TV vote to save buildings at risk

A Pop Idol-style TV show for historic buildings is to be launched to attract new fans for crumbling architectural treasures around the country.

The move was revealed to coincide with English Heritage's latest Register of Buildings at Risk 2002. The annual report revealed that 1,542 listed buildings around England are at risk of falling down.

A new BBC2 series, Restoration, hopes to raise viewers' interest in the historic treasures and raise money to save the winning entry. Viewers will take part in regional heats over 10 weeks, voting for their favourite endangered buildings. The winner will be restored from cash raised by the programme.

Dr Simon Thurley, chief executive of English Heritage, disclosed details of the buildings in peril at Brixton Windmill, itself at risk and a unique Grade II-listed structure.

Dr Thurley said: "Buildings at risk are an invaluable part of our lives and culture. They are not just castles and stately homes but familiar landmarks, public halls, old pubs and houses that define the character and appearance of our streets.

He added: "Today, over 1,500 of England's most important historic buildings are in danger of being lost forever ... Sadly, this figure has not dropped significantly since the first register in 1991.

"English Heritage has spent £22m in the last five years on buildings at risk, but would need £400m to save all the lot."

He cited Brighton Pier, built in 1814; the Gorilla House at London Zoo; Durham Castle and St Pancras Chambers, designed by George Gilbert Scott, as four buildings at risk.