.

What Is a Building Preservation Notice (BPN)?

A Building Preservation Notice (BPN) is issued by local planning authorities under Section 3 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. It provides immediate but temporary legal protection to a building that is not yet listed but is considered to have historic or architectural importance.

Key Features of a BPN:

✅ Temporary Listing Protection – The building is treated as a Grade II listed structure for up to six months.
✅ Prevents Alteration or Demolition – Owners cannot demolish, alter, or extend the building without permission.
✅ Assessment for Permanent Listing – Historic England evaluates whether the building should receive official listed status.
✅ Issued Without Owner Consent – Local authorities can serve a BPN even if the owner opposes it.

Why Are Building Preservation Notices Issued?

BPNs are used when:

• A historically significant building is at risk of demolition or alteration.
• There is not enough time to go through the full listing process.
• Urgent intervention is needed to protect heritage assets.

How Does a Building Preservation Notice Affect Property Owners?

If your property is served with a Building Preservation Notice, it:

• Immediately restricts alterations, demolition, or extensions without planning permission.
• Requires compliance with listed building regulations until a final decision is made.
• Could lead to permanent listing if Historic England finds it worthy of protection.
• May impact development or sale plans, as additional planning permissions will be required.

What Happens After a BPN Is Issued?

1. Temporary Protection Period (Up to 6 Months)

• The building is treated as Grade II listed, preventing unauthorized changes.
• Local authorities notify Historic England for an official assessment.

2. Historic England’s Assessment

• Experts evaluate the building’s historical and architectural importance.
• If approved, the building receives official listed status.
• If rejected, the BPN expires, and restrictions are lifted.

3. Consequences for Non-Compliance

• If owners alter or demolish a building under a BPN, they can face legal action.
• Listed Building Consent is required before making any changes.

How to Respond to a Building Preservation Notice

If your property is issued with a BPN, you should:

1️⃣ Consult a Property Expert – Seek legal and planning advice to understand your options.
2️⃣ Engage with Local Authorities – Discuss potential modifications or exemptions.
3️⃣ Prepare for Possible Listing – If permanent listing is likely, explore compliance strategies.

How Fraser Bond Can Help

At Fraser Bond, we provide expert advice on:

• Heritage Property Regulations – Navigating BPNs, listed status, and planning restrictions.
• Development & Investment Strategies – Maximizing property value within legal constraints.
• Building Consent & Compliance – Ensuring projects meet conservation requirements.

Need Advice on a Building Preservation Notice?

If your property is affected by a Building Preservation Notice, contact Fraser Bond for expert guidance on heritage property regulations and development solutions.