Introduction
This is the first on-line register of Buildings at Risk
produced by the City of Wolverhampton Regenerating
Buildings Preservation Trust. This first register
includes only Listed Buildings at risk. Later versions
will include unlisted buildings in Conservation Areas
and Locally Listed buildings.
Wolverhampton City has over 370 Listed Buildings
considered to be of national significance, including
two Grade I
and 22 Grade II* Listed Buildings. In addition, the Council
has given 86 buildings local list status. The majority
of buildings are well maintained, but sadly a minority
are at risk for a variety of social and economic reasons,
leading to neglect, decay, redundancy or even the threat
of demolition. Of the 370 Listed Buildings, nearly 30
are currently classed as being ‘at risk’.
There are 28 designated Conservation Areas containing
many attractive historic buildings. Together they create
a rich and diverse city environment.
Purpose of the Register
To bring redundant, deteriorating buildings back
into use, for the benefit of the people of Wolverhampton.
•
To identify potential grants and encourage owners
to take advantage of them.
•
To provide advice
•
To attract investment.
Who is the Register aimed at?
The register is aimed at existing owners, the public,
building professionals, developers and investors.
It is aimed at those who can identify potential and
are willing to invest in our city heritage.
How is it decided
that a building is ‘at risk’?
The register uses the English Heritage definition
of “at risk”. The biggest factor for
a building being at risk is vacancy. Even a building
in good condition can quickly deteriorate once
left empty. Water damage is the biggest cause of
deterioration, whether from a missing tile, defective
chimney flashing or burst water pipe. Break-ins
and vandalism can go undetected and broken windows
can result in a vacant building being colonised
by pigeons.
The “at risk” categories are a combination
of condition and occupancy.
| Category 1 |
extreme risk |
| Category 2 |
grave risk |
| Category 3 |
at risk |
| Category 4 |
vulnerable buildings, to be watched |
| Categories 5 & 6 |
not at risk |
Inclusion in the register
Inclusion in the register implies no criticism of
the owners of the buildings, many of whom are actively
seeking ways to secure their future.
The inclusion of a building in the register does
not necessarily mean that it is for sale.
What the Register shows
•
The register gives the statutory list reference,
the Grade, the Risk Category and whether the building
is in a Conservation Area. It provides a short description,
based on the statutory listing description, and any
known recent planning history, as well as the latest
news on the property.
•
The majority of the buildings are in private ownership.
Contact the Trust Administrator in the first instance
for further information or call WCC and ask to speak
to a Conservation Officer.
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