There are over 2500 listed buildings in Liverpool, England. A listed building is one considered to be of special architectural, historical or cultural significance, which is protected from being demolished, extended or altered, unless special permission is granted by the relevant planning authorities. Due to the way in which buildings are listed by English Heritage and due to the large number of buildings within the city, they have been subdivided in Grade I, II* and II buildings lists, with the Grade II buildings being further split up by postcode.