In recognition of this interest, and in order to ensure the character of these buildings is respected by development proposals affecting them, Wigan Council has decided to produce a Local List - Buildings of Local Interest (BLINTS). The Local List will include all of those buildings within the borough which are considered by the council to be of local architectural or historic interest.
To be included on the list, buildings must satisfy the criteria set out in the Council’s UDP. This was adopted in 2006 and sets out a range of criteria against which buildings are assessed.
We invited nominations between 19 February 2008 and 3 October 2008 and a review of all entries is now being undertaken. A draft copy of the finished document will be produced for widespread consultation later in the Autumn. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Conservation and Design Officer on the telephone number below.
What does inclusion on the local list mean for you?
It is important to note that at this stage inclusion on the local list does not in fact change the existing planning controls that apply to a building already.
The local list will reinforce efforts to preserve the character and appearance of the buildings that will be included on it. It will enable the architectural or historic interest of these buildings to be properly considered against development proposals submitted to the council.
It will provide clarity for owners, the local community, developers and Planning Officers, so that they are aware of the interest of a building as early as possible.
Unless a building is statutory listed or within a conservation area, there is no control, under current legislation, over its demolition.
The Local list will simply back up our existing planning policies and guidance, adding weight to the consideration already given to the preservation of these buildings architectural and historic interest by development proposals.