Energy efficiency is essential to protecting our listed buildings.

2.48.20pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 10th Nov 2004

Listed buildings and heritage zones should not prevent energy efficiency measures according to Manchester's Liberal Democrats.

At today's Executive Meeting, Shadow Executive Member for Street Environment, Cllr Iain Donaldson, stated that 'Modern energy technologies such as solar panels and wind turbines should not be barred from heritage zones and listed buildings just because they change the way the City looks."

Cllr Donaldson pointed out that current listed building status and heritage zones can mean that there are severe restrictions on what can and can not be done with a building. This can sometimes lead to energy efficiency measures not taking place.

"It is important that we do not end up with important buildings being so heavily protected that nobody will use them any more just because of the look of modern technology."

For further information contact Cllr Iain Donaldson