Residents of Suffolk Coastal’s historic buildings who want to carry out repairs, renovations or demolitions are urged to check if they need planning consent before they call in the builders.

If a home is officially listed or situated in one of Suffolk Coastal’s 34 conservation areas, it is likely to be protected by extra rules to safeguard the architectural features of buildings that contribute to the district’s character.

“We have well over 3,000 listed buildings in our district, with over 300 in Woodbridge alone, and I would warn the owners of such buildings that this Council takes the protection and preservation of our heritage very seriously,” said Cllr Ivan Jowers, Chairman of the Development Control Committee.

“There are understandably very strict rules when it comes to making any changes to a listed building. For something to have gained that status they have had to be recognised as being historically important, and it is the current owner’s responsibility to protect those qualities for future generations to enjoy.

“Our conservation team are there to help people through the complicated maze of what they can and cannot do, and their advice is free. Ignoring their advice, or not getting any Council permission can mean people end up with two bills rather than one – one for the unauthorised work, and another quite often large one to put things back to the way they should be,” added Cllr Jowers.

The importance of adhering to the rules was highlighted recently by the case of Maxwell Hembry, who pleaded guilty to one charge of executing demolitions or alterations to Burkitt House in Woodbridge without listed building consent at South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, June 24 and was ordered to pay a £14,000 fine as well as £2,690 in court costs.

It emerged that Mr Hembry had demolished internal walls in the coal cellar of the Grade II* Listed building in Woodbridge without official approval. A newly built extension and cart lodge were also bigger than had been agreed.

“Our initial investigations at Burkitt House were as a result of a tip-off from a member of the public, and we inevitably rely on their vigilance, and that of town and parish councils, to back up the Council’s fight to preserve the best of our district’s architectural heritage,” added Cllr Jowers.

An application for listed building consent has now being submitted for work that has already been carried out, but the changes imposed on Burkitt House have erased part of its character and history forever.

“I hope Burkitt House will be a warning to others who may be tempted to ignore planning laws when it comes to listed buildings that they will get caught out and that we are ready to take whatever action we need, including if necessary pursuing the more serious offences through the Courts. No-one can afford to try and flout the laws as we will be ready to enforce them for the good of our district,” added Cllr Jowers.

Anyone living in a Conservation Area in need of advice on carrying out repairs, renovations or demolitions can visit www.suffolkcoastal.gov.uk/yourdistrict/planning/conservation or contact the design and conservation team by calling 01394 444296 or emailing conservation@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk