The DCMS has withdrawn the bid to establish Darwin at Downe, Darwin’s former home and workplace, as a World Heritage Site.

The announcement follows a report by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) – the advisory body for the World Heritage Committee – which questioned the universal value, authenticity and integrity of the site.

Despite the setback, the government is still looking to push for the visitor attraction, near Bromley, to become the UK’s 27th World Heritage Site.

David Lammy, culture minister, said: “The Government firmly believes that Darwin at Downe fully justifies World Heritage status.

“We remain committed to this nomination. We were surprised and disappointed at the ICOMOS evaluation and we need to consider very carefully the issues raised by them. Withdrawing the nomination this year will give us the opportunity to do just that.”

The DCMS now plans to submit a revised bid in 2009.