The New Forest’s buildings are an important element of the National Park’s character, and together with ancient woodlands, heathlands, and free-roaming livestock, contribute to what makes the area special and worthy of protection as a National Park.  

National planning policy encourages all planning authorities to publish a ‘local list’. The New Forest National Park Authority is celebrating the area’s heritage by inviting people to nominate buildings and other features in the landscape to be recognised and protected through ‘local listing.’ 

Whereas around two percent of buildings in the National Park area are Grade I, II* or II listed by Historic England in recognition of their national significance, there are many more which are currently included currently included on the New Forest NPA’s Local List. The Local List includes buildings which have not made the national listing but are considered important enough locally for their character and appearance to be preserved.  Local listing ensures that the architectural or historic interest of these buildings and assets are recognised and protected. It does not mean there are any further controls that already apply to a building, or that no alterations can be made to them, but does mean the NPA gives special consideration to their conservation when planning applications are submitted.  

Thanks to funding received from through Historic England, the New Forest NPA is now expanding its Local List which currently has 2,000 buildings and assets. Examples include Beaulieu Village Primary School, the Royal Oak at Fritham, the Cloud Hotel in Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst Cricket Pavilion, Bartley Village Hall, and well-preserved examples of the traditional New Forest Cottages and agricultural buildings. 

As well as buildings, the NPA is inviting nominations for other assets that give the area its character, including archaeological sites and landscape features such as parks, gardens, street furniture and public works of art. For example, the view at Burley Cross includes a number of local list candidates – the war memorial, finger signpost, flagpole, and historic buildings. 

Guided by Historic England advice, the criteria for nominations include age, rarity, architectural and artistic interest, group value, archaeological interest, historic interest, community/social value, and landmark status. More information can be found at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/local-list, where the current Local List can also be seen. 

Once submitted, nominations will be assessed by a Local Listing Review Panel and the New Forest National Park Authority Planning Committee. If approved, they will be added to the Local List and the relevant county’s Historic Environment Record. 

Gordon Bailey, Chair of the New Forest National Park Authority’s Planning Committee said: ‘The list celebrates the wonderful things that give the New Forest its special qualities and unique landscape character and does not impose more regulations on homeowners. We are looking forward to receiving nominations for assets within the New Forest National Park boundary to expand our Local List and preserve the fantastic heritage of the area.’ 

For more information, and to nominate, go to www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/local-list. 

We look forward to receiving your nominations.