He wrote to Rossendale Borough Council asking whether they intend to list the building, and was told that they cannot list the hospital as it is not regarded as being of historical importance by English Heritage.
English Heritage described the former workhouse as a “late example of a ‘corridor type’ workhouse and stated that it does not display an innovation or historical developments in its construction (it opened in 1870)” and that therefore it is “not of sufficient special architectural or historic interest to merit listing”.
Jake Berry, who is fighting for the former hospital to be listed, commented “Rossendale has a heritage to be proud of, with much of our architecture dating back to the industrial revolution. It is vital that we protect our culture and I intend to keep fighting to have the building listed.”
English Heritage also stated that the building was not worth listing due to changes to the site.
English Heritage claim that the original buildings have been altered internally to adapt to changing standards of treatment and care and that the former workhouse building’s original plan has changed due to additions to the building.
However, Jake argues, “this is precisely why the building must be listed. We cannot afford to let the character of the building be changed further.
“If we succeed in obtaining a grade 2 listing this will protect the external appearance of the Hospital and would not unduly fetter an future development on the site.
“I will be asking Rossendale Borough Council to put pressure on English Heritage review its decision and show the people of Rossendale that they appreciate our heritage.”