Community Heritage Register

Not listed but loved

Most of us have heard of ‘Listed Buildings’, where Historic England identifies buildings with special architectural and historic interest and ensures they are protected for future generations. We are lucky enough to be surrounded by historical significance, with 180 listed buildings in Newton Abbot.

But there are many less obvious features which also contribute to the town’s unique character, even though they are not currently safeguarded. Examples include the livestock market’s iconic cattle and sheep sculpture, old street name signs or architectural details.

Historic England encourages local authorities to identify 'non-designated heritage assets’ – buildings, monuments, sites, places, areas or landscapes that contribute to a sense of place. These do not have to be old and can even include modern features such as graffiti.

Help build Newton Abbot’s Community Heritage Register

Newton Abbot Town Council is working to create a Local Register of Non-designated Heritage Assets – and we need your help.

“We want the public to tell us about parts of the town which they believe help define its character. Our aim is to compile a register so that when a planning application poses a threat, we can demonstrate that people really want these features to stay.
We can’t do this without the Newton Abbot community getting involved – we need them to tell us what’s loved but not listed.
Having a feature on the register won’t guarantee its future, but it will certainly improve the chances.”
– Cllr Ann Jones

Submissions will be reviewed by a panel that includes Town Councillors and the Museum Curator. The approved list will be published and reviewed annually by Newton Abbot Town Council. Property owners recommended for inclusion will have the opportunity to challenge the listing.