Spot listing is the temporary listing of building for a period of six months. This power can only be used if it appears to Belfast City Council that a building is of special architectural or historic interest; and is in danger of demolition or of alteration in such a way as to affect its character as a building of such interest.

Any requests for spot listing must be supported by a clear statement of any perceived threat, and as much historical and other supporting information as possible.

The mechanism of applying a spot listing is through the issues of Building Preservation Notices (BPNs). Previously such notices were issued by the Department, but Belfast City Council now retains powers to spot list.

BPNs allow councils to temporarily list a building for a period of six months (sometimes referred to as ‘spot listing’) while surveys and consultations are carried out.