A home in Cambridgeshire will have to be stripped of its double glazing, as the listed building has failed an inspection.

Peter Taylor, who owns the 19th century property, was told the new windows were ?of very poor design?and do not preserve its special architectural and historic interest.?

Mr Taylor was first told to remove the windows last June, but immediately appealed against the decision. He also claimed he was unaware the building was listed.

But windows inspector Graham Dudley said the information would have been available when he bought the property.

He said: ?The shiny, precise finish of the plastic poorly contrasts with the finish of painted timber windows and the glazing bars on the front elevation are decorative only and do not divide the glass, which is a poor detail in this situation.

?The council identified the appeal terrace as being one of a relatively small number of this type of building and important to the character and appearance of the street scene.

?Overall, I conclude that the building is of special architectural and historic interest related to its age, design and group value.?

There are stringent rules in place regarding double glazing and listed buildings. Despite the positives double glazing brings such as reduced heat loss and better energy efficiency, it has to tie in nicely with the rest of the house.

It?s not just listed buildings that fall under these strict regulations. Properties in conservation areas and world heritage sites must also follow these guidelines.

And it?s not just double glazing that?s restricted. Other visible energy saving measure such as solar panels and geothermal heat pumps will not be allowed without permission.

To find out if your property is in one of these areas, contact your local council or planning officer. They?ll be able to advise you on the best course of action.