BEFS Policy & Advocacy Officer, Ailsa Macfarlane, reflects on points raised at BEFS recent event on Board Diversity in Public and Third Sector Organisations.
They say that ‘change is made by those who show up’.
The Board Diversity event attracted a small but engaged audience – we knew however, that we were preaching to the (already) converted.
The timing of the Board Diversity event was designed to reflect the new legislation around Gender Representation on public boards. This sets a hard quota for gender representation. Quotas are an issue where personally I have never been convinced in either direction, but I did find myself agreeing with panellist Jane Ryder (Chair, HES) when she said, “I’m not keen on quotas – but I know why we’ve given up waiting”.
My concern has been that quotas (for any protected characteristic) can undermine those who gain positions in their wake. If anyone wonders if you ‘only got the position to fulfil the quota’ – your skills, experience and purpose seem undermined before you’ve even started. However, an exceptionally pithy tweet to combat that very opinion appeared in my timeline recently:
Seeking diversity and inclusion doesn’t mean you’re also not seeking the most talented person for the job. And if you think prioritising diversity means you’re somehow de-prioritising talent, you are part of the problem. (@dascruggs)
It isn’t that there’s an easy answer; panellists were keen to stress that intersectionality and a broad debate are essential – we have to talk about everything at once, not in hermetically sealed silos of difference. We need to make time to listen, to hear – to have the difficult conversations that can result in change. These conversations can be had with positive intentions. Mistakes will be made as the clumsy shorthand of assumption reveals our unconscious bias; or perhaps reveals our own experiences and our starting point. As long as there is a willingness to listen and learn about different perspectives we can progress.
With these thoughts and intentions – to make a space for the difficult conversations to exist – BEFS undertook to construct a dynamic panel of speakers to share their experiences with the audience. For the panel to give examples of positive changes in opportunity and governance; to discuss how practical changes to governance ‘traditions’ can make the process and the meetings themselves, far more accessible and inclusive. To enable conversations that encourage the changes we know the sector needs. When reviewing Member trustee diversity, we learnt that they are not reflective of wider society. More generally, research has shown that those under 30 are rarely found on Boards. Surely these missing voices have something to bring to the sector: a future vision, a perspective on governance and strategic direction that will add to the future story of a wide range of organisations. Those organisations that embrace diversity are more productive and more profitable. To encourage change in this area can really be a win-win.
Those who get off a delayed flight and arrive straight from the airport because they appreciate the topic, and their role as a trustee, are to be thanked; but they were not in the majority. When taking a straw poll of the room only seven of those attending were trustees (not necessarily related to BEFS).
We know that those who have already stepped-up and given their time to a myriad of organisations do care about the values and actions of the particular charity/ies with which they volunteer. Is it possible that having stepped-up, trustees are then happy to step-back? Volunteering on a Board is time consuming enough; the essential, onerous and often ‘boring’ governance work takes precedence over trickier, more nuanced issues? When at Board meetings are those present mindful that ‘in here’ (the Board room) may not reflect ‘out there’ – be that: the workforce, the stakeholders, the consumers, the service users, and wider society?
And when we talk about difference, there was a question raised at the event to address the necessity of diversity of thought, as well as diversity of person. To assume that all of one group will have the same views is folly. Those with a similar background, education, life experience and career may have far more in common that two people who happen to have the same protected characteristics.
This bring us back to the start – it’s not ‘change’ that’s made by those who show up, it’s ‘history’. Let’s encourage the sector to make sure that we are all making a history that reflects and includes everyone.
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Karen Grant, Reforesting Scotland and the Thousand Huts campaign, updates us on new policy, new legislation and a whole new movement of hutters.
Inshriach Bothy, designed by Iain Macleod and Bobby Niven.
Reforesting Scotland’s Thousand Huts campaign has come a long way since its launch in 2011. The campaign was founded to remove the barriers to achieving a dream shared by so many: that of having a small, simple hut from which to enjoy the peace and beauty of the natural world. Once barriers in policy and regulations were removed, the campaign aimed to help a new hutting movement to flourish.
As readers will know, huts were included in Scottish Planning Policy in 2014 – and two years later, there followed a public consultation on huts in relation to building regulations. The response was greatly in favour of simplifying the process for huts, ensuring that more of the responsibility is passed to the hutter (rather than Building Control officers).
To do this, the Scottish Government created a new building type, 23A in Schedule 3 of the Building Regulations, which applies to huts. In effect, it exempts huts from many building regulations except for some key areas including structure, stoves, barriers and underground drainage (drainage is one of the aspects which will still require a warrant). While the hut builder will be required by law to comply with the regulations in these non-exempt areas, in most cases they will not be required to get a Building Warrant. Not only will this reduce the burden on hutters, it will also reduce the burden on building standards officers, saving money for local authorities.
Resources to help those wishing to build one or more huts
The Scottish Planning Policy includes encouragement for planning authorities to consider huts for recreational use, and includes a definition of a hut. In support of this policy, Reforesting Scotland’s Thousand Huts campaign has published the guidance paper New hutting developments: Good practice guidance on the planning, development and management of huts and hut sites, which can be used to help applicants or planners considering new hut developments.
To help hut builders navigate the new building type for huts in relation to building regulations, Reforesting Scotland is producing a guide, ‘The Good Practice Guide to Hut Construction‘. One of its writers, Peter Caunt, explains, “It will be the hut owner’s responsibility to ensure they comply with high standards of health and safety, and low environmental impact. Some areas, such as underground drainage, will still require a Building Warrant, whereas in other areas, such as structure, the responsibility is theirs to comply with the relevant regulations. If they don’t comply, they will be liable if something goes wrong.” To make sure you are notified when this guide is ready, join our mailing list at www.thousandhuts.org.
We have also produced a Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Hutters and Landlords to help people develop a fair formal agreement between those who have a hut and those who own the land the hut sits on.
A pilot hut site in Fife
Over the last few years, the campaign has also been working with Forest Enterprise Scotland to develop a pilot hut site on public forest land. After several years of navigating this complex process with the various stakeholders, an application was made to Fife Council Planning Department. In June 2017 the site at Carnock Woods achieved planning permission, and the allocation process has now begun for this site.
The growing hutting movement
During the last few years, the Thousand Huts campaign has flourished into a lively community of hutters, prospective hutters, builders, foresters, planners, artists and dreamers. The enormously successful annual Hutters’ Rally has continued to expand in size – and each year it has sold out. The facebook group has over 5700 members, there are almost 1000 Twitter followers, and an emailing list of 2300. At our recent Hutters’ Rally, planning consultant Richard Heggie presented a map of many hut site planning applications he is involved in – and there are many more. Media coverage has been plentiful, including BBC TV, Radio Scotland, the Times, the Herald and the Scotsman and more. Interest in huts is vast – and is growing stronger. Our challenge now is to support more people to achieve the dream of a simple hut in the woods.
If you would like more information about any aspect of hutting, please contact us at huts@reforestingscotland.org, or join our mailing list at www.thousandhuts.org or join us on Facebook or on Twitter @thousandhuts
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Celia Sweeney, Equalities Manager with Historic Environment Scotland, shares the discussion and insights from BEFS Diversity in Public Boards event on 20th February 2018.
This event was perfectly timed as it followed the success of the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Bill. The effect of which will be to create a statutory gender representation objective for Scottish public boards.
The three speakers: Beltus Etchu Ojong (Next Step Initiative); Talat Yaqoob (Equate Scotland and 50:50 Campaign) and Jane Ryder (Historic Environment Scotland) are all practiced Board Members or Chairs and were invited to offer their individual perspectives.
The Speakers
Beltus Etchu Ojong began the panel conversation highlighting the lack of visible diversity from within the African community on Boards and in employment, and shared the experience of the African Tenants Forum, which created a route for the community to access information and be able to influence decision making. In terms of employment, he talked about the Next Step Initiative, which is a positive action training programme to create routes into employment where there is under-representation from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic community.
Talat Yaqoob continued the panel conversation highlighting the work of Equate Scotland to encourage women in the Science, Technology and Built Environment sectors. Examples of support highlighted included the creation of a women student network as well as CPD for women working in the sectors. Progress has been made in civil engineering and she is keen to understand the why and how this is working, in order to share learning across other sectors; so perhaps opportunities for specific sector research to uncover the learning from this change. Talat is also Chair of the 50:50 campaign and for her, the Bill provides for more outreach in order to create ‘routes to widen the participation on Boards’. It also places a responsibility on Boards to influence the structural and other factors which can prevent people from coming forward. She stressed the importance of intersectionality; women are not a homogenous group. Women are shaped by influences arising from age; disability, sexual orientation and socio-economic experience and therefore it is important to look at all women. Talat talked about the unintended consequences which can arise for businesses, which fail to take into account women’s issues/needs. She also emphasised the positive business case, leading to better decision making, business improvement and positive reputation.
Jane Ryder wound up the panel conversation by extending the definition of diversity to that of considering the need to have an effective Board, which was able to demonstrate the necessary skills footprint as well as providing a vehicle for different voices/views and perspectives. There is a need for Boards to be conscious about all-round views and how to get them. Some of the barriers to inclusion were practical and she cited the lack of hearing induction loop facilities; the timing of meetings, which create difficulties for widening the demographic, and the need for support structures to create a talent pipeline. By way of example, Jane cited the initiative between the Scottish Government and Standard Life, which HES is engaged with and supports the opportunities for women to be co-opted onto a Board Committee to gain experience and insight into Board functions.
The Discussion
Many of the audience questions pointed to potential activity which should be considered to promote more involvement. I’ve highlighted a few to offer a flavour of the discussion.
Board Meetings often take place in the day and/or evening – one questioner suggested employers being encouraged to release people during the day. This made me think about Corporate Social Responsibility, which is often linked to employer’s charitable support or encouraging volunteering, and perhaps this could be a vehicle through which employees could be supported, who are interested in sharing their skills and developing new ones within the context of a civic society.
Using language and changing the narrative to attract people to apply for positions – the questioner shared their experience of using positive equal opportunities language in advertising, which had the effect of broadening and enhancing the interest from a wider pool of people. This was a useful reminder that language can attract as well as detract.
Communication style – here the panel replied to the questioner on a number of levels. From the role of the Chair, it is important to illicit ‘all round’ views and to be skilled in ways to achieve this across the Board. Panel members shared the importance of ‘being heard’ and managing ‘intellectual theft’; as illustrated by the cartoon. Written communication is a format where all the speakers acknowledged that there is a heavy emphasis and that part of the role involves significant reading and preparation for meetings.
Board outreach – the panel acknowledged that one of the effects of the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Bill will be to encourage more outreach and Boards to get involved in creating ways for this to happen. This touched on earlier references from the speakers on forums/advisory panels presenting opportunities as a talent pipeline. There was a sense too that such forums/advisory panels helped to demystify what happens at a Board and what is involved in being part of a Board.
Having the right Skills – this is important as many Boards may look for specific skills e.g. Financial, Performance and/or People Management, or they may be looking for broader skills e.g. leadership; taking strategic direction. It is important not to allow ‘unconscious bias’ to shape the view of what and who makes a leader. Bias should not influence any assessment of competence and ability as women from minority ethnic; disabled and LGBT+ communities don’t lack the relevant qualifications, experience and aspiration to sit on boards. Understanding and recognizing that we all have bias is important and consciously challenging ourselves contributes to fair decision making and influencing change.
In the closing remarks, an observation was made on the audience profile; there were significantly more women than men in attendance. This chimes with similar discussions on encouraging women in senior workplace positions; the curiosity and interest outweighed the audience in favour of women there too. This is changing however, from a discussion which recognises that diversity is the right thing to do, to one which knows it is good for business and the opportunities it brings to learn and grow from others, to ensure all round views are captured, to enhance decision making. It fills the talent gap as well as being good for society as a whole and creates the visibility for more women to come forward knowing their voices are encouraged. Lessons and learning which translates across into public boards and the wider civic society sphere.
There has undoubtedly been a ‘big conversation’ leading up to the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Bill and this conversation now needs to move within public boards. The research and available data tell us that there is still a way to go, which is why the 50:50 objective is needed to stimulate action.
Measuring where we are with where we want to be will resonate with the new millennial generation, who are tuned into the values of equality, diversity and inclusion as an important part of their employment choices. There is a growing expectation that this is mirrored in other business, life and social interests. Having a focus on equality, diversity, inclusion and fair representation seems to me to be the cornerstone for organisations who want to make sure that they continue to grow and meet the needs of their diverse customers, stakeholders and partners.
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Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
The Our Place in Time Performance Report 2017 is now out. This report covers the first three years of the Historic Environment Strategy for Scotland – Our Place in Time, from its publication in October 2014. It sets out the progress made in delivering the Strategy and complements the narrative of the Annual Reports that were published in 2015 and 2017.
This year Historic Environment Scotland is undertaking a review of the Historic Environment Scotland Policy Statement. Join BEFS for our Historic Environment Scotland Policy Statement Conference in March and influence what direction it may take. The conference will bring together the sector for an intensive workshop looking at creative and pragmatic approaches to caring for Scotland’s historic environment. Advanced booking is now open, with further information and a programme to follow soon.
The Planning (Scotland) Bill appeared in December 2017, a little over 2 years since the independent panel carried out a “game-changing review of Scotland’s planning system”. Read BEFS response and an overview of the built environment sector’s responses and reactions to the Bill.
Following the May 2016 review, a Digital Taskforce was established to explore opportunities to develop a world leading Digital Planning Service for Scotland. As part of the work to explore digital opportunities, the Scottish Government’s Digital Planning Team are keen to hear about people’s experiences of planning in Scotland. To help shape the digital future of the Scottish planning system, please take part in this short survey.
Members of the Scottish Parliament have shown an increased interest in the challenges of maintaining buildings under shared ownership, with a Parliamentary reception for the RICS ‘Tenement Health Check’ in November and a motion debating ‘Maintenance of Tenement Communal Property’ in January 2018. Join the next meeting of the Cross-Party Group on Architecture and the Built Environment, in collaboration with BEFS and RICS, which will consider how the Scottish Parliament can help find solutions to the known challenges and how stakeholders can support a cross party working group on the topic.
Booking opens today for Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage conference, Inspiring Fundraising – A National Heritage Conference, specifically dedicated to the heritage sector.
Erin Fulton, Volunteer Manager at PAS, introduces PAS’ new youth volunteering initiative and PAS Youth Volunteer Award in the Year of Young People, in our first blog this week.
Isobel Leckie tells us about the work of the Causey Development Trust, community engagement and the design for transforming The Causey in Edinburgh, in our second blog.
Consultations
Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme: Second Consultation on Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategies, and Regulation of District and Communal Heating
Closes 20 Feb 2018.
Consultation on LBTT First Time Buyers Relief (SG 09/02/18)
Opened 9 Feb 2018 and closes 23 March 2018.
The Environment, Climate Change & Land Reform Committee agreed to launch a call for evidence on the Scottish Crown Estate Bill, with a deadline of Friday 23rd March 2018.
Publications
The Our Place in Time Performance Report 2017.
This report covers the first three years of the Historic Environment Strategy for Scotland – Our Place in Time, from its publication in October 2014.
Social Tenants in Scotland 2016 (SG 13/02/18)
The Third State of Scotland’s Greenspace Report (Greenspace Scotland 01/02/18)
Strategic Environmental Assessment and Sustainability Appraisal (SEA/SA) (RTPI 15/01/18)
Our advice aims to help town planners to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of SEA/SA for land use plans.
Scottish Government News Releases
Social Tenants in Scotland, 2016 (SG 13/02/18)
Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released Social Tenants in Scotland 2016, the second annual statistical compendium publication on social tenants and social rented housing in Scotland, covering topic areas such as stock, household characteristics, housing flows, and rents and income levels.
LBTT consultation launched (SG 09/02/18)
Views sought before introduction of new policy. The next step towards helping more people buy their first home is underway. A consultation on the details of the first-time buyer relief from Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) announced in the draft Scottish Budget 2018/19 is being launched by the Scottish Government.
Brexit and rural Scotland (SG 06/02/18)
Access to EU migrant workforce is vital to rural Scotland’s continued success, stability and sustainability, according to Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing. People from elsewhere in the EU make up around 3% of those employed in the rural economy. Additionally, some 10,000 people are directly employed in Scotland’s food and drink growth sector – as well as thousands more in public services such as hospitals and schools in remote and rural communities.
News Releases
Home-owners and poverty (JRF 15/02/18)
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation has published a report examining the relationship between home-ownership, low incomes and poverty and reveals that half of all households in poverty are home-owners in the UK. The report notes that within the UK, Northern Ireland had the highest rate of home-owners in poverty and Scotland the lowest rate.
Scottish Government housing scheme criticised for ‘reviving right to buy’ (The Ferret 14/02/18)
Following an investigation by The Ferret, the Scottish Government has been accused of reintroducing Right to Buy. The report found that 131 homes for mid-market rent, financed by the National Housing Trust, have been sold off.
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2018 (ICE 14/02/18)
ICE200 is a year of events and activities showing how civil engineering transforms the way we live and promoting it as a career. Highlights include Invisible Superheroes – a real and virtual exhibition; 200 projects and people – how they were built and by whom; Explore Engineering – see or visit civil engineering in your area; Café 200 – engineers meet the public and explain civil engineering; and Pitch 200 – competition where civil engineers pitch innovative ideas in just 200 seconds. And the Global Engineering Congress – unique gathering of international engineers to agree a response to deliver five UN Sustainable Development Goals, London 22-26 October.
Historic Environment Scotland unveils new Investment Plan (HES 12/02/18)
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has today (Monday 12 February) unveiled an investment plan for some of Scotland’s most iconic historic sites. Backed by investment of £12 million in 2018/19, the plan sets out an investment programme scheduled to run until 2021/22 which will enhance the condition of sites and improve the experience of visitors.
Historic Environment Scotland reveal plan to manage historic assets (HES 12/02/18)
The Asset Management Plan outlines the steps Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is taking to maintain not just the historic properties and structures in its care, but also the modern infrastructure such as car parks, visitor facing facilities, mechanical and electrical installations that are critical to its operations.
CIfA announces the formal launch of CIfA Deutschland (CIfA 12/02/18)
CIfA is pleased to announce the formal launch of CIfA Deutschland/Germany Group. A provisional organising committee will manage the affairs of the Group until formal elections at its first AGM in Munich on 12 May 2018.
Coalition calls for urgent action on shortage of housing for older and disabled people (Age Scotland 09/02/18)
The Older People’s Housing Coalition was officially launched on Friday 9th February. The new alliance, whose members include Age Scotland, Castle Rock Edinvar and the Scottish Older People’s Assembly, has urged the Scottish Government to make housing for older people and those with disabilities an urgent priority in the Planning (Scotland) Bill.
Help the Heritage Alliance understand how Brexit will affect heritage sector employees (THA 09/02/18)
Heritage Organisations & businesses, please fill out our 5-minute survey on EU Workers to inform our Brexit work on immigration. Do share & retweet to help us build our evidence base. @Heritage_NGOs
Europa Nostra Learning Kits (08/02/18)
At the beginning of the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018, Europa Nostra is proud to issue Learning Kits for heritage civil society organisations on three crucial topics: Fundraising, Awareness-Raising & Advocacy, and Citizen Engagement & Education. The Learning Kits provide innovative and practical approaches to these topics and bring together dozens of outstanding examples from 21 countries across Europe. These digital publications, which were produced with the support of the Creative Europe programme of the European Union, are now available online.
New online learning on professional ethics launched (RTPI 07/02/18)
The RTPI has launched a new bite-size online learning module on professional ethics to provide members with more clarity and support in this area. This supplements RTPI’s updated practice advice on professional ethics, which reiterates planners’ need to ‘act fearlessly and impartially in their professional judgement’.
IHBC’s Branch events update: Find our local CPD, across the UK (IHBC 06/02/18)
The IHBC has launched the first of its new regular NewsBlog IHBC Branches Update, so anyone can find IHBC’s local CPD events, across the UK. Practitioners also can scan local IHBC-linked events using the ‘Branches’ panel on our home page.
‘ALGAO Scotland – Latest Figures! (ALGAO 31/01/18)
Each year information about the work carried out by ALGAO Scotland members is gathered through an annual survey, the results of which are submitted to Scotland’s Historic Environment Audit (SHEA) and Measuring Success. The information from ALGAO Scotland, along with information from other organisations helps to build a picture of the Historic Environment in Scotland. The results from the annual survey for 2016/17 indicate the substantial and wide-ranging body of work carried out by the Local Authority Archaeologists and a snapshot of the impact of some of the work is highlighted in a new info-graphic available to view and download through the ALGAO Scotland webpage here.
UK puts forward Jodrell Bank Observatory as 2019 World Heritage nomination (DDCMS 29/01/18)
The Observatory, part of the University of Manchester, is a site of global importance in the history of radio astronomy and helped revolutionise our understanding of the Universe.
Impact of Brexit on the creative, tourism and digital industries (CMSSC 01?18)
The Culture Media and Sport Select Committee has released its report on the impact of Brexit on the creative, tourism and digital industries. The report notes that development of a new system of entry to the UK for EEA visitors will be a key aspect of the UK’s relationship with the EU after Brexit.
Opinion & Comment
Land value capture: why we need a system that works for all (Sally Thomas, SFHA 08/02/18)
Power to the People! (GCHT 08/02/18)
McLeish: Involve local people earlier in planning decisions (SAPP 07/02/18)
Planning Bill lacks detail and shows modest ambition (SHN 06/02/18)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Alexander Stewart S5W-14291: To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S5O-01736 by Kevin Stewart on 31 January 2018 (Official Report, c. 10), what discussions have taken place to ensure that community councils are empowered to (a) support community engagement with a) and (b) play an active role in the planning process. (SP 01/02/18)
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-13988: Rachael Hamilton, Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 22/01/2018
To ask the Scottish Government what action it will take to protect the 160 historic sites that have been reported by Historic Environment Scotland as being at high risk.
Answered by Fiona Hyslop (30/01/2018):
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
World Heritage: India
Date: Tuesday 20th February, 6.00-9.00pm.
Venue: Room LTS, Dalhousie Building, University of Dundee, DD1 4EN.
James Simpson is one of the founding partners of Simpson & Brown Architects, one of the UK’s leading specialist consultants in building conservation. James has retired from practise and is now devoting some of his considerable energies to researching the predominantly Scots-developed communities around the Hooghly River in West Bengal, including the modern-day city of Culcutta. His talk will include a fascinating account of the Hooghly Jute Mill, still employing some 2500 people, with 300 mechanics maintaining machinery made by Urquhart, Lindsay & Co 100 years ago in Dundee, some few 100 yards north of our lecture theatre at the Blackness Foundry in Larch Street.
Scotland’s Buildings
Date: Tuesday 27th February, 6.00-9.00pm.
Venue: Room LTS, Dalhousie Building, University of Dundee, DD1 4EN.
Simon Green, architectural historian with the Survey and Recording section of Historic Environment Scotland, is also president of the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland. One of his responsibilities is the Buildings at Risk Register, now an in-house function of HES, and the opportunity has been taken to look at how the effectiveness of the BAR service and the register can be developed and improved. He will discuss different ways that departments of HES contribute to the removal of buildings from the register and thereby to the enhancement of the historic built environment. His second talk will be an enthusiast’s examination of the development of the Scots Baronial style. Antiquarianism, Romanticism, Aestheticism: recording and research have all played a part in the creation and longevity of this distinctive architecture.
Geography, Funding & Heritage
Date: Wednesday 21st February 2018 from 6-8pm.
Venue: GCHT offices, 54 Bell Street, Glasgow.
There are various reasons why we protect our built heritage, including safeguarding its intrinsic values, connections to the past and its positive influence on our environment. But does our ability to do so hinge on where that building is located and the socio-economic conditions found there?
In Focus: Storytelling using Media
Date: 22nd February.
Location: Edinburgh.
This hands-on practical session will allow you to identify your key messages and present them using video as a medium for storytelling. Identifying and presenting your key messages in an appealing and visual way can support your fundraising efforts and help you to effectively communicate the value of the work that you/your organisation does.
Talking Shops – A History of Scotland’s Shopfronts
Date: Monday 26 February 2018 from 9am – 4pm.
Venue: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ.
This is a one day seminar to launch our new exhibition. Leading experts in the field will delve into the current challenges facing our High Streets. The day will explore topics including researching shopfronts, architecture of Co-operatives, shop interiors and their maintenance and the future of the High Streets. It will also include case studies of renovations and support schemes currently available. This is a level 2 event for professionals, it is also appropriate for members of the public with an interest on the topic. Refreshments will be provided during the day, please let us know of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
Tenement Maintenance and Repair
Date: 6th March 2018 at 6pm.
Venue: Committee Room 1, Scottish Parliament.
Linda Fabiani MSP, invites you to attend a meeting of the Cross-Party Group on Architecture + the Built Environment, to be chaired by Tavish Scott MSP. Members of the Scottish Parliament have shown an increased interest in the challenges of maintaining buildings under shared ownership with a Parliamentary Reception for the RICS ‘Tenement Health Check’ in November and a motion debating ‘Maintenance of Tenement Communal Property’ in January 2018. Our next meeting will consider how the Scottish Parliament can help find solutions to the known challenges and how stakeholders can support a cross party working group on the topic. Our speakers will be David Gibbon MRICS MCABE a RICS Certified Historic Building Professional from the Tenement Action Group, Professor Douglas Robertson who has spent his career researching private housing issues and the third speaker is yet to be confirmed. Their short presentations will be followed by an open discussion chaired by Tavish Scott MSP.
Landownership: Opportunities and Challenges for Urban Communities
Date: Tue 6 March 2018 from 12:00 – 16:00.
Venue: Barmulloch Residents Centre, 54 Quarrywood Road, Glasgow, G21 3ET.
Community landownership has been transformative for many rural communities in Scotland. Can it have the same impact in Scotland’s towns and cities? Come along to this event to find out about the results of our research into urban community landownership, hear inspiring case studies and take part in a discussion about the future of urban community landownership. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Power to the People: Understanding Community Right to Buy
Date: Wednesday 14th March 2018 | 6-8pm.
Venue: Govanhill Baths, 99 Calder Street, Glasgow, G42 7RA.
The power for communities to have the right to buy abandoned, neglected, or detrimental land and buildings is soon to become available: what opportunities will it offer your community? Glasgow City Heritage Trust in partnership with BEFS invite you to join us at Govanhill Baths to find out more about this legislation, which will give communities significant power and rights to acquire land and buildings. Throughout the evening we will hear from a variety of organisations about what land is eligible, which community bodies can apply and the process for doing so. There will be opportunity for discussion and to learn from other communities that have taken on ownership responsibilities.
Impact and Opportunities of the Collaborative Economy and Disruptive Technologies: how Edinburgh should respond to short-term letting
Date: Wednesday 14 March 2018 between 2pm to 5 pm.
Venue: Methodist Church, Nicolson Square, Edinburgh.
Cost £8 for Cockburn Association members, and members of Edinburgh Civic Forum. £45 for others (£100 for block booking of 3 places).
The Cockburn Association will be holding the first in a new series of mini-conferences addressing current and emerging issues affecting the management and conservation of Edinburgh’s places and landscapes. The first will look at the impact of short term letting on the City, its role in supporting a buoyant tourism industry and the impact on residential and community amenity. Confirmed speakers include Professor Douglas Robertson – co-author of a Scottish Government scoping report on the supply and demand of short term lets in Scotland. Professor Robertson’s research expertise focuses on sociological understanding of place, belonging and identity and examining how these influence society in relation to social and housing policies. Register your interest at admin@cockburnassociation.org.uk.
Scottish Young Planners’ Conference 2018: The Changing Face of Planning: Planning Ahead.
Date: Wednesday, 14 March, 9:30AM – 5:00PM.
Venue: Technology & Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, 99 George St, Glasgow.
Tickets are now on sale for the Scottish Young Planners Conference 2018. This unmissable CPD for early career planners will this year tackle how advances in tech and approaches to design and construction could transform the planning system. Speakers will cover case studies of how new ways of working and thinking can help produce more joined up and productive working across sectors, disciplines and professions. Confirmed speakers include the Minister for Local Government and Housing, Stefan Webb of the Future Cities Catapult, Liz Pringle of the Scottish Government’s ePlanning project and Kenny Steele of Pinnacle Visualisation, specialists in virtual reality software.
Scottish Plant Hunters by Anne Lindsay
Date: Thursday 15th March, 6.30pm- 8.30pm.
Venue: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Lecture Theature, 20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh.
Price: £9 or £6 for SGLH members of Friends of RBGE. Tickets available on the door.
Why did so many plant hunters herald from Scotland? Anne Lindsay, author of ‘Seeds of Blood and Beauty’ will explain why so many Scots become embroiled in tales of daring-do across the globe in search of plants to brighten gardens, conservatories and lives in the 18th and 19th centuries. A joint event hosted by Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage and the Friends of RBGE.
CifA annual conference 2018: Pulling together: collaboration, synthesis, innovation
Date: 25 to 27 April 2018.
Venue: Brighton Racecourse.
Booking is open for the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists’ annual conference. This year’s theme is ‘Pulling together: collaboration, synthesis and innovation’. Sessions will feature contributors from around the archaeological sector and beyond it, and will provide an opportunity for heritage professionals to discuss, consider and learn about ways in which the archaeological profession can work together – and with others – to develop innovative and exciting projects that have wide reaching benefit and become ‘greater than the sum of their parts’. Make sure to book soon to secure the 10% Early bird discount. Bursaries are available – for more information see the website.
Training
Introduction to Leadwork
Date: Monday 19 March 2018.
Venue: Tullos Training Ltd., Aberdeen.
Contact: Douglas Campbell, Aberdeen City Heritage Trust, 01224 522755, dcampbell@aberdeenheritage.org.uk
Training delivered by the Lead Sheet Association, the recognised industry expert. This is a rare opportunity for Architects, Chartered Building Surveyors, Architectural Technologists, contractors, heritage professionals and anyone involved in specifying or inspecting leadwork to consolidate and build on existing understanding of this important traditional material from the leading authority on Lead Sheet.
Leadwork: Basic Bossing and Welding
Date: Tuesday 20 to Friday 23 March 2018
Venue: Tullos Training Ltd., Aberdeen
Contact: Douglas Campbell, Aberdeen City Heritage Trust, 01224 522755, dcampbell@aberdeenheritage.org.uk
Training delivered by the Lead Sheet Association; a hands-on, practical course. Bossing and welding are two key skills that leadworkers need to master to be able to create the range of forms and shapes necessary to detail roofing leadwork properly. The course is aimed at building and roofing contractors who wish to develop their skills and represents a rare opportunity to access training from the recognised industry expert in the detailing and use of lead sheet for contractors in the North East.
Maintaining Traditional Buildings
Date: 23 March 2018, from 10.00 – 15.00.
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife.
A must for anyone who owns or is responsible for a traditional building.
The seminar provides the perfect starting point if you are considering undertaking some simple repairs yourself or will enable you to speak your builder’s language and be confident that you are being given the correct advice. This seminar will outline the maintenance that traditional buildings require and attendees will gain an understanding of traditional building techniques and the correct materials to use when undertaking repairs. This will also be an excellent opportunity to speak to the Scottish Lime Centre Trust’s expert tutors about your project, attendees are welcome to bring along photos and mortar samples for some specific advice.
Vacancies
Practice Manager (Benjamin Tindall Architects)
Benjamin Tindall Architects is a busy, well-established architectural practice located in a studio in Edinburgh’s Old Town. We are seeking an experienced Practice Manager to join our team. The vacancy is being created by the retirement of the current staff member. This is a full-time position and offers the successful candidate the opportunity to be busy but never bored. The role requires a friendly, hands-on attitude and someone with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively with the existing team and provide support and assistance across all business support functions as and when required. Excellent IT skills are essential including MS Office, SAGE accounting and Adobe Creative Suite. Knowledge of Archetype, the documentation system used by the practice would advantageous. Web maintenance and the use of social media is essential. Experience of all HR requirements for a small practice is necessary. Knowledge of and experience in managing QA systems would be desirable. Competitive salary based on experience, as well as pension and holiday entitlement will be offered to the successful candidate.
Closing date for applications: Monday 26th February.
Heritage Consultancy (Simpson & Brown Architects)
Simpson & Brown is looking for an enthusiastic, dynamic and experienced person to join the Heritage Consultancy team in Edinburgh. Working in this team requires versatility and a willingness to be involved in a variety of work relating to the historic built environment. The position would be part time, three days per week. The work primarily consists of researching and writing a variety of documents relating to the built environment. These documents include strong components of historical analysis (based on primary and secondary sources), analysis of views and setting, assessments of significance (Historic England and Historic Environment Scotland methodologies) and recommendations based on local and national planning/heritage policy.
Please email your CV with a covering letter to admin@simpsonandbrown.co.uk by close of business, Monday 26th February 2018.
Programme Manager (HES)
Based at the newly opened building conservation centre, the Engine Shed in Stirling, this post will be responsible for managing and delivering the programme of events, volunteer programme and front of house operations there. This varied and challenging role will help establish the Engine Shed as a hub for technical conservation advice, training and digital innovation with a reputation for quality and professionalism, reflecting Historic Environment Scotland’s vision.
Closing Date: 28 February 2018 at midnight.
Programme Officer (HES)
Based at the newly opened building conservation centre, the Engine Shed in Stirling, this post will be responsible for managing and delivering the programme of events, volunteer programme and front of house operations there. This varied and challenging role will help establish the Engine Shed as a hub for technical conservation advice, training and digital innovation with a reputation for quality and professionalism, reflecting Historic Environment Scotland’s vision.
Closing Date: 28 February 2018 at midnight.
Community Engagement Adviser (Scottish Land Commission)
An exciting opportunity has arisen with the Scottish Land Commission for a Community Engagement Adviser. This two year fixed term appointment will support land owners and communities in implementing effective engagement in relation to land ownership and use and advise on the implementation of the Scottish Government guidance on ‘engaging communities in decisions relating to land.’ Applications are invited by CV and covering letter. Completed applications should be submitted to scott.strachan@landcommission.gov.scot.
Closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 2 March 2018
Erin Fulton, Volunteer Manager, PAS, introduces PAS’ new youth volunteering initiative and PAS Youth Volunteer Award.
On the 25th of January PAS launched their exciting new youth volunteering initiative to encourage young people to take the lead as active citizens in their local communities in the Year of Young People.
We were pleased to have Kevin Stewart MSP, Scottish Minister for Local Government and Housing introduce the new programme and its associated award, which will help shape a young volunteer’s journey. The programme is aimed at young people aged 16-25 years old and will empower Youth Volunteers to be influencers and agents of change, actively participating in the decision-making processes in their local communities.
Young volunteers will work towards the PAS Youth Volunteer Award, with the potential to earn Young Scot Card Rewards, which involves completing ten hours of volunteering in areas matched to their interests and skills.
Speaking at the launch event, the Chair of PAS, Irene Beautyman, said:
“The launch of PAS’ Youth Volunteer Programme and Award is a landmark moment in PAS’ 25 year history. Our role is to enable communities to have their voices heard in the planning system by empowering them to become active citizens, through education and advice, awareness raising, and facilitating positive dialogue.
The places in which we live, work, access public services, build our relationships, and generally live our lives, are crucial to our physical, mental, social and economic wellbeing. Therefore, the way in which we plan our places, and the extent to which we bring people together, is vital for Scotland’s overall social and economic wellbeing.
As our present and future generation, Scotland’s young people are crucial to creating great places, and it is vital their voices are heard. In the Year of Young People 2018, our Youth Volunteering Programme and Award is an important step in helping create a Scotland where young people feel empowered to be active citizens in their local communities.”
Minister for Local Government and Housing, Kevin Stewart MSP, said:
“2018 has been designated as the Year of Young People, the first themed year to recognise people as one of Scotland’s greatest assets. And following the work of the independent planning review we will see the passage of a Planning Bill through Parliament. It is therefore auspicious that this volunteering programme is being launched at this time.
“I look forward to hearing about the how the PAS Youth Volunteers have benefitted from their experience. It will indeed be a positive one if they can build upon the skills, expertise and commitment of the current volunteers and staff. And I am also keen to hear about examples where the Youth Volunteers are making an impact in their communities.”
Current PAS volunteer, Melissa Shields, 19, said:
“It is especially important during the Year of Young people that the voices of the future generation are heard in key decisions about our local communities. Young volunteers are an incredibly powerful way to inspire and encourage participation amongst other young people because of the peer-to-peer relationship.
I have immensely enjoyed my volunteering with PAS to date, and found it to be a very rewarding experience. I would really urge other young people to sign up to the PAS Youth Volunteer Programme and Award as a way of really making a difference in their local community as well as developing new skills and gaining valuable experience.”
The Year of Young People 2018 is an opportunity for everybody in Scotland to come together and celebrate the contribution of our young people, enabling young people to have a stronger voice on issues which affect their lives and increasing the visibility of young people in the decisions that shape our future. The Year of Young People 2018 is the right time to launch our new Youth Volunteer programme.
As PAS approaches its 25th anniversary of helping people to shape the decisions that affect them and their communities, the launch of the Youth Volunteer programme is an important development in how the organisation supports communities across Scotland.
Over the last 25 years, our volunteer network has been made up of built environment professionals, mainly planners, architects and designers. Through the Youth Volunteer programme, our volunteer network will expand to include young people. The Youth Volunteer programme will promote active citizenship and encourage young people to be actively involved in placemaking.
Our vision is for a Scotland which creates great places in which all communities, whether urban, rural or island, can take pride, and feel empowered to shape. The decisions made now will affect young people the longest and therefore we feel it is crucial that they are included in the process. We hope that being introduced in the placemaking agenda early on, our youth volunteers will feel empowered to be engaged throughout their lives.
Erin Fulton, Volunteer Manager, PAS
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An overview of responses and reactions to the Planning (Scotland) Bill from BEFS.
The Planning (Scotland) Bill appeared in December 2017, a little over 2 years since the independent panel carried out a “game-changing review of Scotland’s planning system”.
The Scottish Government’s aims to, “increase delivery of high quality housing developments, by delivering a quicker, more accessible and efficient process, [which will also] reinforce our commitment to a fair and open planning system that works for everyone, especially local communities”, are bold. BEFS members’ have questioned the ability to produce a planning system that works faster for the development industry whilst increasing public engagement and trust.
There are proposals to strengthen the National Planning Framework by merging it with Scottish Planning Policy, and abolish statutory Strategic Development Plans to allow local authorities greater flexibility as to how, and who, they collaborate with. BEFS response raises concerns about the resulting loss of regional agency. The collaborations would follow the pattern established by City Region Deals which have a tendency to be project based, opaque and undemocratic. RTPI Scotland recommends that there should be a duty to require regional partnerships to agree strategic outcomes, which would then in turn inform the National Planning Framework, thereby preventing the loss of regional agency and resulting in subsidiarity rather than a top down national planning system.
Local Development Plan timescales are extended from 5 to 10 years resulting in a cost saving, but the process for their creation remains unclear. Local Development Plans would now require approval by full council, rather than delegated planning committees. Would this help councillors have better regard for the planning system when making decisions within Economy, Finance, Housing, Environment and Transport committees?
Local Place Plans are introduced by the Bill, these can be prepared by a community body, but the LPP must have regard to the Local Development Plan and National Planning Framework with further detail to be prescribed in secondary legislation. The Local Development Plan must in turn “have regard” for any Local Place Plan. The Policy Memorandum is explicit that the funding for a Local Place Plan must be found by the community body. These costs are not insignificant (BEFS suggests significantly higher than the estimate of 12K set out in the Financial Memorandum) and we question how achievable the creation of a Local Place Plan will be for the least heard communities that may benefit most. Many respondents, including Architecture & Design Scotland, raise concerns about the appropriate resourcing of community involvement, and PAS point out that their experience of running charrettes sees the most effective outcomes involve the local authority as a stakeholder.
The Bill’s focus, or more accurately the focus of the secondary legislation, is on increasing community engagement in the preparation of Local Development Plans. Whilst the matter of equal rights of appeal for individuals or communities is explicitly excluded from the Bill, many respondents – including multiple community groups, have made sure this is an issue requiring further examination. BEFS Members’ vary in opinion: Archaeology Scotland, National Trust for Scotland and the Cockburn Association all comment on the need to rebalance the system in various ways. RTPI Scotland does not support changes to the appeal system. BEFS meetings with various political parties suggests that an amendment is likely to be introduced in support of equal rights of appeal but the detail is unclear and Government opposition guaranteed.
Simplified Development Zones replace Simplified Planning Zones. The prime difference is that SDZs could incorporate conservation areas and listed buildings which raises significant concern, the AHSS being particularly strong in opposition to this proposal. The National Trust for Scotland have argued that the detail required for pre-consent on said designations is unlikely to be available. It is of note that the Law Commission are recommending the withdrawal of such zones in Wales.
There is some call for Simplified Development Zones to be linked to alternative means of land value capture – the Scottish Green Party would like them linked to compulsory purchase orders with compensation at existing use value thereby allowing local authorities to follow continental models of development. The Bill as introduced does not acknowledge this, but research being undertaken by the Scottish Land Commission may have an influence.
Members have presented varying views on many of the Bill’s aspects, but in a number of areas we find broad consensus: The Bill should set out the statutory purpose of planning, and ensure resulting sustainable development; development that maintains and enhances places of special value, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. There is also repeated agreement on the need for appropriate resource to be made available for planning, with RICS Scotland proposing that the use of funds in this area should be seen as an investment, not a cost.
The planning ‘game’ is not significantly changed; we are left looking to secondary legislation for clarity, and the vision for Scotland’s planning system in the 21st Century is found wanting – for both the private sector, and communities of place and interest.
For those wishing to read any particular submission in response to the Bill; BEFS own, and Members responses can be found on our Parliamentary Papers page. And all submissions currently uploaded for the Committee can be found on the following Parliamentary page.
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Isobel Leckie, Causey Development Trust, tells us about the work of the Trust and the design for transforming The Causey.
Background
Edinburgh – already a compact and walkable city – could also be a European exemplar of a city that is designed to be pedestrian and cycle friendly. However, in fact it is one of the least pedestrianised cities in Europe, and still has a long way to go to catch with cities such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam in terms of cycling and walking provision. The Causey project seeks to address this and contribute to turning Edinburgh into this European exemplar!
Causey Development Trust (CDT), a volunteer-led charity has been working for 10 years to transform a historic, car-dominated street, West Crosscauseway, (known locally as “The Causey”), into a place that prioritises people before motor vehicles. This involves creating a new public space out of the distinctive, but currently redundant, triangular traffic island space, and re-configure how pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles will use the space.
On the border of the World Heritage site and at the heart of the Southside Conservation area, CDT intends to create an accessible, beautiful and high-quality public space, promoting walking and cycling, which everyone can enjoy and could also host community and art events.
Community engagement
The project has been based around community engagement from the outset, and the design brief for the site was derived from the aspirations of local people as expressed through a series of “Ideas Workshops” held in 2008-9, as well as exhibitions and events. The more detailed concept design for a people-friendly place was developed by Ironside Farrar in conjunction with a client team including CDT representatives, City of Edinburgh Council, Sustrans Scotland, Edinburgh World Heritage and Living Streets Scotland.
CDT has maintained interest in the concept of a people–friendly space by hosting events, most notably the Southsiders: Portrait of a Community project for which local photographer Peter Dibdin photographed 32 portraits of Southside people. Nine life-sized prints were displayed in and around The Causey. Sorcha Carey, Director of the Edinburgh International Festival, is one of CDT’s patrons and we believe The Causey could become a place for art installations, as well community celebrations and even markets.
Design proposal
A design for transforming The Causey is currently submitted to City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) and has recently progressed to the statutory public consultation stage in a Traffic Regulation Order.
The current proposal is a revision of an earlier design submitted to CEC in 2016 which involved closing West Crosscauseway to through traffic. This initial design proposal – which closed off WCC to through traffic – however, met with concerns from some local residents and stakeholders, particularly around the use of a shared space concept, parking and waste vehicles turning in WCC. The current design seeks to address these concerns in a positive and beneficial manner by maintaining through traffic (although in a West-East direction -the opposite direction to currently) and with the intention that strong traffic-calming measures will be introduced at the subsequent detailed design stage. Two-way cycle traffic on West Crosscauseway and the original vision of a new, accessible and beautiful public space are maintained.
For more details about the proposal, process and how you can support CDT’s work please visit our website and comment on the Traffic Order at trafficorders@edinburgh.gov.uk
With no material objections to the TRO capital works could begin in 2018 and fundraising for this work will continue in earnest by CDT. Sustrans Scotland’s Community Links programme will match-fund what we raise and currently we’re at 50% of an estimated £1.6m. We already have funding pledges from Sustrans, Edinburgh World Heritage, University of Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh Council and Central Scotland Green Network.
Can you help us fund this amazing design and transformation? Do you know of sources of funding for public realm capital works? If so please contact us at info@thecausey.org
Follow us on Twitter @The_Causey
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Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
Scotland is to become the first part of the UK to legally require that women make up at least half the board members for all public authorities. MSPs at the Scottish Parliament passed the new Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Bill on Tuesday. In 2017 BEFS analysed the composition of our Members’ and Associates’ Boards – in regard to gender we found that on average 36% of Board members were women; and in relation to age, 25% were under 50. Join BEFS on the evening of Tuesday, 20th February 2018 for a discussion on Board Diversity in Public and Third Sector Organisations. Our experienced panel members; Jane Ryder (Chair – HES, previously CE – OSCR), Talat Yaqoob (Director – Equate Scotland, Chair – Women 50:50) and Beltus Etchu Ojong (CEO – Next Step Initiative); will explore both how organisations have changed, and how we need to continue to develop.
BEFS has submitted information to the Finance and Constitution Committee in response to their call for evidence on the estimated financial implications of the Planning (Scotland) Bill as set out in its accompanying Financial Memorandum. BEFS comments specifically on Strategic Development Plans, Local Development Plans and Local Place Plans. Read BEFS submission.
BEFS has now registered with the Scottish Lobbying Register and has submitted three Information Returns regarding ‘regulated lobbying’ undertaken by BEFS this month. For those of you still considering whether or not to register your organisation ahead of the Lobbying (Scotland) Act coming into force on 12th March, you can view our submissions here.
It’s time to speak out! The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) wants your views on the future of National Lottery funding for heritage. They’re consulting on how they should use National Lottery Good Causes income for the period from 2019 to 2024, their next Strategic Funding Framework (SFF).
We have three fascinating guest blogs for you this week. In the first blog, Bill Pagan, BEFS Board member, and founding Board member of Cupar Development Trust, offers thoughts on progress in Cupar in 2017 and the challenges to achieving action on the ground.
Niall Murphy, Planning Convener of Pollokshields Community Council, Chair of Pollokshields Heritage and Vice Chair of the recently established Pollokshields Trust, reflects on the motivations behind a community led charrette and the challenges arising out of it, in our second blog.
Finally, Lesley Martin, strategic planner and doctoral researcher, reflects of the challenges and opportunities presented by public engagement and participation in her blog ‘Participation, inequality and inclusion: the new complexities’.
Consultations
Have your say on the future priorities of the Heritage Lottery Fund – Consultation (ComRes 31/01/18)
Communities and Local Government Committee – Land value capture inquiry (BP 25/01/18)
The Communities and Local Government Committee (CLG) Committee is to examine the effectiveness of current land value capture methods and the need for new ways of capturing any uplift in the value of land associated with the granting of planning permission or nearby infrastructure improvements and other factors.
Accepting written submissions; the deadline is Friday 2 March 2018.
Practical Fire Safety Guidance for Existing Premises with Sleeping Accommodation
Closes on 5 February 2018.
Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme: Second Consultation on Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategies, and Regulation of District and Communal Heating
Closes on 20 February 2018.
Consultation Responses
Publications
Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Bill (SPICe briefing 01/18)
Letting Agent Code of Practice (SG 31/01/18)
Scottish Government News Releases
Tenants and landlords benefit from new regulations (SG 31/01/18)
Letting agent code of practice goes live. A new, statutory Code of Practice for letting agents, which will improve standards and empower tenants, has come into force.
Gender balanced public boards (SG 30/01/18)
Scotland is the only country in the UK with a statutory gender representation objective for public boards. The Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Bill has been passed by the Scottish Parliament. The bill sets an objective for public boards that 50% of non-executive members are women by the end of 2022.
Scottish Crown Estate (SG 25/01/18)
Plans to reform the Scottish Crown Estate, and give local communities more control of its assets, has been introduced to the Scottish Parliament. The Scottish Crown Estate Bill will establish a framework for changes in the management of Scottish Crown Estate assets and give communities a stronger voice in how these assets are managed.
Homelessness and Housing Options Statistics (SG 23/01/18)
A National and Official Statistics Publication for Scotland. Scottish Local Authorities received 17,797 applications for homelessness assistance during the six months April to September 2017, 2% higher compared to the same period during 2016.
Tackling homelessness and housing (SG 20/01/18)
£1.6 million funding boost for projects across Scotland. Grants totaling £1.6 million will fund innovative services aimed at tackling homelessness and improving housing, particularly for the most vulnerable. 17 projects successfully applied for the Housing Voluntary Grant Scheme (HVGS) 2018/19, which supports third sector organisations to deliver housing related projects and services.
News Releases
£866 million investment to help unlock potential 200,000 new homes (BG 01/02/18)
Up to 200,000 new homes are set to get off the ground as government confirms £866 million investment in local housing projects. Housing Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Philip Hammond announced that 133 council-led projects across the country will receive funding to support local work that will make housing developments viable and get much-needed homes built quicker.
Holyrood Committee welcomes Housing Amendment Bill (SP 1/02/18)
The Local Government and Communities Committee has recommended the general principles of the Housing (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill in a report published today. The Bill is intended to pave the way for the Office for National Statistics to reclassify Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) back to the private sector in the UK national accounts.
Report from the accreditation and CPD workshop Edinburgh (CIfA 31/01/18)
CIfA held a workshop in Edinburgh focused on accreditation and continuing professional development. The event provided applicants and those considering applying for or upgrading their membership with advice on how to approach the task of demonstrating their competences. It covered practicalities of applying, and also the wider reasons for what the benefit of accreditation is for practicing archaeologists and the wider profession.
Shaping Better Places Together (University of Dundee 26/01/18)
With support from the Scottish Government, a specialist research team made up of members from the University of Dundee, Eclipse Research and Kevin Murray Associates has produced a report into the facilitation of participatory placemaking.
Committees call Carillion directors in new joint inquiry (BP 25/01/18)
The Work and Pensions and Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committees launch a new joint inquiry into the collapse of Carillion, leaving a mountain of debt, potential job losses in the thousands, a giant pension deficit and hundreds of millions of pounds of unfinished public contracts with vast on-going costs to the UK taxpayer.
Web platform for sustainable building materials (A&DS 24/01/18)
Material Considerations: A Library of Sustainable Building Materials has been based at The Lighthouse, Glasgow since 2012. This web based resource showcases sustainable, traditional, innovative, recycled and low carbon building materials. This resource will interest construction professionals, architects, builders, home-owners and students alike.
A9 dualling proposals (HES 23/01/18)
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has today (Tuesday 23 January) responded to proposals to dual the A9 between Killiecrankie and Glen Garry in Perthshire, requesting more assurances around the impact on Killiecrankie Battlefield.
Scotland’s Most Polluted Streets for 2017 Revealed (Friends of the Earth Scotland 22/01/18)
A new study by Friends of the Earth Scotland ranking the country’s most polluted streets confirms that air pollution remains a public health crisis plaguing Scotland.
IHBC 2018 Belfast School, June 21-3: Home, venue and promotional pages launched (IHBC 21/01/18)
The first webpages for the IHBC’s 2018 School in Belfast – on June 21-23 and exploring ‘Our Shared Heritage’ – have been launched, and include links to venues and promotional opportunities, to help delegates, users and advertisers plan their School CPD, travel and business.
Independent review to tackle barriers to building (MHCLG 14/01/18)
Panel of experts to review the gap between number of planning permissions being granted and those built in areas of high demand.
Compulsory Purchase Order National Assembly 2017 (SG 12/17)
The Minister for Local Government and Housing’s speech at the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) National Assembly held on 12 December 2017.
IHBC’s new website for 2018: sharp design – improved access – enhanced security (IHBC 16/01/18)
The IHBC has launched its upgraded website, with a new look home page that now also includes direct links to IHBC Branch and IHBC related events across the UK.
Opinion & Comment
One brick at the time: changing the future of construction (A&DS 24/01/18)
The demise of Carillion matters to us all (Mandy Rhodes, Holyrood Magazine 23/01/18)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-13988: Rachael Hamilton, Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 22/01/2018
To ask the Scottish Government what action it will take to protect the 160 historic sites that have been reported by Historic Environment Scotland as being at high risk.
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-13672: Ben Macpherson, Edinburgh Northern and Leith, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 04/01/2018
To ask the Scottish Government what the average level of grant funding is for each affordable housing unit in Scotland, and how this compares with England.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (22/01/2018)
Question S5W-13671: Ben Macpherson, Edinburgh Northern and Leith, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 04/01/2018
To ask the Scottish Government how many homes have been delivered since 2007 for social rent, and how the supply of homes for social rent compares with that in England.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (22/01/2018)
Question S5W-13670: Ben Macpherson, Edinburgh Northern and Leith, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 04/01/2018
To ask the Scottish Government how many affordable homes have been delivered since 2007, and how the supply of affordable housing per head of population in Scotland compares with that in England.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (22/01/2018)
Question S5W-13719: Claudia Beamish, South Scotland, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 09/01/2018
To ask the Scottish Government whether, in furthering its land reform policies, local community organisations, such as those types referred to in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, are given the first opportunity to buy any Scottish Government-owned land or property, or part thereof.
Answered by Roseanna Cunningham (18/01/2018)
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
AHSS Forth & Borders Group Lecture
‘Heroines of the Canongate: a different perspective on urban reform in the Edwardian Old Town’
Date: 5th February, at 18.30.
Location: St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA
Cost: £5 (£2.50 students) Non-members welcome! Tickets on the door.
Urban reform in the Old Town is often associated with the names of H.D.Littlejohn and Patrick Geddes. Dr Elizabeth darling adopts a different perspective, focusing on the many women who effected change in environments in and around the Canongate.
Maximising Tourism Opportunities in Towns [STP in partnership with VisitScotland]
Date: Wednesday 7th February 2018, 1.30pm – 4pm.
Location: Murrayfield, Edinburgh.
Learn how to maximise the opportunities from tourism in your town at this interactive workshop with VisitScotland and Scotland’s Towns Partnership. Due to high demand, additional places on this workshop have been made available. Read more.
Free to STP Members | £50+VAT Non-Members
‘Researching Scotland’s textile heritage through material culture evidence’
Date: February 19 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: National Museum Scotland Auditorium, Chambers Street Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Lecture given by Dr Anita Quye, Senior Lecturer, Conservation Science, History of Art, University of Glasgow. Many perspectives on the often colourful world of historical textiles are gained through scientific and historical research of material culture evidence in heritage collections. The particularly rich legacies of Scotland’s textile-producing past in museums and archives have led the University of Glasgow to investigate the significance and preservation needs of this fascinating material culture. Presented in this talk are research projects for Turkey red textiles and 19th century early synthetic dyes research, and the interdisciplinary ReINVENT and ReCREATE knowledge exchange and research networks.
‘Researching Scotland’s textile heritage through material culture evidence’
Date: February 21 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: Kelvin Hall, 1445 Argyle Street Glasgow, G3 8AW.
Lecture given by Dr Anita Quye, Senior Lecturer, Conservation Science, History of Art, University of Glasgow. Many perspectives on the often colourful world of historical textiles are gained through scientific and historical research of material culture evidence in heritage collections. The particularly rich legacies of Scotland’s textile-producing past in museums and archives have led the University of Glasgow to investigate the significance and preservation needs of this fascinating material culture. Presented in this talk are research projects for Turkey red textiles and 19th century early synthetic dyes research, and the interdisciplinary ReINVENT and ReCREATE knowledge exchange and research networks.
AHSS Strathclyde Group Lecture
‘The Enigma of Sir John James Burnet’
Date: 22 February, at 19:30.
Venue: Garnethill Room, Renfield St. Stephen’s Centre, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow
Cost: £4 / students free. Tickets will be available on the door.
Niall Murphy, Deputy Director of Glasgow City Heritage Trust discusses the career and buildings of Glasgow’s third architect with an international reputation. With a talent equal to Thomson and Mackintosh and an even more stellar career, Burnet remains something of an unknown.
Contemporary Approaches to Sustainability in European Cities
Date: Thursday 1 March 2018, 1pm – 6pm.
Location: University of Dundee.
The Academy of Urbanism and University of Dundee are delighted to convene a special event to consider the application of contemporary strategies to make medium-sized cities more sustainable in environmental, socio-economic and cultural terms. We have invited senior speakers from leading AoU European City Finalists, including Bilbao, Copenhagen, Freiburg and Ljubljana together with additional input from Scottish and UK specialists. Read more.
Places are free but will be limited, so registration is required by the 22 February.
‘Recent work on the sunken Bronze Age town of Pavlopetri, Greece’
Date: March 12 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Venue: National Museum Scotland Auditorium, Chambers Street Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Lecture given by Dr Jon Henderson, Associate Professor, Department of Archaeology, University of Nottingham. Joint lecture with the Prehistoric Society. Pavlopetri, off the coast of Laconia, Greece, is the oldest submerged town in the world with remains dating from at least 3,500 BC through to the end of the Mycenaean period c.1,100 BC. Recent underwater research has traced structures over 8 hectares of seabed consisting of intact domestic buildings, larger public constructions, courtyards, streets, graves and rock-cut tombs. As the current project comes to a close this lecture will consider the nature of occupation at the site through time, how it came to be submerged and its wider role in the maritime trade networks of the Aegean.
Training
Cash in with our Focus on Fundraising bundle – Digital, Data and Marketing
Museums & Galleries Scotland kickstart the New Year with a programme of training on the subject of income generation, with great courses from Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage, Culture Republic and more! We’ve got seven individual courses covering three different themes: a bundle called Focus on Fundraising, a solo artist called Rural Heritage and Commerciality, and the triple threat bundle that is Digital, Data and Marketing.
RIAS Risk Management CPD
Date: 7th of February, 1.45pm and 3.45pm.
Location: RIAS Headquarters, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH3 2BE.
Cost: The workshop is £5 which covers catering.
The aim of this workshop is to outline how Professional Indemnity Insurance policy operates in the event of a circumstance/claim and how the insurer, broker and insured work together to either manage the issue or, when needed, to settle. It is intended as a round table discussion and not a lecture. Thereafter, some real examples of common causes of circumstances/claims and how the cover operates in the case of a complaint to the ARB against the Insured will be reviewed. There are no definitive check lists in risk management and so the purpose of this event is to help you develop thinking tools to protect yourself.
In Conversation: Fundraising For Heritage Trustees (Aberdeen)
Date & time: February 8 @ 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Location: Society Of Advocates in Aberdeen Broad St, Aberdeen, AB10.
For the second ‘In Conversation’ event, chair Catherine Holden will be joined by a panel of expert guests, to share their experiences, insights and tips on fundraising for the heritage sector. The panel will be comprised of individuals working with both large and small organisations; those in the thick of a fundraising campaign, or with a campaign behind or ahead of them, and others focusing on revenue fundraising.
Crowdfunding For Arts & Heritage Organisations (Edinburgh)
Date & time: February 13 @ 10:30 am – 4:30 pm
Location: A&BS, 1st Floor, Rosebery House 9 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 5EZ.
This training event, brought to you by Arts & Business Scotland supporting Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage, will provide a ‘how-to’ guide to crowdfunding for cultural organisations.
There are 6 places for arts organisations and 6 places for heritage organisations to participate in the event which is being delivered by the creative crowdfunding agency (SoLoCo and Dig Ventures).
The training will also incorporate a hands-on simulated crowdfund so that you can try out your new skills straight away.
In Focus: Trusts & Foundations (Linlithgow)
Date & time: February 15 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Linlithgow Burgh Halls, Cross House, Linlithgow, EH49 7AH.
This session focuses on heritage organisations applying to Trusts & Foundations. The training will include: An overview of where Trusts sit within the overall funding landscape. The advantages and disadvantages of making applications. An exploration of the various different types of trusts and a guide to writing proposals. The event will explore case studies from the sector and provide top tips in making applications as well as developing and maintaining your relationship with a trust.
A General Tax Guide For Arts And Heritage Organisations (Edinburgh)
Date & time: February 21 @ 1:00 Pm – 4:30 Pm
Location: A&BS, 1st Floor, Rosebery House Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5EZ.
This half-day seminar is a must for all financial or budget holding staff and anyone who wants to know how tax affects (and can benefit) arts and heritage organisations with charitable status in Scotland. The event will look at the tax status of income, box office arrangements, room hires, trading activities, memberships, grants and donations and sponsorship. It will highlight tax savings that can be available and the issues and opportunities that frequently affect arts and heritage organisations. It will be based on current rules and procedures and highlight common errors and dispel common tax myths.
Trustees’ Event: Briefing On Risk Management (Edinburgh)
Date & time: February 21 @ 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Location: RSM, First Floor, Quay 2, 139 Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 9QG.
During this session, Richard Mackie – Associate Director at RSM Risk Assurance Services LLP – will provide a step-by-step introduction to risk management for trustees working in the heritage sector. Risk Management is essential to the smooth-running and sustainability of all projects and organisations. It involves consideration of both internal and external risk factors, and an evaluation of previous areas of risk which have impacted the organisation. It asks what the organisation wants to look like in five years’ time and what challenges might be faced in getting there. The process also takes in to account what beneficiaries, regulators, partners, public and other stakeholders are telling you about the organisation.
In Focus: Storytelling Using Media (Edinburgh)
Date & time: February 22 @ 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Location: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH1 2PG.
This hands-on practical session will allow you to identify your key messages and present them using media. This particular workshop will focus on using video as a medium for storytelling. Identifying and presenting your key messages in an appealing and visual way can support your fundraising efforts and help you to effectively communicate the value of the work that you/your organisation does as well as the value of heritage more widely.
Vacancies
Assistant BID Manager (Part–time Maternity Cover) (Falkirk Delivers)
We are looking for someone to cover maternity leave for 12 months from late February 2018 in the position of Assistant BID Manager – A job which carries real responsibility and a degree of autonomy. Working closely with the BID Manager to deliver agreed project outcomes on time and in budget under the key strategic objectives. Working with the project partners and BID team to identify, capture and manage risks. Working with a wide range of partners and town centre stakeholders both at a local and national level. Liaising with media and marketing teams to ensure positive promotion of Falkirk Town Centre. Identify funding opportunities for town centre projects and events.
Closing date midnight on Monday 5th February 2018
Director (SCT)
The Scottish Civic Trust is seeking to recruit a new Director. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated individual to join the leading body in Scotland for encouraging civic pride in our cities, towns and villages. The Trust is a proud supporter of a nationwide network of local civic and amenity societies and is a regular campaigner for issues of national significance. The key responsibilities of the Director include the development and management of initiatives, providing advice on matters of policy and ensuring the Trust’s resources and activities are aligned with Board’s strategies. As the Trust’s principal ambassador, the Director will build and maintain relationships and networks with similar organisations and the media as well as ensuring the Trust’s reputation is maintained, therefore requiring knowledge of a range of communication strategies and media. The newly appointed Director will also be responsible for ensuring the Trust’s resources, such as finance, people and property, are deployed effectively.
Closing date: Monday 12 February 2018.
Development Officer Scotland (Heritage Trust Network)
Heritage Trust Network is a membership organisation run by people who have delivered amazing heritage projects against all the odds. Our mission is to help others do the same.
Thanks to funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund (supported by Historic Environment Scotland) and The National Trust for Scotland, we are now recruiting a Development Officer to support and connect the HTN network in Scotland, and recruit new members. We are looking for an experienced historic buildings / community development professional with the ability to bring together national and local partners to revitalise the Building Preservation Trust sector in Scotland and unlock the potential of historic buildings at risk for communities across Scotland.
The closing date for applications is midday on Thursday 22 February
Volunteering Opportunity: Place and Design Panel (West Dunbartonshire Council)
Are you passionate about the importance of place making and the role of good design in our built environment? Are you willing to contribute your expertise and enthusiasm to making a difference to design quality in West Dunbartonshire? West Dunbartonshire Council is looking for people to join their Place and Design Panel; a new venture in early engagement and impartial, objective dialogue with upcoming development. The Place and Design Panel will play a key role in raising the quality of design development, improving the health, well-being, aspirations and economic fortunes of West Dunbartonshire.
The closing date for applications is Friday 1st June 2018.
Information in the Bulletin is extracted from a number of websites including the Scottish Government (SG); the Scottish Parliament (SP); Architecture and Design Scotland (A+DS); Historic Environment Scotland (HES); Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH); Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO); English Heritage (EH); Design Council (DC); Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG); Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS); Department of Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA); National Assembly for Wales (NAW); Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS); Scottish Government Building Standards (SGBS); Europa Nostra (EN); Historic England (HE).
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Niall Murphy, Planning Convener of Pollokshields Community Council, Chair of Pollokshields Heritage & Vice Chair of Pollokshields Trust reflects on the motivations behind a community-led charrette and the challenges arising out of it.
Pollokshields, on Glasgow’s Southside, is the largest Victorian Garden Suburb in Scotland. It was feued in 1848 by Edinburgh Architect David Rhind on behalf of the Maxwell family who owned neighbouring Pollok Estate, with the family guiding its development for six decades.
Rhind’s plan split the suburb into two halves: West Pollokshields, with leafy avenues of large villas and East Pollokshields, with gridded blocks of sandstone tenements. Conscious of the appalling urban conditions in Glasgow at the time, the family insisted on broad streets and a 3-storey datum for tenements to ensure residents had good daylight and air. Flats incorporated bathrooms from the outset – well in advance of various Police Acts.
Today, East Pollokshields is the most multi-cultural area in Scotland with a BME population share of 52%. Between 2001-2013 the population rose by 16%. More than a quarter of households are overcrowded, 33% of children live in poverty, 93.5% of people live within 500m of vacant or derelict land while East Pollokshields has one of the lowest SIMD (Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation) ranks in Scotland.
Though East Pollokshields became a conservation area in 1973 the Victorian tenements are aging and difficult to heat, while the mix of tenures and refuse issues means problems which resulted in the creation of the ‘Enhanced Enforcement Area’ in neighbouring Govanhill, also occurs here.
To help combat these issues in December 2014, Pollokshields Community Council, with support from our MSP, MP and local councillors, obtained agreement from Glasgow City Council that if we secured funding under the SSCI Charrette Mainstreaming Programme they would support us in the preparation of a planning study for the area – something which had been Glasgow City Council policy since the adoption of the City Plan 2 in 2008.
In February 2016, having obtained these funds, augmented by monies from Glasgow City Council, local businesses and amenity societies, we held the ‘Make Your Mark’ East Pollokshields and Port Eglinton Charrette – the first community led charrette in Glasgow – having recruited a consultant team led by Collective Architects.
The key objectives of our brief were how we could make the area a better place to live, to promote the contextual development of the large brownfield sites between Pollokshields and Glasgow city centre, so severance could be reduced and, most importantly, to ensure the charrette report was adopted.
The charrette outcomes were reported at a well-attended community meeting in late March 2016 with the vision publicly endorsed by Nicola Sturgeon MSP and Alison Thewliss MP. The finalised report was lodged with Glasgow City Council for their consideration in June 2016.
Since then, despite plenty of effort including the setting up of the Pollokshields Trust as a community anchor organisation to steer the vision forwards, repeated pre-application engagement with developers of the large brownfield sites to encourage them to take on board the charrette’s design code, to our frustration adoption by Glasgow City Council has still to occur.
Unfortunately, we are not unique. How to get community led charrettes adopted into policy by councils does seem to be the Achilles Heel of the process with the risk of thwarting community enthusiasm which could descend into cynicism and distrust – something sadly flagged up by the survey results for Barriers to Community Engagement in Planning – thereby undermining the efforts of the Scottish Government towards Local Place Plans.
Nevertheless, if we’ve learned anything it is tenacity! Therefore, we welcome a positive overture from Glasgow City Council, at a recent meeting hosted by Nicola Sturgeon MSP, to work collaboratively with us and the Scottish Government on a pilot scheme to ensure that community led charrettes can slot into the development plan process. Will we succeed? Watch this space…
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Bill Pagan, Board member of BEFS, and founding Board member of Cupar Development Trust, offers thoughts on progress in Cupar in 2017 and the challenges to achieving action on the ground.
St Catherine Street from the east, autumn 2017. Completed County Buildings on the left.
Under scaffolding, former Clydesdale Bank on the right, and Burgh Chambers back left, both now completed.
The 2016 CharrettePlus in Cupar, led by PAS, was community-driven and mobilised local businesses, property-owners and the community at large. Many aspirations were identified.
The major tasks of Cupar Development Trust (CDT) in delivering some of the aspirations expressed during the Charrette have not been helped by closures – of another bank, a major office employer, and shops – during 2017. One of the shops explained its closure specifically as a chance to save costs by moving online only, and I believe another is moving in that direction. BEFS Small Towns Reports (including Cupar’s) recognised these sorts of challenges across Scotland.
Nevertheless, Fife Historic Buildings Trust are delivering the CARS and THI schemes, with Fiona Stenke their weel kent representative on the ground. Buildings in the heart of the town centre have been conserved and smartened. A particularly welcome part of the CARS/THI work in 2017 was the conservation of the Burgh Chambers.
The Interpretive Plan, produced in June 2017, after considerable effort by both a local Working Group and CMC Consultants, was the highlight of the year. It was funded by a £15,000 grant from the Scottish Government’s Activating Ideas Fund. The Plan’s main aims are:
- to encourage and define practical steps which will help people engage with Cupar’s rich heritage
- to map the strategic, longer-term goals of the community in ways that policymakers and funders can back.
In the second half of 2017, CDT then made several applications for funding to take the Interpretive Plan forward, with disappointing results. The thrust of these applications was to assist the delivery of “Digital Cupar”, the means identified for enhancing the understanding of Cupar’s Heritage, and increasing footfall in the town centre – both for direct Commercial & Retail activity and for Tourist Interpretation
Another funding application, to the Heritage Enterprise Fund, was for ‘Development Funding’ as a first step to securing capital grant for the renovation of a group of derelict buildings, in the very heart of the town centre. The “Inner Court” project is an important plank of Cupar’s re-generation, and was presented to the Charrette, where it received overwhelming support. Its aims are to deliver 28 new houses, and an element of Community and Commercial facilities, in the backlands bounded by two of Cupar’s main streets, Bonnygate and Crossgate.
This retail development is bound to have some impact on Cupar’s town centre, if indeed there is a market for it – it appears that only one site within it has been let so far.
The main task for CDT in 2018 is to show HLF and others that it is a resilient community-based organisation, with a long-life strategy for delivery. As well as keeping the pot boiling on the Interpretive Plan, the major challenges are the Inner Court Development and George Inn Pend. The overall aspiration is shown in this drawing of Inner Court, George Inn Pend being the one parallel to, and closest to, Bonnygate. The Bonnygate gap site – Cupar’s missing tooth – is shown filled by the only part of the proposals which reaches right through to a main street, the Bonnygate.
CDT’s tasks and aspirations move at a measured pace, dictated by the need for funding. Meantime, other changes intervene. Kingdom Housing Association (who are taking the lead in the Inner Court project) have 49 affordable houses under construction in their Pitscotttie Road site on the south-east boundary; Stephens have lodged a detailed application for 55 mixed housing units, possibly rising to 168, at Gilliesfaulds at the western gateway to the town; and discussions continue on the “Cupar North” site for 1480 houses, with a promised town relief road.
Cupar North has now been included in the Fife Plan. One of the town’s very active groups, Sustainable Cupar, will press for improved road safety provision on the present and future routes to the local services, including schools.
Cupar, like the rest of the country, cannot escape the impact of the financial crash of 2007/2008 on the housing sector. This, and the inordinate length of time taken to approve the Fife Development Plan, has delayed all substantial private house-builder activity in Cupar. Cupar has however been fortunate to have 18 new affordable homes right in the town centre – a part of the CARS/THI scheme for the County Buildings.
While the Tay Cities Deal’s main target in Fife is the St Andrews University ecological development at Guardbridge, some infrastructure in North East Fife may be funded, and this could include a contribution to the Cupar relief road. This would be particularly welcome because the Planning condition currently proposed would demand construction of that road only after the completion of the first 600 houses. This would have a serious impact on congestion and pollution, as much of the additional traffic generated would be fighting its way through the narrow town centre. Negotiations on infrastructure generally – schools, medical services, drainage and other services – have added to delays.
CDT and its partner organisations expect a major part of their efforts over the next three years, and beyond, to be raising funding for, and then delivering, small projects supported by HLF and others. Out of that experience, it will become clearer what the delivery of the Interpretive Plan, and other aspirations identified during the Charrette process, will require, including what structures will be best suited to the tasks. These tasks go beyond heritage alone, and will include social, cultural and environmental initiatives, with a strong element of education incorporated. Success in those will contribute to economic improvement.
You can follow progress via www.cupardevtrust.org.uk, Twitter @CuparCould, Instagram @CuparCould and Facebook.
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