How Historic Buildings and Structures Protection works in Jersey
Buildings, sites and structures of historic, archaeological or architectural interest (and other interests which are detailed in the criteria – links below) can be put forward by anyone for consideration provided they give sufficient information and reasons for suggesting protection in relation to the relevant criteria. (Contact the Historic Buildings Team at Planning)
The protection process is started by the Historic Buildings Team who commission a specialist report from Jersey Heritage, and this report along with advice from the Ministerial review and listing advisory group (MRLAG) is considered by the Minister for Planning and Environment. Owners are given the opportunity to comment or object to recommendations in writing and can also address the Minister at the public meeting where the decision is made. The documents sent to owners during consideration set out the process fully.
Currently there are two levels of protection:
Building of Local Interest
Site of Special Interest
You may also come across a proposed Site of Special Interest (pSSI) though these are being progressively phased out by reconsidering them and making them either SSI or BLI in relation to the current criteria.
A BLI is only protected on the outside, so any change which requires planning permission will be considered in relation to its particular interest. This applies to the whole of the exterior, and not just the front as is sometimes thought. (A pSSI is treated in the same way as a BLI )
A SSI is fully protected under the Law, inside and out, so changes which require planning permission are considered in relation to the special interest, and in addition SSI permission is required for other changes which do not need normal planning permission. These can include internal works, repairs which are extensive or use a different material.
If you are considering work on a protected building or structure we recommend that you seek advice from a suitable qualified or experienced professional. If you are unsure whether or not permission is needed, please contact the Historic Buildings team at Planning. There are no permitted development rights for SSIs, BLIs and pSSIs.
The system for protection and the criteria against which buildings and structures are considered are about to be reviewed and a consultation document will be released soon to invite comment. Until that process is completed, the current process and criteria will remain in place.
