May 19, 2025
We’re pleased to see Bristol City Council consulting on a Local Listed Building Consent Order (LLBCO) for the Clifton Conservation Area. Bristol have set an ambitious target to reach net zero by 2030, less than 5 years away. This LLBCO is one of various ways they are looking to achieve this, recognising that any strategy needs to address the historic environment and encourage homeowners to adopt sustainable energy options.
The Order would grant automatic listed building consent (subject to conditions) for the installation of rooftop solar panels on most Grade II and II* homes — reducing carbon emissions without the cost and delay of a full listed building consent application.
Currently only one local authority in the UK has adopted one of these Orders for Solar Panels – Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in 2022, however London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham are also currently consulting on a very similar Order.
Although not yet in effect, Bristol's LLBCO is expected to be adopted during 2025.
As currently drafted, applicants would still need to submit details to the council for confirmation that the works comply with the conditions. While this aligns with the same conditions adopted by Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and we understand the desire to retain some oversight, we hope the final version goes one step further: by removing the need for any submission when installations clearly meet the Order’s requirements — bringing real clarity and confidence to homeowners and installers alike.
These pioneering Orders could set a national precedent. They show that:
🔹 Sustainability and heritage can work hand in hand
🔹 Policy can enable, not just restrict
🔹 Local authorities can lead on climate action in historic environments
As a heritage consultancy working in and around Bristol, we welcome this draft and look forward to supporting clients as it moves forward.
📩 If you’re planning a solar installation on a listed home in Clifton — or want to better understand what the order will mean — get in touch. We’re here to help.
