Having read the article “Mysteries of VAT and organs” (Arts, 13 April), I wonder how to investigate whether the church where I am organist could be recognised as a listed building. It was finished in 1969.
On 1 April 2005, English Heritage took over administering the listing system from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Queries should be directed to the Heritage Protection Operations Department.
Anyone can apply for listing. Before applying, the disadvantages of listing in terms of restricting future alterations should be considered. An application should be supported by as much information as possible, including the address of the building, reasons for listing, clear original photographs, the name and address of the owner, and a location map.
When I applied on behalf of the PCC responsible for the church building where I worship, built from 1856 to 1888, I encountered resistance to listing yet another Victorian church, and so I had to make out a good argument: that its spire was a visual landmark; that it had an unusual relationship of aisle to nave height; that it had exceptional Edwardian stained glass, etc. Even so, a careful inspection was carried out by English Heritage to check.
Christopher Haffner (Reader)
East Molesey, Surrey
English Heritage is moving. From 30 May, post for its head office should be directed to 1 Waterhouse Square, 138-142 Holborn, London EC1N 2ST. See also www.english-heritage.org.uk.
Editor
Your questions
The Nonjuring Church of England (which remained loyal to the Stuart dynasty) flourished in the 18th century. Does anyone know when the last Nonjuror died?
M. H.
questions@churchtimes.co.uk