How Can Disused Historic Buildings Be Converted Into Homes?

Britain has a chronic housing shortage, and one way of addressing this persistent problem is by converting disused historic buildings for residential use. This process has been going on for decades of course, as many former factories and warehouses in post-industrial inner city areas are now desirable living spaces and apartments. 

However, in many cases such opportunities are limited by listed building restoration regulations. These exist to protect the original characteristics of the structure and ensure that any changes are in keeping with its historical or cultural context. 

To make the process easier and more transparent, Historic England have now issued detailed guidance on the process of converting disused old buildings for residential use. According to a report in Architect’s Journal, this could mean that up to 670,000 new homes could be created without the need for lengthy construction or to use greenbelt land. 

The authors of the guidance note: ‘The redundant textile mills of Yorkshire and Lancashire alone could provide 42,000 new homes, emphasising the potential for historic buildings to contribute to the housing supply.’

Duncan Wilson, chief executive at Historic England, said the report was ‘a timely and useful guide for developers who want to adapt historic buildings for new housing’.

He added: ‘historic buildings can offer attractive and sustainable living spaces that meet the needs and aspirations of modern homebuyers, while retaining their heritage significance and special character’. 

Tim Heatley, co-founder of developer Capital & Centric, said: ‘Inquiries for conversion projects currently outnumber new building inquiries ‘by a factor of four’. Perhaps people like historic buildings as a reminder of the past, of a bygone era when things appeared simpler.’

The new guidance will include advice on design development, listed building consent, and ongoing maintenance.