RESIDENTS have been asked to help update a council's list of buildings and gardens of special architectural and historic interest.

There are more than 300 listed buildings in Gateshead which have statutory protection, such as Gibside Chapel, built in 1769, the High Level Bridge, built in 1849, and the Shipley Art Gallery, built in 1915.

Parks and gardens such as Gibside, Saltwell Park and Bradley Park are also on English Heritage's Register of Parks and Gardens.

However, there are many buildings, structures, parks and gardens which, while not being of national importance, are of special interest and local importance, and Gateshead Council is asking people to help identify them. The local list includes such diverse buildings as the stable behind The Aletaster pub, in Low Fell, The Borough Arms pub, in Bensham Road, Carlton Terrace, in Low Fell, and St Oswald's Church, in Wrekenton.

Buildings on the local list do not have the same legal protection as fully-listed buildings, but their recognition will be a factor that can be considered when planning or funding decisions are made in the future.

Anyone wanting to nominate a landmark for the local list should write to Geoff Underwood or Stuart Norman, at Gateshead Council, Freepost NEA 3381, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, NE8 1BR, stating the building, park, garden or structure, and why it is important.