THE ‘Hanging Gardens of Basingstoke’ have given a Grade II listing alongside 13 of the finest post-war office buildings in England.

Mountbatten House, in Basing View, and its roof gardens - which were designed by Arup and Associates - have both been listed, with the gardens given grade II status on the register of historic parks and gardens.

The listings follow an English Heritage project to assess commercial buildings of 1964 to 1984.

Mountbatten House is the former headquarters for the paper merchants Wiggins Teape and has been listed as an unusual and distinct example of 1970s commercial office architecture by nationally-important architects firm, Arup Associates.

Built between 1974 and 1976, Mountbatten House remains largely intact.

It also has an an important historical association with the nationally-renowned garden designer James Russell.

The roof gardens, hailed as the ‘Hanging Gardens of Basingstoke’ have attracted many visitors over the years.

They are admired for their garden design and technical achievement and the elaborate planting scheme in a commercial office landscape.

Veronica Fiorato, designation team leader for English Heritage in the South said: “Mountbatten House is an innovative and unusual building with elaborate roof gardens which continue to inspire students and professionals alike.

“Office buildings shape the face of our cities and today’s listings have ensured that this area of architectural achievement is recognised for future generations.

“Listing helps the nation acknowledge and understand its shared history. It marks and celebrates a building's special architectural and historic interest, and also brings it under the consideration of the planning system, so that some thought will be given to its future when change is underway.”

24 buildings were originally selected for assessment, including Gateway Two, Belvedere House, in Basingstoke, which was not recommended for listing, Heritage Minister, Ed Vaizey, said: “Listed buildings are not just about historic houses and ancient monuments, they also serve to protect our recent heritage and preserve the best examples of our fantastic architecture.

“This group of listings reflect the changing face of our working environment and represent the very best in design and it's entirely right that they be listed Grade II.”