People of Scotland invited to have their say on priorities for heritage in Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is looking to the people of Scotland for input on draft plan to help country’s heritage deliver real, lasting benefits for all.

Article Source: Historic Environment Scotland (HES)
Last Updated: 24 October 2024 16:20

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) opened a public consultation today, Thursday 24 October, asking the public for their views on how the organisation can best support Scotland’s diverse heritage through its next Corporate Plan. The plan will guide HES’s work over the next three years (2025-2028) and the organisation wants to ensure the public help shape their priorities and approach to the challenges and opportunities it faces.

As Scotland’s heritage faces increasing pressures from economic and political challenges, climate change, and a shortage of traditional skills, the heritage charity and public body is seeking feedback on how it intends to organise its work around five priority areas. The draft plan also outlines aims to work in partnership locally, nationally, and internationally, innovate in the face of challenges, and focus on the areas of work that offer the greatest impact to the people of Scotland.

Scotland’s historic environment is a vital part of the country’s economy, contributing £6 billion and supporting 81,000 jobs in 2023-24. As the largest operator of paid-for visitor attractions in Scotland, HES properties generated £900 million through tourism that would otherwise be lost without the draw of the historic sites the organisation cares for. This includes spend in local businesses such as retail, hospitality, and transport, benefitting economies and communities across Scotland. The organisation awards around £13.5 million in grants each year on behalf of the Scottish Government to projects that protect and promote the country’s historic environment. HES also plays an important role in Scotland’s planning system, as well as working with learners and education providers across the country to make the historic environment a valued national resource for lifelong learning.

We live in a climate emergency and with the negative impact of a changing climate on Scotland’s historic environment, rising costs, and a shortage of traditional skills, the need for a resilient, forward-thinking organisation has never been greater. Through this consultation, HES aims to gather diverse perspectives on the areas of focus it has outlined for the next three years: Scotland’s heritage, skills and learning, people and places, climate action, and inclusion and resilience.

“Scotland’s heritage is not just about the past; it’s central to shaping a greener, more inclusive future for all to enjoy," said Katerina Brown, Chief Executive of HES. "Our historic environment has a vital role to play in addressing some of the most pressing concerns facing individuals, businesses, and communities today. Whether it’s addressing the rising costs and tackling the limited availability of skilled contractors for building owners, or the impact of extreme weather events that close historic places, reducing visitor numbers and income for local businesses – these are real issues where heritage can be part of the solution.

“Our draft corporate plan, Heritage for All, outlines how we can enhance Scotland’s historic environment to maximise the benefits of our shared heritage. By prioritising resources, improving efficiency, fostering innovation, and working with partners in the heritage sector and beyond, we can help more people engage with and benefit from their local heritage. We're inviting partners, stakeholders, and the public to help us shape this plan, and I encourage everyone to reflect on how heritage plays a role in their daily lives and share their experience so our work can make the greatest impact in the years ahead.”

The consultation opens today, Thursday 24 October, until 3 January 2025. HES encourages everyone in Scotland to share their views and contribute to how the nation’s historic environment can continue to deliver for Scotland.

The consultation can be found at historicenvironment.scot. To join in the conversation online please tag @histenvscot using the hashtag #HeritageMatters.

Image credit: Historic Environment Scotland

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Edinburgh News

Volunteer Centre East Lothian reopens just in time for the season of goodwill

The team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) have thrown open their doors after an extensive renovation and are welcoming back local residents, volunteers and community groups.

Newtongrange Primary School pupils reap the benefits of outdoor learning with a newly extended playground

Pupils at a Midlothian school have given their resounding approval to their newly extended playground, which includes access to green space and trim trail equipment.

Fort Kinnaird crowns winner of competition to design labels for homegrown honey

Nine-year-old Elodie from Niddrie Mill Primary School has been named the winner of a recent competition launched by Fort Kinnaird to design a label for the honey produced by its resident beehives.

Name the Loganair Christmas puffin and win a family adventure

Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, has launched a new festive competition to name the puffin starring in its emotional Christmas advert.

Edinburghs Hogmanay reveals International Partnership & Artist Exchange Programme with Basque Country

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay today reveals the full line-up for its much-loved First Footin’ programme on New Year’s Day, with a landmark international collaboration led by Valtos topping the bill.

The Main Course: Serving Up a Slice of Italy in the Heart of Gullane this Christmas

Planning a Christmas lunch with colleagues, a family gathering or a relaxed night out with friends? The Main Course offers comfort, warmth and a menu that brings people back year after year.

Hamish Hawk commission comes to life with Edinburgh International Book Festival first ever record release

Edinburgh International Book Festival today announces that Life in a Scotch Sitting-room, Vol. 0, a limited-edition LP by Scottish indie songwriter Hamish Hawk, will be released on 5th December.

SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh unveils New Years Eve event and festive offering

This festive season, SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh is elevating its celebrations with two unforgettable experiences that perfectly capture the spirit of the season.

Vault City launches festive, Quaffable Treats, beer box inspired by Christmas chocolate tins

An Edinburgh brewery has created the 'perfect gift' for beer lovers this Christmas, inspired by the chocolates people hunt for first in the tin.

Red Hot Chilli Pipers headline free weekend of celebrations with Christmas ceilidh and market

The Ross Bandstand sparked festivities on Sunday with its opening Light Night Concert, and now has a jam-packed Scottish weekend in store of free events in honour of St Andrew's Day.

Somewhere by Nico Launches Festive Cocktail Experience

This festive season, Glasgow and Edinburgh relevellers can relive the magic of Christmas past as Somewhere by Nico unveil a brand-new immersive experience!

Zizzi celebrates a fresh era with a new menu and app, by giving 132 people free pasta for one year

Zizzi has introduced a new food & drink menu across all its restaurants, launched a brand-new Zizzi app, and is giving 132 people free pasta for one year.

Festive Season at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched some new offerings designed for memorable Christmas stays, spectacular Hogmanay celebrations, and cozy winter escapes.

Leading the charge! Edinburgh car retailer hosts electric vehicle experience

John Clark Volvo Edinburgh is celebrating after its first EV Customer Experience Evening was a success with local drivers.

Six of the Best: Iconic concerts that rocked Murrayfield as the famous stadium turns 100

Scottish Gas Murrayfield has hosted some of the biggest shows Scotland has ever seen – and fans have had their say on the standouts.

Second year of Urban Forestry Programme opens across Scotland

Community groups, organisations and schools across Scotland are being invited to apply for grants of up to £100,000.

Fire and Ice captivates thousands as Castle of Light opens in spectacular style

Over 4,700 people descended on Edinburgh Castle this weekend as Castle of Light: Fire and Ice officially opened to the public!

Heather On The Hill Festival Announced

Edinburgh Summer Sessions is delighted to announce Heather On The Hill Festival, a brand-new family-focused one day festival taking place at the Royal Highland Centre on Saturday 22 August.

The Vittoria Group Launches Black Friday Offer

With Black Friday just a week away, the family run Vittoria Group is launching one of Edinburgh’s biggest, and most giftable, foodie offers with 50% off vouchers across all venues.

Free sweets at brand new Edinburgh store opening this weekend

Sweet lovers in Edinburgh can enjoy a free treat on Saturday 22nd November, as Ambala opens its brand-new store on Gorgie Road.

United Airlines Celebrates Girls in Aviation Day at Edinburgh Airport

United Airlines inspires girls to pursue careers in aviation by opening the doors to their operation at Edinburgh Airport.

Christmas arrives at The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Visitors to the Palace of Holyroodhouse will see the State Apartments decked with glistening Christmas trees, garlands, and a magnificent table display to celebrate the festive season.

Celebrate the Festive Season with Caorunn Gin at the St James Quarter

Caorunn, the award-winning small batch gin from the Scottish Highlands, has unveiled an exclusive festive pop-up stand at St James Quarter Edinburgh, running until 31st December 2025.

BBC Cbeebies starts the Panto Season at Edinburgh Cinemas

Now a festive family tradition, the CBeebies panto Cinderella is coming to the big screen in Edinburgh from Friday 21st November.

Scottish rugby stars to ignite Edinburgh Castle this Friday at Castle of Light: Fire & Ice

Edinburgh Castle is set to shine this Friday (21 November) as Scotland rugby stars Matt Currie and Adelle Ferrie officially switch on the spectacular Castle of Light: Fire & Ice.

Celebrate The Autumn Internationals at The Ivy On The Square, Edinburgh

As the Rugby Autumn Internationals take centre stage across the UK and Ireland, The Ivy on The Square, Edinburgh is serving up a winning special worthy of champions.

Spotlight shines on the first shows announced for redeveloped Kings Theatre

The King’s Theatre takes a major step forward on the path to reopening following its landmark redevelopment, unveiling some of the first shows set to appear on the iconic Edinburgh stage.

Four Major International Performances Go on Sale for Edinburgh International Festival 2026

Following a record number of sold-out performances in 2025, audiences can book early for what promise to be must-see performances in 2026!

Christmas in Edinburgh and Glasgow: Celebrate the festive season with Candlelight Concerts

Featuring classic Christmas carols, this live, multi-sensory musical experience will light up St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral and Merchants House and The Trades Hall for an unforgettable evening.

Find a Festive Backdrop in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Fife

From frosty gardens to candlelit palaces, National Trust for Scotland places in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Fife are offering a host of winter experiences and special events this festive season.

Popular Listings

Corn Exchange Haddington Edinburgh Playhouse Festival Theatre Edinburgh Howden Park Centre Livingston Kings Theatre Edinburgh National Museum of Scotland O2 Academy Edinburgh The Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh Traverse Theatre Usher Hall

People of Scotland invited to have their say on priorities for heritage in Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is looking to the people of Scotland for input on draft plan to help country’s heritage deliver real, lasting benefits for all.

Sponsored Links

Latest Edinburgh News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings