The Importance of Vernacular Buildings

The vernacular buildings of Northern Ireland have developed as a response to local economic and social circumstances, using simple styles and largely local materials. They have a natural place in our towns, villages and smaller settlements and help give the countryside its personality. While the Department operates a general presumption in favour of the preservation of buildings listed as being of special architectural or historic interest there is growing concern about the continuing loss of those traditional buildings with historical associations and local character, which are not listed, particularly in rural areas. A report published in March 1998 by the Environment and Heritage Service entitled "A Sense of Loss" highlights the severe decline in the number of rural traditional buildings of Northern Ireland in recent years. Buildings of character which display local traditions of architecture and design are an important part of our heritage and regional identity. It is therefore sensible to sympathetically rehabilitate and improve such vernacular buildings, rather than replace them or allow them to fall derelict.