Willoughby Almshouses: High Court Quashes Unlawful Listed Building Consent

Following legal action by the SPAB, in April the High Court agreed that listed building consent for an insensitive redevelopment scheme to Willoughby Almshouses was invalid. We anxiously awaited final confirmation that consent would be withdrawn.  

We’re delighted to announce that the High Court has now ruled that Broxtowe Council acted unlawfully in granting listed building consent without notifying us. The listed building consent, which had been granted to the developers, has now been officially quashed.  

Thank you to all our supporters who joined us in fighting for these almshouses. It’s a fantastic example of the positive changes we can achieve together.  

These almshouses are an exceptionally fine example of 17th century almshouse buildings and their Grade II* listing means they are in the top 8% of listed buildings in England and Wales. 

We hope it also reminds other councils that they must notify the National Amenity Societies where applications involve the total or partial demolition of listed buildings and to consider their advice.  

We have written to Broxtowe Council and the applicant to offer discussion about constructive ways forward to bring these buildings back into use.  

Matthew Slocombe, Director of the SPAB, says: “We’re pleased that the High Court has quashed this listed building consent and upheld our right to be notified. As statutory consultees, we provide free, independent advice on the best ways to adapt and reuse old buildings for everyone’s benefit. We look forward to providing that advice in the case of the Willoughby Almshouses and to seeing these remarkable buildings brought back into use.”  

Credit: Gavin Gillespie