Building a better environment

The historic buildings team of the National Park Authority sets out to help people protect the Peak District's rich and distinctive architectural heritage. Although a high value is put on listed buildings and traditional properties in conservation areas, people don't always appreciate the national legislation which has been drawn up to protect them.

Anyone visiting the National Park will notice that it is very different from the areas outside its boundaries because development is carefully controlled and the special character of the place is maintained.

Most people welcome this. Problems can arise though when people want to alter buildings, particularly listed ones, and discover that as well as the usual planning regulations there are some extra ones that apply.

The historic buildings team recognises how this can cause difficulties and actively try to help people understand exactly what they can and cannot do. We also help in other ways by setting up grants to assist with work that can be expensive.