Most listed buildings are historic structures dating back a hundred years if not many more centuries.

But now the domes of Herstmonceux, near Hailsham, have been given equal status as buildings of architectural and historic importance.

They were built in the Fifties when the Royal Greenwich Observatory moved because of pollution from south-east London to Sussex.

They may not be pretty but the domes are buildings which exemplify the best of British architecture in that optimistic post-war era.

They deserve to be recognised and preserved as landmark buildings which also fulfilled an important scientific purpose.

Now it's time for the authorities to be even more adventurous and list other controversial buildings of merit - such as Hove Town Hall.