Milton Keynes is to have its first listed building.

Milton Keynes is to have a building listed for the first time, after the government’s decision to list a 1970s shopping centre.

John Penrose has listed the building, which is half a mile long and has been subject to fierece debate for eight years over whether it is worthy. Designed by Christopher Woodward, Derek Walker and Stuart Mosscrop, the glass and steel shopping centre was built in 1979 and is being Grade II listed.

Penrose said: “Post war buildings can, more than others, divide opinion.  The test of time cannot be rushed, so the minister – me on this occasion - has to weigh the advice of experts and, where there is no clear consensus, find a way through that helps protect what’s truly excellent.”

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