News Releases

Residents across Edinburgh to choose how to spend Visitor Levy funds in their neighbourhoods (City of Edinburgh Council 15/05/2026)

Historic England reveals 20 historic sites with the potential to become new homes (Historic England 19/05/2026)

Scottish Futures Trust: Scotland’s construction pipeline tool continues to increase coverage and transparency (SFT 20/05/2026)

Homebuilding & Renovating: Supporting people with in-person planning advice (Planning Aid Scotland 21/05/2026)

Call for Nominations: proposals invited to join Cultivating Resilience a programme strengthening the ability of historic gardens and designed landscapes to adapt to the impacts of climate change (World Monuments Fund 25/05/2026)

A proactive approach to bringing ownerless land back into use in Scotland (Scottish Land Commission 26/05/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Blog: Dismantling gendered cities, one city at a time. This is how we started (Placemaking Europe 01/05/2026)

Why can’t we have both? (Urban Realm 11/05/2026)

Why do we keep building on land at risk of flooding? (The Guardian 14/05/2026)

Calls for ‘quality leadership’ for HES after Robertson exit (The Herald 14/05/2026)

Anna Ritchie obituary: archaeologist who led Orkney rescue work (The Times 19/05/2026)

What Glasgow’s Chinatown could look like after £160m redevelopment plan (Glasgow Live 19/05/2026)

Five-Year Partnership Reimagines the Future of Scotland’s Heritage at Caerlaverock Castle (Dumfries & Galloway What’s Going On 19/05/2026)

New training programme aims to extend use of timber across construction sector (Project Scotland 19/05/2026)

Built environment bodies to screen ‘People’s Emergency Briefing’ in Glasgow (Scottish Construction Now 20/05/2026)

Report shows urgent climate adaptation spells opportunity for construction (Construction Management 20/05/2026)

Architecture body elects Libby Heathcote as next president (Scottish Housing News 21/05/2026)

A hut or not a hut? Council seeks independent cabin size check (BBC News 21/05/2026)

Positive results belie struggling construction sector (Premier Construction News 21/05/2026)

Presiding Officer says ‘status quo not an option’ amid parliamentary shake-up (Holyrood 21/05/2026)

The first international football stadium in the world is in Glasgow – and it was just given “protected” status (Secret Glasgow 22/05/2026)

‘Nationally significant’ regeneration planned for Stranraer (BBC News 22/05/2026)

BE-ST Fest 2026 to hit the road with four regional events (Scottish Housing News 22/05/2026)

Revealed: Union Street vape shop not inspected for health and safety before fire (The Herald 24/05/2026)

Scottish Government will ‘undoubtedly’ need to make cuts – deputy first minister (STV 24/05/2026)

Green jobs contributing £10.2bn to Scotland’s economy, says CBI (BBC News 26/05/2026)

Events

Doors Open Day – Applications to participate: Edinburgh and East Lothian
Date and location: Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 September 2026; Edinburgh & East Lothian
Applications are invited to take part in Doors Open Day 20256. There are three criteria which need to be met for a venue to take part: The venue should be open on the regions designated weekend; the event must be free; and the event should include something different from your usual offering – common examples include a tour, talk, exhibition, workshop, or a simple colouring activity. You can use the annual theme to design your event/activity – this year’s theme is Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine. More details can be found here (use of the theme is not a requirement).
To take part please email EdinburghDoorsOpen@cockburnassociation.org.uk.
Deadline: Sunday 21 June 2026

BE-ST Fest – 2026
For the past five years, industry leaders, policymakers, innovators and built environment professionals have travelled to Glasgow for BE-ST Fest. In 2026, the festival is coming to you. BE-ST is on the road, coming to communities across Scotland to focus on the real barriers and challenges you face.
BE-ST Fest East – International Retrofit Conference
Date: Wednesday 2 September 2026
Location: Royal College of Physicians, 11 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 1JQ
BE-ST Fest South
Date: Wednesday 23 September 2026
Location: The Crichton Trust, Grierson House, Bankend Rd, Dumfries DG1 4ZE
BE-ST Fest North
Date: Tuesday 6 October 2026
Location: Eden Court, Bishops Road, Inverness IV3 5SA
BE-ST Fest West
Date: Wednesday 4 November 2026
Location: Sir Jim McDonald Technology & Innovation Centre (TIC), 99 George Sreet, Glasgow G1 1RD

Doors Open Days Weekends for 2026
Dates: Saturday and Sunday from 5 – 27 September 2026
Locations: Regional variations

Heritage Network – Conference 2026
Date & Time: Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September 2026
Locations: Belfast & Armagh
The conference emphasis is on the impact of community-led heritage on people and places, explored through the experience of heritage regeneration in the host towns and cities and beyond. As well as a day of compelling presentations, lively discussions and networking, the conference includes tours and visits to fascinating historic sites and ground-breaking projects.

SPAB – Repair of Old Buildings Course Autumn 2026
Date & Time: Monday 28 September – Friday 2 October 2026; 09:30am-5pm
Location: Museum of the Home, Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA
Presented by leading building conservation professionals, the course explores British and international approaches to the conservation of old buildings. The programme is underpinned by the SPAB philosophy of repair and maintenance, as set out in the SPAB Approach. Through a series of lectures and site visits, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the repair, maintenance and conservation of old buildings.

SPAB – Practical Flour Milling
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 October 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Blair Atholl Water Mill, Ford Road, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5SH
Join SPAB for practical experience of traditional flour milling in a small, friendly group environment. Blair Atholl Watermill is Scotland’s oldest working watermill. This course is supported by the North UK Mills Group. This event is perfect for mill volunteers and trainee millers. It may also be of interest to more experienced millers who wish to develop their skills.

SPAB – Understanding Your Old Building
Date: Saturday 14 November 2026; 12:30-2pm
Location: Online
Join SPAB for an introduction to the care and maintenance of period properties, ideal for homeowners and tenants of old buildings. This modular, self-paced online course features six pre-recorded presentations and a live Q&A session. It introduces the SPAB conservation approach and offers guidance on how best to tackle common problems and maintain the character and value of your home. If you live in or look after a period property, or are a professional who needs to brief their clients on understanding their old building, this course is ideal for you. The SPAB is an IHBC-recognised CPD provider and certificates of attendance are available on request. £115 ‘Early Bird’ rate until 10 August, then £135.

Training

Culture & Business Scotland – An Introduction to Being a Board Member
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 June 2026; 9:30am-1:30pm
Location: Online
This essential course will give new trustees and Board members a comprehensive introduction to their roles and responsibilities or provide a governance skills refresher. Led by Catriona Reynolds, Head of Board Development at Culture & Business Scotland, this information-packed online session equips new trustees and Board members with the practical tools they need to succeed from day one.

Planning Aid Scotland – Community Engagement Skills Training Inverness
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 June 2026; 10am-3:30pm
Location: Highland Rugby Club, Canal Park, Clubhouse, Inverness IV3 5SS
This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. The trainers bring extensive community engagement and facilitation expertise to help develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner. Learn how to undertake meaningful engagement that achieves positive outcomes for communities and projects alike. Discover useful tips and practical tools to help you lead your engagement work with confidence and ease. Engage in a range of different learning techniques to think creatively about engagement. Connect with fellow engagement practitioners, share experiences, and learn from each other in a safe, collaborative setting.

SLCT – Working with Lime in Adverse Weather
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 June 2026; 9:30am-12:30pm
Location: Charlestown Workshops, 2 Rocks Road, Charlestown, Fife KY11 3EN
These hints, tips and practical advice will help you extend your season working with lime mortars successfully. The reality is that contracting is a 365 days a year business and you don’t have the luxury of picking your weather windows. This half day course is aimed at anyone who works with traditional buildings or structures, and will consist of a mixture of lecture and some practical demonstrations.

Culture & Business Scotland – All things American Fundraising
Date & Time: Wednesday 24 June 2026; 10am-4pm
Location: The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND
Join Culture & Business Scotland for this essential workshop, designed to advance your practical knowledge of the American philanthropic landscape. In the session, three fundraising experts from Chapel & York will share their insights and perspectives. It is aimed at fundraisers and culture sector professionals keen to understand the intricacies of American fundraising.

SLCT – Introduction to Stonemasonry
Date & Time: Thursday 25 & Friday 26 June 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY11 3DR
Taught by a time-served Stonemason, this course is suitable for all abilities and covers an introduction to tools, techniques and uses of basic stonemasonry. Learners can take away their practice stones at the end of the day. This practical course is designed for: those individuals with little or no experience in cutting and dressing natural stone; building contractor working on traditional stone buildings and structures and just want to learn the basic masonry skills for cutting and dressing sandstone; and/or a semi-skilled operative who needs to add to his skills set and be able to produce stone masonry units to plumb, level and plane with traditional tooling finishes.

Vacancies & Opportunities

The big news this bulletin is the result of last week’s elections. Derek Rankine, BEFS Head of Policy and Strategy, provides his take on what may come:

“Getting more champions in Holyrood who really care about historic buildings and understand the built environment.” Talking at the BEFS hustings event in Edinburgh, Sam Gallacher of Scottish Historic Buildings Trust spoke for many BEFS Members on their hopes from the Scottish Parliament elections. With the dust starting to settle following last week’s results, and ahead of Parliament reconvening tomorrow, we can take a brief look at whether those wishes were fulfilled.
There is some room for optimism. Of the 65 returning MSPs, many have previously worked with BEFS on built environment issues and have been actively involved with exploring challenges and developing opportunities through relevant Bills, consultations, debates, Committees and working groups. Some of the 64 new MSPs talked up local heritage and visited projects and groups in their campaigning. At the BEFS hustings event, and in the party manifestos, there are valuable acknowledgements and commitments relating to the 15 BEFS Manifesto policy recommendations.
With six parties having at least 10 MSPs, there is a notable cross-party spread from what the Scottish Parliament Information Centre described as a “fragmented result”. The SNP, which won 58 seats, is expected to continue as minority government. Leader John Swinney has said he will this week invite four of the other five party leaders to talks on potential areas of cooperation. Over the next six months, BEFS will be delivering an MSP engagement plan to further raise awareness of Members’ built environment priorities and support cross-party action. We are hopeful of developing even more champions in Parliament from new and returning MSPs. We look forward to working closely with BEFS Members on making the case for the existing built environment!

Historic Environment Scotland has launched their Traditional Materials Framework (TMF), a new publication setting out a clear delivery framework to guide work on sustainable supply and best practice use of traditional building materials in Scotland. Access to essential materials can be fragile, especially in the current context of the aftermath of a global pandemic, disruption to supply chains, and growing impacts from climate change. The TMF sets out to update our understanding of the main challenges and opportunities facing traditional materials today.

In case you missed it, one for the coffee break: cross industry group Don’t Waste Buildings has called on the UK government to incentivise the reuse of empty buildings. The report The Reuse Dividend: Unlocking Economic Growth from Britain’s Existing Buildings presents a landmark international study showing how other countries are unlocking billions from building reuse – warning that Britain is missing out on billions of pounds of potential economic growth.

And finally, BEFS is a member of The Archaeology Forum, a UK-wide group of bodies that work together to champion the investigation, management, and interpretation of the historic environment. The Archaeology Forum has refreshed its web presence; hosted by the Council of British Archaeology, the webpages include informative resources, useful tools and signposting on the work and Membership of the Forum, the policy landscape, and the value of archaeology. We recommend a visit!

News Releases

New report finds that nine in ten heritage workers would recommend their career (Historic Houses 20/04/2026)

Local Place Plans in Shetland: how communities are shaping the future of their areas (Planning Aid Scotland 30/04/2026)

Housing Regulator renews its commitment to including tenants and service users (Scottish Housing Regulator 30/04/2026)

Northern Ireland Heritage Delivers 2026 Report published (Heritage Delivers NI 01/05/2026)

New Business Plan sets out focus to accelerate investment and deliver sustainable infrastructure across Scotland (Scottish Futures Trust 12/05/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Cladding in Scotland: What Every Tenement Owner Should Know (CityLets News 15/04/2026)

‘Unusual’ Brutalist bank building granted listed status (BBC News 16/04/2026)

Dr Simon Gilmour: Scotland’s lucrative heritage at ‘serious risk’ of being ‘squandered’ as funding crashes (The Scotsman 26/04/2026)

Regeneration Across the Political Spectrum: 2026 Manifesto Analysis (SURF 27/04/2026)

Offers being assessed for Rum’s derelict Kinloch Castle (BBC News 28/04/2026)

Amid a heritage skills crisis, St Paul’s wants to bring its craftspeople into the light (Building 28/04/2026)

Access approval paves way for long-awaited Mavisbank restoration (Scottish Construction Now 30/04/2026)

Uncovering Edinburgh’s forgotten lives, one stair at a time: 10 Picardy Place (Tenement Town 04/05/2026)

Four major parties make manifesto commitments on tenement reform (Scottish Housing News 05/05/2026)

5,000-year-old artificial island hidden in Scottish loch predates Stonehenge (Archaeology News 05/05/2026)

CITB urges offshore workers to start career in construction (Construction Management 06/05/2026)

Built environment raw material extraction poses nature risk, highlights report (Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining 06/05/2026)

Renewable energy hub planned for Scottish coal museum (BBC News 12/05/2026)

‘Secure the culture brief’: Swinney faces arts industry cabinet demand (Herald 12/05/2026)

Alliterative summer school takes Architecture Fringe from margins to mainstream (Urban Realm 12/05/2026)

World’s first international football stadium given protected status (BBC News 13/05/2026)

Events

The Architectural Heritage Fund – 50^th Anniversary Exhibition
Date & Time: Thursday 30 April – Saturday 16 May 2026
Location: The Briggait, 141 Bridgegate Street, Glasgow G1 5HZ
Celebrating the AHS 50th anniversary, this exhibition presents 50 Years of Reimagining Heritage, telling the story of the difference heritage reuse can make in people’s lives and in communities. Across the year, the exhibition will travel to each part of the UK; Cardiff from 23 June to 11 July & London from 21 October to 4 November. By showcasing these extraordinary stories, the hope is to inspire more people to get involved in saving local historic buildings to improve places, empower people, and secure a sustainable future for built heritage.

SURF – Shared Learning Workshops
Dates & Times: Thursday 14, 21 & 28 May 2026; 10am-2pm
Location: Various; see individual events below
A series of SURF Award Shared Learning Workshops are taking place in May. At these events attendees will have the opportunity to learn from SURF Award winners and highly commended projects, before opening to a wider policy discussion with national partners. The remaining workshops are:

• Housing led regeneration initiatives (14 May, Edinburgh)
• Place-based regeneration approaches (21 May, Govan)
• Taking a creative approach to regeneration (28 May, Glasgow)

IHBC Scotland Branch – Exploring Historic Lime Finishes
Date & Time: Friday 15 May 2026
Location: Stirling City Centre
Join the IHBC to explore historic lime finishes evident around Stirling City Centre. The walking tour will look at evidence surviving for historic finishes such as harling and different pointing types to better understand how buildings were finished historically and how this can inform their future conservation. The tour will be led by expert Dr Tim Meek, former lime practitioner and co-author of HES Technical Papers 31 and 33. Check IHBC Scotland LinkedIn for future booking announcements.

Archaeology Scotland – 2026 Summer School 
Date & Time: Tuesday 19 – Friday 22 May 2026
Location: Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5PZ
The 2026 Summer School will explore the archaeology of Lorn’s glens and coast. The event, open to members and non-members, features guided tours of Neolithic to Reformation sites.

DTAS – New Futures Workshop: Heritage and Contents
Date & Time: Thursday 21 May 2026; 1-2:30pm
Location: Online
Part of the New Futures: Former Places of Worship workshop series. This workshop will focus on how communities may recognise the heritage importance of a former place of worship when considering community ownership. During this workshop you will hear presentations from Research in Action on Church Heritage (ReACH) and Keep Scotland Beautiful.

Archaeological Research in Progress Conference 2026
Date & Time: Saturday 23 May 2026; 9am-5pm
Location: Robert Burns Centre, Mill Road, Dumfries DG2 7BE (and online)
The event is being organised by Archaeology Scotland in partnership with the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Archaeology Service. It aims to cover archaeological research in progress from around Scotland covering all periods.

Legacies in Stone – Online Conference Celebrating Graveyard Friends
Date & Time: Sunday 24 May 2026; 12:30-3:30pm
Location: Online
Ever wondered what it takes to save a historic mausoleum or how folklore can bring a graveyard to life? Step “behind the scenes” of caring for historic graveyards with stories, insights, and practical lessons from Graveyard Friends across Scotland. Whether you are a dedicated volunteer or a local history enthusiast, this session offers something for everyone – exploring everything from digital tour apps and green burials to the technical “how-to” of gravestone repair. Talks will be delivered via Zoom and a conference link will be emailed to participants in advance.

HES – Managing Change on Place and Landscape: Early engagement workshops
Dates & Times:  Tuesday 26 May 2026; 1-2pm & Wednesday 3 June 2026; 4-5pm
Location: Online
Historic Environment Scotland is starting work on a new Managing Change Guidance Note on Place and Landscape, and is inviting decision-makers, agencies, organisations and professionals working on place, landscape, planning, rural development, agriculture, forestry, and land use related issues to take part in early engagement workshops. The guidance will form part of HES’s Managing Change in the Historic Environment series, which provides practical advice to support good decision‑making about the historic environment. It responds to a growing demand for practical guidance on managing change that transforms whole places and landscapes, rather than individual sites or assets. It will promote a holistic approach to the environment, recognising the interrelationship between cultural and natural values.

SCVO – Creating community: village halls and community spaces conference
Date & Time: Wednesday 27 May 2026; 10am-4:30pm
Location:  The Pyramid at Anderston, 759 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8DS
Village halls are often the heart of a community; places for people to gather, learn, access services and have fun. This one-day conference will allow people running village and community halls across Scotland to do the same – to connect, share ideas, and inspire each other. At this conference, you’ll get to: connect with fellow hall workers and volunteers; share stories, tips, and experiences; and discuss difficulties you’ve faced or are facing, whilst inspiring others with creative solutions to common village hall issues.

European Cultural Heritage Summit 2026
Date & Time: Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30 May 2026
Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
The European Cultural Heritage Summit 2026 will be held from 27 to 30 May in Nicosia, Cyprus, under the patronage of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The Summit is organised by Europa Nostra and the Hub in Nicosia with the support of the European Union, the Deputy Ministry of Culture of Cyprus, The A.G. Leventis Foundation and the Municipality of Nicosia. The Nicosia Summit will highlight the key role of cultural heritage for building much-needed bridges and synergies between Europe and the Middle East and the wider area of the Mediterranean.

DTAS – Dundee Gathering: New Futures: Former Places of Worship
Date & Time: Thursday 28 May 2026; 10am-4pm
Location: Glasite Hall, King Street, Dundee DD1 2JB
Part of the New Futures: Former Places of Worship event series. This event aims to raise awareness of churches that are due to be sold in Dundee and surrounding areas. The day will bring various groups and support organisations together to discuss what needs to be considered when taking these significant heritage assets into community ownership and will provide an overview of the help available.

New Future – The People’s Emergency Briefing: Glasgow and the Built Environment & Panel Discussion
Date & Time: Monday 1 June 2026; 6pm
Location: Glasgow Film Theatre, 12 Rose Street, Glasgow G3 6RB
New Future, in partnership with Glasgow Film Theatre, Atelier Ten, Architecture Fringe and Architects Declare, present this post-election public screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing, followed by facilitated discussion with local councillors, newly-elected MSPs, and representatives from Scotland’s built environment sector. In November 2025, more than 1,200 MPs, peers and leaders from business, culture, faith, sport and the media gathered at Westminster Central Hall for a landmark national briefing delivered by leading UK experts. That briefing has now been adapted into a new public film, The People’s Emergency Briefing, designed for community screenings across the UK followed by structured local discussion. This post-election screening and panel discussion will be open to all, but with a specific focus on the implications for our built environment sector.

Under One Roof – Introduction to Tenement Maintenance
Date & Time: Tuesday 2 June 2026;12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Together with conservation experts at Mill Architects and Edinburgh World Heritage, Under One Roof will explore the importance of maintaining tenement buildings and the unique repair issues historic tenements can face, and share our knowledge of how to work with neighbours to organise and pay for repairs in the shared, or ‘common,’ areas of your building. Edinburgh World Heritage will also explain how they can support tenement property owners during the repairs process with funding guidance and opportunities.

DTAS – New Futures Drop In: Fundraising
Date & Time: Tuesday 2 June 2026; 12-1:30pm
Location: Online
Part of the New Futures: Former Places of Worship workshop series. This event will provide a chance for community organisations looking to take ownership of a former place of worship to share their experiences of fundraising and learn about examples of different fundraising methods.

Chartered Institute for Archaeologists – Strategic Leadership Summit
Date & Time: Wednesday 3 June 2026; 9am–5pm
Location: The Kings Centre, Osney Mead, Oxford OX2 0ES
CIfA will hold its first Strategic Leadership Summit with the aim of bringing together leaders from across the profession to discuss some of the biggest issues facing archaeology today. The summit’s theme will be Strategic Approaches to Archaeology, and contributors will reflect on the UK’s major strategic vehicles for advancing the archaeological profession’s practices and delivering benefit. The ticket price includes lunch and free access to the post event recordings.

SURF – 2026 Awards Launch
Date & Time: Thursday 4 June 2026; 1-1:45pm
Location: Online
At this event you will hear more about the 2026 SURF Awards process and the 5 Award categories. Attendees will hear from former SURF Award Winners with their top tips for a successful application. If you have ever considered entering (or re-entering) the Awards or want to know more about this year’s process and what is involved, or to hear directly from projects who have gone through the process, then this event is definitely for you.

Under One Roof – Managing common repairs webinar with East Lothian Council
Date & Time: Tuesday 9 June 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Do you own a flat in East Lothian? Join this free lunchtime webinar! Learn about the proper procedure for managing common repairs in tenement building, with discussions about how to understand your titles and responsibilities, and how to work with your neighbours to organise and pay for repairs together. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, where you can ask an expert speaker about your own repair issues.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills June Meeting
Date & Time: Thursday 11 June 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online
The North UK Mills Group aims to connect and support people and organisations who preserve historic mills, millwrighting skills and milling culture for future generations. Join online for this talk by Graham Brooks, Chair of Warwick Bridge Community Benefit Society in Carlisle, as he asks, ‘Can a watermill be operated profitably?’ Graham will outline the history of Warwick Bridge, including its renovation in 2019 and the setting up of the Community Benefit Society, before diving into the challenges it has faced over the last six years and plans for moving forward in 2026 and beyond.

Under One Roof – Damp and mould in tenement flats webinar with East Lothian Council
Date & Time: Thursday 18 June 2026;12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Awaab’s Law is coming to Scotland, changing the way that social and private landlords deal with damp and mould in their flats. If you are a landlord in East Lothian, find out how you can tackle the problem of damp and mould at this free lunchtime webinar. Learn about updates to legislation, and expert information on how to deal with damp and mould in common areas of your building. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A, where you will have the chance to ask an expert about your own damp and mould issues.

Historic England – Digital Emissions – should heritage organisations worry about them, and how can we lower them?
Date & Time: Thursday 18 June 2026; 1-2pm
Location: Online
In this webinar, Claire Marchetti, Carbon and Sustainability Manager for Historic England will discuss how the organisation is addressing the environmental impact of its digital activity. The webinar will look at the challenges identified, the technical changes underway, how to use procurement to support ambitions, and how staff are engaged in reducing digital emissions. There will also be a look at practical steps heritage organisations can take to reduce their digital carbon footprint while embracing the benefits digital ways of working offer, helping the sector move toward a more sustainable, low carbon future.

AHF – 50th Conference: Heritage – Radical. Reimagined. Revitalised.
Date & Time: Thursday 18 June 2026; 2-8pm
Location: St Bartholomew’s Hospital, West Smithfield, London EC1A 7BE
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is celebrating 50 years of transforming historic buildings and supporting communities across the UK. Join real estate professionals, heritage practitioners, social enterprise developers, policymakers, funders, and researchers as together they consider the potential for heritage-led regeneration to improve our communities in the next 50 years and beyond. This afternoon and evening event will bring together diverse voices and approaches to consider how heritage can help transform local communities and economies, shining light on proven models from around the UK and exploring policy changes that could supercharge adaptive reuse in the UK.

IHBC – Annual School 2026 Newcastle I Adaptive Reuse
Date & Time: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 June 2026
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne (In Person and Online)
The IHBC Annual School in Newcastle explores the theme of Adaptive Reuse through inspiring tours, expert talks, and networking opportunities across this 3-day programme, starting on Thursday with CPD Study Tours of iconic sites including the Byker Wall and Ouseburn, followed by a Welcome Reception at the Baltic Centre. Friday’s Day School, available in-person or online features specialist speakers at the Grade II* listed Common Room, and an Exhibitor Hub. The weekend concludes with the Annual Dinner and Awards at the Royal Station Hotel, followed by study tours on the Saturday for Full School delegates.

DTAS – New Futures Workshop: Listed Building Consent
Date & Time: Tuesday 23 June 2026; 1-2:30pm
Location: Online
Part of the New Futures: Former Places of Worship workshop series. This workshop will clarify the situations were Listed Building Consent may be required and will provide an overview of the application process, specifically relevant to community organisations looking to take a former place of worship into community ownership.

Heritage Network – Sustainable Island Heritage
Date & Time: Friday 26 June 2026; 10am-4pm
Location: The St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
Join the Heritage Network in Kirkwall for an inspiring gathering bringing together community groups, heritage professionals, and local changemakers from across the Orkney Islands. An ideal opportunity for networking, the day will celebrate the incredible work happening across the region —showcasing innovative heritage projects, grassroots initiatives, and collaborative efforts that are preserving, sharing and reimagining Orkney’s rich cultural story. Confirmed speakers include Heritage Network members, Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, who last year announced Orkney as the second place in Scotland to benefit from its ‘Heritage Place’ investment initiative.

Under One Roof – Understanding mandatory owners’ associations webinar with East Lothian Council
Date & Time: Thursday 2 July 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Working together with your neighbours to take care of your building can be challenging, but being part of an owners’ association can make the process much easier. At this free lunchtime webinar, learn about the benefits of joining an owners’ association, with expert advice on how to set one up in your own building, and explanation about the proposed changes to the law to introduce mandatory owners’ associations. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, where you will have the chance to ask an expert speaker your own questions about owners’ associations.

DTAS – New Futures Drop In: Involving Your Community
Date & Time: Thursday 2 July 2026; 1-2:30pm
Location: Online
Part of the New Futures: Former Places of Worship workshop series. This event will provide a chance for community organisations looking to take ownership of a former place of worship to share their experiences of getting their community involved. The Churches Advisors of the New Futures: Former Places of Worship programme will share top tips on how to ensure meaningful community engagement.

Doors Open Day – Applications to participate: Edinburgh and East Lothian
Date and location: Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 September 2026; Edinburgh & East Lothian
Applications are invited to take part in Doors Open Day 20256. There are three criteria which need to be met for a venue to take part: The venue should be open on the regions designated weekend; the event must be free; and the event should include something different from your usual offering – common examples include a tour, talk, exhibition, workshop, or a simple colouring activity. You can use the annual theme to design your event/activity – this year’s theme is Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine. more details can be found here (use of the theme is not a requirement).
To take part please email EdinburghDoorsOpen@cockburnassociation.org.uk.
Deadline: Sunday 21 June 2026

Doors Open Days Weekends for 2026
Dates: Saturday and Sunday from 5 – 27 September 2026
Locations: Regional variations

Heritage Network – Conference 2026
Date & Time: Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September 2026
Locations: Belfast & Armagh
The conference emphasis is on the impact of community-led heritage on people and places, explored through the experience of heritage regeneration in the host towns and cities and beyond. As well as a day of compelling presentations, lively discussions and networking, Conference includes tours and visits to fascinating historic sites and ground-breaking projects.

SPAB – Practical Flour Milling
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 October 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Blair Atholl Water Mill, Ford Road, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5SH
Join SPAB for practical experience of traditional flour milling in a small, friendly group environment. Blair Atholl Watermill is Scotland’s oldest working watermill. This course is supported by the North UK Mills Group. This event is perfect for mill volunteers and trainee millers. It may also be of interest to more experienced millers who wish to develop their skills.

Training

Planning Aid Scotland – Community Engagement Skills Training Inverness
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 June 2026; 10am-3:30pm
Location: Highland Rugby Club, Canal Park, Clubhouse, Inverness IV3 5SS
This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. The trainers bring extensive community engagement and facilitation expertise to help develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner. Learn how to undertake meaningful engagement that achieves positive outcomes for communities and projects alike. Discover useful tips and practical tools to help you lead your engagement work with confidence and ease. Engage in a range of different learning techniques to think creatively about engagement. Connect with fellow engagement practitioners, share experiences, and learn from each other in a safe, collaborative setting.

SLCT – Introduction to Stonemasonry
Date & Time: Thursday 25 & Friday 26 June 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY11 3DR
Taught by a time-served Stonemason, this course is suitable for all abilities and covers an introduction to tools, techniques and uses of basic stonemasonry. Learners can take away their practice stones at the end of the day. This practical course is designed for: those individuals with little or no experience in cutting and dressing natural stone; building contractor working on traditional stone buildings and structures and just want to learn the basic masonry skills for cutting and dressing sandstone; and/or a semi-skilled operative who needs to add to his skills set and be able to produce stone masonry units to plumb, level and plane with traditional tooling finishes.

Vacancies & Opportunities

In the lead up to the 2026 Scottish Parliament election, all main parties have now published their manifestos. But what commitments and changes are they planning to make with regard to the existing built and historic environment? Some good news for readers that are struggling to keep up – BEFS has been tracking the policy positions that parties are setting, to support advocacy around our 2026 BEFS Manifesto for the Built Environment. In a new blog, Derek Rankine, BEFS Head of Policy and Strategy, presents a summary of the key party commitments relating to culture and heritage; net zero and the climate emergency; repair, maintenance and retrofit; training and skills; and planning and place-making. You’ll also find handy links to party manifestos. Read the full article on BEFS Website.

Earlier this month BEFS team took the Conservation Officers Group (COG) – a forum for those working in Scottish local government with a remit for heritage and conservation – on tour! The group visited Perth and learned about Perth & Kinross Council’s approach to heritage conservation, the work of Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust, and the redevelopment of Perth Town Hall to house Perth Museum and local archaeological case studies. You can find out more about COG and BEFS role in supporting local authority planning teams through knowledge sharing and good practice here. Our thanks to everyone that came along and contributed to the visit!

BEFS is delighted to welcome The Heritage Alliance as our newest Member! Bringing together over 200 independent organisations, The Heritage Alliance is England’s largest coalition of heritage interests, working to champion the needs, aspirations, and achievements of their members and the wider heritage sector, south of the border. We look forward to working with The Heritage Alliance to amplify our shared advocacy efforts, ensuring that the unique challenges and opportunities of the historic environment are recognised by both the Scottish and UK Governments. Want to know more about how to become a BEFS Member? Visit our website or get in touch!

News Releases

Key insights from studying Scotland’s standing stones (HES 12/03/2026)

Work In A Castle (Historic Houses April 2026)

Edinburgh College becomes first college in Scotland to fully decarbonise one of its campuses (Edinburgh College 01/04/2026)

EU long-term budget 2028–2034: Developments for culture (NEMO 14/04/2026)

Prehistoric Village Discovered in Glasgow by Community Volunteers and Schoolchildren (Heritage Network 14/04/2026)

Designating former Lads’ Institute, Ratcliffe Terrace, Edinburgh (HES 16/04/2026)

European Commission and Europa Nostra announce the winners of Europe’s top heritage awards 2026 (Europa Nostra 21/04/2026)

Revitalisation of Dunfermline’s Heritage to Support Growing Visitor Economy (AHF 22/04/2026)

Griff Rhys Jones launches the Victorian Society’s Top Ten Endangered Buildings list 2026 (The Victorian Society 22/04/2026)

Obituary: Oliver Barratt MBE (1941–2026): A Life in Service of Edinburgh (Cockburn Association 23/04/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Finalised MEES expected to cost social housing sector £16bn (Inside Housing 02/04/2026)

Decline in build-to-rent starts in Scotland largest in UK (The Herald 15/04/2026)

Contracts on two retrofit schemes referred to Serious Fraud Office (Inside Housing 15/04/2026)

Abandoned Britain. The story of the UK in six empty buildings (The Guardian 16/04/2026)

Inside the rescue of Bernat Klein’s forgotten modernist gem (The Times 16/04/2026)

Heritage is created, not inherited – as Korean pop culture shows (The Conversation 21/04/2026)

Petition to save home of one-of-a-kind Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre (Yahoo News 21/04/2026)

Sir Mark Jones ‘preparing to step down’ as HES chair (The Herald 22/04/2026)

North east debate: where does the region fit in the 2026 Holyrood election? (Prosper 22/04/2026)

Reporting of emergency hazards rises sharply as Awaab’s Law takes effect (Inside Housing 22/04/2026)

Scottish Government supports HES chair amid resignation reports (Deadline News 23/04/2026)

Campaigners urge for planning reform after Princes Street advert row (The National 23/04/2026)

Podcast: 2026 Scotland and Wales Election Analysis Ep 12: The Scottish Manifestos (Fraser of Allender Institute 27/04/2026)

Events

SCVO – Meet the Funder with the Architectural Heritage Fund
Date & Time: Tuesday 5 May 2026; 10-11:00am
Location: Online
During this free webinar, attendees will hear directly from Andres Hitches Davies, Investment Manager and Gordon Barr, Development Manager, from the Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF), about their funding programmes and how they support community‑led organisations to explore, develop, and bring new life to historic buildings across Scotland.

People, Planet, Pint – Dear Grey Place: How to uncover the nature hiding on your doorstep
Date & Time: Tuesday 5 May 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Committee Room No.9, 18 John Street, Glasgow G1 1JQ
Join this People, Planet, Pint, Present event in Glasgow to learn more about urban biodiversity. This event is your chance to learn more about weird and wonderful topics related to sustainability, by taking big ideas and serving them up as pint-sized knowledge in the relaxed setting of a local pub.  Hear from inspiring individuals and experts on topics you might never have discovered otherwise. At this session, discover exciting ways to record nature and monitor biodiversity on a local and national level, with Aimée Moretti, who works for The Conversation Volunteers and delivers citizen science engagement across Scotland.

The Architectural Heritage Fund – 50^th Anniversary Exhibition
Date & Time: Thursday 30 April – Saturday 16 May 2026
Location: The Briggait, 141 Bridgegate Street, Glasgow G1 5HZ
Celebrating the AHS 50th anniversary, this exhibition presents 50 Years of Reimagining Heritage, telling the story of the difference heritage reuse can make in people’s lives and in communities. Across the year, the exhibition will travel to each part of the UK; Cardiff from 23 June to 11 July & London from 21 October to 4 November. By showcasing these extraordinary stories, the hope is to inspire more people to get involved in saving local historic buildings to improve places, empower people, and secure a sustainable future for built heritage.

SURF – Shared Learning Workshops
Dates & Times: Thursday 7 – Thursday 28 May 2026; 10am-2pm
Location: Various; see individual events below
A series of SURF Award Shared Learning Workshops will take place in May. At these events attendees will have the opportunity to learn from SURF Award winners and highly commended projects, before opening to a wider policy discussion with national partners. The 4 workshops are:

• Removing barriers to employability (7 May, Edinburgh)
• Housing led regeneration initiatives (14 May, Edinburgh)
• Place-based regeneration approaches (21 May, Govan)
• Taking a creative approach to regeneration (28 May, Glasgow)

SPAB – Scotland Social: Meet the Scholars
Date & Time: Friday 8 May 2026; 7pm
Location: Bennet’s Bar, 8 Leven Street, Edinburgh EH3 9LG
Meet the current cohort of SPAB Scholars and have a relaxed catch up with members, volunteers and friends. Space has been reserved in the historic Bennet’s Bar on Leven Street and the SPAB Scholars hope to see you there!

IHBC Scotland Branch – Exploring Historic Lime Finishes
Date & Time: Friday 15 May 2026
Location: Stirling City Centre
Join the IHBC to explore historic lime finishes evident around Stirling City Centre. The walking tour will look at evidence surviving for historic finishes such as harling and different pointing types to better understand how buildings were finished historically and how this can inform their future conservation. The tour will be led by expert Dr Tim Meek, former lime practitioner and co-author of HES Technical Papers 31 and 33. Check IHBC Scotland LinkedIn for future booking announcements

Archaeology Scotland – 2026 Summer School 
Date & Time: Tuesday 19 – Friday 22 May 2026
Location: Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5PZ
The 2026 Summer School will explore the archaeology of Lorn’s glens and coast. The event, open to members and non-members, features guided tours of Neolithic to Reformation sites.

Archaeological Research in Progress Conference 2026
Date & Time: Saturday 23 May 2026
Location: Robert Burns Centre, Mill Road, Dumfries DG2 7BE (and online)
The event is being organised by Archaeology Scotland in partnership with the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Archaeology Service. It aims to cover archaeological research in progress from around Scotland covering all periods. Tickets and a full programme coming soon.

SCVO – Creating community: village halls and community spaces conference
Date & Time: Wednesday 27 May 2026; 10am-4:30pm
Location:  The Pyramid at Anderston, 759 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8DS
Village halls are often the heart of a community; places for people to gather, learn, access services and have fun. This one-day conference will allow people running village and community halls across Scotland to do the same – to connect, share ideas, and inspire each other. At this conference, you’ll get to: connect with fellow hall workers and volunteers; share stories, tips, and experiences; and discuss difficulties you’ve faced or are facing, whilst inspiring others with creative solutions to common village hall issues.

European Cultural Heritage Summit 2026
Date & Time: Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30 May 2026
Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
The European Cultural Heritage Summit 2026 will be held from 27 to 30 May in Nicosia, Cyprus, under the patronage of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The Summit is organised by Europa Nostra and the Hub in Nicosia with the support of the European Union, the Deputy Ministry of Culture of Cyprus, The A.G. Leventis Foundation and the Municipality of Nicosia. The Nicosia Summit will highlight the key role of cultural heritage for building much-needed bridges and synergies between Europe and the Middle East and the wider area of the Mediterranean.

Under One Roof – Introduction to Tenement Maintenance
Date & Time: Tuesday 2 June 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Together with conservation experts at Mill Architects and Edinburgh World Heritage, Under One Roof will explore the importance of maintaining tenement buildings and the unique repair issues historic tenements can face, and share our knowledge of how to work with neighbours to organise and pay for repairs in the shared, or ‘common,’ areas of your building. Edinburgh World Heritage will also explain how they can support tenement property owners during the repairs process with funding guidance and opportunities.

Chartered Institute for Archaeologists – Strategic Leadership Summit
Date & Time: Wednesday 3 June 2026; 9am–5pm
Location: The Kings Centre, Osney Mead, Oxford OX2 0ES
CIfA will hold its first Strategic Leadership Summit with the aim of bringing together leaders from across the profession to discuss some of the biggest issues facing archaeology today. The summit’s theme will be Strategic Approaches to Archaeology, and contributors will reflect on the UK’s major strategic vehicles for advancing the archaeological profession’s practices and delivering benefit. The ticket price includes lunch and free access to the post event recordings.

Under One Roof – Managing common repairs webinar with East Lothian Council
Date & Time: Tuesday 9 June 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Do you own a flat in East Lothian? Join this free lunchtime webinar! Learn about the proper procedure for managing common repairs in tenement building, with discussions about how to understand your titles and responsibilities, and how to work with your neighbours to organise and pay for repairs together. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, where you can ask an expert speaker about your own repair issues.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills June Meeting
Date & Time: Thursday 11 June 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online
The North UK Mills Group aims to connect and support people and organisations who preserve historic mills, millwrighting skills and milling culture for future generations. Join online for this talk by Graham Brooks, Chair of Warwick Bridge Community Benefit Society in Carlisle, as he asks, ‘Can a watermill be operated profitably?’ Graham will outline the history of Warwick Bridge, including its renovation in 2019 and the setting up of the Community Benefit Society, before diving into the challenges it has faced over the last 6 years and plans for moving forward in 2026 and beyond.

Under One Roof – Damp and mould in tenement flats webinar with East Lothian Council
Date & Time: Thursday 18 June 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Awaab’s Law is coming to Scotland, changing the way that social and private landlords deal with damp and mould in their flats. If you are a landlord in East Lothian, find out how you can tackle the problem of damp and mould at this free lunchtime webinar. Learn about updates to legislation, and expert information on how to deal with damp and mould in common areas of your building. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A, where you will have the chance to ask an expert about your own damp and mould issues.

IHBC – Annual School 2026 Newcastle I Adaptive Reuse
Date & Time: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 June 2026
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne (In Person and Online)
The IHBC Annual School in Newcastle explores the theme of Adaptive Reuse through inspiring tours, expert talks, and networking opportunities across this 3-day programme, starting on Thursday with CPD Study Tours of iconic sites including the Byker Wall and Ouseburn, followed by a Welcome Reception at the Baltic Centre. Friday’s Day School, available in-person or online features specialist speakers at the Grade II* listed Common Room, and an Exhibitor Hub. The weekend concludes with the Annual Dinner and Awards at the Royal Station Hotel, followed by study tours on the Saturday for Full School delegates.

Heritage Network – Sustainable Island Heritage
Date & Time: Friday 26 June 2026; 10am-4pm
Location: The St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
Join the Heritage Network in Kirkwall for an inspiring gathering bringing together community groups, heritage professionals, and local changemakers from across the Orkney Islands. An ideal opportunity for networking, the day will celebrate the incredible work happening across the region —showcasing innovative heritage projects, grassroots initiatives, and collaborative efforts that are preserving, sharing and reimagining Orkney’s rich cultural story. Confirmed speakers include Heritage Network members, Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, who last year announced Orkney as the second place in Scotland to benefit from its ‘Heritage Place’ investment initiative.

Under One Roof – Understanding mandatory owners’ associations webinar with East Lothian Council
Date & Time: Thursday 2 July 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Working together with your neighbours to take care of your building can be challenging, but being part of an owners’ association can make the process much easier. At this free lunchtime webinar, learn about the benefits of joining an owners’ association, with expert advice on how to set one up in your own building, and explanation about the proposed changes to the law to introduce mandatory owners’ associations. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, where you will have the chance to ask an expert speaker your own questions about owners’ associations.

Open Call: Inclusive European Heritage Residency 2026
Location & Dates: Online then Malta in September 2026
Europa Nostra, the leading European heritage civil society network, and INTO – the International National Trusts Organisation are organising the second edition of the Inclusive European Heritage Residencies from 13 to 19 September 2026, in collaboration with the National Trust for Malta. Around 10 heritage professionals will be selected to gather in Malta to exchange best practices, discuss key challenges, and explore strategies for building strong and resilient heritage organisations.
Deadline: Friday 15 May 2026

Doors Open Day – Applications to participate: Edinburgh and East Lothian
Date and location: Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 September 2026; Edinburgh & East Lothian
Applications are invited to take part in Doors Open Day 20256. There are three criteria which need to be met for a venue to take part: The venue should be open on the regions designated weekend; the event must be free; and the event should include something different from your usual offering – common examples include a tour, talk, exhibition, workshop, or a simple colouring activity. You can use the annual theme to design your event/activity – this year’s theme is Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine. more details can be found here (use of the theme is not a requirement).
To take part please email EdinburghDoorsOpen@cockburnassociation.org.uk.
Deadline: Sunday 21 June 2026

Doors Open Days Weekends for 2026
Dates: Saturday and Sunday from 5 – 27 September 2026
Locations: Regional variations

Heritage Network – Conference 2026
Date & Time: Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September 2026
Locations: Belfast & Armagh
The conference emphasis is on the impact of community-led heritage on people and places, explored through the experience of heritage regeneration in the host towns and cities and beyond. As well as a day of compelling presentations, lively discussions and networking, Conference includes tours and visits to fascinating historic sites and ground-breaking projects.

SPAB – Practical Flour Milling
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 October 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Blair Athol Water Mill, Ford Road, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5SH
Join SPAB for practical experience of traditional flour milling in a small, friendly group environment. Blair Atholl Watermill is Scotland’s oldest working watermill. This course is supported by the North UK Mills Group. This event is perfect for mill volunteers and trainee millers. It may also be of interest to more experienced millers who wish to develop their skills.

Training

Planning Aid Scotland – Community Engagement Skills Training Inverness
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 June 2026; 10am-3:30pm
Location: Highland Rugby Club, Canal Park, Clubhouse, Inverness IV3 5SS
This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. The trainers bring extensive community engagement and facilitation expertise to help develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner. Learn how to undertake meaningful engagement that achieves positive outcomes for communities and projects alike. Discover useful tips and practical tools to help you lead your engagement work with confidence and ease. Engage in a range of different learning techniques to think creatively about engagement. Connect with fellow engagement practitioners, share experiences, and learn from each other in a safe, collaborative setting.

Scottish Lime Centre Trust – Introduction to Stonemasonry
Date & Time: Thursday 25 & Friday 26 June 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline KY11 3DR
Taught by a time-served Stonemason, this course is suitable for all abilities and covers an introduction to tools, techniques and uses of basic stonemasonry. Learners can take away their practice stones at the end of the day. This practical course is designed for: those individuals with little or no experience in cutting and dressing natural stone; building contractor working on traditional stone buildings and structures and just want to learn the basic masonry skills for cutting and dressing sandstone; and/or a semi-skilled operative who needs to add to his skills set and be able to produce stone masonry units to plumb, level and plane with traditional tooling finishes.

Vacancies & Opportunities

It has been a busy April for BEFS already!

Starting with big news, we are delighted to welcome Olivia Elinchev to BEFS Team. Olivia joins as BEFS brand-new Net Zero Lead.
Background and need: How can the historic environment sector deliver Net Zero and respond to the climate crisis?
This new role is supported by Historic Environment Scotland and has been developed as a response to the challenges and opportunities ahead; to support the existing work of the sector, building capacity whilst avoiding duplication of effort, and – crucially – driving a coordinated and holistic approach to Net Zero and the Climate Emergency. The role will lead on BEFS co-ordinated and strategic approach to delivering Net Zero, building Member and sector capacity and coordinating a robust, collaborative and data driven approach in ensuring that the historic environment is recognised as a valuable asset and key player in Scotland’s journey to Net Zero.
Olivia’s background in Environmental Geography and Sustainable Policy, and Environmental Protection and Management, alongside extensive experience of public affairs through her parliamentary work with Net Zero and Energy portfolios, will no doubt prove to be invaluable in this work.
BEFS sought Member and stakeholder views on the scope and remit of the post – and our thanks go to everyone that input and contributed along the way. To find out more, or to get in touch with Olivia, visit BEFS website.

Last week saw the sector come together in Edinburgh for BEFS pre-election hustings. The event focused on BEFS 2026 Manifesto and the policy asks therein, sharing the message loud and clear: the historic and existing built environment is a valuable asset, and can be a cross-cutting solution to some of Scotland’s biggest challenges – from the housing crisis to the Climate Emergency.
Our thanks to and to everyone that attended and submitted questions, and to the engaged and responsive panel of six political party representatives, which included former Scottish Ministers Paul McLennan MSP and Patrick Harvie MSP. Panel engagement with BEFS Member questions indicated good levels of cross-party support for exploring some of the BEFS Manifesto policy recommendations – we will continue to monitor party manifestos as they emerge. Huge thanks also to Dr Jocelyne Fleming for expertly chairing the event, and to BEFS Members RICS for hosting us at 10 Charlotte Square.
We look forward to continuing the conversation on behalf of the sector, with all parties represented!

Consultation Responses

UK Government response to the consultation on the Implementation of the new Subscription Contracts Regime – noting that heritage body memberships offering visitor benefits in line with the organisations’ charitable purposes will be excluded from the new rules (UK Gov 02/04/2026)

Scottish Building Regulations: Fire Safety Review and Compliance
BEFS responded to selected questions of a Scottish Government 2026 call for evidence on fire safety in Scottish Building Regulations. The purpose of the consultation is to gather views on fire safety in building standards, in the context of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report recommendations and the proposed introduction of Compliance Plan Managers as set out in part three of the consultation paper. BEFS stated that improved clarity of language in fire safety guidance, and providing additional examples and case studies on approaches for historic buildings, could help reduce reported inconsistencies and improve the effectiveness of guidance. (BEFS 10/04/2026)

News Releases

“Heritage Matters”: Europa Nostra highlights longtime link to Scotland and looks ahead to renewed partnerships during visit to Edinburgh (Europa Nostra 18/03/2026)

Icon Launch Conservation Skills at Risk Project (ICON 20/03/2026)

“The new regulatory system must raise the standard of our built environment – and that requires a competence-led approach” (RIBA 20/03/2026)

Trio of Major Funders Back Emergency Heritage Rescue at Bannockburn House (Heritage Network 23/03/2026)

Chartered Institute of Housing Scotland reacts to latest housing statistics (CIH 31/03/2026)

Five disruptions: Can Scotland deliver real housing reform? (RSE 02/04/2026)

Scottish Labour pledge to help first-time buyers get on the housing ladder, with a package of measures to cut upfront costs, help people save for a deposit and bring empty homes back into use (Scottish Labour 04/04/2026)

Scottish Greens would end Flamingo Land exclusive development agreement (Scottish Greens 06/04/2026)

New research to reveal housing associations’ roles in improving Scotland’s economic performance (David Hume Institute 08/04/2026)

FMB Scotland calls for new Scottish Government to appoint construction minister (FMB Scotland 13/04/2026)

Heritage Network Impact 2026: Latest report on community-led heritage regeneration launched (Heritage Network 13/04/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Edinburgh short term lets reach 84% refusal rate in last year (Deadline News 02/04/2026)

Scotland’s architecture under threat from adverts warn campaigners (The National 02/04/2026)

Huge Edinburgh advert allowed despite breaching planning rules (The National 08/04/2026)

New research to reveal housing associations’ roles in improving Scotland’s economic performance (SFHA 08/04/2026)

Bernat Klein Studio rescue project shortlisted for major award (The Herald 08/04/2026)

Scotland’s new towns: a crumbling legacy is a Holyrood battleground (The Times 11/04/2026)

Dreaming and Scheming in Post-War Scotland: The allure of Brutal Scotland (Bella Caledonia 13/04/2026)

Marion Forbes: Widening our construction talent pool is a business imperative (Scottish Construction Now 14/04/2026)

Events

Open Call: FuturHist Retrofit Academy – master historic building retrofitting
Location & Dates: Online then Krakow in September 2026
Join an international cohort of experts in the FuturHist Retrofit Academy to master the energy transition of our built heritage. This two-stage programme, co-organised by the FuturHist Horizon Europe project partners offers specialised training on high-performance energy efficiency and innovative conservation-compatible solutions. The programme includes a free 6-week e-learning course (starting April 2026) and an exclusive Summer Academy in Krakow for top performers (September 2026). Gain competitive expertise and future-proof your career in the sustainable heritage sector.
Deadline: Saturday 18 April 2026

Open Call: Hub Peer-learning Visit to Rotterdam
Location & Dates: Rotterdam 17-19 June 2026
The EU-funded European Heritage Hub invites applications for its upcoming peer-learning visit in Rotterdam, The Netherlands in June 2026. This programme offers a unique opportunity to share good practices and acquire skills for addressing environmental, digital, and social challenges related to cultural heritage in local contexts. Rotterdam is the location for the “Holy Houses Festival”, celebrating the city’s religious heritages and creativity, which will be the main focus of the visit; explore what houses of worship mean — today and in the future — to their surroundings in a developing city with ever-changing needs. Read the practice’s Factsheet and for more information, please consult the full call for applications.
Deadline: Sunday 26 April 2026

Open Call: Inclusive European Heritage Residency 2026
Location & Dates: Online then Malta in September 2026
Europa Nostra, the leading European heritage civil society network, and INTO – the International National Trusts Organisation are organising the second edition of the Inclusive European Heritage Residencies from 13 to 19 September 2026, in collaboration with the National Trust for Malta. Around 10 heritage professionals will be selected to gather in Malta to exchange best practices, discuss key challenges, and explore strategies for building strong and resilient heritage organisations.
Deadline: Friday 15 May 2026

Chartered Institute for Archaeologists – Strategic Leadership Summit
Date & Time: Wednesday 3 June 2026; 9am–5pm
Location: The Kings Centre, Osney Mead, Oxford OX2 0ES
CIfA will hold its first Strategic Leadership Summit with the aim of bringing together leaders from across the profession to discuss some of the biggest issues facing archaeology today. The summit’s theme will be Strategic Approaches to Archaeology, and contributors will reflect on the UK’s major strategic vehicles for advancing the archaeological profession’s practices and delivering benefit. The ticket price includes lunch and free access to the post event recordings.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills June Meeting
Date & Time: Thursday 11 June 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online
The North UK Mills Group aims to connect and support people and organisations who preserve historic mills, millwrighting skills and milling culture for future generations. Join online for this talk by Graham Brooks, Chair of Warwick Bridge Community Benefit Society in Carlisle, as he asks, ‘Can a watermill be operated profitably?’ Graham will outline the history of Warwick Bridge, including its renovation in 2019 and the setting up of the Community Benefit Society, before diving into the challenges it has faced over the last 6 years and plans for moving forward in 2026 and beyond.

IHBC – Annual School 2026 Newcastle I Adaptive Reuse
Date & Time: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 June 2026
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne (In Person and Online)
The IHBC Annual School in Newcastle explores the theme of Adaptive Reuse through inspiring tours, expert talks, and networking opportunities across this 3-day programme, starting on Thursday with CPD Study Tours of iconic sites including the Byker Wall and Ouseburn, followed by a Welcome Reception at the Baltic Centre. Friday’s Day School, available in-person or online features specialist speakers at the Grade II* listed Common Room, and an Exhibitor Hub. The weekend concludes with the Annual Dinner and Awards at the Royal Station Hotel, followed by study tours on the Saturday for Full School delegates. Booking now open.

Heritage Network – Sustainable Island Heritage
Date & Time: Friday 26 June 2026; 10am-4pm
Location: The St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
Join the Heritage Network in Kirkwall for an inspiring gathering bringing together community groups, heritage professionals, and local changemakers from across the Orkney Islands. An ideal opportunity for networking, the day will celebrate the incredible work happening across the region —showcasing innovative heritage projects, grassroots initiatives, and collaborative efforts that are preserving, sharing and reimagining Orkney’s rich cultural story. Confirmed speakers include Heritage Network members, Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, who last year announced Orkney as the second place in Scotland to benefit from its ‘Heritage Place’ investment initiative.

Doors Open Days Weekends for 2026
Dates: Saturday and Sunday from 5 – 27 September 2026
Locations: Regional variations

Heritage Network – Conference 2026
Date & Time: Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September 2026
Locations: Belfast & Armagh
The conference emphasis is on the impact of community-led heritage on people and places, explored through the experience of heritage regeneration in the host towns and cities and beyond. As well as a day of compelling presentations, lively discussions and networking, Conference includes tours and visits to fascinating historic sites and ground-breaking projects.

SPAB – Practical Flour Milling
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 October 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Blair Athol Water Mill, Ford Road, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5SH
Join SPAB for practical experience of traditional flour milling in a small, friendly group environment. Blair Atholl Watermill is Scotland’s oldest working watermill. This course is supported by the North UK Mills Group. This event is perfect for mill volunteers and trainee millers. It may also be of interest to more experienced millers who wish to develop their skills.

Training

SLCT – C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars
Date & Time: Monday 20 & Tuesday 21 April 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline, Fife KY12 3DR
This practical workshop will provide attendees with a strong understanding of lime technology and how to approach re-pointing work in traditional buildings. The reasons for using traditional mortars on solid walls will also be explained, to allow you to better advise your clients. The course will guide participants to be able to complete repointing work to traditional buildings to a high standard. The content of this workshop provides the underpinning knowledge required for assessment and accreditation of SQA National Unit H8WT45 – Prepare and Mix Traditional Lime Mortars.
Full course description

The Engine Shed – Conserving Timberwork and Timber Windows
Date & Time: Wednesday 22 April 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Three morning talks will examine the wealth of timberwork in Scotland’s traditional buildings, from major structural features like joists and rafters, to delicate finishing details like skirting boards, mouldings and panelling.  How these features should be repaired, maintained and conserved will also be covered and there will be a discussion on ways to repair traditional simple sash and case windows. A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. In the afternoon, there will be guided tours of Stirling’s Church of the Holy Rude and the nearby Great Hall of Stirling Castle to inspect their remarkable timber roof structures – one being ancient and the other of recent construction. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Icon Scotland – Glass Bonding and Filling Workshop
Date & Time: Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 April 2026; 10am-5pm (28^th) and 9am-5pm (29^th & 30^th)
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling FK8 1QZ
This 3-day Workshop is aimed at conservators with previous knowledge but little experience of glass conservation, being objects or stained glass. The course will cover theory about glass degradation, conservation issues, conservation materials and techniques, and hands-on sessions on handling, bonding, mould making and filling flat glass and vessel glass surrogates. At the end of the workshop, participants will have a clear idea of common glass conservation issues, and options and strategies for their conservation.

Introduction to Building Conservation
Date & Time: Monday 1 – Friday 5 June 2026; 9:30am – 4pm
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
Five-day intensive course delivered by Historic Environment Scottish conservation professionals are exploring traditional building skills and materials used in conservation and repair projects throughout the Scottish built environment. It includes lectures, activities, and site visits to Stirling Old Town, Doune Castle, Glasgow Cathedral, and Glasgow Necropolis. Topics include approaches to conserving /repairing traditional buildings; stone, lime, slate and lead; climate change effects on heritage; and maintaining Scotland’s castles. Bursaries available for third-year students/recent graduates in building-related subjects (architecture, surveying, engineering, planning) – apply by 9am Tuesday 7 April 2026 to technicaleducation@hes.scot. Successful applicants contacted by Friday 15 May 2026. This course is suitable for graduates, heritage professionals, building practitioners, and anyone responsible for a traditional building.

Planning Aid Scotland – Community Engagement Skills Training Inverness
Date & Time: Wednesday 10 June 2026; 10am-3:30pm
Location: Highland Rugby Club, Canal Park, Clubhouse, Inverness IV3 5SS
This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. The trainers bring extensive community engagement and facilitation expertise to help develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner. Learn how to undertake meaningful engagement that achieves positive outcomes for communities and projects alike. Discover useful tips and practical tools to help you lead your engagement work with confidence and ease. Engage in a range of different learning techniques to think creatively about engagement. Connect with fellow engagement practitioners, share experiences, and learn from each other in a safe, collaborative setting.

Vacancies & Opportunities

Some good news to start this week’s bulletin! Historic Environment Scotland has announced that £19.5 million in new funding will be made available to Scotland’s cities through the City Heritage Trusts (CHTs). Distributed through Scotland’s CHT – including, for the first time Dunfermline – funding will be spread across a number of Scotland’s cities, with the funding period for CHTs increased from three years to five. The CHT scheme aims to provide local trusts with means to invest in projects and work relating to their local historic environment and funding will be used for the repair and re-use of historic buildings, skills training, and outreach activity. For the full list of recipients and to find out more about the CHTs read the full statement here.

The Scottish Government has revealed that 32 projects across Scotland will benefit from the latest round of the £36 million Regeneration Capital Grant Fund. The fund aims to support initiatives and projects to drive economic growth, create jobs, and regenerate communities across Scotland – as well as bringing 21 disused or derelict sites back into use.

It has been a busy few weeks for emerging legislation – in mid-March the Building Safety Levy Bill was approved by the Scottish Parliament, and will see a tax charged on the construction of certain new residential properties from April 2028. The levy aims to raise £450 million over 15 years to help fund work to fix residential buildings with unsafe cladding. The legislation includes provisions to exempt certain types of development, including social and affordable housing and will generate funds to fix building safety issues, in line with equivalent legislation in England. Back in November, BEFS Director Hazel Johnson spoke to the Scottish Parliament’s Finance and Public Administration Committee about the draft Bill. The evidence session can be viewed on Parliament TV. BEFS also provided the Committee with a statement to complement an earlier consultation response.

At the end of March, Parliament voted to pass the Visitor Levy Amendment Bill. The amendment aims to provide more flexibility for councils electing to introduce a visitor levy, with greater choice in how they design and apply it to raise funds for local services. Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: “This legislation strengthens the visitor levy by giving councils the flexibility to choose the approach that best reflects their local area, empowers local decision making and ensures the benefits of tourism are shared across communities.” Read the full statement here.

There are still places available at BEFS Built Environment Hustings event, which is taking place on Tuesday 7 April, 2-4pm, in Edinburgh and online. The free event brings together representatives of the main political parties, including two former Scottish Ministers, with BEFS Members and stakeholders to explore and exchange on built environment policy priorities in the next term of Parliament. For full information and in-person booking, please click here. To register for online attendance, please click here.

And finally, a call to action as BEFS Members the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland are raising money to secure a home for their new Heritage Hub. To be located in the centre of Edinburgh and next to the National Museum of Scotland, the vision for the heritage hub is for a visible and welcoming national centre for research, learning, and engagement.

Consultation Responses

Scotland’s Fourth Land Use Strategy Consultation Response Analysis (Scot Gov 18/03/2026)

Heat and Energy Efficiency Technical Suitability Assessment: Consultation Analysis (Scot Gov 18/03/2026)

Scotland’s Fourth Land Use Strategy: Consultation Analysis Report (Scot Gov 18/03/2026)

Heat and Energy Efficiency Technical Suitability Assessment: Consultation Analysis (Scot Gov 18/03/2026)

Permitted development rights to support the provision of new homes: Consultation – summary of responses (Scot Gov 19/03/2026)

A Circular Economy Strategy for Scotland – Consultation Analysis Report (Scot Gov 24/03/2026)

Duty of Care: Code of Practice for Managing Controlled Waste consultation – Government Response
(Scot Gov 24/03/2026)

Draft Environment Strategy: consultation analysis (Scot Gov 24/03/2026)

News Releases

Emerging Building Craftsperson of the Year Award (SPAB 11/03/2026)

Debating a Housing Delivery Agency for Scotland (CaCHE 13/03/2026)

Support Scotland’s Oldest Heritage Charity with their £1.5 Million Race to Secure Permanent Home (SOCANT 17/03/2026)

LI and BALI launch joint manifesto ahead of Scottish Parliament Elections 2026 (Landscape Institute 19/03/2026)

More heritage funding to tackle rising cost and climate challenge (HES 23/03/2026)

Hub launches Open Call for opinion articles on culture, heritage and European values (European Heritage Hub 24/03/2026)

Apprentice encourages young people to join him in the heritage sector (HES 24/03/2026)

Greens challenge climate inaction following Scottish Government report (Scottish Green Party 24/03/2026)

Tourism Industry Welcomes Passage of Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill at Stage 3 (STA 24/03/2026)

Scottish construction SMEs urged to adopt Competence Management as industry standards tighten (Construction Leadership Forum 25/03/2026)

Fire in historic buildings: reflections following the Glasgow Union Street fire (CROSS UK 25/03/2026)

Doors reopen to some of Scotland’s iconic historic sites (HES 26/03/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Blog: Stone in Scotland: Past, Present and Future, A Seminar with Historic Environment Scotland (Under One Roof 10/03/2026)

Glasgow fire: Why historic places matter emotionally (The Scotsman 15/03/2026)

Stonehenge tunnel plan officially scrapped after years of protests (The Guardian 18/03/2026)

Podcast: How our landscape can shape learning, living and the design of our buildings (A&DS 23/03/2026)

Blog: Test, learn and grow: how the new Warm Homes Agency should develop area-based delivery
(NESTA 23/03/2026)

Podcast: Can buildings make us healthier? (BBC Sounds 24/03/2026)

Dr Jocelyne Fleming: Could More Homes Scotland unlock new housing delivery at pace and scale? (Scottish Housing News 24/03/2026)

Housing needs transformative change (Holyrood Magazine 25/03/2026)

Atholl Crescent campaigners criticise Edinburgh World Heritage over ‘support’ for 544-bed ‘super hostel’ (Edinburgh Evening News 27/03/2026)

Turning a city lighthouse into a beacon for the arts (Edinburgh Inquirer 28/03/2026)

Edinburgh’s Argyle House qualifies for listed status – but won’t get it (Edinburgh Evening News 30/03/2026)

Events

Open Call: FuturHist Retrofit Academy – master historic building retrofitting
Location: Online then Krakow in September 2026
Join an international cohort of experts in the FuturHist Retrofit Academy to master the energy transition of our built heritage. This two-stage programme, co-organised by the FuturHist Horizon Europe project partners offers specialised training on high-performance energy efficiency and innovative conservation-compatible solutions. The programme includes a free 6-week e-learning course (starting April 20) and an exclusive Summer Academy in Krakow for top performers (September 2026). Gain competitive expertise and future-proof your career in the sustainable heritage sector.
Deadline: Saturday 18 April 2026

Open Call: Inclusive European Heritage Residency 2026
Location: Online then Malta in September 2026
Europa Nostra, the leading European heritage civil society network, and INTO – the International National Trusts Organisation are organising the second edition of the Inclusive European Heritage Residencies from 13 to 19 September 2026, in collaboration with the National Trust for Malta. Around 10 heritage professionals will be selected to gather in Malta to exchange best practices, discuss key challenges, and explore strategies for building strong and resilient heritage organisations.
Deadline: Friday 15 May 2026

Archaeology Scotland – 2026 Summer School 
Date & Time: Tuesday 19 – Friday 22 May 2026
Location: Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5PZ
The 2026 Summer School will explore the archaeology of Lorn’s glens and coast. The event, open to members and non-members, features guided tours of Neolithic to Reformation sites.

Archaeological Research in Progress Conference 2026
Date & Time: Saturday 23 May 2026
Location: Robert Burns Centre, Mill Road, Dumfries DG2 7BE (and online)
The event is being organised by Archaeology Scotland in partnership with the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Archaeology Service. It aims to cover archaeological research in progress from around Scotland covering all periods. Tickets and a full programme coming soon.

IHBC – Annual School 2026 Newcastle I Adaptive Reuse
Date & Time: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 June 2026
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne (In Person and Online)
The IHBC Annual School in Newcastle explores the theme of Adaptive Reuse through inspiring tours, expert talks, and networking opportunities across this 3-day programme, starting on Thursday with CPD Study Tours of iconic sites including the Byker Wall and Ouseburn, followed by a Welcome Reception at the Baltic Centre. Friday’s Day School, available in-person or online features specialist speakers at the Grade II* listed Common Room, and an Exhibitor Hub. The weekend concludes with the Annual Dinner and Awards at the Royal Station Hotel, followed by study tours on the Saturday for Full School delegates. Booking now open.

Heritage Network – Conference 2026
Date & Time: Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September 2026
Locations: Belfast & Armagh
The conference emphasis is on the impact of community-led heritage on people and places, explored through the experience of heritage regeneration in the host towns and cities and beyond. As well as a day of compelling presentations, lively discussions and networking, Conference includes tours and visits to fascinating historic sites and ground-breaking projects.

SPAB – Practical Flour Milling
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 October 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Blair Athol Water Mill, Ford Road, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5SH
Join SPAB for practical experience of traditional flour milling in a small, friendly group environment. Blair Atholl Watermill is Scotland’s oldest working watermill. This course is supported by the North UK Mills Group. This event is perfect for mill volunteers and trainee millers. It may also be of interest to more experienced millers who wish to develop their skills.

Training

SLCT – Surface Repair of Stone
Date & Time: Tuesday 14 & Wednesday 15 April 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline, Fife KY12 3DR
This course will teach you how to carry out a successful surface stone repair with an understanding of the materials and when and where it may be appropriate. In many cases, simple surface repairs can be less intrusive and a suitable alternative to replacing masonry units with new stone. This course is designed to ensure successful surface repairs to flat work, angles, corners and moulded details. The decay mechanisms of stone will be discussed and consideration of the factors that should be taken into account when deciding if a surface repair is a suitable alternative to replacement with new stone. This course is aimed at those working within the construction industry who have had practical building experience and trowel skills.

SLCT – C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars
Date & Time: Monday 20 & Tuesday 21 April 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline, Fife KY12 3DR
This practical workshop will provide attendees with a strong understanding of lime technology and how to approach re-pointing work in traditional buildings. The reasons for using traditional mortars on solid walls will also be explained, to allow you to better advise your clients. The course will guide participants to be able to complete repointing work to traditional buildings to a high standard. The content of this workshop provides the underpinning knowledge required for assessment and accreditation of SQA National Unit H8WT45 – Prepare and Mix Traditional Lime Mortars.
Full course description

The Engine Shed – Conserving Timberwork and Timber Windows
Date & Time: Wednesday 22 April 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Three morning talks will examine the wealth of timberwork in Scotland’s traditional buildings, from major structural features like joists and rafters, to delicate finishing details like skirting boards, mouldings and panelling.  How these features should be repaired, maintained and conserved will also be covered and there will be a discussion on ways to repair traditional simple sash and case windows. A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. In the afternoon, there will be guided tours of Stirling’s Church of the Holy Rude and the nearby Great Hall of Stirling Castle to inspect their remarkable timber roof structures – one being ancient and the other of recent construction. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Icon Scotland – Glass Bonding and Filling Workshop
Date & Time: Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 April 2026; 10am-5pm (28^th) and 9am-5pm (29^th & 30^th)
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling FK8 1QZ
This 3-day Workshop is aimed at conservators with previous knowledge but little experience of glass conservation, being objects or stained glass. The course will cover theory about glass degradation, conservation issues, conservation materials and techniques, and hands-on sessions on handling, bonding, mould making and filling flat glass and vessel glass surrogates. At the end of the workshop, participants will have a clear idea of common glass conservation issues, and options and strategies for their conservation.

Introduction to Building Conservation
Date & Time: Monday 1 – Friday 5 June 2026; 9:30am – 4pm
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
Five-day intensive course delivered by Historic Environment Scottish conservation professionals are exploring traditional building skills and materials used in conservation and repair projects throughout the Scottish built environment. It includes lectures, activities, and site visits to Stirling Old Town, Doune Castle, Glasgow Cathedral, and Glasgow Necropolis. Topics include approaches to conserving /repairing traditional buildings; stone, lime, slate and lead; climate change effects on heritage; and maintaining Scotland’s castles. Bursaries available for third-year students/recent graduates in building-related subjects (architecture, surveying, engineering, planning) – apply by 9am Tuesday 7 April 2026 to technicaleducation@hes.scot. Successful applicants contacted by Friday 15 May 2026. This course is suitable for graduates, heritage professionals, building practitioners, and anyone responsible for a traditional building.

Vacancies

Plenty of coffee break reading in this week’s bulletin as we publish two brand new blogs!

Out now – the seventh in BEFS Joining the Dots Series! For this edition Katherine Pollard from the Scottish Land Commission explores how land reform connects to housing, high streets, retrofit and community empowerment. Drawing on the ScotLand Futures initiative Katherine outlines three priorities: opening new land opportunities, rebalancing power for public good, and shaping change locally. The good news? Many of the powers already exist. Read more here.

In October last year as part of BE-ST FEST, representatives from across the built environment came together to discuss how to better address the skills challenges the sector faces, by working together – a priority identified in the Skills Investment Plan for the Historic Environment (SIP). Reporting on outcomes of the Building Connections event this blog has been co-authored by the SIP delivery sub group with a remit for Architecture, Engineering, Planning and Surveying, which is made up of representatives from Built Environment Forum Scotland, the Chartered Institute of Building, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland. The discussions held were an important step, but are only the beginning of a broader collaborative effort. Over the coming months, partners across the sector will work together to publish a collective statement that unifies the sector’s commitment and asks of others. Read the article to view a draft and add your organisation to the signatories here.

The devastating fire that brought down the Category B listed building at 101-115 Union Street in Glasgow has sent shockwaves across the country, generating discourse about how we look after Scotland’s historic buildings and places beyond the usual sphere of our sector. Occurrences such as last week’s fire are a stark reminder of how easy it is to take our built heritage for granted; retention, continued use, and protection of these buildings go hand in hand with safety regulations, technical guidance, research and skills:
A Scottish Government consultation on Scottish Building Regulations: Fire Safety review and Compliance: Call for Evidence is currently live, and seeks views and opinions of stakeholders on a review of building standards and guidance relating to fire safety, including work on the compliance plan approach to the design and construction of domestic and non domestic buildings. Previously BEFS has participated in a Scottish Government consultation to advocate for appropriate actions to protect human life in the retention and protection of historic buildings that have been converted into hotels and can be read here.
For further reading, Historic Environment Scotland’s (HES) Short Guide 14: Fire Safety Management in Traditional Buildings for Dutyholders is intended to help those with responsibilities for historic buildings understand their duties in fire safety management, and to provide practical guidance for complying with the requirements of Scotland’s fire safety legislation. Their Managing Change in the Historic Environment: Fire and Historic Buildings document is part of a series of guidance sets out the principles of fire safety in historic buildings.

A new report, From Local to Global: The Power of Heritage in a Changing World, has just been published. Produced by The Heritage Alliance with the support of Europa Nostra UK and World Monuments Fund Britain, the report demonstrates how the UK’s heritage sector strengthens international relationships through shared expertise, cultural diplomacy, and global collaboration. From climate resilience and skills exchange to community cohesion, the report draws on more than 30 case studies to show what’s already been achieved and what could be possible with greater investment and support.

SAVE Britain’s Heritage has launched its 2026 call for entries to the Buildings at Risk register. The organisation is actively seeking nominations for buildings at risk throughout Scotland, recognising this as a gap in their current register coverage. While there is no strict deadline for nominations, SAVE Britain’s Heritage will conduct research over the next few months to add selected buildings to the register in June 2026. The Buildings at Risk register highlights historic buildings that are vacant and whose future is uncertain, raising awareness and providing a platform to advocate for their retention and reuse. Nominations can be made online at savebritainsheritage.org.

Congratulations go out to BEFS Members The Scottish Historic Buildings Trust and the National Trust for Scotland, who have been shortlisted for the Museums & Heritage Awards 2026, Partnership of the Year. Alongside the Bernat Klein Foundation, this recognition for the important safeguarding work being carried out, as part of the Bernat Klein Studio Coalition, is important and well deserved.

And last, but very much not least, BEFS is pleased to announce the date for a pre-election hustings. Taking place on Tuesday 7 April, 2-4pm, the event will be chaired by Jocelyne Fleming, Scottish Policy and Public Affairs Lead for the Chartered Institute of Building in Scotland. The purpose of the hustings event is to bring together BEFS Members, wider stakeholders within the built environment sector, and political party representatives to share and discuss built environment policy positions and priorities for the next term of the Scottish Parliament, in the context of a 2026 Manifesto produced by BEFS.

Representatives of six political parties with candidates standing for the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections will participate in this event, including two former Scottish Government Ministers, to respond to the BEFS Manifesto and to answer questions from BEFS Members and stakeholders around five priority themes identified in Manifesto consultations:

• Culture and Heritage

• Climate Emergency and Net Zero

• Repair, Maintenance and Retrofit

• Training and Skills

• Planning and Place-making

This hustings event is kindly hosted by BEFS Member the Royal Incorporation of Chartered Surveyors.

If you work with the built environment, please do consider signing up. The event is free to attend: you can book your in-person place here, or register to join online.

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

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

Fair Funding in the Voluntary Sector
Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO)
Voluntary sector bodies are invited by SCVO to complete a survey sharing their views on and experiences with the current funding landscape and its impact on the provision of organisational services and projects. The results of the survey, which takes an estimated five minutes to complete, will be anonymised. The outcomes will be used by SCVO to continue to advocate for fair funding practices, including provision of multi-year grants of three years or more with flexible core funding and inflation-based uplifts.
*NEW* Closes 31 March 2026

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

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

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

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

Heat networks – installation and maintenance licence
Scottish Government
A consultation seeking views on proposals for an installation and maintenance licence for heat networks, which puts forward an opt-in installation and maintenance licence under the Buildings (Heating and Energy Performance) and Heat Networks (Scotland) Bills replacing the mandatory licensing regime in the Heat Networks (Scotland) Act 2021. It would grant rights and powers similar to other utilities (gas, electricity) such as carrying out road works, surveys and the compulsory purchase of land. The proposed changs aim to improve the pace and scale of heat networks’ installation and maintenance to contribute to net zero targets.
*NEW* Closes 5 June 2026

News Releases

New SPAB programme to support historic Scottish churches (SPAB 06/02/2026)

Buildings at Risk register (BaR) – Call for Entries 2026 (SAVE Britain’s Heritage 16/02/2026)

New introductory film on the National Collection of Aerial Photography (HES March 2026)

Scottish Charity Awards 2026 (SCVO March 2026)

Scotland’s Heritage Hub: A Gateway to Scotland’s Past (Society of Antiquaries of Scotland March 2026)

Near £4 million awarded to revitalise Girvan, Govan, and Tarbert (HES 09/03/2026)

Hub selects 10 new Local Good Practices across Europe from Open Call (European Heritage Hub 09/03/2026)

Society Launches Virtual Issues of 170-Year-Old Journal (Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 12/03/2026)

Why now is the moment to join the Architecture and Design Scotland Board (A&DS 13/03/2026)

European Cultural Heritage Summit 2026 programme announced (Europa Nostra 13/03/2026)

Town centre ‘heritage gems’ to be restored with £7m of lottery funds (BBC 17/02/2026)

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

CROSS Safety Report: Higher Risk Building residents’ concerns about safety not heard (CROSS UK 20/01/2026)

A Middle Bronze Age settlement near Mauchline, East Ayrshire (Scottish Archaeological Internet Reports February 2026)

The need to re-focus on housing conditions: Introducing the Housing Stewardship Framework (CaCHE 24/02/2026)

Planifesto Thinkpiece: Housing ambition to delivery (RTPI Scotland 02/03/2026)

Country of Origin Report 2025 (Registers of Scotland 10/03/2026)

Case study: The Work of Westhill and Elrick Community Council in Aberdeenshire (Community Councils Scotland 11/03/2026)

Scottish Parliament elections 2026: boundaries and voting system (DeHavilland 12/03/2026)

The Big Think: Place (February 2026) (UK Heritage Pulse 16/03/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Motions

S6M-21018
Submitted by: Alexander Stewart, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
Date lodged: 09/03/2026
That the Parliament welcomes the delivery of construction pathways at Stirling and Balfron high schools, which features Build Your Future events to inspire the next generation to consider a career in the sector; notes that creating a pathway into roofing with the introduction of a National 5 in Creative Industries Roof Slating has directly resulted in a young person from Stirling High School being offered an apprenticeship with local company Old Plean Roofing; understands that this was delivered in collaboration with the National Federation of Roofing Contractors, Historic Environment Scotland, Scottish Traditional Building Forum and Stirling Council; understands that the creation and continued evolution of the construction pathways will assist young people to make informed decisions about their career choices, while ensuring parity of esteem with other subject choices; congratulates the organisations, schools, staff and students for participating in the pilots; and wishes all concerned best wishes for their future careers.
Supported by: Sharon Dowey, Paul Sweeney, Tess White

Dr Jocelyne Fleming: She built this city… or, at least, she could (Scottish Construction Now 26/02/2026)

Centre of excellence tipped to enhance traditional and heritage skills (Project Scotland 05/03/2026)

Glasgow Central station fire again shows vulnerability of city’s older buildings (The Guardian 09/03/2026)

Why do Glasgow’s historic buildings keep burning down? (The National 09/03/2026)

John Swinney signals ‘willingness’ to support council financially in dealing with the consequences of Glasgow blaze (The Holyrood Magazine 09/03/2026)

Anas Sarwar reveals plans for a pothole fund to fix 5m holes (Glasgow Times 09/03/2026)

‘Ugly, unloved and an environmental drain, but Brutalist Argyle House is worth saving’ (Edinburgh Inquirer 10/03/2026)

Calls for more historic buildings protections as ‘treasure’ lost (The Herald 10/03/2026)

Director’s Blog: Scotland Moves Beyond Growth to Create Landmark Community Wealth Building Bill (WEAll Scotland 11/03/2026)

Almost a decade after Grenfell, my flat still isn’t safe (BBC News 16/03/2026)

Society raising £1.5m to buy historic Edinburgh property (BBC News 17/03/2026)

Events

AHSS – Sarah Jane Storrie: Heritage with Purpose; Adaptive Reuse and Community-Centred Design
Date & Time: Thursday 19 March 2026; 7:30-8:30pm
Location: St Andrew’s West Church & Renfield Centre, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4JP
Note: Lecture will also be live-streamed via Zoom
Join Sarah Jane Storrie, a founding director at Studio SJM Architects, as she shares insights gained from over twenty years of experience in the adaptive reuse of historic structures. Holding RIAS Conservation Accreditation since 2013, she examines how careful conservation and repair partnered with imaginative and pragmatic adaptive reuse of heritage assets, can act as a catalyst for regeneration and benefit the wider community in terms of tangible and intangible heritage.

Under One Roof – Taking Care of Your Tenement: Drop-In Q&A Session with Glasgow City Heritage Trust
Date & Time: Thursday 19 March 2026; 5:30-7pm
Location: Kinning Park Complex, 43 Cornwall Street, Glasgow G41 1BA
Join Glasgow City Heritage Trust (GCHT) and Under One Roof for a drop-in Q&A session aimed at anyone who wants to learn more about maintaining and repairing a historic tenement. This is a chance to bring your questions and speak one-to-one with the experts. Whether you have a specific issue to discuss or just want to have a quick chat about looking after your tenement, please stop by. If you do have a specific building repair query, please bring photos so their teams can best assist you. This event is free, and questions will be answered on a first come/first serve basis. 

How Dundee Changed and Developed between the 1870s and 1970s
Date & Time: Thursday 19 March 2026; 7pm
Location: 17 Roseangle, Dundee, DD1 4LP
Dr Kenneth Baxter, a historian based at  Dundee University Archive Services, will explore the changes to Dundee’s built landscape over the course of a century. Dundee has attracted an infamous reputation for demolishing many of its most prominent buildings. Baxter will explore the economic, social, and political reasons for these demolitions. Importantly, Baxter will explain how the attitude of Dundonian citizens to their built environment changed over the years, and showcase how many of these demolitions were met positively at the time. This event is free.

Tron Steeple Project Celebration
Date & Time: Friday, 20 March; 5pm
Location: Tron Theatre, 63 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HB
The Tron Theatre is celebrating the completion of the final stage of the Tron Steeple Project, which saw the restoration of and upgrades to Glasgow’s third-oldest building. The seventeenth-century steeple has survived two fires over the course of its history, and restoration works were instigated in 2024 with the help of Glasgow City Heritage Trust and Glasgow Institute of Architecture. This event will feature talks from Niall Murphy (Glasgow City Heritage Trust), the architect Scott Abercrombie on the history of the building, and the artist Kayleigh Sarah McGuinness who was commissioned to create a new sculpture commemorating the history of the steeple. This event is free but ticketed.

Aberdeen City Heritage Trust – Transatlantic Tradesmen: Aberdeen Granite Workers in North America
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 7-8pm
Location: Online
Part of the Aberdeen Heritage Lectures 2026 collection, Prof. Marjory Harper, University of Aberdeen discusses Transatlantic Tradesmen: Aberdeen Granite Workers in North America. Marjory Harper is Professor of History at the University of Aberdeen, and Visiting Professor at the Centre for History, University of the Highlands and Islands. She has devised and directed an award-winning online Master’s Programme in Scottish Heritage. Her research focuses on British (particularly Scottish) emigration since 1800. Two of her monographs have won international prizes, and she has published around 100 articles and book chapters. Aberdeen City Heritage Trust recognises the support of Historic Environment Scotland and Aberdeen City Council.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills Group – Tour of Preston Mill 
Date: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 10:30am-12:30pm
Location: Preston Mill, East Linton, EH40 3DS
Join the North UK Mills Group at Preston Mill to see this watermill grind grain for the first time in nearly 40 years. There has been a mill on site since the 16th century and the current structure dates to the 18th century. Fraser MacDonald of the National Trust for Scotland will explain the labour, skill, and technical work necessary to bring the millstones back to life.

Heritage Network – Heritage Works – Arts, Culture and Placemaking in a Historic City
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: The Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh EH1
Against Edinburgh’s backdrop of medieval closes, Georgian crescents, and world-renowned arts and culture festivals and programming, the event shines a spotlight on the opportunities and challenges of cultivating thriving public realms rooted in heritage. Bringing together local authorities, heritage bodies, cultural practitioners, arts professionals, and community stakeholders, this symposium delves into the unique potential of historic cities; places where centuries of architectural legacy meet contemporary creative ambition. 

FuturHist & INTBAU – From Heritage to Energy Transition. How Active Systems Can Support Heritage Buildings 
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online via Zoom
This webinar will discuss active solutions with experts Federico Trentin (Eurac Research) and Marianna Muchorowska (Innsbruck University). They will highlight the key learnings from the deliverable “Conservation compatible solutions for HVAC and RES integration in Historic Buildings“.
Register here.

SHSMG – Is There Hope for Social Media in the Heritage Sector? | Final SHSMG Event
Date & Time: Wednesday 25 March 2026; 3-4pm
Location: Online via Zoom
After running for ten years, the Scottish Heritage Social Media Group is coming to an end, but not before leaving on a positive note with a group of speakers who will explain why they’re optimistic about the future of social media in the heritage sector. There will be speakers from the National Library of Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland and National Museums Scotland.

RIAS BookshopLATES – Glasgow from Above
Date & Time: Thursday 2 April 2026; 6:30-7:30pm
Location: RIAS Bookshop, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BE
Come along to the RIAS Bookshop to explore the architectural and industrial heritage of 21st-century Glasgow. Architect Rosalie Menon discusses her recent book, ‘Glasgow from Above’, with Chris Stewart PPRIAS.

BEFS Pre-Election Hustings 2026
Date & Time: Tuesday 7 April 2026; 2-4pm
Location: Royal Incorporation of Chartered Surveyors, Scotland (hybrid event – in-person and online options available)
BEFS pre-election hustings bringing together BEFS Members, built environment stakeholders, and political party representatives to discuss built environment policy positions and priorities for the next Scottish Parliament term, in the context of the 2026 BEFS Manifesto. Representatives from six political parties with candidates standing for the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections will participate, including two former Scottish Government Ministers, responding to the BEFS Manifesto and answering questions around five priority themes: Culture and Heritage; Climate Emergency and Net Zero; Repair, Maintenance and Retrofit; Training and Skills; Planning and Place-making. Chaired by Jocelyne Fleming, Scottish Policy and Public Affairs Lead for the Chartered Institute of Building in Scotland. Kindly hosted by BEFS Member the Royal Incorporation of Chartered Surveyors. Free to attend. Book in-person place here or register to join online.

AHSS – Dominic Echlin & Thomas Hamilton – Extending the National Gallery of Scotland  
Date & Time: Monday 13 April 2026; 6:30-7:30pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL (wheelchair accessible)
Note: Lecture will also be streamed online via Zoom
Dominic Echlin, structural engineer, and Thomas Hamilton, architect, will share with us some of the challenges associated with the construction of the new Scottish Galleries at the National Gallery of Scotland at the Mound. Tickets available from Eventbrite or on the door, subject to availability: £6 / students £2

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland – PALaEoScot: New Approaches to Scotland’s Oldest Archaeology
Date & Time: Thursday 16 April 2026; 6-8pm 
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
This lecture will present the latest results of the PALaEoScot project, a research initiative from the University of Aberdeen centred on the use of archaeo-ecological approaches to explore the low visibility archaeology of Late Pleistocene Scotland and its recolonisation as glaciers retreated. The latest evidence for Scotland’s Ice Age people will be explored, along with their continental connections, the landscapes they encountered, and the fearsome beasts they shared their world with.

RTPI – Scottish Young Planners’ Conference 2026
Date & Time: Friday 24 April 2026
Location: Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AS
This year’s Scottish Young Planners’ Conference will explore planning’s critical role in tackling the climate and nature crises. The conference will feature a variety of speakers who will provide critical insights, share best practice examples, and lead practical workshop sessions to enhance delegates’ awareness, knowledge and skills on a range of topics.

AHF 50^th Anniversary Exhibition
Date & Time: 30 April – 16 May in Glasgow, 23 June – 11 July in Cardiff, 21 October – 4 November in London; Times TBC
Location: Glasgow, Cardiff, London
To celebrate our 50th anniversary, we have put together an exhibition, 50 Years of Reimagining Heritage, which tells the story of the difference heritage reuse can make in people’s lives and in communities. Across the year, our exhibition will travel to each part of the UK, with openings in Belfast, Glasgow, Cardiff and London. We hope by showcasing these extraordinary stories to inspire more people to get involved in saving local historic buildings to improve places, empower people, and secure a sustainable future for built heritage.

RIAS BookshopLATES – Professor Susan Roaf
Date & Time: Thursday 30 April 2026; 6:30-7:30pm
Location: RIAS Bookshop, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BE
The RIAS Bookshop and SEDA invite you to join Professor Susan Roaf for a discussion of the research behind her new book ‘Adaptive Thermal Comfort: At the Extremes’ with architect Gloria Lo.

SURF – Shared Learning Workshops
Dates & Times: Thursday 7 – Thursday 28 May 2026; 10am-2pm
Location: Various; see individual events below
A series of SURF Award Shared Learning Workshops will take place in May. At these events attendees will have the opportunity to learn from SURF Award winners and highly commended projects, before opening to a wider policy discussion with national partners. The 4 workshops are:

• Removing barriers to employability (7 May, Edinburgh)

• Housing led regeneration initiatives (14 May, Edinburgh)

• Place-based regeneration approaches (21 May, Govan)

• Taking a creative approach to regeneration (28 May, Glasgow)

SAVE THE DATE/EARLY BOOKING OPEN NOW/APPLICATIONS INVITED

Open Call: FuturHist Retrofit Academy – master historic building retrofitting
Location: Online then Krakow
Join an international cohort of experts in the FuturHist Retrofit Academy to master the energy transition of our built heritage. This two-stage programme, co-organised by the FuturHist Horizon Europe project partners offers specialised training on high-performance energy efficiency and innovative conservation-compatible solutions. The programme includes a free 6-week e-learning course (starting April 20) and an exclusive Summer Academy in Krakow for top performers (September 2026). Gain competitive expertise and future-proof your career in the sustainable heritage sector.
Deadline: Saturday 18 April 2026

Archaeology Scotland – 2026 Summer School 
Date & Time: Tuesday 19 – Friday 22 May 2026
Location: Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5PZ
The 2026 Summer School will explore the archaeology of Lorn’s glens and coast. The event, open to members and non-members, features guided tours of Neolithic to Reformation sites.

IHBC – Annual School 2026 Newcastle I Adaptive Reuse 
Date & Time: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 June 2026
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne (In Person and Online)
The IHBC Annual School in Newcastle explores the theme of Adaptive Reuse through inspiring tours, expert talks, and networking opportunities across this 3-day programme, starting on Thursday with CPD Study Tours of iconic sites including the Byker Wall and Ouseburn, followed by a Welcome Reception at the Baltic Centre. Friday’s Day School, available in-person or online features specialist speakers at the Grade II* listed Common Room, and an Exhibitor Hub. The weekend concludes with the Annual Dinner and Awards at the Royal Station Hotel, followed by study tours on the Saturday for Full School delegates. Booking now open.

Heritage Network Conference 2026
Date & Time: Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September
Location: Belfast & Armagh
The conference emphasis is on the impact of community-led heritage on people and places, explored through the experience of heritage regeneration in our host towns and cities and beyond. As well as a day of compelling presentations, lively discussions and networking, Conference includes tours and visits to fascinating historic sites and ground-breaking projects.

Training

Planning Aid Scotland – Community Engagement Skills Training Edinburgh
Date & Time: Wednesday 25 March 2026; 10am-3:30pm
Location: The Crannie, 9 Cranston Street, Edinburgh EH8 8BE
This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. The trainers bring extensive community engagement and facilitation expertise to help develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner. Learn how to undertake meaningful engagement that achieves positive outcomes for communities and projects alike. Discover useful tips and practical tools to help you lead your engagement work with confidence and ease. Engage in a range of different learning techniques to think creatively about engagement. Connect with fellow engagement practitioners, share experiences, and learn from each other in a safe, collaborative setting.

SLCT – Repairing Traditional Masonry Structures
Date & Time: Thursday 26 March 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, 2 Rocks Road, Charlestown, Fife KY11 3EN
This one day workshop covers the construction and appropriate repair of traditional masonry structures such as culverts, tunnels, light houses, viaducts, canals, harbours, retaining walls, piers and masonry arch bridges. These structures contribute so much to the richness of our built heritage and many are still in use after 200+ years. But in many cases, we are asking these structures to outperform any of the expectations that their original designers intended, which can leave us with various ‘headaches’ to deal with, without spoiling their beautiful aesthetics. There are now a wide range of lime and natural cement binders along with additives that can be used to emulate both the technical and aesthetic performance of original mortars in repair schemes from re-pointing to stitching cracks and grouting structures to secure them. Download full course description here (PDF)

The Engine Shed – Scottish Roofing: Materials and Practices
Date & Time: Tuesday 31 March 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Natural slate, lead and iron have been used to cover (and sometimes decorate) traditional Scottish buildings for generations. These three morning talks will introduce you to the methods and materials traditionally used in Scotland for roofing, followed by a discussion on the prospects for reopening Scotland’s first working slate quarry since the 1950s. A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to observe a wide range of roof repair and conservation issues. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

SLCT – Surface Repair of Stone
Date & Time: Tuesday 14 & Wednesday 15 April 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline, Fife KY12 3DR
This course will teach you how to carry out a successful surface stone repair with an understanding of the materials and when and where it may be appropriate. In many cases, simple surface repairs can be less intrusive and a suitable alternative to replacing masonry units with new stone. This course is designed to ensure successful surface repairs to flat work, angles, corners and moulded details. The decay mechanisms of stone will be discussed and consideration of the factors that should be taken into account when deciding if a surface repair is a suitable alternative to replacement with new stone. This course is aimed at those working within the construction industry who have had practical building experience and trowel skills.

SLCT – C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars
Date & Time: Monday 20 & Tuesday 21 April 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, Charlestown, Dunfermline, Fife KY12 3DR
This practical workshop will provide attendees with a strong understanding of lime technology and how to approach re-pointing work in traditional buildings. The reasons for using traditional mortars on solid walls will also be explained, to allow you to better advise your clients. The course will guide participants to be able to complete repointing work to traditional buildings to a high standard. The content of this workshop provides the underpinning knowledge required for assessment and accreditation of SQA National Unit H8WT45 – Prepare and Mix Traditional Lime Mortars
Full course description

The Engine Shed – Conserving Timberwork and Timber Windows
Date & Time: Wednesday 22 April 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Three morning talks will examine the wealth of timberwork in Scotland’s traditional buildings, from major structural features like joists and rafters, to delicate finishing details like skirting boards, mouldings and panelling.  How these features should be repaired, maintained and conserved will also be covered and there will be a discussion on ways to repair traditional simple sash and case windows. A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. In the afternoon, there will be guided tours of Stirling’s Church of the Holy Rude and the nearby Great Hall of Stirling Castle to inspect their remarkable timber roof structures – one being ancient and the other of recent construction. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Icon Scotland – Glass Bonding and Filling Workshop
Date & Time: Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 April 2026; 10am-5pm (28^th) and 9am-5pm (29^th & 30^th)
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling FK8 1QZ
This 3-day Workshop is aimed at conservators with previous knowledge but little experience of glass conservation, being objects or stained glass. The course will cover theory about glass degradation, conservation issues, conservation materials and techniques, and hands-on sessions on handling, bonding, mould making and filling flat glass and vessel glass surrogates. At the end of the workshop, participants will have a clear idea of common glass conservation issues, and options and strategies for their conservation.

Introduction to Building Conservation
Date & Time: Monday 1 – Friday 5 June 2026; 9:30am – 4pm
Location: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
Five-day intensive course delivered by Historic Environment Scottish conservation professionals are exploring traditional building skills and materials used in conservation and repair projects throughout the Scottish built environment. It includes lectures, activities, and site visits to Stirling Old Town, Doune Castle, Glasgow Cathedral, and Glasgow Necropolis. Topics include approaches to conserving/repairing traditional buildings; stone, lime, slate and lead; climate change effects on heritage; and maintaining Scotland’s castles. Bursaries are available for third-year students/recent graduates in building-related subjects (architecture, surveying, engineering, planning) – apply by 9am Tuesday 7 April 2026 to technicaleducation@hes.scot. Successful applicants contacted by Friday 15 May 2026. This course is suitable for graduates, heritage professionals, building practitioners, and anyone responsible for a traditional building.

Vacancies

RIAS – Bookshop & Venue Programme Manager
Salary: £16,800–£18,000 (FTE £28,000–£30,000)
Status: Part-time, 21 hours per week
Location: 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh
The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) is seeking an organised, commercially aware Bookshop and Venue Programme Manager to support engagement with members and the wider public. This part-time role combines management of the RIAS online Bookshop with the delivery of book-related events and small-scale visual arts exhibitions. Read the full job description here. Please send your application to recruitment@rias.org.uk or by post to RIAS, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh, EH1 2BE
Closing date: Tuesday 14 April 2026

Members – Board of Architecture and Design Scotland
Remuneration: A daily rate of £196.16 per day, providing a yearly remuneration of £4,708; plus reasonable expenses.
Status: Approx 2 days a month (24 days per year). This appointment will be for up to 4 years in the first instance.
Location: Edinburgh
Do you want to shape the strategic direction of Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) as it begins a new chapter of transformation and increased impact? Following a recent government review, A&DS is entering an exciting new chapter. Alongside its continuing actions to champion good design, A&DS will now play a new role to support and develop Scotland’s architecture and design workforce, growing the collective capacity and harnessing the value of design. Scottish Ministers now seek to appoint up to three Board Members who will be key to A&DS delivering the review outcomes and the new ambitions. Members will provide support to the Board Chair, help to steer the organisation’s strategic direction and ensure robust governance in times of reform and change. The role involves strategic thinking, providing vision, inspiration and constructive challenge and the ability to hold others to account. Hear directly from Mr. Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs, and Culture, about External Affairs and Culture, on these roles and their importance. You can view his short message by clicking on this link. For more information or an informal discussion, please contact Jim MacDonald, CEO, A&DS, at Jim.MacDonald@ads.org.uk. You can also find out more about A&DS on their website. An online information session will be held on Wednesday 25 March 2026; 6:30-7:30pm. Click here to sign up. Full details on how to apply, and the evidence that should be submitted at the application stage, are set out at pages 10-13 of the Applicant Information Pack 
Closing Date: Thursday 16 April 2026

Stirling City Heritage Trust – Trustees
Salary: No remuneration
Stirling City Heritage Trust is seeking new Trustees. Founded in 2004, Stirling City Heritage Trust (SCHT) is a Scottish charity and company limited by guarantee funded by Historic Environment Scotland and Stirling Council. The Trust operates the Traditional Buildings Health Check, offers grants for traditional repairs and supports local education projects which promote an understanding of Stirling’s heritage. They also offer energy efficiency advice through their Retrofit Service. The Trust are looking to recruit volunteer Trustees who have an interest in the heritage and historic built environment of the City of Stirling to enhance the Board. Trustees support the Trust staff, raising the profile of the organisation and helping with strategic decision-making. To complement existing Board members, SCHT are particularly seeking individuals who have skills and experience in one or more of the following areas: architectural history, local cultural heritage, retrofit, engineering, traditional skill(s), HR, financial management/accountancy and legal. Applicants should have an interest in Stirling’s traditional architecture and recognise the importance of the maintenance of traditional buildings. SCHT particularly welcomes applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience, and with the ability to make an effective contribution to the organisation. They are also keen to attract young people to join. Further information and an application pack are available on the SCHT website or by contacting the Trust Manager, Vivienne Whyte, on 01786 498462 or manager@scht.org.uk.
Closing date: Friday 17 April 2026

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

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

• Governance

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

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

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

A bit of a spotlight on some of BEFS Members in this edition!

The shortlisted projects in the running for the prestigious 2026 RIAS Awards have been announced. Congratulations to everyone on the list, which sees public projects, social housing and university buildings recognised, with historic buildings including an outdoor swimming pool, a 15th-century tower house and doocot, and National Trust for Scotland properties in the Hebrides given new leases of life through skilled building conservation. Read more, including the full shortlist, here.

The Scottish Civic Trust My Place Awards 2026 are now open. Celebrating the power of communities to shape and strengthen their places across Scotland, the awards include categories for community-led regeneration, retrofit and climate mitigation projects and the inclusion of under-represented audiences. Enter here if you are involved in a local project that has made a real difference or know a group that should be recognised.

BEFS Member Historic Houses has today published their report ‘A Fragile Inheritance: the state of the UK’s Historic Houses’. Based on responses from 338 of Historic Houses own members, the report provides a snapshot of 2025, demonstrating the positive impact these special places have on tourism, the economy and employment. Concerning trends however prevail, with increasing costs, the impact of the pandemic on visitor numbers, a complex planning landscape and tax burdens – all presenting challenges and a risk to their survival.

And finally, BEFS Member organisation Stirling City Heritage Trust are recruiting for trustees. Applicants with an interest in Stirling’s traditional architecture and the importance of maintenance of traditional buildings are invited to apply. Applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds, age groups, and experience, and with the ability to make an effective contribution to the organisation are particularly welcome. Further information and an application pack are available on their website.

Scotland’s island communities: community-led plans and renewable energy
Planning Aid Scotland
This survey aims to gather what training and support is needed for island communities to take part in planning processes. It focuses on community-led planning (such as Local Place Plans) and improving understanding of planning processes for electricity and renewable energy developments. There will be a workshop on 12 March 2026 (7-8:30pm, online). Action from the draft National Islands Plan was laid before Scottish Parliament in December 2025.
*NEW* Closes 15 March 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Consultation Responses

Public Consultation Analysis on Scotland’s Draft Climate Change Plan 2026-2040 (Scot Gov 27/02/2026)

Building standards – proposed changes to Section 3.3 Flooding and Groundwater: consultation analysis (Scot Gov 02/03/2026)

News Releases

SCVO’s 2026 Scottish Parliament election manifesto (SCVO February 2026)

RTPI Scotland Planifesto 2026 (Royal Town Planning Institute February 2026)

The Landscape Institute Awards 2026 open for entries (Landscape Institute February 2026)

Preferred developer and development proposal for Egyptian Halls in Glasgow approved (Glasgow City Council 09/02/2026)

Forget Quick Fixes: Why City & Guilds Say Apprenticeships Could Be the Only Way Out of the UK’s Housing Shortage (City & Guilds 09/02/2026)

Buildings at Risk register (BaR)- Call for Entries 2026 (SAVE Britain’s Heritage 16/02/2026)

Chair recruitment for Architecture and Design Scotland is now open (Architecture & Design Scotland 16/02/2026)

Shaping the Future of Heritage Skills and Careers: Insights from Skills Forum Live 2026 (Historic Environment Forum 16/02/2026)

£10 million to revitalise historic places and bring communities closer to their heritage (Heritage Fund 17/02/2026)

Scottish Civic Trust My Place Awards are now open for entries (Scottish Civic Trust 18/02/2026)

16 organisations demand action from Dundee City Council as housing system ‘no longer coping’ (Shelter Scotland 23/02/2026)

First Hampden could be added to list of nationally important sites (HES 26/02/2026)

How Scotland can open up land opportunities (Scottish Land Commission 26/02/2026)

Europa Nostra announces the 7 Most Endangered Heritage Sites in Europe for 2026 (Europa Nostra 26/02/2026)

Anas Sarwar pledged to lead the “biggest housebuilding revolution in the history of devolution” (Scottish Labour 27/02/2026)

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

Renfrewshire Council invests £1 million to support cultural growth (The Gazette 11/02/2026)

Scottish Government rejects Flamingo Land plans for Loch Lomond (STV News 24/02/2026)

What can we do about Edinburgh’s ‘soulless’ canalside? Edinburgh Quay should be one of the city’s crown jewels, but instead it is pretty vacant (Edinburgh Inquirer 24/02/2026)

Scotland’s plan to install heat pumps ‘too slow’, warn climate advisers (The BBC 25/02/2026)

Largest-ever Dumfries housing development approved (The National 25/02/2026)

Cosla demands next Scottish government ‘scrap and replace’ council tax (The Scotsman 02/03/2026)

Scottish Apprenticeship Week: Construction tops parental preferences for career path (Scottish Construction Now 02/03/2026)

Events

Aberdeen City Heritage Trust – Building Maintenance Essentials and Places of Worship
Date & Time: Saturday 7 March 2026; 9:30am–12:15pm (walking tour: 1–2:30pm)
Location: Aberdeen Arts Centre, 33 King St, Aberdeen AB24 5AA
Come and spend a Saturday morning finding out about caring for your traditional building, whether that be an individual granite home, a flat in a granite tenement, a community hall or a place of worship. This event is suitable for house or flat owners, property managers including those in charge of tenements, community/public buildings and places of worship of traditional construction. Conservation Accredited Chartered Surveyor Ian Davidson, Craig Wilson of RGU and Douglas Campbell of Aberdeen City Heritage Trust will be contributing. This is followed up from 1pm with a short History and Maintenance Walking Tour ending at St Andrew’s Cathedral in King Street.

AHSS – John Lowrey: Architecture and Urbanism in late Georgian Edinburgh: History, Modernity and Style
Date & Time: Monday 9 March 2026; 6:30-7:30pm
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL (wheelchair accessible) & live streamed via Zoom
John Lowrey is a senior lecturer in architectural history at Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (ESALA), part of Edinburgh College of Art within Edinburgh University.  He has specialised in the study of classical architecture in Scotland and in the architectural history of Edinburgh. He is currently working on a new book exploring the topics of his lecture title.

Aberdeen City Heritage Trust – Geology, Industry & Architecture: Science & History of North East Granite
Date & Time: Tuesday 10 March 2026; 7-8pm
Location: Online
Part of the Aberdeen Heritage Lectures 2026  collection. Natural stone has been a favoured building material since the early days of human habitation in Scotland, and is still in fashion for modern architecture. A rich and diverse legacy of building with stone has created the unique historic character of our towns, cities, monuments, places of worship and infrastructure. In Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire, the famous granite city has found its name and character in the stone bedrock on which it is founded. This lecture will be delivered by experts from the British Geological Survey (BGS), Dr Stephen Parry and Paul Everett. Aberdeen City Heritage Trust recognises the support of Historic Environment Scotland and Aberdeen City Council.

SHBT – Nature-led Conservation: Can Heritage Survive Without Nature?
Date & Time: Wednesday 11 March 2026; 6-8pm
Location: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG
Speakers: Dr David Mitchell, Director of Cultural Assets at Historic Environment Scotland and Diarmid Hearns, Head of Public Policy, Risk and Environment with the National Trust for Scotland.
At the top of Patrick Geddes’ valley section are the hills: the scene of only sparse and temporary human habitation: shepherds, walkers, windmills and dams, shooting ranges and drives, and forest. This session will consider what happens when these forms of conservation meet one another, and speculate upon what might, and could, happen.

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland – At the Far End of Everything: A Likely Ahrensburgian Presence on Skye
Date & Time: Thursday 12 March 2026; 6-8pm 
Location: Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
Stone tools found on the Isle of Skye have been dated to the Late Upper Palaeolithic (LUP), around 11,500 – 11,000 years ago. Based on reconstructions of local glacier formation and sea level data, an enigmatic group of stone circular structures which lie below modern sea level is estimated to date to the same time period. These discoveries mean that the west coast now represents the largest concentration of evidence for these pioneer human populations anywhere in Scotland and reveals how early humans of this period ventured much further north than previously believed.

Our New Future – Redefining Risk, Resilience and Regeneration
Date & Time: Thursday 12 March 2026; 5:30-8:30pm
Location: Material Source Studio Scotland, 180 W George St, Glasgow G2 2NR
Beyond Net Zero – who carries the risk, who builds the future, and how do we get there? Hosted by Sam Patterson and New Future, in partnership with the ASBP and STBA , this panel discussion asks a critical question: How can Scotland’s built environment move beyond Net Zero to build a future that works for people, places, and the planet, and ensure the workforce is equipped to deliver it? Hear from experts in finance, policy, materials, public delivery, and retrofit to explore what it will really take to deliver a sustainable and equitable built environment, beyond targets alone. More info here.

SURF – Empowering People, Places, and Policy – SURF Hustings and Conference
Date & Time: Thursday 12 March 2026; 9:30am-3:30pm 
Location: Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JF
A key focus of discussion will be the four manifesto topics, and you will get a chance to grill the party representatives at a morning hustings session. There will also be a chance to learn from over a decade of evidence from SURF’s Alliance for Action place-based programme.

Under One Roof – Exploring Building Reserve Funds 
Date and Time: Friday 13 March 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online
Scotland’s tenements are in a poor state of repair, and the owners’ lack of funds to pay for major repair works is part of the problem. Under One Roof, alongside Gillian Campbell Consulting, has been exploring funding solutions for tenement owners. Mandatory Building Reserve Funds are a potential solution, which would help owners save small amounts of money regularly to pay for big repairs. At this webinar, Under One Roof Chief Executive Mike Heffron and housing consultant Gillian Campbell will discuss the findings of their recent report, funded by the MCS Foundation, on Building Reserve Funds, and the recommendations made to the Scottish Government about how to introduce them. Their conversation will be followed by a Q&A, where you can ask the experts about your own tenement repair funding issues.

Aberdeen City Heritage Trust – Building Communities through Regeneration- The Work of the Heritage Network
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; 7-8pm
Location: Online
Part of the Aberdeen Heritage Lectures 2026 collection, Sarah Pearce, Heritage Network, discusses Building Communities through Regeneration, The Work of the Heritage Network. Sarah is the Development & Outreach Manager at Heritage Network and has been the lead in Scotland since 2018. With a background in Architectural History, Sarah’s daily focus is on supporting community groups across the country who are reusing historic buildings, connecting people with the expertise they need. Aberdeen City Heritage Trust recognises the support of Historic Environment Scotland and Aberdeen City Council.

Under One Roof – Damp and Mould webinar with Falkirk Council
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; 12-1pm
Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
Awaab’s Law is coming to Scotland. As part of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, this important legislation will change the way that social and private landlords deal with damp and mould in their flats. Damp and mould are serious problems affecting Scotland’s flats, damaging buildings and harming human health. Join this free webinar with Falkirk Council to find out how this new law will affect you and your tenants, and what you can do to prevent and treat damp and mould in your properties.

FuturHist & INTBAU – From Heritage to Energy Transition. Passive Retrofit Strategies for Heritage Buildings
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online via Zoom
This webinar will explore examples of passive solutions in historic buildings, focusing on insulation systems and window solutions. Experts Marianna Muchorowska (Innsbruck University) and Alexandra Troi (Eurac Research) will share their knowledge and experience gathered in the deliverable “Conservation compatible passive retrofit solutions”.
Register here.

Europa Nostra – Secretary General Address
Date & Time: Tuesday 17 March 2026; 5-7pm
Location: Edinburgh City Chambers, 253 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ
RSA Fellows and guests are invited to this event with insights from the Secretary-General of Europa Nostra, Sneška Quaedvlieg-Mihailovic. The subject “Heritage matters” resonates with the wordplay “Design Matters” by the late and respected Bernat Klein, whose Studio is the subject of a collaborative restoration kick-started by the Bernat Klein Foundation, the National Trust for Scotland and the Scottish Heritage Buildings Trust. Heritage is an economic driver. It matters that heritage makes a significant GDP contribution and that huge numbers of volunteers support heritage bodies. Heritage encourages visitors to the UK, and is integral to soft power, national reputation, rural and city economies, given that heritage buildings and sites often host Festivals. Other matters and issues arising include: Response to climate change and sustainability; issues of UNESCO inscription, UK listings; future maintenance, retention or other disposal(s); and issues outlined in Historic Environment Scotland’s “Our Place in Time” (2014) and its subsequent “Our Past, Our Future: The Strategy for Scotland’s Historic Environment” (2023). Following the presentations, there will be a period of Q&A. Europa Nostra is the European voice of civil society committed to safeguarding and promoting cultural and natural heritage. Founded in 1963, it is the largest and most representative heritage network in Europe. The Secretary-General, Sneška Quaedvlieg-Mihailovic, is a leader whose dynamism, energy and charisma are inspirational and respected across Europe and more widely. Please note that this is a ticketed event (£7.50) with a drink token included.

AHSS – Sarah Jane Storrie: Heritage with Purpose; Adaptive Reuse and Community-Centred Design
Date & Time: Thursday 19 March 2026; 7:30pm
Location: St Andrew’s West Church & Renfield Centre, 260 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4JP
Note: Lecture will also be live-streamed via Zoom
Join Sarah Jane Storrie, a founding director at Studio SJM Architects, as she shares insights gained from over twenty years of experience in the adaptive reuse of historic structures. Holding RIAS Conservation Accreditation since 2013, she examines how careful conservation and repair, partnered with imaginative and pragmatic adaptive reuse of heritage assets, can act as a catalyst for regeneration and benefit the wider community in terms of tangible and intangible heritage.

Under One Roof – Taking Care of Your Tenement: Drop-In Q&A Session with Glasgow City Heritage Trust
Date & Time: Thursday 19 March 2026; 5:30-7pm
Location: Kinning Park Complex, 43 Cornwall Street, Glasgow G41 1BA
Join Glasgow City Heritage Trust (GCHT) and Under One Roof for a drop-in Q&A session aimed at anyone who wants to learn more about maintaining and repairing a historic tenement. This is a chance to bring your questions and speak one-to-one with the experts. Whether you have a specific issue to discuss or just want to have a quick chat about looking after your tenement, please stop by. If you do have a specific building repair query, please bring photos so their teams can best assist you. This event is free, and questions will be answered on a first come/first serve basis. 

Aberdeen City Heritage Trust – Transatlantic Tradesmen: Aberdeen Granite Workers in North America
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 7-8pm
Location: Online
Part of the Aberdeen Heritage Lectures 2026 collection, Prof. Marjory Harper, University of Aberdeen, discusses Transatlantic Tradesmen: Aberdeen Granite Workers in North America. Marjory Harper is Professor of History at the University of Aberdeen, and Visiting Professor at the Centre for History, University of the Highlands and Islands. She has devised and directed an award-winning online Master’s Programme in Scottish Heritage. Her research focuses on British (particularly Scottish) emigration since 1800. Two of her monographs have won international prizes, and she has published around 100 articles and book chapters. Aberdeen City Heritage Trust recognises the support of Historic Environment Scotland and Aberdeen City Council.

Heritage Network – North UK Mills Group – Tour of Preston Mill 
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 10:30am-12:30pm
Location: Preston Mill, East Linton, EH40 3DS
Join the North UK Mills Group at Preston Mill to see this watermill grind grain for the first time in nearly 40 years. There has been a mill on site since the 16th century, and the current structure dates to the 18th century. Fraser MacDonald of the National Trust for Scotland will explain the labour, skill, and technical work necessary to bring the millstones back to life.

Heritage Network – Heritage Works – Arts, Culture and Placemaking in a Historic City
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: The Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh EH1
Against Edinburgh’s backdrop of medieval closes, Georgian crescents, and world-renowned arts and culture festivals and programming, the event shines a spotlight on the opportunities and challenges of cultivating thriving public realms rooted in heritage. Bringing together local authorities, heritage bodies, cultural practitioners, arts professionals, and community stakeholders, this symposium delves into the unique potential of historic cities, places where centuries of architectural legacy meet contemporary creative ambition. 

FuturHist & INTBAU – From Heritage to Energy Transition. How Active Systems Can Support Heritage Buildings 
Date & Time: Tuesday 24 March 2026; 10-11:30am
Location: Online via Zoom
This webinar will discuss active solutions with experts Federico Trentin (Eurac Research) and Marianna Muchorowska (Innsbruck University). They will highlight the key learnings from the deliverable “Conservation compatible solutions for HVAC and RES integration in Historic Buildings“.
Register here.

SAVE THE DATE/EARLY BOOKING OPEN NOW

 
RTPI – Scottish Young Planners’ Conference 2026
Date & Time: Friday 24 April 2026
Location: Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AS
This year’s Scottish Young Planners’ Conference will explore planning’s critical role in tackling the climate and nature crises. The conference will feature a variety of speakers who will provide critical insights, share best practice examples, and lead practical workshop sessions to enhance delegates’ awareness, knowledge and skills on a range of topics.

Archaeology Scotland – 2026 Summer School 
Date & Time: Tuesday 19 – Friday 22 May 2026
Location: Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5PZ
The 2026 Summer School will explore the archaeology of Lorn’s glens and coast. The event, open to members and non-members, features guided tours of Neolithic to Reformation sites.

IHBC – Annual School 2026 Newcastle I Adaptive Reuse 
Date & Time: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 June 2026
Location: Newcastle-upon-Tyne (In Person and Online)
The IHBC Annual School in Newcastle explores the theme of Adaptive Reuse through inspiring tours, expert talks, and networking opportunities across this 3-day programme, starting on Thursday with CPD Study Tours of iconic sites including the Byker Wall and Ouseburn, followed by a Welcome Reception at the Baltic Centre. Friday’s Day School, available in-person or online, features specialist speakers at the Grade II* listed Common Room, and an Exhibitor Hub. The weekend concludes with the Annual Dinner and Awards at the Royal Station Hotel, followed by study tours on the Saturday for Full School delegates. Booking now open.

Training

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

SLCT – Above Eaves Level Masonry Repairs and Traditional Roofing Basics
Date & Time: Friday 20 March 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, 2 Rocks Road, Charlestown, Fife KY11 3EN
A one-day workshop aimed at contractors, building on the knowledge and skills gained on ‘C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars’. The workshop aims to enable participants to complete seamless rebuilding and repair of traditional masonry to match the original work. You will gain a conservation ethic and be able to develop repair strategies suitable for a variety of traditional masonry types. This course deals with: the consolidation of rubble walling; rebuilding stone replacement walling, and undertaking masonry repairs at roof level. This workshop provides the underpinning knowledge and a practical rehearsal for the assessment of National Units H8 WV 46 ‘Consolidation and Repair of Masonry Structures’. Please click here to download a PDF copy of the course description (142KB). This practical course is aimed at building contractors and those undertaking repair work to masonry structures who have completed ‘C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars’.

Planning Aid Scotland – Community Engagement Skills Training Edinburgh
Date & Time: Wednesday 25 March 2026; 10am-3:30pm
Location: The Crannie, 9 Cranston Street, Edinburgh EH8 8BE
This is an interactive workshop on community engagement and how to use the SP=EED framework. The trainers bring extensive community engagement and facilitation expertise to help develop your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a community engagement practitioner. Learn how to undertake meaningful engagement that achieves positive outcomes for communities and projects alike. Discover useful tips and practical tools to help you lead your engagement work with confidence and ease. Engage in a range of different learning techniques to think creatively about engagement. Connect with fellow engagement practitioners, share experiences, and learn from each other in a safe, collaborative setting.

SLCT – Repairing Traditional Masonry Structures
Date & Time: Thursday 26 March 2026; 9:30am-4:30pm
Location: Merryhill Training Centre, 2 Rocks Road, Charlestown, Fife KY11 3EN
This one-day workshop covers the construction and appropriate repair of traditional masonry structures such as culverts, tunnels, light houses, viaducts, canals, harbours, retaining walls, piers and masonry arch bridges. These structures contribute so much to the richness of our built heritage and many are still in use after 200+ years. But in many cases, we are asking these structures to outperform any of the expectations that their original designers intended, which can leave us with various ‘headaches’ to deal with, without spoiling their beautiful aesthetics. There are now a wide range of lime and natural cement binders along with additives that can be used to emulate both the technical and aesthetic performance of original mortars in repair schemes from re-pointing to stitching cracks and grouting structures to secure them. Download full course description here (PDF)

The Engine Shed – Scottish Roofing: Materials and Practices
Date & Time: Tuesday 31 March 2026; 9:30am-4pm
Location: Hybrid – The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ and Online
Natural slate, lead and iron have been used to cover (and sometimes decorate) traditional Scottish buildings for generations. These three morning talks will introduce you to the methods and materials traditionally used in Scotland for roofing, followed by a discussion on the prospects for reopening Scotland’s first working slate quarry since the 1950s. A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed. In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to observe a wide range of roof repair and conservation issues. Cost: £85 for the in person full day learning experience; £30 for virtual attendance.

Vacancies

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

Loco Home Retrofit – Retrofit Manager
Salary: £33,500 to £37,500 pro rata, depending on experience
Status: Full-time permanent (0.8 FTE may be considered)
Location: Hybrid: Glasgow/site/work from home
Following recent commercial success, Loco Home Retrofit are looking for a new Technical Manager to head up their homeowner support services and relationships with retrofit and renewables contractors. This is an opportunity to take a leading role in an innovative climate action social enterprise. The Technical Manager will report to the Managing Director and will be responsible for leading the delivery and ongoing evolution of retrofit support services for households. Key responsibilities include: delivering the service by carrying out surveys and providing retrofit advice; overseeing service delivery by other team members, ensuring standards are maintained in terms of customer service, technical robustness, health & safety and privacy; leading service improvement for greater technical robustness and productivity; developing and maintaining commercial relationships with retrofit contractors. Applicants must have demonstrated success in delivering projects in housing retrofit/building services/construction. They must have practical expertise in either retrofit fabric and improvements, including risk management in traditional constructions, or heating system design, especially heat pumps, as well as a strong desire to learn about the other.
Read the full job description and person specification here.
Closing Date: 9am on Monday 9 March 2026

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

Stirling City Heritage Trust – Trustees
Salary: No remuneration
Stirling City Heritage Trust is seeking new Trustees. Founded in 2004, Stirling City Heritage Trust (SCHT) is a Scottish charity and company limited by guarantee funded by Historic Environment Scotland and Stirling Council. The Trust operates the Traditional Buildings Health Check, offers grants for traditional repairs and supports local education projects which promote an understanding of Stirling’s heritage. They also offer energy efficiency advice through their Retrofit Service. The Trust are looking to recruit volunteer Trustees who have an interest in the heritage and historic built environment of the City of Stirling to enhance the Board. Trustees support the Trust staff, raising the profile of the organisation and helping with strategic decision-making. To complement existing Board members, SCHT are particularly seeking individuals who have skills and experience in one or more of the following areas: architectural history, local cultural heritage, retrofit, engineering, traditional skill(s), HR, financial management/accountancy and legal. Applicants should have an interest in Stirling’s traditional architecture and recognise the importance of the maintenance of traditional buildings. SCHT particularly welcomes applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience, and with the ability to make an effective contribution to the organisation. They are also keen to attract young people to join. Further information and an application pack are available on the SCHT website or by contacting the Trust Manager, Vivienne Whyte, on 01786 498462 or manager@scht.org.uk.
Closing date: Friday 17 April 2026

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

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

• Governance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• £700k for public art

• £1.15m for responsible tourism and visitor dispersal

Read the full breakdown here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Consultation Responses

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

News Releases

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

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

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

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

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

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Events

Training

Vacancies

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

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

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

• Digital & AI

• Property Development and Management

• Collections, Museums and Heritage

• Science & Engineering

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

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

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

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

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

• Governance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Consultation Responses

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

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

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

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

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

The Bare Bones Toolkit (Archaeology Scotland January 2026)

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

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

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

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

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

Scottish & UK: Governmental & Parliamentary Publications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Events

Training

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

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

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

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

Vacancies

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

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

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

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

• Governance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Consultation Responses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Publications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Motions

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

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

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

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

Opinion & Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Training

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

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

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

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

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

Vacancies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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