Appendix I published 29.01.26.

The Principal Heritage Officer introduced the report and explained that this represented the second round of Local Heritage List designations. The Officer advised that the selection panel had met on 13 January 2026 and considered a total of 115 heritage assets, of which 90 were shortlisted. It was noted that the report currently referred to 80 shortlisted assets and this should be corrected to 90.

The Chair then invited discussion from members. Comments included:

• Thanks were expressed to the Officer for the extensive work undertaken and for presenting the second round of Local Heritage List designations.
• It was noted that the submissions demonstrated that, despite earlier rounds, additional heritage assets continued to come forward, including items that had previously been missed.
• Reference was made to the intention that the Local Heritage List process should be undertaken one final time in 2027, prior to local government reorganisation.
• Members emphasised the importance of encouraging both Councillors and members of the public to bring forward remaining heritage assets to ensure the fullest possible record of local history.
• It was suggested that the proposed final round in 2027 should be clearly referenced, as this currently did not have formal status within the report.
• Appreciation was expressed for the extensive work undertaken on the Local Heritage List and its importance in safeguarding local heritage, particularly in the context of future local government reorganisation.
• Members highlighted the value of the process in identifying further heritage assets that had not been captured in earlier rounds and noted the contribution this work made alongside conservation area reviews.
• Concern was raised about the process for selecting Area Committee representatives to sit on the selection panel. It was noted that some Area Committees had not formally considered or appointed a representative and that invitations had not always been received in sufficient time.
• In response, the Officer explained that invitations had been issued to Area Committee Chairs, with Chairs asked either to attend or nominate a representative, and confirmed openness to reviewing and improving this process.
• Members noted that levels of engagement varied between areas, often reflecting whether active local heritage groups were present, and acknowledged the difficulty of ensuring consistent representation across all areas.
• A suggestion was made that Area Committees should include the Local Heritage List as a standing or scheduled agenda item, both to promote future rounds and to formally select their panel representatives.
• It was observed that a scheduled Area Committee meeting had been cancelled, which had prevented the appointment of a representative in one area.
• A technical issue was raised regarding access to Appendix 1, with members reporting that the document link was not currently accessible online.
• Clarification was sought on whether any heritage assets within the Eastern Area had been rejected. The Officer confirmed that no significant assets from that area had been rejected and explained that items not shortlisted were either too modern, too common, or required further research and could be reconsidered in a future round.
• Questions were raised regarding the inclusion of assets located on private property, and the Officer clarified that Local Heritage List designation was advisory in nature and would not prevent works, though owners would be expected to notify the Council.
• Further explanation was provided regarding the historic significance of certain listed items, including street furniture, where distinctive historic features justified their inclusion.
• Members reiterated the importance of encouraging wider public and councillor engagement ahead of the next round to ensure a comprehensive record of local heritage.

Councillor Baldock moved the following amendment that was seconded by Councillor Richard Palmer: That the report include reference that 2027 will be the final round for inclusion on the heritage list.

The amendment was carried.

The recommendations of the report were moved by Councillor Baldock and seconded by Councillor Jayes.

Resolved:

(1)  To agree the schedule of heritage assets proposed to be designated as Local Heritage Assets based on the outcome of the Selection Panel meeting.

(2)  To note that the schedule of heritage assets proposed to be designated as Local Heritage has been developed in line with best practice guidance published by Historic England and will afford protection to a range of non designated heritage buildings and structures within the Borough.

(3)  That the report include reference 2027 will be the final round for inclusion on the heritage list.