17
Protecting Built Heritage
We’ve long believed that Britain’s historic buildings can play a much bigger role in addressing the UK’s housing shortage, so it’s encouraging to see that message reflected in the Culture, Media and Sport Committee’s latest report, Protecting Built Heritage.
The report estimates that up to 670,000 homes could be created by bringing vacant and underused heritage buildings back into use. It’s a significant opportunity – one that aligns closely with the recommendations we made in our own report, Unlocking Heritage for Housing (Click here to read), where we called for a reuse first approach to development and greater support for restoring our historic buildings.
Turning Recognition into Action
Acknowledging the potential of heritage buildings is an important step, but now is the time to turn recognition into action.
Firstly, procurement should prioritise experience and expertise. Restoring heritage assets requires specialist knowledge, long term investment and a proven track record.
Secondly, VAT reform remains essential. While listed building repairs continue to attract 20% VAT, many new build developments benefit from zero rated VAT. It’s a disparity that can discourage the reuse of existing buildings at a time when we should be making the most of them.
Finally, earlier investigation and funding would help reduce risk before restoration begins. Understanding structural challenges and other unforeseen issues at an earlier stage gives projects the best possible chance of success.
Looking Ahead
We’ve seen first hand what can be achieved when historic buildings are given a new purpose. With the right policies and investment in place, heritage regeneration has the potential to deliver thousands of much needed homes while protecting the buildings that define our towns and cities.
The opportunity is there. Now it’s about creating the conditions to unlock it.
To read more, explore the Protecting Built Heritage report alongside our Unlocking Heritage for Housing study.