The Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill has been passed unanimously by the Scottish Parliament. The legislation is designed to strengthen investment in local communities and places new duties on councils, health boards and other public bodies to focus on how wealth is generated, circulated and retained within local economies.
In practice, that means:

• More procurement from local businesses
• Stronger support for social enterprises
• Investment in local skills and supply chains
• Greater opportunities for communities to acquire vacant and derelict land and buildings

Scotland will become the first country in the world to legislate for Community Wealth Building at national, regional and local level. For Scotland’s built environment and heritage sectors, this is significant, strengthening the case for reinvesting in local places, supporting traditional and green skills, and enabling communities to take ownership of assets that matter to them.

The Draft Scottish Budget has passed at Stage 1 with MSPs voting 65 to 30 in favour of the Budget (Scotland) Bill, and Labour and Scottish Greens abstaining. Liberal Democrats backed the plans after securing concessions on social care, hospices and business rates worth just under £300m, and Scottish Conservatives opposed. Further negotiations leading to Stage 2 are expected, which BEFS will be following.

With Edinburgh the first council in Scotland to approve a visitor levy of 5%, the much anticipated announcement of first round of spending programmes for the levy arrived last week.
From the £50m expected to be raised annually, a £5m funding pot to build 472 homes – previously approved by councillors on the housing, homelessness and fair work committee – has now been officially confirmed.
The council has described the package of funding, worth more than £90m over the next three years, as aiming “to sustain and enhance Edinburgh’s reputation as one of the most beautiful and enjoyable destinations in the world” and helping “not only to sustain and enhance the things that make our city so special, but also to better manage the effects of tourism and major events on those who live here all year round.”

Notable culture, heritage, tourism, and event funding includes:

• £3.8m for accessibility and sustainability for venues
• £3m for investments in heritage assets

• £700k for public art

• £1.15m for responsible tourism and visitor dispersal

Read the full breakdown here.

And in case you missed it, BEFS has published the latest edition of the quarterly Places of Worship Forum (POWF) Newsletter. Our featured blog is from Dr Emily Johnston and Dr Lizzie Swarbrick of Research in Action on Church Heritage (ReACH), a project responding to the urgent challenge of church closures across Scotland. Behind every closure is not just a building, but layers of community memory, craftsmanship, archives, music and social history. As closures continue, coordinated, evidence-led action is critical. This work documents what may be lost and supports communities navigating change. Read the blog here and subscribe to POWF Newsletter here.

Shaping Scotland’s Built Environment Cluster – Online Survey
BE-ST / Scottish Enterprise
This online survey is seeking insights to shape priorities, focus areas, and activities of the emerging Built Environment Cluster Management Organisation. It aims to strengthen Scotland’s global competitiveness, support scaling of innovations in sustainable building and digital construction, and accelerate decarbonisation. The survey is being delivered in partnership with Optimat, CICV network and industry collaborators.
*NEW* Closes 27 February 2026 

Fair Work Across Scotland’s Historic Environment
Historic Environment Scotland
This survey is part of a wider programme of research exploring how Fair Work principles are understood and put into practice across Scotland’s historic environment sector. This survey relates to the Scottish Government’s Fair Work approach, which sets out principles for fair, inclusive and sustainable work across Scotland. HES want to build a clear baseline of current practice, identify where organisations are already delivering Fair Work in ways that work for them and better understand the barriers and support needs that exist; particularly for small, community-based and volunteer-led organisations. The survey focuses on organisational awareness and approaches to Fair Work rather than compliance or assessment.
Closes 2 March 2026 

Home Energy Model: Energy Performance Certificates
UK Government
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is consulting on Energy Performance Certificate assessment reform in England and Wales, and is seeking views on the new Home Energy Model methodology in particular. The Department is particularly interested in comment from retrofit professionals, energy assessors and product manufacturers. The consultation will support the UK Government’s commitments to reach net zero by 2050 and alleviate fuel poverty.
Closes 18 March 2026 

Onshore Electricity Generation: Increasing threshold for applications under The Electricity Act
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks views on increasing the 50MW threshold which determines whether applications for onshore electricity generating stations are decided by Scottish Ministers or by the relevant planning authority.
Closes 27 March 2026 

New Inventory of Living Heritage – Expression of Interest
Living Heritage in the UK
Following ratification of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, the UK government invites communities to nominate their own cultural traditions for the inventories of living heritage in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Categories include oral expressions, performing arts, social practices, nature/land/spirituality, crafts, sport/games, and culinary practices.
Closes 27 March 2026 

The Big Think: Place
UK Heritage Pulse
Sector-wide surveys organised by the UK Heritage Pulse, a research consortium convened by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England, will explore how heritage organisations work with place and what ‘place-based heritage’ means in practice. Monthly surveys on the theme will run in January, February and March and are open to all heritage organisations.
Closes 31 March 2026 

Scottish Building Regulations: Fire Safety review and Compliance: Call for Evidence
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks to obtain the views and opinions of stakeholders on a review of building standards and guidance relating to fire safety, and including work on the compliance plan approach, to help ensure the safety of people in and around Scotland’s buildings. The consultation covers three main areas: the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations on fire safety, including a fundamental review of Section 2 (Fire) of the Technical Handbooks; the compliance plan manager; and the compliance plan approach. The proposed review and changes outlined in the consultation aim to improve safety for the design and construction of all domestic and non-domestic buildings making them safer for those in and around buildings, particularly relating to fire safety and in the event of an outbreak of a building fire when considering the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations. The consultation paper contains full background information.
Closes 10 April 2026 

Accelerating home-building in Scotland
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks views on possible measures to accelerate the build-out of housing in Scotland, including mechanisms to stimulate the build-out of housing sites with planning permission. Options include land assembly, build-out rates, and fiscal measures. Follows commitment in Housing Emergency Action Plan to extend planning consultation to cover measures for SMEs and increase volume of delivery.
*NEW* Closes 30 April 2026 

Draft Infrastructure Strategy 2027-2037
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government wants Scotland’s infrastructure to be planned and delivered in a way that supports net zero and environmental sustainability, inclusive economic growth, and resilient and sustainable places. The ambition is to create a system that makes best use of existing assets, embraces innovation, and ensures investment decisions deliver long-term public value. However, delivering infrastructure is not without challenges. To meet these challenges, the strategy focuses on three key enablers that can help turn strategic ambition into practical outcomes, ensuring investment choices deliver long-term public value: public assets, place-making and private investment. The  consultation paper  contains full background information for respondents.
Closes 5 May 2026 

 Consultation Responses

Alternative Clean Heating Solutions
The UK Government’s Department for Energy and Net Zero consulted on the role of alternative clean heating solutions in decarbonising buildings to address climate change and reduce energy bills. In a submitted statement, BEFS highlighted the need for fabric-first approaches, alongside appropriate use and application of technologies that carefully consider the typologies and assess the conditions of traditional buildings. (BEFS 09/02/26)

News Releases

Lost and Found: Rediscovering Scotland’s Forgotten Prehistory (HES 26/01/2026)

Trust calls for VAT cuts to save heritage (National Trust for Scotland 29/01/2026)

Government in shocking retreat on clean heating (Scottish Green Party 04/02/2026)

Community Led Housing Alliance publishes manifesto for 2026 Scottish Parliament election (SOSCH 10/02/2026)

Research on the governance of material management in the establishment of resource exchange mechanisms (Zero Waste Scotland 08/01/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

S6M-20720
Submitted by: Shona Robison, Dundee City East, Scottish National Party
Date lodged: 09/02/2026
That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Budget (Scotland) (No. 5) Bill.
Voted 12/02/2026: Agreed 65 for, 30 against, 24 abstained

Podcast: Equality in Housing – Housing for Complex Needs (CaCHE January 2026)

Glasgow City Council paid £19m by businesses paying for packaging waste disposal (STV News 31/01/2026)

Demolition bid at former chapel of religious sect rejected (BBC News 04/02/2026)

Wealthy use loophole to conceal value of £300m in Scottish land sales (The Guardian 07/02/2026)

Best British Makers: meet the apprentices keeping crafts alive (The Times 09/02/2026)

Can solar panels turn around one of Scotland’s most deprived communities? (BBC News 09/02/2026)

Campaigners welcome ‘long overdue’ listing of brutalist Southbank Centre (The Guardian 10/02/2026)

Britain’s building standards are now so bad, even the super-rich are facing housing misery (The Guardian 11/02/2026)

At-risk ‘heritage icons’ overlooked in city’s £100m Visitor Levy plans (Edinburgh Inquirer 12/02/206)

More policing, restoration of landmarks and investment across the city are all set to come from £90m in income in the first three years of Edinburgh’s new visitor levy (STV News 12/02/2026)

Britain’s most improved towns — and those left behind next door. What the country’s comebacks can teach us about reviving the places that seem to have little hope (The Times 12/02/2026)

Behind the hoardings at Queen Street, George Square looks bleak — but its redesign could help Glasgow bend back towards renewal (The Times 16/02/2026)

Michael Duncan obituary: Architect who helped shape the design of the Scottish Parliament building (The Guardian 16/02/2026)

Town centre ‘heritage gems’ to be restored with £7m of lottery funds (BBC News 17/02/26)

Events

Training

Vacancies

Edinburgh World Heritage – Head of Operations and Business Support
Salary: £41,067 per annum
Status: Full-time permanent (0.8 FTE may be considered)
Location: Edinburgh; hybrid working option available
Edinburgh World Heritage (EWH) is looking for a new Head of Operations and Business Support. A member of the Senior Management team, you will be responsible for the smooth management of a charitable company committed to the protection, enhancement and promotion of the Old and New Towns World Heritage Site. You will be an experienced manager with considerable finance and administrative experience, with a strong knowledge of digital and HR operations. You will also be experienced in working within a charity structure and will share a passion for Edinburgh as both a heritage city but also as a fantastic place to live and work. Read the full job description and person specification here.
Closing date: Friday 20 February 2026

Federation of Archaeological Managers & Employers – Chief Executive 
Salary: Consultancy fee tba
Status: Part-time; initially for three years with possibility of extension
Location: Remote
Federation of Archaeological Managers & Employers (FAME) is seeking to review its Chief Executive role to provide the trade association with a strategic lead for the development and delivery of its aims and objectives. The appointee will take responsibility for FAME’s advocacy work and represent FAME with major stakeholders, with effect from July 2026. This is a role for an independent, senior figure with a detailed understanding of the historic environment sector looking to play an influential part in driving significant improvements in policy and operations affecting commercial archaeology in the UK and Ireland. The role requires excellent communication and leadership skills, diplomacy and the ability to represent FAME’s diverse membership right across the UK and Ireland without actual or perceived conflict. The proposed engagement is based on a flexible approach, attending events and meetings as required. For a role specification and a confidential discussion on what is involved in this key role in the heritage sector, please contact either: FAME Chair, Tim Malim at hamptonheritageltd@gmail.com; or Vice-Chair, Rob Sutton at  Robert.Sutton@cotswoldarchaeology.co.uk
Download the full job specification here.
Closing date: Saturday 28 February 2026

Department of Culture Media & Sport – Trustees: Science Museum Group
Salary: No remuneration; travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed
Status: 2 days per month
Location: UK-wide
The Prime Minister is seeking to appoint 4 new Trustees to the Science Museum Group. DCMS is seeking Trustees with strong skills and expertise in the following areas:

• Digital & AI

• Property Development and Management

• Collections, Museums and Heritage

• Science & Engineering

The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum is responsible for the whole of the Science Museum Group (SMG). The Trustees are appointed by and responsible to the Prime Minister through the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). The SMG Director, as Chief Executive Officer, is responsible to the Board of Trustees, and, as Accounting Officer, is accountable to DCMS. Within the framework of their statutory duties as stated under the National Heritage Act 1983, the role of the Trustees is to assist the SMG Chair in meeting the board’s overall responsibilities, in accordance with the policies of the Secretary of State, and in compliance with charity law. The Board of Trustees also offers guidance and expertise on setting and implementing the strategy for the Group. ​​​​​​​The Group has four Board meetings per year, one of which takes place the day before a residential ‘strategy day’. In addition, Trustees are expected to attend other committee meetings as necessary, as well as occasionally attending profile-raising events at our museums. The total time varies depending on committee membership, but on average, it will be not less than two days per month. The job description and details of how to apply can be found here.
Closing date: Tuesday 3 March 2026

RIAS – Marketing Manager
Salary: £35,000 per annum
Status: Full Time; 35 hours per week (flexible/hybrid working)
Location: RIAS, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BE
This is a new role within the organisation, offering the right individual the opportunity to shape and develop the role while working as part of a supportive team. A key objective will be to maintain high member retention levels and create effective new membership recruitment strategies. The role will also focus on developing a marketing strategy for RIAS’s products and services, ensuring that all audience engagement is well researched, planned and delivered effectively. The Marketing Manager will also play a role in coordinating the creation of digital and physical assets that support the promotion of RIAS and its wider offer. The postholder will collaborate with both the Practice Services and Outreach teams to ensure a joined-up approach to communications and marketing that links with Membership priorities. The role will also support the commercial function of RIAS, including the promotion of commercial products such as sponsorship and the online directory. Please see the full Job Description here. To apply for this position, please send your CV and a covering statement (no more than two sides of A4) demonstrating your experience in relation to the job description and required competencies to recruitment@rias.org.uk. Applications will be shortlisted, and those selected will be invited to interview. Both the application, supporting statement and interview will contribute towards the assessment and final appointment. Applications will be assessed as they are submitted, and candidates may be invited for a first interview before the closing date. First round interviews from 9 March onwards.
Closing Date: Friday 6 March 2026

Architecture and Design Scotland – Chair 
Salary: £10,482.24 per annum
Status: 4 days a month (48 days per year)
Location: Edinburgh
Angus Robertson, the Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, has launched the recruitment to appoint a new Chair to the Board of Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS). A&DS is entering a significant period of strategic change. While its core mission to champion good design across Scotland continues, the organisation will now take on a more central role in developing the nation’s architecture and design workforce. This includes supporting skills development, growing sector-wide capacity and strengthening their impact across Scotland’s places and communities. Public Appointments Scotland is seeking applicants with the experience and leadership skills to guide the Board during this important transition. Candidates should understand the value of architecture and design in shaping Scotland’s places and be able to inspire the board, build strong relationships and communicate with influence. Full details about the role and how to apply are available on the Public Appointments website. A&DS will also host an online information session with the Scottish Government’s Chief Architect, Sandy Robinson, and Independent Panel member Neena Mahal MBE DL. This will be held online on 25 February 2026 from 6:30-7:30 pm. If you would like to attend this event, please register here.
Closing Date: Monday 16 March 2026

Planning Aid Scotland – Opportunities for chartered planners
Becoming chartered is a significant professional milestone, signalling competence and a commitment to public service. Planning Aid Scotland, the national charity working to widen access to planning, offers newly chartered planners a way to put these values into practice through its national planning Advice Service. Volunteers support members of the public with a wide range of planning questions, gaining direct experience that is often hard to find in day-to-day roles. The opportunity is flexible and open to all chartered planners. In return, volunteers receive professional training, access to a video archive, and ongoing support.
Get in touch to find out more at volunteer@pas.org.uk
Closing Date: Not applicable

Planning Democracy – Trustees
Planning Democracy are looking for new trustees to join their board. They are particularly interested in recruiting trustees who have skills in the following areas:

• Governance

• Communications (social media, online resources, website management)

However, they are also keen to hear from anyone who feels that Planning Democracy is an organisation they are interested in getting involved with. In return, they are offering training opportunities, learning opportunities, experience in campaigning and advocacy, the opportunity to travel in Scotland and meet new people, as well as being part of a committed group of people.
If you are interested, contact Chair, Helen Todd, on info@planningdemocracy.org.uk, and they can then send you an application form and/or have a chat.
Closing Date: Not specified

SHBT – St Ninian’s Manse
Location: Quayside Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6EJ
Size: 2,889 sq ft
Availability: March 2026
Tenure: Available as a single tenancy or individual floors
With origins dating back to 1493, St Ninian’s Manse is thought to be the oldest building in Leith and is topped by Edinburgh’s sole surviving 17th-century timber steeple. It formed part of the original entrance to St Ninian’s Chapel, which was mostly demolished during the 19th century when the site was converted to industrial use as a mill. From 1996 to 2002, SHBT restored both St Ninian’s Manse and the adjacent Quayside Mills, creating desirable waterfront office space whilst also preserving an important historic structure and a key part of Leith’s history. The manse now offers four floors of adaptable office space with period character, modern amenities, and five dedicated parking spaces. Brochure
Enquiries: info@shbt.org.uk

In January BEFS Members the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT) launched a new strategy for the organisation, rising to meet the challenges facing the sector. SHBT’s Our Future at Fifty demonstrates the sector-wide collaboration needed in addressing Scotland’s heritage challenges, working with a wide range of communities, partners and regions to help the sector restore and reuse significant historic buildings across Scotland. BEFS particularly welcomes the commitment to work in genuine partnership on issues including the traditional buildings skills crisis and the need to invest in appropriate climate adaptation. The strategy outlines how the organisation will be both entrepreneurial and mission-focused, and BEFS  BEFS looks forward to continuing to work alongside SHBT as they deliver on these ambitious plans.

At the end of last month, the UK Government made a major announcement, revealing £1.5bn funding for arts and culture ‘to save more than 1,000 cherished arts venues, museums, libraries and heritage buildings across England from closure’. The move is intended to ‘fix urgent capital needs and open up access to culture for everyone, everywhere’.
Further implications for Scotland, as this announcement also clarified the future of its funding for places of worship, with the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme permanently closing at the end of March this year (2026). The focus remains south of the border, and a new capital funding scheme for listed places of worship, the Places of Worship Renewal Fund will be delivered by Historic England and applies to England only.
In her ministerial statement Baroness Twycross said ‘As heritage is a devolved policy area, the new Places of Worship Renewal Fund will be for England only. UK-wide heritage funding is available through organisations including the National Lottery Heritage Fund and we are working closely with funders in the sector to ensure that opportunities for funding places of worship throughout the UK are maximised.’ The full statement can be read here.
The concerns of the sector to this announcement will be reflected by The Places of Worship Forum (POWF) in letters to relevant UK Government and Scottish Government Ministers to query aspects of the decision-making, and ask whether there are any future plans to develop a continuity support programme in Scotland.
In parallel with this announcement, the Government has issued the Evaluation of the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS), which so many of you contributed to by filling in a questionnaire last year.

Hot off the press – as we move ever closer to the 2026 election, across the sector manifestos and strategies are highlighting the importance of the existing built environment. The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) in Scotland’s newly published Election Manifesto ‘From Ambition to Delivery’ identifies key priorities towards addressing challenges for housing, climate change, and building safety – and outlines clear, tangible actions the next Government can take to move Scotland’s built environment policy from ambition to delivery.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) are seeking contributions to a new consultation. Are you an employer or an organisation in receipt of government funding?  If so, then HES want to know about your awareness and approach towards Fair Work. Fair Work is a core commitment of Our Past, Our Future: The Strategy for Scotland’s Historic Environment, and the findings of the survey will help to shape future learning and support across the heritage sector.

Exploring the role of alternative clean heating solutions
UK Government
The UK Government is committed to decarbonising the way we heat our buildings to protect consumers against high energy bills due to volatile global fossil fuel prices, reduce the UK’s dependence on foreign sources of energy and combat climate change. In that process, the UK Government is committed to ensuring there is a good solution for every building and that consumers have access to a range of suitable low-carbon heat technologies. This consultation will be of interest to stakeholders operating in the heat sector, business representative bodies, households, non-domestic buildings, and those with a wider interest in the UK’s net zero ambition.
Closes 10 February 2026 

Fair Work Across Scotland’s Historic Environment
Historic Environment Scotland
This survey is part of a wider programme of research exploring how Fair Work principles Work principles are understood and put into practice across Scotland’s historic environment sector. This survey relates to the Scottish Government’s Fair Work approach, which sets out principles for fair, inclusive and sustainable work across Scotland. HES want to build a clear baseline of current practice, identify where organisations are already delivering Fair Work in ways that work for them and better understand the barriers and support needs that exist; particularly for small, community-based and volunteer-led organisations. The survey focuses on organisational awareness and approaches to Fair Work rather than compliance or assessment.
*NEW* Closes 2 March 2026 

Home Energy Model: Energy Performance Certificates
UK Government
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is consulting on Energy Performance Certificate assessment reform in England and Wales, and views on the new Home Energy Model methodology in particular. The Department is particularly interested in comment from retrofit professionals, energy assessors and product manufacturers. The consultation will support the UK Government’s commitments to reach net zero by 2050 and alleviate fuel poverty.
*NEW* Closes 18 March 2026 

Onshore Electricity Generation: Increasing threshold for applications under The Electricity Act
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks views on increasing the 50MW threshold which determines whether applications for onshore electricity generating stations are decided by Scottish Ministers or by the relevant planning authority.
Closes 27 March 2026 

New Inventory of Living Heritage – Expression of Interest
Living Heritage in the UK
Following ratification of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, UK Government invites communities to nominate their own cultural traditions for the inventories of living heritage in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Categories include oral expressions, performing arts, social practices, nature/land/spirituality, crafts, sport/games, and culinary practices.
*NEW* Closes 27 March 2026 

The Big Think: Place
UK Heritage Pulse
Sector-wide surveys organised by the UK Heritage Pulse, a research consortium convened by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England, will explore how heritage organisations work with place and what ‘place-based heritage’ means in practice. Monthly surveys on the theme will run in January, February and March, and are open to all heritage organisations.
*NEW* Closes 31 March 2026 

Scottish Building Regulations: Fire Safety review and Compliance: Call for Evidence
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks to obtain the views and opinions of stakeholders on a review of building standards and guidance relating to fire safety, and including work on the compliance plan approach, to help ensure the safety of people in and around Scotland’s buildings. The consultation covers three main areas: the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations on fire safety, including a fundamental review of Section 2 (Fire) of the Technical Handbooks; the compliance plan manager; and the compliance plan approach. The proposed review and changes outlined in the consultation aim to improve safety for the design and construction of all domestic and non-domestic buildings making them safer for those in and around buildings, particularly relating to fire safety and in the event of an outbreak of a building fire when considering the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations. The consultation paper contains full background information.
Closes 10 April 2026 

Draft Infrastructure Strategy 2027-2037
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government wants Scotland’s infrastructure to be planned and delivered in a way that supports net zero and environmental sustainability, inclusive economic growth and resilient and sustainable places. The ambition is to create a system that makes best use of existing assets, embraces innovation, and ensures investment decisions deliver long-term public value. However, delivering infrastructure is not without challenges. To meet these challenges, the strategy focuses on three key enablers that can help turn strategic ambition into practical outcomes, ensuring investment choices deliver long-term public value: Public Assets, Place-Making and Private Investment. The  consultation paper  contains full background information for respondents.
Closes 5 May 2026 

 Consultation Responses

HES Properties and Collections Strategy
BEFS arranged a Members’ consultation event on Historic Environment Scotland’s (HES) draft Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship in mid-January 2026. BEFS used the outcomes from this event as the basis for a response to a linked HES consultation. The response welcomed the draft Strategy’s clear intent to improve collaboration and transparency, and acknowledged the challenging context it has to operate in, including rising repair costs, skills shortages and climate change impacts. BEFS response also reflected Members’ concerns around a perceived disjointed nature between different sections of the Strategy, and the scale of any planned divestment of assets. It called for more clarity on how a new prioritisation approach would be operationalised, and suggested that committing to robust maintenance plans for each built environment asset in the HES portfolio would help to achieve better outcomes. (BEFS 23/01/26)

Visitor Levy (Amendment) Scotland Bill
The Scottish Parliament’s Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee invited views on the Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill, which makes several changes to the 2024 Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, including allowing for levies to be set as fixed amounts instead of percentages. BEFS provided the Committee with a statement that supported a formal three year review to resolve teething problems, supported by comprehensive and transparent annual reports on the allocation process and progress of specific projects. BEFS also drew attention to the risk of Visitor Levy income being used to backfill budgets for standard maintenance, such as waste bin replacement or road repairs, rather than providing additionality. (BEFS 26/01/26)

Climate Change Plan
BEFS participated in the Scottish Government’s 2025/26 consultation on its Draft Climate Change Plan, which sets out policy actions for addressing and adapting to the effects of climate change in the 2026-40 period. BEFS confirmed its general agreement with the vision and principles, and welcomed a commitment to transformational change in approach to climate adaptation in residential and public buildings, but felt the Plan was light on the detail on practical delivery. BEFS called for a wider, whole systems policy approach to strengthen impact, and commented on the Plan’s thematic content, including on skills and training, the Heat in Buildings (Scotland) Bill, reuse of vacant and derelict land and buildings, circular economies, place-making, and local government duties. (BEFS 29/01/26)

Delivering net zero for Scotland’s buildings – Heat in Buildings Bill: consultation analysis (Scot Gov 29/12/2026)

Scotland’s Economic Mandate for the next Parliament (Trade Associations’ Scotland/Scottish Tourism Alliance January 2026)

The Bare Bones Toolkit (Archaeology Scotland January 2026)

Focus group: Sustainability in an era of climate change and declining resources (UK Heritage Pulse 09/01/2026)

Housing Quality and Health – an Economic Analysis (CaCHE 12/01/2026)

Museums: Scotland’s Stories, Scotland’s Future – national advocacy campaign ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary Elections (Museums Galleries Scotland 23/01/2026)

Scottish Historic Buildings Trust Strategy 2026-29: Our Future at Fifty (SHBT 26/01/2026)

Cities Outlook 2026 (Centre for Cities 26/01/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

DCMS announces £1.5bn to tackle underfunding across culture sector  (Museums Journal 21/01/2026

How nine towns hope to spend their slice of £20m (BBC News 23/01/2026)

Legal bid to protect Scots brutalist landmark from bulldozer (The Herald 24/01/2026)

Zoning in on Leith, Edinburgh – ‘It’s been a joy to watch the area reinvent itself’ (The Guardian 27/01/2026)

Swift bricks to be installed on all new buildings in Scotland as MSPs back law (The Guardian 28/01/2026)

National Retrofit Centre named Public Sector Project of the Year (Scottish Construction Now 28/01/26)

Nature is not the blocker – skills are. Green design skills as an enabler for growth (Design Council 29/01/2026)

Blog: Community Ownership and Local Landed Power (Land Matters 29/01/2026)

Blog: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme Cancellation – Where now for Scottish places of worship? (Scotland’s Churches Trust 30/01/2026)

RAAC and Ruin: Karin Goodwin investigates the human cost of a flawed building material (BBC Radio 4/BBC Sounds 01/02/2026)

Events

Training

Scottish Lime Centre Trust – Introduction to Plain Lime Plastering
Date & Time: Tuesday 10 February 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY12 3DR
This one day workshop aims to provide an introductory guide to the preparation and application of plain lime plaster to both lath and masonry backgrounds which abound our historic buildings for internal wall and ceiling finishes. This workshop is aimed at plastering, building and heritage professionals and home owners of tradition buildings with historic plasterwork schemes who are inquisitive as to the necessary preparation of plaster materials, backgrounds (both lath and onto masonry), application techniques and aftercare requirements for achieving successful plain lime plastering (also known as flatwork).

Scottish Lime Centre Trust – Introduction to Stonemasonry
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 February 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY12 3DR
Taught by a time served Stonemason, this two-day practical course is suitable for all abilities and covers an introduction to tools, techniques and uses of basic stonemasonry. Learners can take away their practice stones at the end of the day. This practical course is designed for those individuals with little or no experience in cutting and dressing natural stone; building contractor working on traditional stone buildings and structures and just want to learn the basic masonry skills for cutting and dressing sandstone; or a semi-skilled operative who needs to add to his skills set and be able to produce stone masonry units to plumb, level and plane with traditional tooling finishes.

The Engine Shed – Stone in Scotland: Past, Present and Future
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 February 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Stone has been used to create Scotland’s historic built environment for thousands of years. These three morning talks will introduce you to the wide range of stone used in Scotland and share current best practice in stone repairs. There will also be a review of innovative methods of identifying and procuring new stone for conservation and newbuild projects. In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to discuss a wide range of stone conservation issues.A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

The Engine Shed – Lime Mortar: Principles and Practices
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Lime is a traditional bedding, pointing and finishing material in Scotland’s historic built environment. These three morning talks will start with the basic principles of processing raw limestone or shells into mortar and plaster. The speakers will also share current best practice and the innovative techniques used to identify (and replicate) parts for conservation and repair projects. A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to discuss a wide range of conservation issues. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Vacancies

Historic Churches Scotland – Director
Salary: £40,000-£50,000 per annum
Status: Full time
Location: Scotland
Historic Churches Scotland is a charity and Building Preservation Trust dedicated to protecting and conserving Scotland’s most significant at-risk historic churches, ensuring they remain open, sustainable, and valued by local communities. As the organisation prepares for a new phase of growth and increased public engagement, they are seeking an experienced and inspirational leader to guide its strategic direction, fundraising, operational delivery, and stakeholder relationships. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a candidate with strong heritage, conservation, or property management experience, combined with excellent financial, governance, and people management skills. The successful candidate will ideally hold a degree or professional qualification in art history, architectural history, architecture, surveying, conservation of historic buildings, or a related discipline. To apply or for further information, please contact Nicole Limmer at Anderson Knight on Nicole@andersonknight.co.uk on 0141 348 7762. Download the full job specification here.
Closing Date: Monday 9 February 2026

Edinburgh World Heritage – Head of Operations and Business Support
Salary: £41,067 per annum
Status: Full-time permanent (0.8 FTE may be considered)
Location: Edinburgh; hybrid working option available
Edinburgh World Heritage (EWH) is looking for a new Head of Operations and Business Support. A member of the Senior Management team, you will be responsible for the smooth management of a charitable company committed to the protection, enhancement and promotion of the Old and New Towns World Heritage Site. You will be an experienced manager with considerable finance and administrative experience, with a strong knowledge of digital and HR operations.  You will also be experienced in working within a charity structure and will share a passion for Edinburgh as both a heritage city but also as a fantastic place to live and work. Read the full job description and person specification here.
Closing date: Friday 20 February 2026

Planning Aid Scotland – Opportunities for chartered planners
Becoming chartered is a significant professional milestone, signalling competence and a commitment to public service. Planning Aid Scotland, the national charity working to widen access to planning, offers newly chartered planners a way to put these values into practice through its national planning Advice Service. Volunteers support members of the public with a wide range of planning questions, gaining direct experience that is often hard to find in day-to-day roles. The opportunity is flexible and open to all chartered planners. In return, volunteers receive professional training, access to a video archive, and ongoing support.
Get in touch to find out more at volunteer@pas.org.uk
Closing Date: Not applicable

Planning Democracy – Trustees
Planning Democracy are looking for new trustees to join their board. They are particularly interested in recruiting trustees who have skills in the following areas:

• Governance

• Communications (social media, online resources, website management)

However, they are also keen to hear from anyone who feels that Planning Democracy is an organisation they are interested in getting involved with. In return they are offering training opportunities, learning opportunities, experience in campaigning and advocacy, the opportunity to travel in Scotland and meet new people, as well as being part of a committed group of people.
If you are interested, contact Chair, Helen Todd on info@planningdemocracy.org.uk and they can then send you an application form and/or have a chat.
Closing Date: Not specified

SHBT – St Ninian’s Manse
Location: Quayside Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6EJ
Size: 2,889 sq ft
Availability: March 2026
Tenure: Available as single tenancy or individual floors
With origins dating back to 1493, St Ninian’s Manse is thought to be the oldest building in Leith and is topped by Edinburgh’s sole surviving 17th century timber steeple. It formed part of the original entrance to St Ninian’s Chapel, which was mostly demolished during the 19th century when the site was converted to industrial use as a mill. From 1996 to 2002, SHBT restored both St Ninian’s Manse and the adjacent Quayside Mills, creating desirable waterfront office space whilst also preserving an important historic structure and a key part of Leith’s history. The manse now offers four floors of adaptable office space with period character, modern amenities, and five dedicated parking spaces. Brochure
Enquiries: info@shbt.org.uk

Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship  
Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has published a draft Strategy document entitled: Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship. This draft Strategy explains how HES plans to care for the Properties and Collections in its care over the long term and why change is needed. Scotland’s historic environment is facing growing challenges, including climate change, rising costs, and a shortage of traditional skills. The Strategy explains how HES will respond to these challenges, make the most of opportunities, prioritise what matters most, and work with communities to protect and use the Properties and Collections in ways that benefit everyone.
Closes 23 January 2026 

Developing a Roadmap for Circularity in Scotland’s Built Environment
Zero Waste Scotland
Zero Waste Scotland recently undertook research on circularity in Scotland’s built environment and energy infrastructure sectors, and produced systems mapping outputs. The research will be used to develop roadmaps to improve the takeup of circular economy practices in both sectors. Zero Waste Scotland is now seeking views from stakeholders in these sectors to inform development of these roadmaps and linked communications, research, and engagement activities.
*NEW* Closes 23 January 2026 

Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill
Scottish Parliament
The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee has put out for a call for views on the Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill, which was introduced to Parliament on 2nd December. The Amendment makes several changes to the 2024 Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, including allowing for levies to be set as fixed amounts instead of percentages. The Finance and Public Administration Committee is also inviting evidence on the Bill’s accompanying Financial Memorandum, with the same closing date.
*NEW* Closes 26 January 2026 

Draft Climate Change Plan 2026-2040
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is consulting on its Draft Climate Change Plan for 2026-2040. The Plan sets out wide-ranging policies and proposals to address and adapt to the current and anticipated impacts of climate change, including by reducing carbon emissions, providing warmer homes, improving air quality, and supporting active travel. It features a road map of actions for the next 15 years and a sectoral annex on residential and public buildings.
Closes 29 January 2026 

The Future of Council Tax in Scotland
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) are seeking views on the future of council tax in Scotland. This consultation forms part of a joint programme of work seeking to build consensus on reforms to council tax, which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction over 30 years ago. The findings will help support informed public debate and further consideration in the Scottish Parliament.
Closes 30 January 2026 

Exploring the role of alternative clean heating solutions
UK Government
The UK Government is committed to decarbonising the way we heat our buildings to protect consumers against high energy bills due to volatile global fossil fuel prices, reduce the UK’s dependence on foreign sources of energy and combat climate change. In that process, the UK Government is committed to ensuring there is a good solution for every building and that consumers have access to a range of suitable low-carbon heat technologies. This consultation will be of interest to stakeholders operating in the heat sector, business representative bodies, households, non-domestic buildings, and those with a wider interest in the UK’s net zero ambition.
Closes 10 February 2026 

Onshore Electricity Generation: Increasing threshold for applications under The Electricity Act
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks views on increasing the 50 MW threshold, which determines whether applications for onshore electricity generating stations are decided by Scottish Ministers or by the relevant planning authority.
*NEW* Closes 27 March 2026 

Scottish Building Regulations: Fire Safety review and Compliance: Call for Evidence
Scottish Government
This consultation seeks to obtain the views and opinions of stakeholders on a review of building standards and guidance relating to fire safety, and including work on the compliance plan approach, to help ensure the safety of people in and around Scotland’s buildings. The consultation covers three main areas: the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations on fire safety, including a fundamental review of Section 2 (Fire) of the Technical Handbooks; the compliance plan manager; and the compliance plan approach. The proposed review and changes outlined in the consultation aim to improve safety for the design and construction of all domestic and non-domestic buildings making them safer for those in and around buildings, particularly relating to fire safety and in the event of an outbreak of a building fire when considering the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations. The consultation paper contains full background information.
*NEW* Closes 10 April 2026 

Draft Infrastructure Strategy 2027-2037
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government wants Scotland’s infrastructure to be planned and delivered in a way that supports net zero and environmental sustainability, inclusive economic growth and e economic growth and resilient and sustainable places. The ambition is to create a system that makes best use of existing assets, embraces innovation, and ensures investment decisions deliver long-term public value. However, delivering infrastructure is not without challenges. To meet these challenges, the strategy focuses on three key enablers that can help turn strategic ambition into practical outcomes, ensuring investment choices deliver long-term public value: Public Assets, Place-Making and Private Investment. The  consultation paper contains full background information for respondents.
*NEW* Closes 5 May 2026 

 Consultation Responses

Community Rights to Buy: consultation analysis (Scot Gov 11/12/2025)

Compulsory Purchase Reform
BEFS welcomed the opportunity to comment on the Scottish Government’s 2025 consultation on compulsory purchase reform and noted the importance of mechanisms to sustainably bring derelict or vacant historic and existing built environment assets back into use. BEFS response to this consultation supported bringing legislation into a single statute, noted mixed views in the BEFS Membership on the creation of temporary possession, and provided practical suggestions to encourage early and effective engagement between local governments and owners. (BEFS 16/12/2025)

The Future of Scotland’s High Streets
In response to concerns about the evolution of town centres and high streets in Scotland, the UK Parliament’s Scottish Affairs Committee opened an inquiry into their future. An in-depth BEFS statement highlighted concerns and opportunities for high streets and town centres identified in 2026 BEFS Manifesto consultations and other Member engagements. BEFS elaborated on the potential of approaches that could improve resilience, activity and regeneration, highlighted a number of award-winning case studies, and shared views on how policy-makers can best support aspirations to diversify town centre activity. (BEFS 23/12/2025)

Revised Environmental Standards Scotland Strategy
Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS) consulted on its revised 2026-2031 Strategy to track, and support improvement in, public body compliance with environmental law. In BEFS response, we requested further information on how the new Strategy will handle environmental concerns relating to the interface between the existing built environment and the natural environment. BEFS previously provided an in-depth response to the initial summer 2025 consultation on the Strategy. (BEFS 09/01/2026)

Draft Circular Economy Strategy
BEFS contributed to the Scottish Government’s 2025/26 consultation on its Draft Circular Economy Strategy, which sets out a framework for developing a more sustainable economic model in Scotland in the period to 2045. BEFS agreed with the general thrust of the Draft Strategy and welcomed its identification of the built environment as a priority sector, but shared reservations and open questions about the vision and outcomes, asked for more action on ‘fabric first’ retrofit project activity, and for further detail on the development and delivery of a built environment roadmap. (BEFS 13/01/2026)

Regional Energy Strategic Planning Methodology
The National Energy System Operator published a draft of its Regional Energy Strategic Planning Methodology for consultation. Subject to regulatory approval, the Methodology will be used to produce 11 Regional Energy Strategy Plans in the UK, including one for Scotland. BEFS welcomed the Methodology’s commitment to work closely with relevant stakeholders, to establish thematic working groups to support development, and to provide a place-based digital mapping platform centred on energy system needs, plans, and geographic assets. (BEFS 16/01/2026)

Putting people’s memories at the heart of heritage-inspired regeneration (The National Lottery Heritage Fund 26/11/2025)

Statement on Scottish Land & Estates report on Repopulating Rural Scotland (Community Land Scotland 12/12/2025)

Winners of the 2025 Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain Awards announced (SAHGB 18/12/2025)

Glasgow City Heritage Trust’s Training Grants scheme open for applications (Glasgow City Heritage Trust January 2026)

The Big Think: Place – sector-wide conversation on heritage and place (UK Heritage Pulse January 2026)

Scot Lib Dems call for action to tackle thousands of mouldy homes (Scottish Liberal Democrats 02/01/2026)

Innovation in Action: RICHeS Access Fund Catalyst Projects Award Five Initiatives (UKRI 05/01/2026)

Granton regeneration to lead Scotland’s new era of place-based investment (Scottish Futures Trust 07/01/2026)

SCVO response to Scottish Spending Review and Scottish Budget 2026/27 (SCVO 13/01/2026)

Heritage volunteering supports wellbeing, new research finds (HES 14/01/2026)

Regeneration in the 2026 Scottish Budget: Concern for Communities (SURF 14/01/2026)

Scottish Budget: How does it fare on Housing, Transport, Local Democracy, and Funding? (SURF 15/01/2026)

Costa Carras European Citizens Awards for the Safeguard of Endangered Heritage 2026 – Deadline Extension (Europa Nostra 15/01/2026)

Six things to look out for in the UK government’s upcoming Warm Homes Plan (Nesta 19/01/2026)

Landscape Institute launches new carbon-reduction tools and resources (Landscape Institute 20/01/2026)

Publications

Who Stays and Who Leaves? Mapping Arts, Culture and Heritage Careers (Creative PEC 19/11/2025)

Systemic Racism and Scotland’s Housing Emergency Joint Report (Shelter Scotland & CRER December 2025)

Development Trusts Association Scotland Community-led manifesto (DTAS December 2025)

A Manifesto for Planning Reform in Scotland (Planning Democracy December 2025)

The 2026 Scottish Election: Housing Evidence Priorities for a New Government (CaCHE 10/12/2025)

The Felt Experience of Place Resource Kit (Arts & Humanities Research Council 17/12/2025)

SURF 2026 Manifesto for Regeneration – Empowering People, Places and Policy (SURF 08/01/2026)

Edinburgh Planning Map – 2026 Updates (City Scope 11/01/2026)

RICS Scotland manifesto 2026–2031: Surveying Scotland – Building the foundations for a fair, sustainable and prosperous future (RICS 12/01/2026)

Scotland’s first infrastructure Needs Assessment to support a sustainable and thriving future (Scottish Futures Trust 15/01/2026)

Affordable Housing Supply Programme: quarterly updates on approvals, site starts and completions (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Planning and environmental appeals: guidance for reporters (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Planning permission appeals: housing development statistics (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Housebuilding and affordable home statistics in the year to end of September 2025 (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Empty and Second Homes in September 2025 (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme monthly management information: November 2025 (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Correspondence between Màiri McAllan and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Green Heat Finance Taskforce response (Scot Parl 17/12/2025)

Planning guidance: biodiversity (Scot Gov 17/12/2025)

Building standards: operating framework for verifiers – April 2026 (Scot Gov 18/12/2025)

Building standards: performance framework for verifiers – 1 April 2026 (Scot Gov 18/12/2025)

Correspondence between Màiri McAllan and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Cladding Remediation Pilot programme (Scot Parl 22/12/2025)

World Heritage Sites: Written question (UK Parl 23/12/2025)

Correspondence between Màiri McAllan and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding cladding remediation programme – Developer Remediation Contract (Scot Parl 24/12/2025)

Investing in Changing Places Toilets (Scot Gov 27/12/2025)

Wellbeing economy governments partnership: annual engagement report (Scot Gov 30/12/2025)

Landlords in Scotland statistics: FOI release (Scot Gov 31/12/2025)

Challenging planning decisions: guidance (Scot Gov 31/12/2025)

Land reform community mapping tool: guidance (Scot Gov 05/01/2026)

Verification During Construction – High Risk Buildings -Verifiers Guidance to Support Implementation of Phase 1 of Compliance Plan Approach (Scot Gov 05/01/2026)

Verification During Construction – High Risk Buildings – The Compliance Plan Approach – Background and Implementation (Scot Gov 05/01/2026)

Correspondence between Ivan McKee and the Finance and Public Administration Committee regarding the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill Stage 1 response (Scot Parl 06/01/2026)

Culture, Media and Sport Committee Oral Evidence: Protecting built heritage (UK Parl 06/01/2026)

Correspondence from Mairi Gougeon and Jim Fairlie to the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee regarding Scottish Environment LINK members’ withdrawal from ARIOB meetings (Scot Parl 07/01/2026)

Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee Report on the Legislative Consent Memorandum on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill (Scot Parl 07/01/2026)

Visitor Levy Amendment Bill published (Scot Gov 07/01/2026)

Planning Performance: High Level Group minutes – December 2025 (Scot Gov 07/01/2026)

Correspondence between Ivan McKee and the Finance and Public Administration Committee regarding The Scottish Aggregates Tax (Applicable Rate of Tax) Regulations 2026 (Scot Parl 08/01/2026)

Correspondence between the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency regarding flood risk assessment processes and their impact on housing development (Scot Parl 08/01/2026)

Desecration of War Memorials (Scotland) Bill – Stage 1 Report (Scot Parl 08/01/2026)

National Planning Framework 4: Delivery Programme V4 (Scot Gov 08/01/2026)

Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill: Equality Impact Assessment (Scot Gov 08/01/2025)

Budget Bingo: a full house? – key themes in pre-budget scrutiny for 2026-27 (SPICe 08/01/2026)

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) approved organisation status (Scot Gov 09/01/2026)

Heritage Craft and Building Sector Oral Question (House of Lords 12/01/2026)

Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill: Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment (Scot Gov 12/01/2026)

Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill: island communities impact assessment (Scot Gov 12/01/2026)

Scottish Budget 2026-2027 Statement (Scot Parl 13/01/2026)

Scottish Budget 2026-27 (Scot Gov 13/01/2026)

Correspondence between Energy Saving Trust and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme (Scot Parl 13/01/2026)

Planning applications: key agency rapid planning audits (Scot Gov 13/01/2026)

Infrastructure Delivery Pipeline 2026 (Scot Gov 13/01/2026)

Building Standards: Future Changes to the Domestic and Non-Domestic Technical Handbooks (Scot Gov 14/01/2026)

Blog: Future Changes to the Domestic and Non-Domestic Technical Handbooks (Scot Gov 14/01/2026)

Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill: Financial Memorandum (Scot Parl 14/01/2026)

Cladding Remediation Programme: factsheet (Scot Gov 15/01/2026)

Development plan examinations: list (Scot Gov 15/01/2026)

Motions

S6M-20285 
Submitted by: Ivan McKee, Glasgow Provan, Scottish National Party
Date lodged: 05/01/2026
That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill.

S6M-20365
Submitted by: Ivan McKee, Glasgow Provan, Scottish National Party
Date lodged: 08/01/2026
That the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee recommends that the Visitor Levy (Reviews and Appeals) (Scotland) Regulations 2026 [draft] be approved.

S6M-20366
Submitted by: Ivan McKee, Glasgow Provan, Scottish National Party
Date lodged: 08/01/2026
That the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee recommends that the Visitor Levy (Local Authority Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2026 [draft] be approved.

S6M-20414
Submitted by: Sarah Boyack, Lothian, Scottish Labour
Date lodged: 13/01/2026
That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Wellbeing and Sustainable Development (Scotland) Bill.

Opinion & Comment

Demolition plan at former chapel of religious sect (BBC News 11/12/2025)

Blog: Unlocking the tenement? (CaCHE 18/12/2025)

The best design and architecture of 2025 – from waddling teapots to a museum of razzle-dazzle (The Guardian 22/12/2025)

‘The Cockburn has a reputation for saying no, but honestly it’s not deserved’ (Edinburgh Inquirer 06/01/2025)

MPs question MoJ and MoD property chiefs over “managed decline” of listed structures (Civil Service World 07/01/2026)

How effective are Britain’s ‘heritage at risk’ lists? (Apollo Magazine 09/01/2026)

Blog: Focus group: Sustainability in an era of climate change and declining resources (UK Heritage Pulse 09/01/2026)

Raising taxes on builders won’t solve the housing crisis (The Times 10/01/2026)

Tears at Port Glasgow’s Holy Family as one church closes every week (The Times 11/01/2026)

Sir Tom Hunter moved to tears by high street’s decline (The Times 11/01/2026)

Andrew Neil is right, the state of Glasgow is embarrassing – but it’s not too late (The Times 12/01/2026)

Events

Heritage Network– Deep Dive: A Thriving Future for Historic Pools and Lidos
Date & Time: Thursday 22 January 2026; 12:15-2pm
Location: Online
Join the Heritage Network, Future Lidos, and Historic Pools of Britain for an inspiring online event celebrating the unique heritage of Britain’s historic pools and lidos, and exploring how to secure vibrant, sustainable futures for these beloved community spaces. Whether you’re involved in saving a local pool, curious about lido culture, or committed to preserving these special spaces, this session will equip you with practical insights, connect you to others working on similar projects, and inspire action.

IHBC Scotland Branch – Historic Building Legislation & Curtilage in Scotland
Date & Time: Friday 23 January 2026; 10:30am-4:30pm
Location: Sir Walter Scott Hall, Grassmarket Community Project, 86, Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QA
Update your knowledge on historic building legislation and curtilage in Scotland. This event will provide an introduction to heritage planning law and consider the extent of listing including curtilage, with leading expert Dr Charles Mynors. There will also be updates from HES on designations and heritage policy. The event is relevant to those working in the heritage, development, legal and planning sectors.

SHSMG – Promoting Scotland’s Past to Families with Children
Date & Time: Monday 26 January 2026; 3-4pm
Location: Online via Zoom
The Scottish Heritage Social Media Group’s January event features Julie Cumming, Marketing Manager at Dundee Heritage Trust, who has spent over three years attracting families with children to sites like Discovery Point and Verdant Works Museum. Julie will talk about what’s worked and what hasn’t, discuss her strategies for operating with little to no budget, and share her experience when it comes to collaborating with family influencers (including how she reaches out, creates a marketing plan, calculates Return on Investment, and considers the risks). This online event will conclude with a Q&A session.

Historic Environment Scotland – Post-War Edinburgh
Date & Time: Monday 26 January 2026; 2-3pm
Location:  John Sinclair House, 16 Bernard Terrace, Edinburgh EH8 9NX
Using archive material which documents aspects of Edinburgh during the 1940s & 50s, take a look at life in the city as it recovered in aftermath of World War Two. In these years much new housing was needed for the growing population. Rationing remained for some time but there was growing hope, as the capital began to boom. After the talk visitors to John Sinclair House will be able to view archive material and books related to the subject. The talk will be in-person and also available online via Zoom. Booking essential – contact archives@hes.scot.

Landscape Institute – Housing & Regeneration Conference
Date & Time: Thursday 29 January 2026; 8:30am-5pm
Location: Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AS
The Scottish Government has set an ambitious housing target of 110,000 affordable homes by 2032 as part of its Housing to 2040 Strategy, as a response to the national housing emergency. To explore how this can be achieved, the Landscape Institute (LI) is hosting national conferences across the UK in 2025 and 2026. This event will examine how a Landscape-led approach can support the delivery of Scotland’s housing ambitions while addressing the climate and nature emergencies, promoting wellbeing, and strengthening communities. It will explore how Landscape-led Planning and design can help to implement the Place Principle, support the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4), and contribute to the just transition to net zero.

Heritage Network – Heritage Futures Scotland
Date & Time: Friday 30 January 2026; 11am-4pm
Location: Discovery Point, Discovery Quay, Dundee DD1 4XA
A day of learning and networking designed for young people aged 18-30 interested in a career in the heritage sector. Hear from professionals working across the heritage sector, gain practical advice, explore local opportunities, and connect with others who share your interests. Whether you’re into museums, archives, historic buildings, or community heritage, this is your chance to learn more and get involved. This event is part of the UK-wide Heritage Futures series.

SEDA/HES – Stone Futures 4 – Amy Wilson and Geoff Squire: Stone Stories
Date & Time: Monday 2 February 2026; 1-2pm
Location: Online
Across the autumn and winter, Scotland East Region, Scottish Ecological Design Association (SEDA) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) are excited to launch a new lunchtime CPD seminar series dedicated to one of the most enduring yet ever evolving materials in our built environment: Stone. From its role in the earliest architecture to its potential in a low carbon future, stone carries its story of resilience, craft and innovation. This series will open up fresh perspectives on how stone can shape tomorrow’s buildings whilst drawing from its rich history. Whether you’re a technologist, architect, designer, engineer or simply curious about the possibilities of this timeless material, these seminars are designed to inform, challenge and inspire. All seminars: 1pm on the first Monday of every month.

Development Trusts Association Scotland – Business Planning
Date & Time: Tuesday 3 February 2026; 12-1:30pm
Location: Online – Sign up on Eventbrite
Part of the New Futures-Former Places of Worship workshop series. This workshop focuses on guiding participants through the key steps required in developing a robust business plan. This is an essential document to give confidence (to funders, your community and you) that you have a viable and sustainable proposal to ensure the long-term success of an important community asset. The workshop is specifically geared towards business planning for communities taking a former church building into community ownership.

Architecture and Design Scotland – Roundtable discussions
Dates & Times 
Session 1: Thursday 5 February 2026; 1:30-3pm
Location: Page\Park Glasgow, 20 James Morrison Street, Glasgow G1 5PE
Session 2: Thursday 19 February 2026; 1:30-3pm
Location: Online
Session 3: Wednesday 25 February 2026; 1:30-3pm
Location: Edinburgh Futures Institute, 1 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9EF
Following a strategic review of the implementation of architecture policy in Scotland, Architecture and Design Scotland’s role is set to change. The recommendations set out a new remit, positioning the organisation as a centre for excellence that supports sector-wide development through collaboration, insight, and innovation. Practitioners and practices within the architecture, urban design, and landscape architecture sectors are invited to one of three roundtable sessions to hear about forward plans and to allow for comments and questions from the people working in the field. If you would like to join one of these sessions, please reserve your place. If you are interested in attending, but you are not an architect, landscape architect or involved in urban design please note that there will be future ways to engage with their forward programme.

AHSS – Karen Latimer: Rescuing Buildings at Risk in Northern Ireland
Date & Time: Monday 9 February 2026; 6:30-7:30pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL (wheelchair accessible)
Note: Lecture will also be streamed online via Zoom
Karen Latimer OBE is a trustee of Hearth, the largest and most experienced building preservation trust in Northern Ireland.  It has consistently carried out projects that were groundbreaking or challenging and has restored over a hundred buildings at risk of all types for a range of uses, mainly for social housing and community use. Are there lessons to be learnt for Scotland? Tickets available from Eventbrite or on the door, subject to availability: £6 / students £2

SHBT – Evolving Estates: Community and Conservation in the Green Belt
Date & Time: Wednesday 11 February 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG
Speakers: Lindsay Aitken, Chair of Gracemount Mansion Development Trust and Andrew Hopetoun, Chairman of Hopetoun Estates and resident trustee at Hopetoun House. Surrounding the city in the heart of Patrick Geddes’ valley are the fields and agricultural estates which once upon a time provided both its food, and for the luckier few, leisured retreats from its crowds and hubbub. Now they supply cheap land for cheap homes. To Edinburgh’s west and south, eighteenth-century landscapes are filled with new houses, shopping centres and warehouses. Here and there, a mansion or two offers reminders of what was once the city’s hinterland.  This session will bring together diverse stakeholders of this shifting world to discuss the possibilities and problematics that are presented by the largest part of the city: its outer suburbs.

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland – “Sappho Was Right”: Gravestones and Afterlives
Date & Time: Thursday 12 February 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
This lecture explores memorials by or for queer women who campaigned for suffrage in Scotland. Through reading lesbian suffragist grave markers as vehicles of posthumous agency, we can glean evidence of queerness haunting the process of self-memorialisation. Suffrage campaigners were skilled public historians. Through reading their grave markers as evidence of their visual literacy, we can see how queer suffragists harnessed the power of memorials as sites cementing historical narratives.

Development Trusts Association Scotland – Financial Planning
Date & Time: Thursday 12 February 2026; 1-2:30pm
Location: Online – Sign up on Eventbrite
Part of the New Futures – Former Places of Worship workshop series. This workshop will introduce the principles of budget setting, monitoring and effective financial management specifically relevant to community groups in the process of taking a former place of worship into community ownership.

AHSS – Gordon R Urquhart: The Ironwork of James Sellars, Architect
Date & Time: Thursday 19 February 2026; 7:30-9:30pm
Location: St Andrew’s West Church & Renfield Centre, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4JP
Note: Lecture will also be live-streamed via Zoom
Gordon R Urquhart, historian and author, examines the ironwork designs emanating from the “fertile mind and facile pencil” of Victorian architect James Sellars and explores the often-misunderstood relationship between Glasgow’s architects and its major iron foundries.

Heritage Network – Connect, Collaborate & Grow: Quarterly Local Authorities Networking
Date & Time: Thursday 19 February 2026; 12:30-1:15pm
Location: Online
This is a free event for colleagues working in Local Authorities across the UK. Connect with colleagues who understand the challenges and joys of working on heritage projects in Local Authorities. Share leads, ideas, and opportunities to collaborate or support one another, share project successes and challenges. Chat informally about what’s happening in the sector, what’s coming up, and how to help each other thrive.

Europa Nostra – Secretary General Address
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; tbc
Location: Edinburgh
More details to follow

Training

GCHT/RIAS – CPD: Conservation Theory and Accreditation
Date & Time: Thursday 5 February 2026; 1-2pm
Location: GCHT Office, 54 Bell Street, Glasgow G1 1LQ
This CPD session offers an overview of the RIAS Conservation Accreditation Scheme. Advanced Accredited Architects Fiona Sinclair and Melanie Hay will guide attendees through the scheme’s background, assessment criteria, the role of conservation theory in practice and the support available, including the RIAS pre-application mentoring programme. Designed for architects looking to advance their career in conservation, the session will provide practical insights into the accreditation process, demonstrate how theory underpins confident and informed design decisions, and highlight how accreditation can enhance professional development and recognition. This session is being held in advance of the upcoming applicant deadline on Friday 27 February 2026 at 5pm.

The Engine Shed – Historic Bricks and Tiles
Date & Time: Tuesday 10 February 2026; 9:30am-1pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Scotland has long been perceived to be a country built of stone. Yet, recent research shows brick and other clay products like terra cotta, faience and tiles have contributed significantly to our historic built environment. These three morning talks will explore how fired earth products have contributed to Scotland’s buildings for centuries and how these materials can be repaired and conserved. The sessions begin with a broad overview of brick clay products, their material characteristics and the development of industrial production in the 19th century, followed by a discussion on how bricks and tiles were used in a range of Scottish buildings, their physical properties and variable abilities to withstand weathering and decay processes. Consideration will be given to the repair process stages, reviewing traditional and current repair, restoration and cleaning techniques, and discussing sustainable sourcing of replacement materials. Cost: £45 for the in person morning learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Scottish Lime Centre Trust – Introduction to Plain Lime Plastering
Date & Time: Tuesday 10 February 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY12 3DR
This one day workshop aims to provide an introductory guide to the preparation and application of plain lime plaster to both lath and masonry backgrounds which abound our historic buildings for internal wall and ceiling finishes. This workshop is aimed at plastering, building and heritage professionals and home owners of tradition buildings with historic plasterwork schemes who are inquisitive as to the necessary preparation of plaster materials, backgrounds (both lath and onto masonry), application techniques and aftercare requirements for achieving successful plain lime plastering (also known as flatwork).

Scottish Lime Centre Trust – Introduction to Stonemasonry
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 February 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY12 3DR
Taught by a time served Stonemason, this two-day practical course is suitable for all abilities and covers an introduction to tools, techniques and uses of basic stonemasonry. Learners can take away their practice stones at the end of the day. This practical course is designed for those individuals with little or no experience in cutting and dressing natural stone; building contractor working on traditional stone buildings and structures and just want to learn the basic masonry skills for cutting and dressing sandstone; or a semi-skilled operative who needs to add to his skills set and be able to produce stone masonry units to plumb, level and plane with traditional tooling finishes.

The Engine Shed – Stone in Scotland: Past, Present and Future
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 February 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Stone has been used to create Scotland’s historic built environment for thousands of years. These three morning talks will introduce you to the wide range of stone used in Scotland and share current best practice in stone repairs. There will also be a review of innovative methods of identifying and procuring new stone for conservation and newbuild projects. In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to discuss a wide range of stone conservation issues.A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Vacancies

BEFS – Net Zero Lead
Salary: £38,000 FTE
Status: 30hrs per week (4 days); permanent – subject to organisational funding
Location: The job is home-working based – the team all currently live in or within a relatively easy commute to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
How can the sector deliver Net Zero, both for itself but also for Scotland? This role is a response to the challenges and opportunities ahead; we see a role for BEFS, positioned as the strategic intermediary for Scotland’s existing built and historic environment, to de-mystify what delivering Net Zero means in practice, supporting the existing work of the sector (and beyond!), building capacity whilst avoiding duplication of effort, and driving a much needed coordinated and holistic approach to Net Zero and the Climate Emergency. To do this, we have created a new role within BEFS Team, to support the sector and increase BEFS ability to integrate our approach to Net Zero into all BEFS strategic and advocacy activity. This role involves leading on BEFS co-ordinated and strategic approach to delivering Net Zero through its own work, and – crucially – connecting existing sector work and research; building Member and sector capacity and coordinating a robust, collaborative and data driven approach, ensuring that the historic environment is recognised as a valuable asset and key player in Scotland’s journey to Net Zero, and in tackling the Climate Emergency. We envisage that this role will evolve and respond to a changing political climate as needed, engaging with the legislative process and working towards ensuring that the sector is equipped to respond to the Climate Emergency in the long term. The Net Zero Lead will work with BEFS Team on the strategic objectives identified in BEFS Manifesto 2026, supporting positive action towards the key policy asks relating to Net Zero. This will involve working closely and collaboratively with existing and new stakeholders and partners, shaping baseline recommendations and Route Map to Net Zero for the sector. The role is also intended to deepen BEFS ability to provide meaningful and active support to the delivery of HES’ Climate Action Plan, Green Recovery Statement, The Skills Investment Plan and the Archaeology Strategy. Apply here.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Hazel Johnson: hjohnson@befs.org.uk
Closing Date: Saturday 31 January 2026

Historic Churches Scotland – Director
Salary: £40,000-£50,000 per annum
Status: Full time
Location: Scotland
Historic Churches Scotland is a charity and Building Preservation Trust dedicated to protecting and conserving Scotland’s most significant at-risk historic churches, ensuring they remain open, sustainable, and valued by local communities. As the organisation prepares for a new phase of growth and increased public engagement, they are seeking an experienced and inspirational leader to guide its strategic direction, fundraising, operational delivery, and stakeholder relationships. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a candidate with strong heritage, conservation, or property management experience, combined with excellent financial, governance, and people management skills. The successful candidate will ideally hold a degree or professional qualification in art history, architectural history, architecture, surveying, conservation of historic buildings, or a related discipline. To apply or for further information, please contact Nicole Limmer at Anderson Knight on Nicole@andersonknight.co.uk or 0141 348 7762. Download the full job specification here.
Closing Date: Monday 9 February 2026

Planning Aid Scotland – Opportunities for chartered planners
Becoming chartered is a significant professional milestone, signalling competence and a commitment to public service. Planning Aid Scotland, the national charity working to widen access to planning, offers newly chartered planners a way to put these values into practice through its national planning Advice Service. Volunteers support members of the public with a wide range of planning questions, gaining direct experience that is often hard to find in day-to-day roles. The opportunity is flexible and open to all chartered planners. In return, volunteers receive professional training, access to a video archive, and ongoing support.
Get in touch to find out more at volunteer@pas.org.uk
Closing Date: Not applicable

Planning Democracy – Trustees
Planning Democracy are looking for new trustees to join their board. They are particularly interested in recruiting trustees who have skills in the following areas:

• Governance
• Communications (social media, online resources, website management)

However, they are also keen to hear from anyone who feels that Planning Democracy is an organisation they are interested in getting involved with. In return they are offering training opportunities, learning opportunities, experience in campaigning and advocacy, the opportunity to travel in Scotland and meet new people, as well as being part of a committed group of people.

If you are interested, contact Chair, Helen Todd on info@planningdemocracy.org.uk and they can then send you an application form and/or have a chat.
Closing Date: Not specified

War Memorials Trust – Trustees 
War Memorials Trust works to protect and conserve the nation’s 100,000 war memorials. They are seeking new Trustees, with the right skills, experience, enthusiasm and commitment, to join the Board and help guide the charity’s efforts. The charity provides advice and expertise to help anyone who looks after a war memorial to manage, repair and conserve it for the benefit of those who live locally, those who are commemorated and their families and the wider population. Sadly, names are added on a regular basis, hence many are living memorials as well as commemorating those from conflicts past. They also encourage public engagement especially through their website War Memorials Online to which anyone can add information and upload photographs. So, if the Trustee role isn’t for you, you may still be able to contribute by signing up to War Memorials Online.

A skills audit has identified key areas of expertise that the Board needs to enhance as:

• fundraising expertise to ensure they are here for the long term
• legal expertise to support the charity deliver its objectives appropriately

If you have a sympathy with their vision and have skills which match those being sought, they would love to hear from you. Whilst they can consider wider enquiries, the above listed elements are the current priorities. This role is home based with board meetings rotating between in-person at the London office and online, although all can be joined online. Some attendance at events or visits to war memorials may be undertaken. Reasonable expenses related to the role will be available. Minimum engagement is for four, two-hour board meetings per year (plus reading of papers beforehand). Additional input will be welcomed and Trustees may be approached by staff, on a collective or an individual basis, between meetings, particularly in relation to their expertise. For full details of the role and how to apply, please go to the War Memorials Trust’s website.
Closing Date: Not specified

SHBT – St Ninian’s Manse
Location: Quayside Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6EJ
Size: 2,889 sq ft
Availability: March 2026
Tenure: Available as single tenancy or individual floors
With origins dating back to 1493, St Ninian’s Manse is thought to be the oldest building in Leith and is topped by Edinburgh’s sole surviving 17th century timber steeple. It formed part of the original entrance to St Ninian’s Chapel, which was mostly demolished during the 19th century when the site was converted to industrial use as a mill. From 1996 to 2002, SHBT restored both St Ninian’s Manse and the adjacent Quayside Mills, creating desirable waterfront office space whilst also preserving an important historic structure and a key part of Leith’s history. The manse now offers four floors of adaptable office space with period character, modern amenities, and five dedicated parking spaces. Brochure
Enquiries: info@shbt.org.uk

Fife Visitor Levy – Early Engagement Survey
In May 2024, the Scottish Parliament passed the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, providing local authorities with the ability to charge a set percentage on overnight accommodation paid by visitors. To explore this further, Fife Council agreed to start a period of early engagement public consultation to understand whether and how a Visitor Levy should be implemented in the Fife Council area. Your views and opinions are important and the results will help inform the way forward in Fife.
*NEW* Closes 19 December 2025 

Call for Good Practices: Cultural Heritage as an Asset for the Green, Digital and Social Transformation
European Heritage Hub
The European Heritage Hub is seeking local good practices from cities and regions across Europe in heritage within the context of the ‘triple transformation’- green, digital and social transformation of society. The call is open to local and regional administrations of all sizes from across Europe, including Ukraine, Moldova, Western Balkans and the Caucasus region, as well as EEA, EFTA countries and the UK. Ten inspirational practices will be selected, with hosts eligible to organise onsite peer-learning visits in 2026-2027. Thematic areas include heritage and climate, tourism, digital technologies, communities, youth, values, peace, music, EU enlargement, and the Mediterranean. Applications must be submitted in English via the online form.
Closes 19 December 2025 

Compulsory Purchase Reform
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is carrying out a programme of work to reform and modernise Scotland’s compulsory purchase system. Following a commitment in the Programme for Government 2024/25, a consultation has been published on a comprehensive package of proposals and options for change; to make compulsory purchase simpler, more streamlined and fairer for all parties. The consultation has been informed by extensive engagement with a range of stakeholders, including a practitioner advisory group chaired by the Chief Planner and Roseanna Cunningham, MSP. A number of questions on compulsory sale orders and compulsory lease orders are also included in the consultation paper. Any questions about the consultation: CPO.Reform@gov.scot.
Closes 19 December 2025 

Future of Scotland’s High Streets
UK Parliament
In response to concerns about the evolution of town centres and high streets in Scotland, the Scottish Affairs Committee has opened an inquiry into their future. The Committee is aware of the common application of ‘in decline’ to describe many high streets, and would like to learn more about the potential of models with positive visions that could improve resilience, activity and community led regeneration. Views on how government can best support these emerging visions are also invited. The call for evidence is supported by a short survey.
*NEW* Closes 23 December 2025   

Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 – Thresholds Review
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is consulting on proposed changes to the goods, services, works, and community benefit thresholds within the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014. These thresholds determine which procurement rules apply to public contracts in Scotland. The review considers increasing the goods, services, and works thresholds, and decreasing the community benefits threshold, to ensure they remain appropriate and effective.
Closes 8 January 2026  

Draft Circular Economy Strategy
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is committed to moving from a linear “take, make and dispose” economic model to a circular economy where materials and goods are valued and kept in use for as long as possible. This draft circular economy strategy sets out the rationale and benefits of a more circular economy within the wider economic framework and describes the overall vision to 2045 and the outcomes that they are working towards. The consultation paper contains full background information for this consultation.
Closes 13 January 2026 

Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship  
Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has published a draft Strategy document entitled: Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship. This draft Strategy explains how HES plans to care for the Properties and Collections in its care over the long term and why change is needed. Scotland’s historic environment is facing growing challenges, including climate change, rising costs, and a shortage of traditional skills. The Strategy explains how HES will respond to these challenges, make the most of opportunities, prioritise what matters most, and work with communities to protect and use the Properties and Collections in ways that benefit everyone.
Closes 23 January 2026 

Draft Climate Change Plan 2026-2040
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is consulting on its Draft Climate Change Plan for 2026-2040. The Plan sets out wide-ranging policies and proposals to address and adapt to the current and anticipated impacts of climate change, including by reducing carbon emissions, providing warmer homes, improving air quality, and supporting active travel. It features a road map of actions for the next 15 years and a sectoral annex on residential and public buildings.
Closes 29 January 2026 

The Future of Council Tax in Scotland
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) are seeking views on the future of council tax in Scotland. This consultation forms part of a joint programme of work seeking to build consensus on reforms to council tax, which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction over 30 years ago. The findings will help support informed public debate and further consideration in the Scottish Parliament.
Closes 30 January 2026 

Exploring the role of alternative clean heating solutions
UK Government
The UK Government is committed to decarbonising the way we heat our buildings to protect consumers against high energy bills due to volatile global fossil fuel prices, reduce the UK’s dependence on foreign sources of energy and combat climate change. In that process, the UK Government is committed to ensuring there is a good solution for every building and that consumers have access to a range of suitable low-carbon heat technologies. This consultation will be of interest to stakeholders operating in the heat sector, business representative bodies, households, non-domestic buildings, and those with a wider interest in the UK’s net zero ambition.
Closes 10 February 2026 

Measuring the Values of Arts, Culture, and Heritage
Heritage Strategies International
Heritage Strategies International is collaborating with Historic England in a research effort called ‘Developing Taxonomies for Arts, Culture and Heritage.’ The project is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). This international survey is a means to learn from experts and advocates in arts, culture, and heritage what might be measured, the importance (or not) of measuring values, and to learn what similar work on creating categories of values is being used elsewhere in the world.
No closing date specified 

 Consultation Responses

Community Rights to Buy: consultation analysis (Scot Gov 11/12/2025)

Compulsory Purchase Reform
BEFS welcomed the opportunity to comment on the Scottish Government’s 2025 consultation on compulsory purchase reform and noted the importance of mechanisms to sustainably bring derelict or vacant historic and existing built environment assets back into use. BEFS response to this consultation supported bringing legislation into a single statute, noted mixed views in the BEFS Membership on the creation of temporary possession, and provided practical suggestions to encourage early and effective engagement between local governments and owners. (BEFS 16/12/2025)

New report shows people don’t want new homes to be built at nature’s expense (RSPB 12/11/2025)

Icon Launches Call for Posters for Icon26; taking place on 24 & 25 June 2026 at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh (Icon 26/11/2025)

Scottish Tourism Alliance: UK Budget a ‘Major Setback’ for Scottish Tourism (STA 27/11/2025)

Princes Street at a Crossroads; Heritage, vision and the future of Edinburgh’s grand boulevard (The Cockburn Association 28/11/2025)

Soundmapping project to create community sound art on the Forth & Clyde Canal (Scottish Canals 02/12/2025)

Historic Environment Scotland Interim Chief Operating Officer appointed (HES 02/12/2025)

Turning ambition into action: housing and climate resilience as the grand challenges post-COP30 (RICS 08/12/2025)

Bar-L’ joins the A list: Late 19th and early 20th century phases of historic Glasgow prison are listed at Category A (HES 10/12/2025)

Hotels, Homes and a Changing City: Balanced development can protect Edinburgh’s character and benefit residents (The Cockburn Association 11/12/2025)

Scottish Tourism Alliance: Holyrood Election Manifesto: Share your Story (STA 11/12/2025)

Cross Sector Consortium inc. Edinburgh Napier University: Timber Reuse Survey (ASBP 12/12/2025)

Snap a photo of Edinburgh and win a year’s membership (HES/EWH 12/12/2025)

New strategy for Scotland’s protected historic places (HES 15/12/2025)

UK’s first national inventory of intangible cultural heritage invites community nominations (The Heritage Alliance December 2025)

Publications

Planning and Architecture: Planning and the Housing Emergency Delivery Plan – Actions Update (Scot Gov 28/10/2025)

Public Procurement and Property: Updated guidance on Community Benefits in procurement (Scot Gov 13/11/2025)

Public Procurement and Property: Updated Climate Literacy eLearning on the Sustainable Procurement Tools (Scot Gov 20/11/2025)

Planning and Architecture: Update on Elected Member Training (Scot Gov 25/11/2025)

SPICe Spotlight: Climate Change Plan: policies, proposals and sector summaries (SPICe 01/12/2025)

Amending the visitor levy (Scot Gov 02/12/2025)

Correspondence between Creative Scotland and The Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee regarding independent review report (Scot Parl 02/12/2025)

Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee [Draft] Report (Scot Parl 02/12/2025)

Correspondence between Ivan McKee and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee and The Economy and Fair Work Committee regarding Visitor Levy Legislation (Scot Parl 02/12/2025)

Correspondence between The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee and Màiri McAllan  regarding cladding remediation programme (Scot Parl 03/12/2025)

Correspondence between Meghan Gallacher and The Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee regarding Desecration of War Memorials (Scotland) Bill (Scot Parl 03/11/2025)

Correspondence between Màiri McAllan and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Scottish Housing Regulator (Scot Parl 04/12/2025)

Cumbernauld New Town (70th Anniversary): Debate on S6M-19607 (Scot Parl 04/12/2025)

DCMS Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy 2026 to 2031 (UK Gov 04/12/2025)

Draft Climate Change Plan: online engagement platform (Scot Gov 05/12/2025)

Report tracking the work of the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee 2024-25 (Scot Parl 05/12/2025)

Independent Culture Fair Work Task Force Report and Recommendations (Scot Gov 05/12/2025)

National Islands Plan – Draft (Scot Gov 05/12/2025)

Energy Performance Certificates: guide (Scot Gov 08/12/2025)

Planning and Architecture: Publications declutter (Scot Gov 08/12/2025)

Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill – Fourth Groupings of Amendments for Stage 2 (Scot Parl 08/12/2025)

The general principles of the Building Safety (Wales) Bill and the financial resolution in respect of the Building Safety (Wales) Bill (Welsh Senedd 09/12/2025)

Correspondence between BE-ST and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Draft Climate Change Plan (Scot Parl 09/12/2025)

Correspondence between The Chartered Institute of Architectural technologists (CIAT) and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Draft Climate Change Plan (Scot Parl 09/12/2025)

Correspondence between The Existing Homes Alliance Scotland and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Draft Climate Change Plan (Scot Parl 09/12/2025)

Correspondence between Energy Saving Trust and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Draft Climate Change Plan (Scot Parl 09/12/2025)

Public appointment: Members appointed to Skills Development Scotland (Scot Gov 09/12/2025)

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) approved organisation status (Scot Gov 09/12/2025)

Culture Fair Work Taskforce minutes: November 2025 (Scot Gov 10/12/2025)

Culture Fair Work Taskforce minutes: October 2025 (Scot Gov 10/12/2025)

The Optimised Retrofit Programme: Oral Question (Welsh Senedd 10/12/2025)

Stage 1 report on the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill (Scot Parl 11/12/2025)

Historical Interim Development Orders Debate (UK Parl 11/12/2025)

Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill – Daily list of amendments (Scot Parl 11/12/2025)

Correspondence between The Regulatory Review Group and Màiri McAllan regarding Housing (Scotland) Bill (Scot Gov 11/12/2025)

Correspondence between Nesta Scotland and The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Draft Climate Change Plan (Scot Parl 11/12/2025)

Business Improvement Districts: Town Centre Renewal –?Question (House of Lords 11/12/2025)

Finance and Public Administration Committee Stage 1 report on the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill (Scot Parl 11/12/2025)

Planning Obligations and Good Neighbour Agreements (Scot Gov 12/12/2025)

Community Wealth Building (Scotland) Bill – Daily list of amendments (Scot Parl 12/12/2025)

Funding secures theatre’s future (Scot Gov 12/12/2025)

Planning obligations and good neighbour agreements: guidance (Scot Gov 12/12/2025)

Academic Advisory Panel – Just Transition Plan in land use and agriculture: advisory note (Scot Gov 15/12/2025)

Housing Statistics for Scotland Quarterly Update: New Housebuilding and Affordable Housing Supply to end September 2025 (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Local authority total and vacant housing stock, Scotland, March 2025 (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Second Homes and Empty Properties in September 2025 (Scot Gov 16/12/2025)

Motions

Opinion & Comment

Blog: Housing taxes make Budget appearance (CaCHE 02/12/2025)

Public-sector procurement in Scotland is a mess – and architects are paying the price (Building Design 02/12/2025)

‘They rose out of the ground!’: Scotland’s brutalist beauties – in pictures (The Guardian 04/12/2025)

Public realm project named Scotland’s best building (Urban Realm 05/12/2025)

Rural Outer Hebrides home wins RIBA House of the Year 2025 (Dezeen 10/12/2025)

Which Scottish communities are sharing £280m of funding? (BBC News 12/12/2025)

Blog: You can have this Information but it will Cost You £630 (Land Matters 15/12/2025)

Blog: Owners Associations must reflect modern realities (The Broughton Spurtle 16/12/2025)

Events

SHBT – Heritage Retrofit: Historic Building Adaption for the Future
Date & Time: Wednesday 14 January 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG
Speakers: Chris Morgan, Chartered and ARB registered Architect and Director of John Gilbert Architects in Glasgow and Henrietta Billings, Director of Save Britain’s Heritage. Up the hill from the sea and city are the raw materials from which both its built heritage and wealth are hewn and mined: timber, coal, ore, stone. On the one hand, these materials represent the result of aeons, rather than the mere centuries of history. On the other, they are consumed over ever-decreasing durations, producing waste and degrading the environments they long predate. This session will debate how heritage preservation might engage with this process. It has long been argued that conservation must be a carbon-positive activity, but alternative thinking suggests that sometimes keeping what already exists may not be the most sustainable approach.

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland – The Lost Royal Lodgings of Edinburgh Castle and the Birthplace of Britain
Date & Time: Thursday 15 January 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
This talk, The Lost Royal Lodgings of Edinburgh Castle 1093 – 1617, and the Birthplace of Great Britain, is the culmination of an almost 40-year involvement in investigating the history and archaeology of Edinburgh Castle. Most recently this has been within the context of commissioned research from HES in writing a Statement of Significance for the later Palace in Crown Square. The ‘Birthplace’ subtext refers to the Royal Lodging subsumed within the 1617 Palace where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth on 19 June 1566 to the future James VI/ I, and with the Union of the Crowns in 1603 styling himself King of Great Britain and Ireland.

Development Trusts Association Scotland – Finance and Fundraising 2: Other Funding Methods
Date & Time: Thursday 15 January 2026; 11:30am-1pm
Location: Online – Sign up on Eventbrite
Part of the New Futures- Former Places of Worship workshop series. This workshop will focus on funding methods that communities may wish to undertake when bringing a former place of worship into community ownership.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills Group – January meeting
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 January 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online
An opportunity for organisations and individuals working with or interested in mill buildings to come together, network, and discuss. Owen Bushell will talk about the development of the social enterprise taking custodianship of the category A listed Bucket Mill in Finzean, Aberdeenshire. Owen will discuss some of the challenges the organisation faces in getting the machinery working again, developing skills training, and working towards producing historic turned buckets once again. Health & Safety considerations, space constraints and conservation (nature, object and building) conundrums will also be touched upon.

AHSS – Chris Bragg: Tensions in visual organ design in the 19th century UK
Date & Time: Thursday 22 January 2026; 7:30pm
Location: St Andrew’s West Church & Renfield Centre, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4JP
Note: Lecture will also be live-streamed via Zoom
Explore 19th-century UK organ design with Chris Bragg of Sowne of Organe. This lecture examines the Oxford Movement’s influence, evolving aesthetics, decorated pipes, and shifting liturgical demands. Explore how these changes have shaped organ building and continue to influence modern conservation efforts, striking a balance between historical integrity and contemporary performance and architectural contexts. Tickets available from Eventbrite or on the door: £6 / students £2 / season ticket for all 5 lectures: £25.

Development Trusts Association Scotland – Your Building: A Guide
Date & Time: Thursday 22 January 2026; 1-2:30pm
Location: Online – Sign up on Eventbrite
Part of the New Futures – Former Places of Worship workshop series. Former places of worship can present unique challenges in terms of facilities management and require a thoughtful approach to ensure the suitability of the building for its use. This workshop will cover the operational side of repurposing a former place of worship for community use.

IHBC Scotland Branch – Historic Building Legislation & Curtilage in Scotland
Date & Time: Friday 23 January 2026; 10:30am-4:30pm
Location: Sir Walter Scott Hall, Grassmarket Community Project, 86, Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QA
Update your knowledge on historic building legislation and curtilage in Scotland. This event will provide an introduction to heritage planning law and consider the extent of listing including curtilage, with leading expert Dr Charles Mynors. There will also be updates from HES on designations and heritage policy. The event is relevant to those working in the heritage, development, legal and planning sectors.

SHSMG – Promoting Scotland’s Past to Families with Children
Date & Time: Monday 26 January 2026; 3-4pm
Location: Online via Zoom
The Scottish Heritage Social Media Group’s January event features Julie Cumming, Marketing Manager at Dundee Heritage Trust, who has spent over three years attracting families with children to sites like Discovery Point and Verdant Works Museum. Julie will talk about what’s worked and what hasn’t, discuss her strategies for operating with little to no budget, and share her experience when it comes to collaborating with family influencers (including how she reaches out, creates a marketing plan, calculates Return on Investment, and considers the risks). This online event will conclude with a Q&A session.

Landscape Institute – Housing & Regeneration Conference
Date & Time: Thursday 29 January 2026; 8:30am-5pm
Location: Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AS
The Scottish Government has set an ambitious housing target of 110,000 affordable homes by 2032 as part of its Housing to 2040 Strategy, as a response to the national housing emergency. To explore how this can be achieved, the Landscape Institute (LI) is hosting national conferences across the UK in 2025 and 2026. This event will examine how a Landscape-led approach can support the delivery of Scotland’s housing ambitions while addressing the climate and nature emergencies, promoting wellbeing, and strengthening communities. It will explore how Landscape-led Planning and design can help to implement the Place Principle, support the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4), and contribute to the just transition to net zero.
Reserve your place today: Early bird by 31 December 2025

Heritage Network – Heritage Futures Scotland
Date & Time: Friday 30 January 2026; 11am-4pm
Location: Discovery Point, Discovery Quay, Dundee DD1 4XA
A day of learning and networking designed for young people aged 18-30 interested in a career in the heritage sector. Hear from professionals working across the heritage sector, gain practical advice, explore local opportunities, and connect with others who share your interests. Whether you’re into museums, archives, historic buildings, or community heritage, this is your chance to learn more and get involved. This event is part of the UK-wide Heritage Futures series.

SEDA/HES – Stone Futures 4 – Amy Wilson and Geoff Squire: Stone Stories
Date & Time: Monday 2 February 2026; 1-2pm
Location: Online
Across the autumn and winter, Scotland East Region, Scottish Ecological Design Association (SEDA) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) are excited to launch a new lunchtime CPD seminar series dedicated to one of the most enduring yet ever evolving materials in our built environment: Stone. From its role in the earliest architecture to its potential in a low carbon future, stone carries its story of resilience, craft and innovation. This series will open up fresh perspectives on how stone can shape tomorrow’s buildings whilst drawing from its rich history. Whether you’re a technologist, architect, designer, engineer or simply curious about the possibilities of this timeless material, these seminars are designed to inform, challenge and inspire. All seminars: 1pm on the first Monday of every month.

2026 SAVE THE DATES 

Europa Nostra – Secretary General Address
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; tbc
Location: Edinburgh
Details to follow

STBA – Futurebuild 2026
Date & Time: 3-5 March 2026
Location: Excel, London
Details to follow

European Cultural Heritage Summit 2026
Date & Time: Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30 May 2026
Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
Details to follow

Training

Scottish Lime Centre Trust – A Guide to Winter Working with Lime
Date & Time: Wednesday 21 January 2026; 9am-12pm
Location: Charlestown Workshops, 2 Rocks Road, Charlestown, Fife KY11 3EN
Hints, tips and practical advice will help you extend your season working with lime mortars successfully. The reality is that contracting is a 365 days a year business and you don’t have the luxury of picking your weather windows. This half day course is aimed at anyone who works with traditional buildings or structures. The day will consist of a mixture of lecture and practical demonstrations.

The Engine Shed – Historic Bricks and Tiles
Date & Time: Tuesday 10 February 2026; 9:30am-1pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Scotland has long been perceived to be a country built of stone. Yet, recent research shows brick and other clay products like terra cotta, faience and tiles have contributed significantly to our historic built environment. These three morning talks will explore how fired earth products have contributed to Scotland’s buildings for centuries and how these materials can be repaired and conserved. The sessions begin with a broad overview of brick clay products, their material characteristics and the development of industrial production in the 19th century, followed by a discussion on how bricks and tiles were used in a range of Scottish buildings, their physical properties and variable abilities to withstand weathering and decay processes. Consideration will be given to the repair process stages, reviewing traditional and current repair, restoration and cleaning techniques, and discussing sustainable sourcing of replacement materials. Cost: £45 for the in person morning learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

The Engine Shed – Stone in Scotland: Past, Present and Future
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 February 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Stone has been used to create Scotland’s historic built environment for thousands of years. These three morning talks will introduce you to the wide range of stone used in Scotland and share current best practice in stone repairs. There will also be a review of innovative methods of identifying and procuring new stone for conservation and newbuild projects. In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to discuss a wide range of stone conservation issues.A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Vacancies

British School at Rome – Robert Adam Rome Scholarship in Architecture 2026-27
The Robert Adam Rome Scholarship in Architecture offers architects and scholars the opportunity to explore the tradition and evolution of classical architecture in Rome and across Italy, including its relationship to urban form. The scholarship provides a three-month residency at the British School at Rome (BSR), where the award-holder will pursue a self-directed programme of research. This may take many forms — from drawing, measuring, or design studies, to theoretical or historical investigations, or a combination of these approaches — all centred on the tradition and development of classical architecture. The award-holder will have privileged access to the BSR’s renowned Library and Archive, and will join its vibrant community of artists and scholars — benefitting from, and contributing to, the rich intellectual and social exchange that lies at the heart of life at the BSR. At the end of the residency, the scholar will produce a final report or portfolio with the specific aim of informing and inspiring contemporary architectural practice. Applications are welcomed from individuals whose backgrounds are underrepresented at the BSR. The scholarship includes a research and travel grant of £1000 per month; room and board at the BSR for 3 months (Jan-March 2027) and Italian language lessons on site. Applicants must be either UK or Commonwealth nationals, UK-settled residents, or individuals who have been working or studying in the UK for at least the past three years.
Closing Date: Monday 5 January 2026

Fife Historic Buildings Trust – Finance Officer
Salary: £32,000 per annum, pro-rata
Status: Job Share (16-20 hours per week)
Location: Kinghorn Town Hall, Fife (and homeworking)
Fife Historic Buildings Trust (FHBT) are recruiting a charity finance professional.
This is a job share role coordinating the financial activities of FHBT. Sound financial control underpins all the great work they do, and this is an opportunity to bring your experience to join a welcoming and high achieving team, and play your part in their work for people and historic places in Fife. FHBT are an independent charitable Buildings Preservation Trust formed in 1997. Their mission is to create viable futures for heritage buildings and their communities by inspiring and enabling visionary conservation projects.  Fife has a particularly rich and varied heritage with over 6,200 listed buildings and 48 conservation areas. They have helped deliver over £50m in historic environment regeneration projects in Fife, supporting town centres, businesses, tourism and local communities. Download the job description, including details of how to apply to join this fantastic team: Opportunities – Fife Historic Buildings Trust
Closing Date: 5pm on Monday 12 January 2026

BEFS – Net Zero Lead
Salary: £38,000 FTE
Status: 30hrs per week (4 days); permanent – subject to organisational funding
Location: The job is home-working based – the team all currently live in or within a relatively easy commute to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
How can the sector deliver Net Zero, both for itself but also for Scotland? This role is a response to the challenges and opportunities ahead; we see a role for BEFS, positioned as the strategic intermediary for Scotland’s existing built and historic environment, to de-mystify what delivering Net Zero means in practice, supporting the existing work of the sector (and beyond!), building capacity whilst avoiding duplication of effort, and driving a much needed coordinated and holistic approach to Net Zero and the Climate Emergency. To do this, we have created a new role within BEFS Team, to support the sector and increase BEFS ability to integrate our approach to Net Zero into all BEFS strategic and advocacy activity. This role involves leading on BEFS co-ordinated and strategic approach to delivering Net Zero through its own work, and – crucially – connecting existing sector work and research; building Member and sector capacity and coordinating a robust, collaborative and data driven approach, ensuring that the historic environment is recognised as a valuable asset and key player in Scotland’s journey to Net Zero, and in tackling the Climate Emergency. We envisage that this role will evolve and respond to a changing political climate as needed, engaging with the legislative process and working towards ensuring that the sector is equipped to respond to the Climate Emergency in the long term.

The Net Zero Lead will work with BEFS Team on the strategic objectives identified in BEFS Manifesto 2026, supporting positive action towards the key policy asks relating to Net Zero. This will involve working closely and collaboratively with existing and new stakeholders and partners, shaping baseline recommendations and Route Map to Net Zero for the sector. The role is also intended to deepen BEFS ability to provide meaningful and active support to the delivery of HES’ Climate Action Plan, Green Recovery Statement, The Skills Investment Plan and the Archaeology Strategy. Apply here.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Hazel Johnson: hjohnson@befs.org.uk

Closing Date: Saturday 31 January 2026

Planning Aid Scotland – Opportunities for chartered planners
Becoming chartered is a significant professional milestone, signalling competence and a commitment to public service. Planning Aid Scotland, the national charity working to widen access to planning, offers newly chartered planners a way to put these values into practice through its national planning Advice Service. Volunteers support members of the public with a wide range of planning questions, gaining direct experience that is often hard to find in day-to-day roles. The opportunity is flexible and open to all chartered planners. In return, volunteers receive professional training, access to a video archive, and ongoing support.
Get in touch to find out more at volunteer@pas.org.uk
Closing Date: Not applicable

Planning Democracy – Trustees
Planning Democracy are looking for new trustees to join their board. They are particularly interested in recruiting trustees who have skills in the following areas:

• Governance

• Communications (social media, online resources, website management)

However, they are also keen to hear from anyone who feels that Planning Democracy is an organisation they are interested in getting involved with. In return they are offering training opportunities, learning opportunities, experience in campaigning and advocacy, the opportunity to travel in Scotland and meet new people, as well as being part of a committed group of people.

If you are interested, contact Chair, Helen Todd on info@planningdemocracy.org.uk and they can then send you an application form and/or have a chat.
Closing Date: Not specified

War Memorials Trust – Trustees 
War Memorials Trust works to protect and conserve the nation’s 100,000 war memorials. They are seeking new Trustees, with the right skills, experience, enthusiasm and commitment, to join the Board and help guide the charity’s efforts. The charity provides advice and expertise to help anyone who looks after a war memorial to manage, repair and conserve it for the benefit of those who live locally, those who are commemorated and their families and the wider population. Sadly, names are added on a regular basis, hence many are living memorials as well as commemorating those from conflicts past. They also encourage public engagement especially through their website War Memorials Online to which anyone can add information and upload photographs. So, if the Trustee role isn’t for you, you may still be able to contribute by signing up to War Memorials Online.

A skills audit has identified key areas of expertise that the Board needs to enhance as

• fundraising expertise to ensure they are here for the long term

• legal expertise to support the charity deliver its objectives appropriately

If you have a sympathy with their vision and have skills which match those being sought, they would love to hear from you. Whilst they can consider wider enquiries, the above listed elements are the current priorities. This role is home based with board meetings rotating between in-person at the London office and online, although all can be joined online. Some attendance at events or visits to war memorials may be undertaken. Reasonable expenses related to the role will be available. Minimum engagement is for four, two-hour board meetings per year (plus reading of papers beforehand). Additional input will be welcomed and Trustees may be approached by staff, on a collective or an individual basis, between meetings, particularly in relation to their expertise. For full details of the role and how to apply, please go to the War Memorials Trust’s website.
Closing Date: Not specified

SHBT – St Ninian’s Manse
Location: Quayside Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6EJ
Size: 2,889 sq ft
Availability:March 2026
Tenure: Available as single tenancy or individual floors
With origins dating back to 1493, St Ninian’s Manse is thought to be the oldest building in Leith and is topped by Edinburgh’s sole surviving 17th century timber steeple. It formed part of the original entrance to St Ninian’s Chapel, which was mostly demolished during the 19th century when the site was converted to industrial use as a mill. From 1996 to 2002, SHBT restored both St Ninian’s Manse and the adjacent Quayside Mills, creating desirable waterfront office space whilst also preserving an important historic structure and a key part of Leith’s history. The manse now offers four floors of adaptable office space with period character, modern amenities, and five dedicated parking spaces. Brochure
Enquiries:info@shbt.org.uk

HES – Talking About Heritage Survey 2025
Historic Environment Scotland
Scotland’s heritage belongs to us all – from stone circles and high streets to tenements and schools. Heritage makes communities special and it’s everything we inherit from the past that shapes who we are today as well as influencing our future. Talking About Heritage is a national conversation. The results of this survey will have an impact on how HES think about and care for heritage in Scotland. Discover other ways to get involved here.
Closes 7 December 2025 

Call for Good Practices: Cultural Heritage as an Asset for the Green, Digital and Social Transformation
European Heritage Hub
The European Heritage Hub is seeking local good practices from cities and regions across Europe in heritage within the context of the ‘triple transformation’- green, digital and social transformation of society. The call is open to local and regional administrations of all sizes from across Europe, including Ukraine, Moldova, Western Balkans and the Caucasus region, as well as EEA, EFTA countries and the UK. Ten inspirational practices will be selected, with hosts eligible to organise onsite peer-learning visits in 2026-2027. Thematic areas include heritage and climate, tourism, digital technologies, communities, youth, values, peace, music, EU enlargement, and the Mediterranean. Applications must be submitted in English via the online form.
Closes 19 December 2025 

Compulsory Purchase Reform
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is carrying out a programme of work to reform and modernise Scotland’s compulsory purchase system. Following a commitment in the Programme for Government 2024/25, a consultation has been published on a comprehensive package of proposals and options for change; to make compulsory purchase simpler, more streamlined and fairer for all parties. The consultation has been informed by extensive engagement with a range of stakeholders, including a practitioner advisory group chaired by the Chief Planner and Roseanna Cunningham, MSP. A number of questions on compulsory sale orders and compulsory lease orders are also included in the consultation paper. Any questions about the consultation: CPO.Reform@gov.scot.
Closes 19 December 2025 

Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 – Thresholds Review
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is consulting on proposed changes to the goods, services, works, and community benefit thresholds within the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014. These thresholds determine which procurement rules apply to public contracts in Scotland. The review considers increasing the goods, services, and works thresholds, and decreasing the community benefits threshold, to ensure they remain appropriate and effective.
Closes 8 January 2026  

Draft Circular Economy Strategy
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is committed to moving from a linear “take, make and dispose” economic model to a circular economy where materials and goods are valued and kept in use for as long as possible. This draft circular economy strategy sets out the rationale and benefits of a more circular economy within the wider economic framework and describes the overall vision to 2045 and the outcomes that they are working towards. The consultation paper contains full background information for this consultation.
Closes 13 January 2026 

Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship 
Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has published a draft Strategy document entitled: Properties and Collections Strategy: Towards Sustainable Stewardship. This draft Strategy explains how HES plans to care for the Properties and Collections in its care over the long term and why change is needed. Scotland’s historic environment is facing growing challenges, including climate change, rising costs, and a shortage of traditional skills. The Strategy explains how HES will respond to these challenges, make the most of opportunities, prioritise what matters most, and work with communities to protect and use the Properties and Collections in ways that benefit everyone.
Closes 23 January 2026 

Draft Climate Change Plan 2026-2040
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is consulting on its Draft Climate Change Plan for 2026-2040. The Plan sets out wide-ranging policies and proposals to address and adapt to the current and anticipated impacts of climate change, including by reducing carbon emissions, providing warmer homes, improving air quality, and supporting active travel. It features a road map of actions for the next 15 years and a sectoral annex on residential and public buildings.
Closes 29 January 2026 

The Future of Council Tax in Scotland
Scottish Government
The Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) are seeking views on the future of council tax in Scotland. This consultation forms part of a joint programme of work seeking to build consensus on reforms to council tax, which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction over 30 years ago. Key areas under consideration include: updating the market reference point (currently based on 1991 values) to reflect current market values; exploring approaches to revaluation, including localised revaluation where band thresholds could differ by council area to reflect local housing markets; introducing options for new council tax bands at the top and bottom of the scale to ensure the system is more progressive and proportionate; and considering transitional measures such as phased implementation and deferral options to help households adjust to changes, as well as reductions to support lower-income households. The findings will help support informed public debate and further consideration in the Scottish Parliament.
Closes 30 January 2026 

Exploring the role of alternative clean heating solutions
UK Government
The UK Government is committed to decarbonising the way we heat our buildings to protect consumers against high energy bills due to volatile global fossil fuel prices, reduce the UK’s dependence on foreign sources of energy and combat climate change. In that process, the UK Government is committed to ensuring there is a good solution for every building and that consumers have access to a range of suitable low-carbon heat technologies. This consultation will be of interest to stakeholders operating in the heat sector, business representative bodies, households, non-domestic buildings, and those with a wider interest in the UK’s net zero ambition.
*NEW* Closes 10 February 2026 

Measuring the Values of Arts, Culture, and Heritage
Heritage Strategies International
Heritage Strategies International is collaborating with Historic England in a research effort called ‘Developing Taxonomies for Arts, Culture and Heritage.’ The project is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). This international survey is a means to learn from experts and advocates in arts, culture, and heritage what might be measured, the importance (or not) of measuring values, and to learn what similar work on creating categories of values is being used elsewhere in the world.
No closing date specified 

 Consultation Responses

Scottish Aggregates Tax: Options for approaching cross-border taxation – Consultation Analysis (Scot Gov 19/11/2025)

Highland Historic Buildings Trust to Continue its Work in the Highlands as Part of Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT 14/11/2025)

Open Call for NextGen Heritage Ambassadors: European Heritage Hub Advisory Body (Youth.Heritage.Europe and Europa Nostra 17/11/2025)

Highland Historic Buildings Trust to continue its work in the Highlands as part of Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT 17/11/2025)

Rennie: Housing Secretary has some nerve as heating bill dropped (Scottish Liberal Democrats 18/11/2025)

Scotland celebrates Intangible Cultural Heritage at annual conference in Perth (Museums Galleries Scotland 18/11/2025)

This is Community Wealth Building: launch of a series of stories showing what Community Wealth Building looks like in action across Scotland (Scottish Community Alliance 18/11/2025)

Heat in Buildings: a pathetic capitulation from the SNP (Scottish Greens 18/11/2025)

Outdoor Learning Hub and Discovery Trail: a learning resource on a university campus (Architecture & Design Scotland 19/11/2025)

Why we need mass council house building (Alba Party 24/11/2025)

Timber in Construction Skills – New CITB-funded training (BuildScotland.co.uk 24/11/2025)

Scotland’s first-ever canal and traditional skills centre to be considered by councillors (Scottish Canals 24/11/2025)

Scottish apprentices?wages must be increased (Scottish Greens 25/11/2025)

£2.9m heritage investment for Granton Waterfront regeneration (HES 26/11/2025)

Second year of Urban Forestry Programme opens across Scotland (Future Woodlands Scotland 26/11/2025)

What the Autumn Budget Means for the Heritage Sector?(The Heritage Alliance 26/11/2025)

RICS statement on 2025 Autumn Budget (RICS 26/11/2025)

‘Building from Forests’ explores the potential of natural and renewable materials in design and architecture (BE-ST 27/11/2025)

Planning Aid Scotland announces 2026 Community Engagement Skills Training dates, with in-person sessions in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness (PAS 01/12/2025)

New manual for adapting heritage tourism in the face of climate change (HES 02/12/2025)

Publications

Correspondence between the Scottish Property Federation and the Finance and Public Administration Committee regarding the Scottish Building Safety Levy (Scot Parl 17/11/2025)

Meeting of the Parliament: Buildings (Heating and Energy Performance) and Heat Networks (Scotland) Bill – Session 6 (Scot Parl 18/11/2025)

Decarbonising heating in homes and buildings (Scot Gov 18/11/2025)

Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme monthly management information: October 2025 (Scot Gov 18/11/2025)

Finance and Public Administration Committee – Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill: Stage 1 Official Report (Scot Parl 18/11/2025)

Fuel Poverty: Commons Debate (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Energy Efficiency Schemes: Commons Debate (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Warm Homes Plan: Commons Debate (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Public Buildings: Written Answer (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Traditional Building Skills: Westminster Hall Debate (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Building Safety: Written Answer (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Correspondence between Màiri McAllan and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding decarbonisation (Scot Parl 18/11/2025)

Climate and weather resilience – Oral evidence (UK Parl 18/11/2025)

Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee – Draft Climate Change Plan Official Report (Scot Parl 18/11/2025)

Traditional Building Skills: Scottish Parliament Debate (Scot Parl 19/11/2025)

Insulation: Written Answer (UK Parl 19/11/2025)

Apprentices: Written Answer (UK Parl 19/11/2025)

Infrastructure investment plan 2021-22 to 2025-26: lessons learned (Scot Gov 19/11/2025)

Correspondence between Stephen Boyle and the Social Justice and Social Security Committee regarding the Wellbeing and Sustainable Development (Scotland) Bill (Scot Parl 19/11/2025)

Correspondence between the Constitution, External Affairs & Culture Committee and Angus Robertson regarding Historic Environment Scotland (Scot Parl 20/11/2025)

Correspondence between the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs & Culture Committee and Steve Reed regarding the Pride in Place Programme (Scot Parl 20/11/2025)

Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee Draft Report (Scot Parl 20/11/2025)

How might the UK Budget impact the Scottish Government’s funding? (SPICe 21/11/2025)

Pre-Budget scrutiny 2026-27: funding for culture (Scot Parl 21/11/2025)

Net Zero: Written Answer (UK Parl 21/11/2025)

Net Zero, Warm Homes: Written Answer (UK Parl 21/11/2025)

Historic Buildings: Written Answer (UK Parl 21/11/2025)

Planning and Infrastructure Bill Debate (House of Lords 24/11/2025)

Dr Heather Reid appointed to The National Lottery Heritage Fund board, as Trustee and Chair of the Scotland Committee (UK Gov 24/11/2025)

Correspondence between Ivan McKee and the Finance and Public Administration Committee regarding the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill (Scot Parl 24/11/2025)

Climate Change Plan: what’s the background and what does it need to do (SPICe 25/11/2025)

Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Properties) (Scotland) Bill (SPICe 25/11/2025)

Planning and Architecture. Update on Elected Member Training (Scot Gov 25/11/2025)

Independent Review of Creative Scotland (Scot Gov 25/11/2025)

Housing statistics: Scottish Landlord Register data (Scot Gov 25/11/2025)

Wind turbine appeal decisions: statistics (Scot Gov 25/11/2025)

Home Insulation Debate (UK Parl 26/11/2025)

Correspondence between SEPA and the Public Audit Committee correcting official report of evidence session (Scot Parl 26/11/2025)

Correspondence between Angus Robertson and the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee regarding public sector equality guidance (Scot Parl 26/11/2025)

Correspondence between Angus Robertson and the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee regarding Historic Environment Scotland meetings (Scot Parl 26/11/2025)

Correspondence between BEFS (supported by RTPI) and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding planning authority capacity (Scot Parl 26/11/2025)

Climate Delivery Oversight Group minutes: August 2025 (Scot Gov 26/11/2025)

£12 million for public sector heat decarbonisation projects (Scot Gov 27/11/2025)

Correspondence between Màiri McAllan and the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee regarding Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2025 (Scot Parl 27/11/2025)

Report on Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2025 (Scot Parl 27/11/2025)

Non-domestic rates on empty properties (Scot Gov 27/11/2025)

Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill – Third Groupings of Amendments for Stage 2 (Scot Parl 28/11/2025)

Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Properties) (Scotland) Bill – Marshalled List of Amendments for Stage 2 (Scot Parl 28/11/2025)

Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Properties) (Scotland) Bill – Groupings of Amendments for Stage 2 (Scot Parl 28/11/2025)

Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill – Third Marshalled List of Amendments for Stage 2 (Scot Parl 28/11/2025)

Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Properties) (Scotland) Bill – Marshalled List of Amendments for Stage 3 (Scot Parl 28/11/2025)

Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Properties) (Scotland) Bill – Groupings of Amendments for Stage 3 (Scot Parl 28/11/2025)

Finding new owners for empty homes (Scot Gov 01/12/2025)

Motions

Opinion & Comment

Building a Movement – SAVE Britain’s Heritage 50th Anniversary Film (SAVE Britain’s Heritage 16/10/2025)

The Labour government of the 1970s saved our country houses. Will a Labour government of the 2020s save our country churches? (Country Life 11/11/2025)

MPs call for VAT cut on retrofit projects to tackle ‘disparity’ with new-build (Architects’ Journal 18/11/2025)

Castle wall ‘ripped down’ for use as stepping stones in puddle (BBC News 22/11/2025)

Chief Officer’s Blog: The Art of the Possible for Scotland’s Towns (Scotland’s Towns Partnership 24/11/2025)

Edinburgh tourism tax could partly fund over 400 new affordable homes (Deadline News 25/11/2025)

Creative Scotland ‘should take risks and be more ambitious.’ (BBC News 25/11/2025)

Blog: Strong intentions, weak delivery (Scottish Construction Now 25/11/2025)

Youth heritage exchange between Barbados and Scotland wins inaugural Icom award (Museum’s Journal 25/11/2025)

Budget includes minimum wage rises and business rates relief, with sector expressing concerns over lack of new cultural investment (Museums & Heritage Advisor 26/11/2025)

Scotland has 33 new towns – where are they and what’s it like living in one? (BBC News 27/11/2025)

Events

AHSS – Luis Albornoz-Parra: The Building Stones of Edinburgh
Date & Time: Monday 8 December 2025; 6:30-8:30pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL (wheelchair accessible)
Note: Lecture will also be streamed online via Zoom
Edinburgh is renowned for its dramatic stone architecture. What are the sources and types of building stone? Why and how does the stone decay and should the stone be conserved or replaced? Luis Albornoz-Parra of the British Geological Survey will bring some samples for identification and?will make suggestions as to where in the city you might see them. Tickets available from Eventbrite or on the door, subject to availability: £6 / students £2

SHBT – Tale of Two Streets: Regenerating Princes St and Sauchiehall Street
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 December 2025; 6-8pm
Location: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG
Speakers: Terry Levinthal, Director of Edinburgh World Heritage and Niall Murphy, Director of Glasgow City Heritage Trust. The hearts of cities are often marked by their great streets: theatres of commerce, places for tourists to gawk at, and the settings for civic and institutional performance and display. Edinburgh and Glasgow are thus characterised, respectively, by Princes Street and Sauchiehall street; each in its own way, architectural set pieces, and each subject to the vagaries of commerce and fashion. How are the characters of these streets re-produced and managed in response to and for changing times? How can heritage bodies contribute to these characters, balancing at the same time both change and continuity of the city itself?

CaCHE – 2026 Scottish Election: Housing Evidence Priorities for a New Government
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 December 2025; 1-2:30pm
Location: Online
In this online session, Professor Kenneth Gibb and Dr Gareth James (University of Glasgow) from the UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE) launch their new report – The 2026 Scottish Election: Housing Evidence Priorities for a New Government. Building on CaCHE’s influential 2021 Evidence Manifesto for housing, this new publication revisits Scotland’s housing landscape five years on – tracking what has changed, what has stalled, and what still needs to be done. As the 2026 Scottish election approaches, the report sets out a small number of cross-cutting priorities for a new government, grounded in fresh evidence and informed by interviews with housing sector leaders and policymakers.

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland – Carved in Stone: Bringing the Picts to Life
Date & Time: Thursday 11 December 2025; 6-8pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
Carved in Stone is an illustrated guide to the Picts in late 7th century AD, serving as a source of inspiration for tabletop roleplaying games, storytellers, and anyone interested in Scotland’s past. It covers everything we know (and many things we don’t), touching on languages, kingdoms, faith, hierarchies, cuisine and more. In this panel event, the designer and lead researcher will explore the process, break down the elaborate illustrations, and discuss how they’ve approached bringing the past to life.

Development Trusts Association Scotland – Involving Your Community
Date & Time: Thursday 11 December 2025; 12-2pm
Location: Online
This workshop is focussed on mainstream funders relevant to communities taking on a former place of worship. This event is part of the New Futures Programme – Former Places of Worship event series. New Futures is a three-year programme (January 2025-December 2027) funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and Development Trusts Association Scotland to provide enhanced support to community groups considering taking on a former place of worship across Scotland. This programme was launched in direct response to the significant and unprecedented number of former places of worship which are due for disposal over the next several years. This workshop is open to any community group interested in taking ownership of a former place of worship but will be of most help to those at the beginning of the process. For questions and enquiries, please email Louise Paterson, Churches Programme Officer.

SHBT – Heritage Retrofit: Historic Building Adaption for the Future
Date & Time: Wednesday 14 January 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG
Speakers: Chris Morgan, Chartered and ARB registered Architect and Director of John Gilbert Architects in Glasgow and Henrietta Billings, Director of Save Britain’s Heritage.
Up the hill from the sea and city are the raw materials from which both its built heritage and wealth are hewn and mined: timber, coal, ore, stone. On the one hand, these materials represent the result of aeons, rather than the mere centuries of history. On the other, they are consumed over ever-decreasing durations, producing waste and degrading the environments they long predate. This session will debate how heritage preservation might engage with this process. It has long been argued that conservation must be a carbon-positive activity, but alternative thinking suggests that sometimes keeping what already exists may not be the most sustainable approach.

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland – The Lost Royal Lodgings of Edinburgh Castle and the Birthplace of Britain
Date & Time: Thursday 15 January 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
This talk, The Lost Royal Lodgings of Edinburgh Castle 1093 – 1617, and the Birthplace of Great Britain, is the culmination of an almost 40-year involvement in investigating the history and archaeology of Edinburgh Castle. Most recently this has been within the context of commissioned research from HES in writing a Statement of Significance for the later Palace in Crown Square. The ‘Birthplace’ subtext refers to the Royal Lodging subsumed within the 1617 Palace where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth on 19 June 1566 to the future James VI/ I, and with the Union of the Crowns in 1603 styling himself King of Great Britain and Ireland.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills Group – January meeting
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 January 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online
An opportunity for organisations and individuals working with or interested in mill buildings to come together, network, and discuss. Owen Bushell will talk about the development of the social enterprise taking custodianship of the category A listed Bucket Mill in Finzean, Aberdeenshire. Owen will discuss some of the challenges the organisation faces in getting the machinery working again, developing skills training, and working towards producing historic turned buckets once again. Health & Safety considerations, space constraints and conservation (nature, object and building) conundrums will also be touched upon.

AHSS – Chris Bragg: Tensions in visual organ design in the 19th century UK
Date & Time: Thursday 22 January 2026; 7:30pm
Location: St Andrew’s West Church & Renfield Centre, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4JP
Note: Lecture will also be live-streamed via Zoom
Explore 19th-century UK organ design with Chris Bragg of Sowne of Organe. This lecture examines the Oxford Movement’s influence, evolving aesthetics, decorated pipes, and shifting liturgical demands. Explore how these changes have shaped organ building and continue to influence modern conservation efforts, striking a balance between historical integrity and contemporary performance and architectural contexts. Tickets available from Eventbrite or on the door: £6 / students £2 / season ticket for all 5 lectures: £25.

IHBC Scotland Branch – Historic Building Legislation & Curtilage with Dr Charles Mynors
Date & Time: Friday 23 January 2026; 11:30am-4:30pm
Location: Sir Walter Scott Hall, Grassmarket Community Project, 86, Candlemaker Row,
Edinburgh EH1 2QA
Speakers: Dr Charles Mynors; Dara Parsons and Dr James Bruhn from Historic Environment Scotland
Join the IHBC for a day of learning on historic building legislation in Scotland. The morning session will provide an introduction to heritage planning law in Scotland, covering its importance, key distinctions with English heritage planning law, case law and other updates in the sector. The afternoon will focus on the extent of listing, including the often contentious subject of curtilage. The session will include discussion of case studies. If you would like to submit a case study, please email details of the case to scotland@ihbc.org.uk by 31 December 2025.

2026 SAVE THE DATE
Europa Nostra – Secretary General Address
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; tbc
Location: Edinburgh
Details to follow

Training

HES – Launch of Fire Safety Management Short Guide – CPD Training for Dutyholders and Designers
Date & Time: Thursday 4 December 2025; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling FK8 1QZ
Book your place on this free event on fire safety management in traditional buildings, for dutyholders, designers, and others with a legal responsibility for fire safety. Launching the new HES publication,?Short Guide 14: Fire Safety Management in Traditional Buildings for Dutyholders, this event will include presentations from the authors and contributors of the Guide, including Senior Technical Officer Lila Angelaka. You will also hear from leading experts in the sector, including the HES Health & Safety team who deal with managing fire risk in their Estates.

Vacancies

Planning Democracy – Trustees
Planning Democracy are looking for new trustees to join their board. They are particularly interested in recruiting trustees who have skills in the following areas:

• Governance

• Communications (social media, online resources, website management)

However, they are also keen to hear from anyone who feels that Planning Democracy is an organisation they are interested in getting involved with. In return they are offering training opportunities, learning opportunities, experience in campaigning and advocacy, the opportunity to travel in Scotland and meet new people, as well as being part of a committed group of people. If you are interested,?contact Chair, Helen Todd at info@planningdemocracy.org.uk
Closing Date: Not specified

War Memorials Trust – Trustees
War Memorials Trust works to protect and conserve the nation’s 100,000 war memorials. They are seeking new Trustees, with the right skills, experience, enthusiasm and commitment, to join the Board and help guide the charity’s efforts. The charity provides advice and expertise to help anyone who looks after a war memorial to manage, repair and conserve it for the benefit of those who live locally, those who are commemorated and their families and the wider population. They also encourage public engagement especially through their website War Memorials Online to which anyone can add information and upload photographs. So, if the Trustee role isn’t for you, you may still be able to contribute by signing up to War Memorials Online.
A skills audit has identified key areas of expertise that the Board needs to enhance as

• fundraising expertise to ensure they are here for the long term

• legal expertise to support the charity deliver its objectives appropriately

This role is home based with board meetings rotating between in-person at the London office and online, although all can be joined online. Some attendance at events or visits to war memorials may be undertaken. Reasonable expenses related to the role will be available. Minimum engagement is for four, two-hour board meetings per year (plus reading of papers beforehand). Additional input will be welcomed and Trustees may be approached by staff, on a collective or an individual basis, between meetings, particularly in relation to their expertise. For full details of the role and how to apply, please go to the War Memorials Trust’s website.
Closing Date: Not specified