Climate threatens buildings rules

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/uk/7206093.stm

Version 0 of 1.

Rules governing maintenance of listed buildings may have to be changed because of climate change, conservationists have said.

At present the properties have to be maintained using methods appropriate to the age, structure and original design.

But the National Trust says some are at risk because of the effects of coastal erosion, drought and torrential rain.

The Trust says such conditions mean it is not always possible to stick to traditional materials and techniques.

Drains redesigned

In one case, the roof at Castle Drogo, near Exeter, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, had to be repaired with modern materials to stop the roof leaking.

Calke Abbey underwent redesign after being affected by heavy rain

The drains on 18th Century Calke Abbey in Derbyshire had to be redesigned after torrential rain flooded the building.

The trust's conservationists say that although they do not want the principles behind the rules to change, they do need to be reviewed so the buildings they are trying to conserve do not end up unprotected.

A spokesman for the Communities and Local Government department said it is important to strike a balance between managing climate change and protecting the character and appearance of listed buildings.

The trust is responsible for 300 houses and gardens, and a further 49 industrial monuments and mills.