Open letter to Robin Hood Gardens campaigners

15 May 2008

Dear Robin Hood Gardens Campaigner
 
Thank you for engaging in the debate about whether or not the Robin Hood Estate is listable.  We know you will feel disappointed that English Heritage did not find that this building satisfied the necessary criteria for us to recommend it for listing.  We hope that you will visit our website at www.english-heritage.org.uk/robinhood where we explain how we came to our recommendation.
 
Whatever the final decision on this particular building, you helped to raise an important principle at an absolutely crucial time.  We believe that outstanding 20th century buildings should be afforded the same level of protection as those from previous generations.  Some disagree with us, and their views could be a threat to 20th century buildings at any time, but particularly now as an important Heritage Protection Bill is about to enter Parliament. 
 
We are confident that the case for listing the Robin Hood Estate received objective, fair and thorough consideration from English Heritage. The Principles of Selection for listing set the threshold for 20th century buildings higher than for earlier periods. And we believe this is appropriate. There are those who would like the threshold to be higher, but in our opinion this could exclude many buildings that might justifiably be listed. Your voice can help us ensure that appropriate protection for 20th century buildings is not undermined in future by the introduction of even stricter criteria.
 
Steven Bee
Director of Planning and Development
English Heritage
+44 (0)207 973 3486