Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas

Historic Buildings in Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire contains a wide range of historic buildings that represent key periods and events in the county’s history. These include Roman towns, sites linked to the Rebecca Riots, historic market halls, public houses, farms, stately homes, and castles. Together, they reflect the area’s architectural and cultural development over time.

Historic buildings contribute to the economic, cultural, social, and environmental fabric of the county. Their preservation supports tourism, local identity, and sustainable development.

Role of the Built Heritage Service

The Council provides professional advice and guidance for the care and management of historic buildings across the county. This includes support for the 1,800 listed structures and the 28 designated Conservation Areas.

The service works with property owners, developers, and custodians to help protect and maintain these assets in accordance with national and local planning policy. The goal is to preserve the architectural and historic significance of these sites for current and future generations.

Information Available on This Website

These webpages provide detailed information about:

• When Listed Building Consent is required
• Permitted activities in Conservation Areas
• Appropriate methods for maintenance and repair of historic structures
• Where to find further information, training, or support

You can access this information through the separate tabs below.

Pre-Application Advice

A free pre-application advice service is available to help determine whether Listed Building Consent is required. Applicants are encouraged to submit as much detail as possible regarding their proposals, including the property’s location, photographs, and drawings, to the Built Heritage Team for assessment.  Email the team directly at bhconsultations@carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Purchasing a Listed Building

Prospective buyers of listed properties can find information about what elements are covered by the listing, including curtilage structures. This ensures that any planned changes or works comply with statutory requirements.

For further information view the 'What is listed' pages of this website and on the drop-down menu look at the section on ‘Is the whole of my building listed – what does the listing cover?’.

Conservation Areas

Property owners can check whether their building is within a Conservation Area and whether Planning Permission is required for proposed alterations. Conservation Area designation affects permitted development rights and may influence the planning process.  For further information view the Conservation Area pages of this website.

Contact and Support

The Built Heritage Team, based at the Tywi Centre, offers support, technical guidance and training on:

• Suitable materials and repair techniques for historic buildings
• Identifying qualified professionals for building conservation projects
• Completing and submitting Listed Building Consent applications

You can sign up for our course on Listed Building Consent: Making an Application which offers practical guidance on the application process.

You can email the Tywi Centre at: canolfantywicentre@carmarthenshire.gov.uk or visit the Tywi Centre website