I applied for listed buildings status to English Heritage, but because most of the insides were stripped out (from the origional application) I had to mount an appeal for the shell to be listed which, had to be done via the governments department of media and sport (Andi Burnham) at the time wrote back to say that English Heritage were wrong in the appeal process. I applied on the grounds that it was "one of a kind" and of significant architectural importance in its design type.The company that own it have been in touch with me several times and made it quiet clear that the building will be converted into flats with Bungalows in the grounds at the back (feb 2009).
The costs which is the hold up is due to the safe removal of asbestos from the heating systems and pipes throughout the building so, becarefull. I think the owners are more worried about the liability if somebody did get in and put a claim in for asbestosis of the lung (as they are a charity)If you do a search on the planning application site using the post code you will see the last application this year so, its still on topic and beleive it or not a few council members are very keen to see its refurbishment particularly Leah Fraser
http://leahfraser.wordpress.com/2007/08/22/andrew-gibson-house-egremont/