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 Stirling News

Summer long celebration of the 90s and britpop launched

PubLife, a UK-wide summer celebration of the '90s will take place in over 500 pubs, including 7 in Scotland.

Electric Boat Launch Event at the Falkirk Wheel

The much-loved Antonine passenger vessel, a trip boat serving one of Scotland’s top tourist attractions has received an electrifying makeover.

Family days out just got better with free entry for kids at Scone Palace

This summer, as school holidays get underway, families are invited to enjoy a day out at Scone Palace with their Kids Go Free promotion.

Scone Palace International Horse Trials

The inaugural Scone Palace International Horse Trials will take place from 21st–24th August 2025 in the stunning grounds of Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse.

Countdown begins: The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run returns to Glasgow in October

Scotland's greatest running event, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, will return to Glasgow on Sunday 5th October and they want everyone to 'Be Your Greatest'.

BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K Pop documentary heading to Vue

BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom comes to Vue.

Plenty of summer family fun at Vue venues across Scotland

Family favourites and animated adventures are heading to the big screen this summer holiday at Vue venues across Scotland.

SAY Award opens submissions for eligible albums

Scotland’s national music prize – the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award – has opened submissions for 2025’s £20,000 prize.

Innis & Gunn Joins Forces with Stirling Highland Games in a 3 Year Cultural Celebration

The Stirling Highland Games has proudly announced a new three-year partnership with one of Scotland’s most iconic brewing brands, Innis & Gunn.

Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres

This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.

FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July

Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!

Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show

The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!

July events at Dobbies Garden Centres

Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!

Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition

Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.

Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!

Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!

25th year of Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway

Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway today, kick-starting nine days of dance performances, film screenings, visual art and photography exhibitions and community events across the country.

Exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland

Tickets are on sale for an exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland, with fans in for an extra special treat to take home.

Acclaimed debut Only Here, Only Now from Tom Newlands chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month in Scotland

The paperback edition of Only Here, Only Now by Tom Newlands has just been released - and is already making waves.

Feedback sought on new Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling project

To mark Bike Week UK, people across Stirling are being encouraged to take part in a new survey that will help shape active travel in the area and support the shift to sustainable modes of transport.

Stirling BID team brighten up City Centre with Blooming Planters

Pollinator-friendly plants, funded and organised by Go Forth Stirling BID have added a welcome splash of colour across Stirling city centre.

Funding Boost for Charities at Scottish Building Society AGM

Scottish Building Society marked its Annual General Meeting (AGM) by announcing funding to support eight local charities and good causes across the country.

Classic car enthusiasts set to visit Loch Lomond Shores

Visitors are invited to come along and get up-close to some amazing cars, set against the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond, as part of a great day out.

Paws, play and heritage on parade

Bark by popular demand, the Gordon Setter Parade returns on Saturday 5th July as part of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair, held at the stunning Scone Palace.

Dobbies hosts brand new Fairy Garden Tea Party

Dobbies Garden Centres are inviting families across the UK along to its stores on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of June to spend a magical afternoon filled with fun activities and good food.

Stirling celebrates its rich history at the Walking of the Marches

Stirling’s rich history and heritage was celebrated at its annual Walking of the Marches, which dates back to at least the 12th century, on Saturday (31 May).

Have your say on plans for a sustainable transport system in Stirling

People will have the opportunity to shape a future transport system for Stirling that is fair, clean and affordable with the launch of a new consultation.

How to train your Dad in 4DX Cineworld enlists Gerard Butler

Cineworld is launching a brand new 4DX Father's Day gift experience, containing two 4DX tickets and ponchos, perfect for experiencing the new live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film.

Summer of Roses: Free gardening workshop at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a free Rose-themed Grow How workshop this June, sharing top tips for caring for this beloved flowering plant.

William Wallace Running Festival seeks Teams of Bravehearts

Teams of runners have the chance to race through Scotland’s most historic battlefields and stunning landscapes during an exciting new event - the William Wallace Running Festival.

Cheers to 30 years: Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now open

Scotland's longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 - and they want you to have your say!

Popular Listings

Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling Castle The Albert Halls Stirling The National Wallace Monument Tolbooth Stirling

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 Stirling News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings