Conserving Heritage
A main statement that briefly introduces the contents of the page, a secondary header
Why heritage matters
The landscapes of Bannau Brycheiniog have been shaped by thousands of years of human activity. From prehistoric monuments to medieval castles, from traditional farmsteads to industrial remains, these historic features are part of what makes the Park special. Conserving them is about more than preservation. It is about celebrating our shared story, maintaining the character of our towns and villages, and ensuring that future generations can learn from and enjoy this inheritance.
Listed Buildings
There are nearly 2,000 Listed Buildings in the National Park, ranging from farmhouses and chapels to castles and civic buildings. Listing identifies a building as being of national importance, and protects it against unsympathetic change. Alterations or repairs often require Listed Building Consent, supported by a Heritage Impact Statement, to ensure that the special architectural and historic character of the building is respected. The Authority’s heritage officers work with owners to guide sympathetic repair and reuse so that these buildings remain part of living communities.
Conservation Areas
Five towns and villages within the Park – Brecon, Crickhowell, Hay-on-Wye, Llangattock and Talgarth – are designated as Conservation Areas because of their special architectural or historic interest. In these areas, planning rules are stricter to make sure that new development preserves or enhances the character of the place. Consent may be needed for demolition, alterations to roofs and windows, or the removal of trees. Conservation Area Appraisals provide detailed guidance on what makes each area distinctive and how change can be managed sensitively.
Archaeology and historic landscapes
Archaeological remains are found across the Park, from prehistoric burial cairns to the remnants of industry. There is always a presumption in favour of preserving nationally important remains in place. Where development is proposed near an archaeological site, applicants may need to provide surveys or assessments, and in some cases adjust designs to protect remains. The Park also contains eight nationally recognised historic landscapes, each a testament to centuries of human influence. Managing these areas helps maintain their cultural and educational value.
The Local List
Not all heritage assets appear on national registers. To recognise what matters locally, the Authority works with communities to create a Local List. This records buildings, monuments, open spaces and other features that have special local significance. By identifying these places formally, communities ensure that they are valued, celebrated and considered in planning decisions.
Our Action Plan
The Historic Environment Action Plan sets out how the Authority and its partners will care for the Park’s historic environment between 2023 and 2028. It recognises the pressures facing heritage – from climate change to changing land use – and sets priorities for conservation, engagement and partnership working. By aligning this plan with the wider Nature Recovery Action Plan and National Park Management Plan, the Authority ensures that cultural and natural heritage are considered together.
Working together
Heritage protection is a shared responsibility. Landowners, local groups, volunteers and organisations such as Cadw all have a role in safeguarding the Park’s historic environment. The Authority provides advice, guidance and support, but it is through collaboration that the most effective results are achieved. By working together we can protect the special qualities of the Park, while allowing communities to adapt and thrive.