As part of the conveyancing, your solicitor would have checked the LPT and NPPR status. He/she should/would have informed you then of no LPT applicable, the building being abandoned, etc. Does this ring a bell? Maybe go back to your solicitor for a recap; there should be no charge for this.
What is “local need”? That you have a connection to the area (e.g. your uncle lived there)? Or that you personally are a benefit to the locality (e.g. you drive the school bus)? Or something else?