Setting of Listed Buildings: Character and Landscape Context

The setting of a listed building is often an essential part of the building's character. This is particularly the case where a demesne, landscaped parkland, garden or grounds have been laid out to complement the design or function of the building. The economic viability as well as the character of listed buildings within such planned settings may suffer where inappropriate new development isolates them from their surroundings or degrades their landscape setting. This can effectively rob such buildings of much of their interest and the contribution they make to the local countryside or townscape. Where a listed building has no ancillary land, for example in a town or village street, its setting may include a number of other properties or even the whole street. These buildings may not necessarily be of great individual merit but combine to produce a visual harmony which enriches the setting of the listed building.