Campaigning guide on how to save Victorian and Edwardian buildings

To notify us about a building at risk in your area, or if you are a Local Authority contacting us regarding proposed alterations to a Victorian or Edwardian building, please click here to notify our caseworkers.

Want to start a campaign to save a building near you, but need some advice? Scroll down to read our extensive guide to campaigning.

We have an array of publications offering our advice on how best to care for Victorian and Edwardian buildings.

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Before you start – questions to ask yourself

Before launching a campaign, check whether anyone else is already running one that you can join. If not, start by clarifying your goal. Are you trying to stop demolition, prevent damaging alterations, or preserve the building in its current use? Buildings with a viable future use are far more likely to be saved — and sometimes compromise is needed to achieve that.

Next, ask yourself if the building is worth saving in the eyes of others. Beyond your personal attachment, you’ll need to make a convincing case based on historical, architectural, aesthetic, environmental, or economic value. If you are opposing a proposed development, be ready to address whether its benefits to the community could outweigh the case for preservation.

Finally, be honest about the commitment. Campaigns can be lengthy and unpredictable, requiring sustained energy and time.

Step 1 – Check your facts

A strong campaign is grounded in accurate information. Try to establish:

• When the building was constructed and who designed it.
• Any notable historical figures or events connected with it.
• Whether it has been on the market at a fair price.
• If it is listed or in a conservation area.
• Whether a planning application has been lodged (you can check via your council’s planning portal).

You can research its history at your local archive, where you might also find historic photographs and documents to strengthen your case. Don’t delay too long in gathering information — in many cases, time is critical.

Step 2 – Strengthen the building’s protection

One of the most effective ways to protect a building is through legal and planning measures:

• Apply for listing: Historic England can list buildings of national importance, ensuring they cannot be demolished or altered without consent. Read our guidance on what makes a building listable and how to apply.
• Register it as an Asset of Community Value: This can require planning permission for demolition of certain unlisted buildings (not available for residential properties). See the UK Government’s process for protecting a local building.
• Add it to the local list: Ask your council’s conservation officer to include it on their heritage list, using Historic England’s local designation guidance.
• Seek Conservation Area designation: If the building is part of a group of architectural significance, your local authority may be able to designate the area. Read Historic England’s advice on Conservation Area appraisals and management.
• Consider an Article 4 Direction: In rare cases, councils can use Article 4 Directions to restrict harmful permitted development rights.

Step 3 – Respond to planning threats

If a planning application could damage or destroy the building, act quickly. Submit a written objection within the consultation period (usually three weeks) and refer to relevant planning policy, such as the National Planning Policy Framework. For support, check Planning Practice Guidance and Planning Aid’s advice.

Encourage others to send their own objections to demonstrate widespread concern. Keep letters clear, concise, and focused on planning issues — avoid emotional outbursts that can undermine credibility. For tips on writing persuasively, see the Plain English Campaign.

Step 4 – Tackle neglect

Some owners allow buildings to deteriorate in the hope that demolition will seem inevitable — a tactic known as “demolition by neglect.” If you suspect this is happening:

• Report it to your council’s conservation officer (find them via the Planning Portal).
• Notify the Victorian Society using our building at risk contact form.
• Alert Historic England if the building is of national importance.

Step 5 – Build community support

The more people behind your cause, the greater your chances of success. You could:

• Launch an online petition using 38 Degrees or Change.org, and share it widely.
• Contact local media with a clear story — our press release writing guide can help.
• Use social media to keep supporters informed and involved.
• Print and distribute flyers or posters in shops, community centres, churches, and noticeboards.
• Approach MPs, councillors, and even local celebrities who might champion the cause.
• Connect with specialist interest groups such as CAMRA for pubs or the Rectory Society for rectories.
• Seek help from local professionals — architects, surveyors, and lawyers may offer expertise pro bono.

Step 6 – Secure funding and plan for the future

Saving the building is just the beginning — you’ll also need a plan for its ongoing use and upkeep. Grants are available from the Architectural Heritage Fund and the Heritage Trust Network. Consider working with a Building Preservation Trust or setting one up locally.

Community fundraising and crowdfunding campaigns can raise both money and awareness. Sometimes, developers may be open to sympathetic restoration or selling to a community group. Having a viable new use in mind — such as a community hub, café, or co-working space — greatly improves the building’s chances of survival.

Further help and advice

• Report threats to the Victorian Society
• Read our advice on listed buildings
• Browse our publications
• Find your local archive
• Locate your council via the Planning Portal

Always remember…

Be persistent — follow up if you don’t get replies, and don’t be discouraged by delays. And be polite — even when you disagree. Respectful dialogue with councils, developers, and local groups can keep doors open and lead to unexpected allies.