Environment Minister Edwin Poots has published new criteria for the listing of buildings.

The new criteria provides more detailed guidance on the approach followed by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) and for the first time provides an in depth explanation of the criteria referred to on listing reports.

Mr Poots said: “My Department protects Northern Ireland’s listed historic buildings because they are of special architectural or historic interest. Decisions on which parts of our heritage fall into this category can often be controversial and it is important that clear guidance is available.

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“These protected structures represent the best of our historic buildings. They are a legacy to be cherished in their own right and because they add character and richness to our surroundings.

It is important that this heritage remains intact and is utilised - not least as an essential draw for the tourism industry- as we seek to make the most of Northern Ireland’s potential for the future.

“Clear criteria has an important role to play in this, as the public and owners can better understand why structures have been protected.

“I welcome this new publication which I hope will contribute to a wider understanding of why the NIEA protects such structures.”

(GK/KMcA)