New pilot will speed planning decisions

A PILOT scheme is to be launched in Glasgow to make it simpler for owners of B-listed buildings to carry out improvements.

A PILOT scheme is to be launched in Glasgow to make it simpler for owners of B-listed buildings to carry out improvements.

At present, anyone wanting to do work on a B-listed house or commercial property needs permission from both the city council and Historic Scotland.

But under the three-month pilot, which is also running in Edinburgh and Perth and Kinross, the council will be able to make a decision on a range of applications without reference to the heritage body.

If it is a success, it will be rolled out across Scotland.

It is suggested a huge range of work should be decided on by councils without having to slow down the process by notifying Historic Scotland.

This includes the alteration, replacement, removal or installation of external doors, gutters and downpipes, railings, windows, roof covering, rooflights, stonework or masonry finishes, chimneys, steps and external stairs.

Also included are aerials, alarm boxes, CCTV, plant ducts, electrics, gas, plumbing and telecommunications.

A wide list of internal work is also on the list of jobs which can be decided by the council.

That includes subdividing rooms, installing modern fittings and the alteration and replacement of floors, doors, shutters, chimneys, fireplaces and decorative plasterwork.

Europe, External Affairs and Culture Minister Linda Fabiani said: "We all have a duty to protect and enhance Scotland's heritage and at the same time manage development."

Jim MacDonald, Historic Scotland deputy chief inspector, added: "The aim of the scheme is to speed up decision making for those local authorities who have the expertise.

"This will reduce duplication between Historic Scotland and local authorities - and allow us to focus on applications where we can add value as well as providing more strategic advice to planning authorities, applicants and Ministers.

"Similarly, it enables authorities to deliver listed building consents more quickly to applicants."

A B-listed building is given the status by Historic Scotland if it is considered to be of regional or more than local importance, or if it is a major example of some particular period, style or building type.

There are currently 1262 B-listed buildings in Glasgow from terraced townhouses to iconic landmarks.

George Ryan, the city council's development and regeneration spokesman, said: "We welcome the principle of greater delegation in dealing with these applications.

"This is a small but important step in planning reform and its welcome implementation will create a more efficient planning process for the city."


The Old Sheriff Court, now home to Scottish Youth Theatre, on Ingram Street	Maryhill Burgh Halls	The Maggie's Centre at the Western Infirmary	The old Odeon cinema in Renfield Street