This is the system that allows five denominations in the UK to operate their own statutory permissions systems, for repairs and some alterations, which are equivalent to the local authority listed building consent process. 

If you are within one of these denominations you will need to consult the relevant advisory committee.

The five denominations are:

• Baptist Union of Great Britain
• Church of England
• Methodist Church of Great Britain
• Roman Catholic Church
• United Reformed Church

For further information regarding Ecclesiastical Exemption please look here.

Alongside the Buildings of Faith, Graveyards and Cemeteries hold vital significance for the area. These spaces can be areas of quiet contemplation, reflection or remembrance and present a close connection to the community. Due to their historic nature, conservation and maintenance these areas were surveyed as part of the Winchester Future 50 Conservation Area Project mentioned above. For additional information regarding the St Giles Graveyard, please refer to the link on the side of this page which will direct you to the work completed by the Friends of St Giles.

Part of the Winchester Future 50 Conservation Area Project involved assessing the setting and surrounding environment of heritage sites. Through this, many Trees and Hedges were deemed to be of amenity value, as individuals and/or as groups. A substantial part of Graveyards and Cemetery spaces are in abundance of these and as of this have been recorded. Further information regarding the maintenance of Trees and Hedges within the conservation areas can be found via the following links:

Tree Department

Landscape and Countryside Department

Works to Trees and Areas within the South Downs National Park 

Alongside this project, the University of Winchester have recently completed the ‘West Hill Cemetery Project’. Information for this can be found via the following the link on the side of this page.

Due to the significance of these sites, Historic England provides extensive and comprehensive guidance and information regarding the conservation and maintenance of Buildings of Faith and Graveyards and Cemeteries. The links to this information can be found via the links on the side of this page.

This includes information for caring and managing Graveyards and Cemeteries and guidance on the considerations taken to Commemorative Structures.