The Commonwealth Institute, in Holland Park, west London, faces the prospect of demolition.
Opinions are divided on the future of the building, which closed to the public two years ago.
Some believe it should be saved while others say it should be pulled down and the site sold to fund education of Commonwealth children.
Some £10m-£20m has been spent on refurbishment of the Sir Robert Matthew-designed icon in the last two decades.
Kensington and Chelsea council will lodge an objection to demolition.
Tessa Jowell, culture secretary, has asked English Heritage to prepare a report on whether the listing should be reviewed.
References: The Guardian 26/11/04 page 13
