The LPOC’s petition calling on the Government to reduce VAT to 5% on repairs and approved alterations to listed buildings reached the 10,000-signature milestone that triggers a Government response. We have now received that response and although it was no surprise that the Government would turn down our appeal, the arguments Ministers have made are deeply disappointing. The Government has claimed that it would not be possible to introduce a reduced rate for repairs and alterations to listed properties alone and to do so for all properties would cost the Exchequer at least £2.5 billion a year. For this reason
Read More

This response was given on 8 November 2018 – We recognise the valuable contribution to UK Heritage made by owners of listed buildings. We continue to promote our country’s heritage and we will ensure that everyone can enjoy and benefit from it. Protecting and making the most of the UK’s heritage is important for our economy and society. We released a Heritage Statement in 2017, setting out how we will support the heritage sector. Historic England and the Heritage Lottery Fund provide advice and support for the conservation of heritage, including listed buildings. The government recognises the particular challenges faced
Read More

Our national VAT petition is now a third of the way to the target of 10,000 signatures that will trigger a response from Government. Listed property owners right across the UK have enthusiastically taken up our call for a 5% VAT rate on repairs and approved alterations to listed buildings. A useful map (click here to view map) shows the constituencies around the UK where listed building owners have already taken action. The highest number of signatories live in North Herefordshire, Tiverton and Honiton, The Cotswolds, Cities of London and Westminster, Tonbridge and Malling and South Thanet, where Craig Mackinlay,
Read More