The Government has called on councils to draw up lists of buildings of significant historical and cultural value to their area as part of a drive to preserve local assets.

Communities secretary Robert Jenrick launched a new campaign today – billed as ‘the most ambitious heritage preservation campaign for decades’ – to encourage the listing of local heritage sites.

Mr Jenrick also urged councils to apply for a portion of a £700,000 fund that will go towards making sure they are better placed to preserve buildings and monuments in their areas.

Ten English counties will receive some of the funding.

To support this drive, Historic England will also launch a national campaign on local identity to get the country talking about what defines the UK’s heritage.

‘Today I’ve launched the most ambitious heritage preservation campaign for decades,’ Mr Jenrick said.

‘This will empower local people to protect thousands of historic buildings and preserve them for future generations.

‘Getting more buildings locally listed isn’t just about keeping a building intact – it keeps a community’s identity thriving.’

Culture secretary Nicky Morgan said: ‘Our built heritage is one of the things that make England one of the top tourist destinations in the world. It helps us attract millions of visitors every year who are keen to see the historic buildings at the heart of our communities, helping to boost our economy and make our towns and cities better places to live, work and visit.

‘By encouraging more local listings, we will ensure that buildings are protected for future generations so that the benefits heritage brings are felt right across the country.’