Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
In January 2019, the Scottish Parliament’s Tenement Maintenance Working Group, of which BEFS and RICS are the secretariats, published its interim recommendations report. Since then, the group has discussed stakeholder and public responses to the report, which were received via consultation between January and March. The group will be launching a final recommendation report at an event on 4th June. There will also be the opportunity for you to ask the report’s authors questions during a panel session.
BEFS responded to the Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Communities Committee’s call for written views on a new inquiry into empty homes in Scotland. BEFS response highlights a lack of appropriate knowledge and understanding around traditional buildings and the forthcoming proposals for improvement in this area by the Scottish Parliamentary Tenement Maintenance Working Group.
The final stage, Stage 3, of the Planning (Scotland) Bill is rumoured to be scheduled to take place on 18, 19 and 20 June in the Scottish Parliament. For information about the Bill and to see amendments submitted for Stage 3 so far, visit the Bill page.
Climate Ready Clyde and Adaptation Scotland have collaborated to produce a toolkit for assessing and addressing climate risks in the development of built environment and infrastructure projects. Download the full toolkit and individual tools here.
After a clamour of interest following its initial launch earlier this month, BEFS Vice-Chair, Professor Ian Baxter (Heriot-Watt University), introduces his new Heritage Career Guide in association with BEFS and The Heritage Alliance, in this week’s blog.
Consultations
Forestry and Land Scotland Corporate Plan – Consultation
Opened 28 May 2019 and closes 5 Jul 2019.
HES and Our Role in the Planning System
This survey will close on Thursday 6 June at 5pm.
Energy Efficient Scotland: Consultation
Opened 26 Mar 2019 and closes 17 Jun 2019.
The future of low carbon heat for off gas buildings: a call for evidence
Opened 26 Mar 2019 and closes 17 Jun 2019.
Climate Change and Environmental Action Plan 2019-24
This HES consultation will close at 12pm on Wednesday 19 June.
Consultation on adding new categories to the definition of a House in Multiple Occupation
Opened 18 Apr 2019 and closes 8 Jul 2019.
Strengthening Fire Safety for High Rise Domestic Buildings
Opened 24 Apr 2019 and closes 17 Jul 2019.
Short-Term Lets: Consultation
Opened 28 Apr 2019 and closes 19 Jul 2019.
A Scottish Government consultation on Implementation of the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act 2018
Opened 13 May 2019 and closes 4 Aug 2019.
Proposed Fair Rents (Scotland) Bill (SP 14/05/19)
A proposal for a Bill to protect private sector tenants by introducing measures to limit rent increases and to increase the availability of information about rent levels.
Consultation closes on 6 August 2019.
Publications
Housing conditions and standards (SPICe 29/05/19)
Scotland’s finances 2019-2020: key facts and figures (SG 28/05/19)
Options for Land Value Uplift Capture – Advice to Scottish Ministers (SLC 17/05/19)
New housing and future construction skills: report (SG 17/05/19)
Housing to 2040: stakeholder engagement report 2018 (SG 17/05/19)
Recovery of possession of adapted properties: guidance for social landlords (SG 16/05/19)
Our Unique City: Our Past, Our City, Our Future (CA 10/05/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
Rise in European visitors (SG 24/05/19)
The number of European visitors to Scotland increased by 19% in 2018, according to official statistics released today.
Thousands of new homes supported by Building Scotland Fund (SG 21/05/19)
Almost £70 million has been invested in housing projects through the Building Scotland Fund (BSF) since its launch last year.
Developing the construction workforce (SG 17/05/19)
Housing construction skills gaps will be addressed following the recommendations of a new industry report.
News Releases
Launch of Great British High Street Awards 2019
The 2019 competition has been launched in reigning high street champion Crickhowell, and nominations are now open, with a winner to be named in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as there being an overall UK winner.
‘Ground-breaking’ Housing Fund launched for charities and social enterprises (SHN 29/05/19)
An impact led social investor has launched a new fund that will invest in the provision of safe, stable and appropriate homes for vulnerable people and their families in the UK.
Kevin Stewart MSP: Putting people and places at the heart of future planning (SCN 28/05/19)
As the Planning (Scotland) Bill reaches the final phase of the Parliamentary process, local government, housing and planning minister, Kevin Stewart MSP, outlines the reasons behind his Stage 3 amendments.
Young Placechangers – last chance to get your Idea funded! (GS 27/05/19)
If you are between 12-25 years old or support/work with young people and you have an idea to how to change your local place for the better, now is the time to put pen to paper!
Community ownership study finds that a mix of funding is needed for success (SLC 27/05/19)
Communities have many options to secure and develop land, but the full range of financing models is often not widely known, and there is more scope to develop innovative finance models to support community ownership, a new report says.
EAA Awards 2019 winning projects revealed (UR 23/05/19)
The Edinburgh Architectural Association has published the names of half a dozen diverse winners of its 2019 awards programme, including a data-driven innovation hub and a barnstorming residential development
New guidance on Housing First published for social housing professionals (SHN 23/05/19)
The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Scotland and Glasgow Homelessness Network (GHN) have launched new joint guidance for Scotland’s social housing professionals on Housing First.
Building Scotland Fund reaches £70m new home investment milestone (SHN 21/05/19)
Almost £70 million has been invested in housing projects through the Building Scotland Fund (BSF) since its launch last year.
European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2019: Winners announced (EN 21/05/19)
The winners of the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2019 were announced today by the European Commission and Europa Nostra, the leading European heritage network.
Fundamental rethink needed for Scotland’s approach to land development (SLC 17/05/19)
The Scottish Land Commission is calling for a “fundamental rethink” of Scotland’s speculative and market-driven approach to identifying and allocating land for development.
New grants launched for research into arts for the built environment (SCN 16/05/19)
Churchill Fellowships will be available for professionals in this growing area, including architects, for non-academic studies of the best ideas and practice to be found anywhere in the world.
Work underway to create Wales’ own planning inspectorate (WG 09/05/19)
The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Julie James has today announced work has begun on the creation of a new separate, dedicated planning inspectorate for Wales.
Protecting the Scottish countryside: apply for funding (Innovate UK 07/05/19)
Organisations can apply for a share of £250,000 for projects that support developer decisions in the Scottish countryside.
Opinion & Comment
Our planning system is woefully ill-equipped to tackle climate change (AJ 28/05/19)
Should Notre-Dame be reconstructed faithfully? (Apollo 28/05/19)
This is what’s causing Edinburgh’s housing crisis (Cliff Hague in Scotsman 28/05/19)
Can Design Help Save the Planet? (Jim MacDonald in CaCHE 22/05/19)
Climate emergency means it’s time for architects to step up (RIBA 21/05/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-23339: Alex Cole-Hamilton, Edinburgh Western, Scottish Liberal Democrats, Date Lodged: 22/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the to answer to question S5W-2124 by Fiona Hyslop on 1 February 2019, by what date in 2019 it will publish its Culture Strategy for Scotland.
Question S5W-23355: Jackson Carlaw, Eastwood, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 22/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what forms of direct financial support it offers to those local authorities not included within its Vacant and Derelict Land Fund for the purposes of redeveloping waste land.
Question S5W-23358: Jackson Carlaw, Eastwood, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 22/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how much of the £11.4 million budget allocated to its Vacant and Derelict Land Fund for projects in 2019-20 has (a) been fully committed and (b) yet to be allocated for the development of vacant and derelict sites.
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-22967: Pauline McNeill, Glasgow, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 02/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many units have been constructed with support from the Scotland Self-Build Loan Fund, and what plans it has to expand the fund.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (10/05/2019)
Question S5W-22980: Miles Briggs, Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 02/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many affordable homes were built in 2018-19, broken down by local authority.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (14/05/2019)
Question S5W-22983: Jamie Halcro Johnston, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 03/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many planning applications for new build residential properties have been refused by a planning authority but successfully appealed to the Scottish Ministers since 2007, broken down by (a) planning authority, (b) year, (c) applicant and (d) size of proposed development.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (14/05/2019)
Other Parliamentary Activity
The Parliament has agreed the following parliamentary recess dates in 2019.
- 30 June to 1 September 2019 (inclusive)
- 12 to 27 October 2019 (inclusive)
- 21 December 2019 to 5 January 2020 (inclusive)
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
“High and Mighty”: our new tour of the finest sculpture in the Old Town
Date & time: Wednesday 12 June 2019; 6pm – 8pm.
Meeting point: Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
The city’s monuments and public works of art mark Edinburgh out as a great capital city and are one of the reasons for our UNESCO World Heritage inscription. To celebrate the publication of art historian Professor Ray McKenzie’s new comprehensive reference guide, Public Sculpture of Edinburgh, you are invited to a specially curated tour of the Old Town’s most important sculptures.
Towns Tea Party 2019
Date & time: June 19, 2019; 1:30PM – 4:30PM.
Venue: Whitespace, Norloch House, 36 King’s Stables Road, Edinburgh EH1 2EU.
Join Scotland’s Towns Partnership for our annual meeting of all those involved in supporting towns and improvement districts. An opportunity to celebrate Scotland’s towns as places for local communities and businesses.
The Future of our Cities and the Role of Planning – Sir Patrick Geddes Commemorative Lecture 2019
Date & time: Thursday 27 June 5:45PM – 8:15PM
Venue: Grassmarket Community Project, 86 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QA
Andrew Carter, Chief Executive of Centre for Cities explores the future of cities at the 2019 Sir Patrick Geddes Commemorative Lecture in Edinburgh on 27 June. Centre for Cities is the leading think tank dedicated to improving UK city economies. Andrew has 20+ years of experience working on urban economic policy issues for development agencies, consultants and research institutes. He spent time in the US with the Churchill Foundation’s Fellowship Programme reviewing urban economic development in America. He is a regular media contributor chairing and speaking at conferences across the UK and Europe on urban and economic issues.
Summer Excursion to Biggar Museum and New Lanark
Date & time: Saturday July 6 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Join us for a fascinating tour of this unique 18th century mill village sitting alongside the picturesque River Clyde. Now one of Scotland’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, New Lanark was founded in 1786 by David Dale, who built cotton mills and housing for the mill workers. In partnership with Robert Owen, a Welsh philanthropist and social reformer, New Lanark became a successful business and an early example of a planned settlement and so an important milestone in the historical development of urban planning. Workers enjoyed fair wages, free health care, a new education system and the first workplace nursery school in the world! In addition, Fellows of the Society will also be treated to a morning visit to Biggar and Upper Clydesdale Museum. This museum explores 14,000 years of rural and small town life in Upper Clydesdale. It focuses on the people who lived and worked in the area from prehistoric times up to the mid-20th century and illuminates a small part of their ordinary and extraordinary lives. Tickets cost £40 for Fellows and £45 for guests.
Walter Scott’s Romantic Landscape : Abbotsford Gardens Study Day
Date & time: 27 July 2019, 11am – 4pm.
Cost: £20.00 SGLH Members, £30 Non-members.
Since 2014 Gardens Heritage Development Manager Pippa Coles has been overseeing the rehabilitation of the gardens and policies at Abbotsford. With Pippa as our guide for the day, we shall begin with a brief introduction, followed by an examination of the formal gardens and terraces surrounding the house. After lunch in the Ochiltrees Café, we shall explore the wider landscape created by Walter Scott as the setting for his romantic creation. This will be an opportunity to see work in progress, and to discuss the challenges of managing this iconic landscape.
For further information or to book, please contact info@sglh.org.
Monuments in Monuments 2019
Date & time: Wednesday 2 – Friday 4 September 2019; 10am – 4pm
Venue: The Engine Shed, Stirling
Full ticket: £300. Day tickets: £120
This conference explores the conservation challenges facing carved stones and objects inside historic buildings. Hear from specialists from all over the world about how traditional skills, emerging technology and conservation science are helping to overcome these challenges. You can buy full conference or individual day tickets. Student rates are available. For more information and to book, please visit our website.
Training
Conservation Summer School 2019
Date: Monday 3 – Friday 7 June
Venue: The Engine Shed, Stirling
Full ticket: £450. Day tickets: £100
Only a few tickets remain for our Conservation Summer School 2019. Learn about the latest techniques from top conservation experts, get hands-on with traditional skills and materials, and see conservation in action on site visits. Day ticket options are available. For more information and to book your place, please see our website.
Reinforced Concrete Masterclass – New for Summer 2019!
Date & time: 28 June 2019, 09.30 – 16.00
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife
Cost: £190 + vat. BLF, IHBC, RICS or RIAS members are eligible for 20% discount.
Come and join us to explore the fascinating world of reinforced concrete (yes, really really!) – learn what can be achieved with it, its constituents, its decay mechanisms and how it can be successfully repaired with a variety of methods and materials. Not all reinforced concrete buildings are carbuncles …CONCRETE can be COUTHIE! If we are listing more and more buildings and structures from the 20th Century, many of which will be of reinforced concrete construction, then we need to know how to fix them and prolong their lives. We have a huge variety of structures and buildings of reinforced concrete construction across the country. Research and analysis of these buildings has helped inform their appropriate repair, but there are many challenges ahead. Join us and learn from our gathered experts in this field for what should be a very informative and enjoyable
Vacancies
Mauchline CARS Project Officer
To co-ordinate and manage the Mauchline CARS Programme to increase local economic activity by revitalising and diversifying Mauchline Town Centre.
Closes: 31 May 2019.
Managing Editor
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is seeking an experienced and motivated Managing Editor to take overarching responsibility for the management, design, production and marketing of a mix of online and print archaeology and history resources.
Deadline for applications: 11pm on Sunday 9th June.
City Mills Development Officer
Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust are seeking an enthusiastic and driven historic buildings conservation professional to join their team.
Closing date: 5pm on Thursday 13 June 2019.
Professional Development (PD) Officer
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) is seeking a Professional Development (PD) Officer to operate across all their UK-based branches.
Closing Date: Monday 8 July 2019.
Information in the Bulletin is extracted from a number of websites including the Scottish Government (SG); the Scottish Parliament (SP); Architecture and Design Scotland (A+DS); Historic Environment Scotland (HES); Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH); Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO); English Heritage (EH); Design Council (DC); Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG); Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS); Department of Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA); National Assembly for Wales (NAW); Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS); Scottish Government Building Standards (SGBS); Europa Nostra (EN); Historic England (HE).
If you have any questions or comments on the above, or would like to submit information to be included, please get in touch with Saskia Smellie or telephone BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241.
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Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
BEFS has responded to a number of consultations in the last two weeks. BEFS response to the Scottish Government’s Environmental Principles and Governance in Scotland consultation, reiterates points made previously about the importance of maintaining EU standards and principles in relation to environmental protections and governance.
BEFS also responded to the Scottish Community Development Centre’s call for views on UN-SDG 11. The UN-SDG 11 covers (but is not limited to): access to adequate housing, sustainable transport systems, inclusive urbanisation, access to green-space, support for planning, and is the only SDG which involves strengthening and safeguarding the world’s cultural and natural heritage. BEFS response supports the Scottish Government’s adoption of the UN-SDGs – but appreciates that meaningful change may only come from active leadership willing to make hard choices, supported and steered by a strong third sector.
As the Secretariat of the Scottish Parliamentary Working Group on Tenement Maintenance, BEFS has also responded to consultations on Housing Beyond 2021 and the Infrastructure Commission for Scotland.
Looking for a job in the heritage sector? BEFS Vice-Chair, Professor Ian Baxter (Heriot-Watt University), has compiled an invaluable Heritage Career Guide in association with BEFS and The Heritage Alliance, which aims to list a range of useful places to check for vacancies in the sector. Also, check out the range of vacancies below.
Historic Environment Scotland are surveying stakeholders to see how well we think they are performing their role in the planning system. Responses will inform HES’ annual report for this year. Get involved by completing this short survey.
As part of their research into infrastructure planning, RTPI are asking local authority planners to complete a short survey on current approaches, barriers, challenges, and opportunities for a more integrated approach.
Calling applicants to the 20th Anniversary Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning. The closing date for applications is tomorrow (17th May).
BEFS Policy Lead, Ailsa Macfarlane, explores the implications of climate change goals for policy in the built environment, in this week’s blog.
Consultations
Local Government Committee investigates empty homes
The call for written views will close on Friday 17 May.
Scottish Parliament Committee launches workplace parking levy survey (SP 09/05/19)
The Scottish Parliament’s Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee has launched an online survey to gauge views on the proposed workplace parking levy, which will run until 20 May.
HES and Our Role in the Planning System
This survey will close on Thursday 6 June at 5pm.
Energy Efficient Scotland: Consultation
Opened 26 Mar 2019 and closes 17 Jun 2019.
The future of low carbon heat for off gas buildings: a call for evidence
Opened 26 Mar 2019 and closes 17 Jun 2019.
Climate Change and Environmental Action Plan 2019-24
This HES consultation will close at 12pm on Wednesday 19 June.
Consultation on adding new categories to the definition of a House in Multiple Occupation
Opened 18 Apr 2019 and closes 8 Jul 2019.
Strengthening Fire Safety for High Rise Domestic Buildings
Opened 24 Apr 2019 and closes 17 Jul 2019.
Short-Term Lets: Consultation
Opened 28 Apr 2019 and closes 19 Jul 2019.
A Scottish Government consultation on Implementation of the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act 2018
Opened 13 May 2019 and closes 4 Aug 2019.
Proposed Fair Rents (Scotland) Bill (SP 14/05/19)
A proposal for a Bill to protect private sector tenants by introducing measures to limit rent increases and to increase the availability of information about rent levels.
Consultation closes on 6 August 2019.
Consultation Responses
Local Governance Review: analysis of responses to Democracy Matters (SG 15/05/19)
Infrastructure Commission call for evidence: Scottish Government response May 2019 (SG 10/05/19)
Publications
Compulsory purchase powers and listed buildings: case study (SG 16/05/19)
Overview of private rented housing reforms in Scotland (SPICe 14/05/19)
Home Energy Efficiency Programmes for Scotland: delivery report 2017-2018 (SG 14/05/19)
Ten Buildings that Define Edinburgh (CA 05/19)
Planning (Scotland) Bill masterplan consent areas: Key Agencies Group joint statement (SG 09/05/19)
New HES Designations Application Form (HES 08/05/19)
Glasgow City Heritage Trust Event Brochure: May & June (GCHT)
Key data about The National Lottery Heritage Fund: 2018-19 (HLF 29/04/19)
News Releases
SCDC Supporting Communities Programme: People, Planning and Place (SCDC 16/05/19)
We’re offering help to community organisations involved in community-led action planning and strengthening community engagement.
Scotland’s changing housing landscape (SPICe 15/05/19)
Looking back at the first parliamentary debates on housing you might get a certain sense of déjà vu. Some of the problems MSPs spoke of, including a lack of adequate housing in rural areas, wouldn’t look out of place in a parliamentary debate on housing today.
Glasgow’s Historic Built Environment: A Snapshot (GCHT 15/05/19)
GCHT recently updated our interactive map for Glasgow’s historic built environment. It presents info about listed buildings, housing demographics, the Buildings at Risk Register and recent fires amongst other statistics.
Glasgow and Edinburgh fight to become the UK’s first ‘net-zero’ city (BBC 15/05/19)
Glasgow and Edinburgh are going head-to-head to try to become the UK’s first “net zero” city.
Here’s how Edinburgh aims to go carbon neutral by 2030 (Evening News 14/05/19)
The Capital will aim to become carbon neutral by 2030 after council leaders set one of the most ambitious targets globally – 15 years earlier than the Scottish Government’s ambition.
Post-Brexit environmental standards must be maintained (RTPI 10/05/19)
he Scottish Government’s proposed environmental watchdog must be strong enough to maintain high environmental standards after Brexit, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Scotland has warned.
Help conserve Scotland’s historic sites – with your phone! (HES 10/05/19)
Learn how you can be a ‘citizen scientist’ at 20 of Scotland’s most evocative historic sites as part of an exciting new conservation project.
Scotland’s First Heritage and History Hackathon (HES 08/05/19)
Join us for Scotland’s first ever heritage and history hackathon – where entrepreneurs, designers and technologists will spend 75 hours exploring Scotland’s heritage through data and technology.
New £11.5m fund open: Investing in Communities (CC 05/19/)
A new Scottish Government £11.5 million fund is open to community groups to help tackle disadvantage, poverty and inequality in communities.
RTPI urges new approach to Scottish infrastructure funding (RPTI 03/05/19)
Decisions on funding infrastructure in Scotland should be based on long-term factors beyond the economy, says RTPI Scotland.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund releases its first batch of Open Data (Kion Ahadi HLF, 29/04/19)
The Open Data movement is growing, and more and more government departments, charities and funders are signing up to it. What does that mean for HLF?
Opinion & Comment
Let’s not forget the role of energy efficiency in homes (Herald Scotland 15/05/19)
Short term lets need regulation, regulation, regulation (Holyrood Magazine 08/05/19)
Can We Measure Culture in Cities (Economists Talk Art, 07/05/19)
Rethinking Sacred Spaces for New Purposes (Arch Daily, 07/05/19)
The house the robots built (Ben King, BBC)
Why does whole-life carbon matter for architects? (AJ 25/04/19)
Reusing Historic Buildings: The Green Choice (Steven Robb, HES 08/18)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-22967: Pauline McNeill, Glasgow, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 02/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many units have been constructed with support from the Scotland Self-Build Loan Fund, and what plans it has to expand the fund.
Question S5W-22980: Miles Briggs, Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 02/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many affordable homes were built in 2018-19, broken down by local authority.
Question S5W-22983: Jamie Halcro Johnston, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 03/05/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many planning applications for new build residential properties have been refused by a planning authority but successfully appealed to the Scottish Ministers since 2007, broken down by (a) planning authority, (b) year, (c) applicant and (d) size of proposed development.
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-22438: Adam Tomkins, Glasgow, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 01/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how it supports the regeneration of vacant and derelict land, and how much it has allocated to each local authority in each of the last five years to deal with this.
Answered by Aileen Campbell (02/05/2019)
Question S5W-22769: Michelle Ballantyne, South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 24/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that construction companies adhere to the established mortar standards in all new-builds.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (01/05/2019)
Question S5W-22782: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to support house building and associated infrastructure.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (03/05/2019)
Question S5W-22783: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many (a) affordable homes and (b) homes for social rent have been completed in each local authority area in each year since 2007, also broken down by how many have been (i) future-proofed to meet the needs of older people and an ageing population and (ii) adapted or built specifically to meet the accessibility requirements of disabled people, including wheelchair users.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (08/05/2019)
Question S5W-22785: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many hectares of brownfield land are available for house building, and how this equates to the capacity for building new homes.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (03/05/2019)
Question S5W-22786: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how much surplus land is owned by (a) central and (b) local government, and how this equates to the capacity for building new homes.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (03/05/2019)
Question S5W-22788: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to make (a) public and (b) private land available for house building in areas where there is a housing shortage but where market conditions act against this.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (03/05/2019)
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Energy Efficiency and Project Management
Date & times: Monday 20th May, 10am to 4pm.
Venue: The Engine Shed, Stirling.
Join Heritage Trust Network for a focussed training day in Stirling including sessions from Moses Jenkins, who will talk on Energy Efficiency and Adaptation and Colin Tennant who will speak on Project Management. Both topics will no doubt feature in your current or upcoming built heritage project, so we strongly recommend attending! The event will take place at Scotland’s Centre for Conservation, The Engine Shed and we are grateful to be hosted by Historic Environment Scotland for the day. Refreshments and lunch will be provided. You are welcome to send as many attendees from your organisation as you wish, including staff, volunteers and trustees.
Public Lecture: The Future of Urban Research in Bangladesh
Date & time: Tuesday 21 May, 14:00-16:00.
Venue: Yudowitz Lecture Theatre, Wolfson Medical Building, University of Glasgow.
In the face of uneven urbanisation, diverse critical urban challenges, and climate vulnerability of cities, Bangladesh must strengthen its urban research so that effective policies and practices can help build sustainable cities. With no national urban research institutes in place, universities are the incubators for crosscutting urban studies. In this public lecture, Professor Mohammad Fayek Uzzaman – Vice Chancellor of Khulna University, will share the potentials of urban research and challenges in creating a supportive research environment in Bangladesh. Professor Shamim Mahabubul Haque and Dr Shilpi Roy will share key findings and innovative research approaches from different collaborative urban research projects at Khulna University, such as the Centre Sustainable, Healthy and Learning Cities and Neighbourhoods.
Archaeological Research in Progress 2019
Date & time: Saturday May 25 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Venue: Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), 22-26 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PQ.
Ticket prices: Student / Unwaged places @ £20. Fellows / Archaeology Scotland Members places @ £30. Non-Fellows / Non-Members places @ £40.
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is managing the event this year (with our partners Archaeology Scotland) and the conference programme includes exciting new research findings and best practice in archaeology covering all periods from across Scotland and beyond. Event sponsored by: Historic Environment Scotland (HES), Forestry & Land Scotland (FLS), AOC Archaeology Group, Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), GUARD Archaeology, Wessex Archaeology, LUC and SUERC.
Roads & Records – The Glasgow Motorway Archive
Date & time: Thursday, 06 June 2019, from 18:00 to 19:00 doors 17:45
Venue: Wee Red Bar, Edinburgh College of Art, 74 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9DF
Talk by Stuart Baird, Chairperson of the Glasgow Motorway History Archive. The Glasgow Motorway Archive is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation of records relating to the planning and construction of the city’s motorways and major roads. Glasgow has more miles of urban motorway than any other UK city, and it has many unique engineering and architectural features. The archive was founded by Stuart Baird, a professionally qualified civil engineer, working within the Scottish highways sector.
RICS Commercial Property Conference
Date & time: 6 June, 10:00am – 04:00pm
Venue: Radisson Blu, 80 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TH
The commercial property market is in transition and joining fellow professionals from across the sector to network, discuss and analyse key issues and opportunities, is as important as ever. The RICS Commercial Property Conference returns to Scotland to cover the latest policy, market and technological changes to help you stay ahead. This year’s programme will bring together agents, occupiers and investors to strengthen your understanding of the current economic outlook, latest occupier trends, growth opportunities, and risks to the commercial property sector.
SNH Landscape Character Assessment Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 13th June 2019, 10.30 – 15.30.
Venue: Battleby Conference Centre.
In February 2019 SNH published a reviewed national Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) in digital format on its website. LCA is the process of identifying and describing variation in character of the landscape. It provides baseline information used in development planning, and in landscape design and development management. A follow-up LCA Workshop is primarily for landscape and planning practitioners. The event aims to explore ways to develop LCA and its usage in the future. Speakers and facilitators will include Professor Carys Swanwick, landscape consultants, and representatives from Landscape Institute Scotland, Scottish Forestry, Forestry & Land Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland, SNH and local authorities. If you would like to attend please reply to LCA_REVIEW@nature.scot by 12 noon on Friday 31st May 2019.
Talks at the Lane present IF_DO on Architecture as a Social Art
Date & time: 14th June 2019 at 6.30pm
Venue: Custom Lane, Leith
Founded in 2014 by Thomas Bryans, Sarah Castle & Al Scott the practice has an interest in the wider repercussions of architecture which provides a catalyst towards creating sustainable and healthy environments in which to live, learn, work and play.
Thomas and his fellow founding Directors all studied at University of Edinburgh and this Talk at the Lane is also part of the Architecture Fringe 2019 programme of events. Thomas will be discussing their ongoing community projects, research and teaching on how design can promote social spaces as a means of addressing social isolation. For more info about the Talks at the Lane.
Icon Scotland Group – Salvage of library, archive and museum collections workshop
Date: 19th June
Venue: The University of St Andrews Library
Fee: £40-£90
Introductory workshop on the procedures for salvaging museum, library and archive collections. This course is suitable for anyone who might be involved in salvaging museum, library and archive collections in an emergency, including non-specialists.
The topics covered include preparing the salvage operation, setting up a triage point, moving damaged items and first-aid treatments for a wide range of materials. For more information about the course times, attendance options, prices and how to book please see the Eventbrite page.
The Planning Convention 2019: The future of planning – what’s next?
Date & time: 19 June, 8:30 to 18:00
Venue: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 7PB
The Planning Convention is the largest event in the planning profession’s calendar. Each year we gather over 400 practitioners, politicians, policy makers, developers and community and environmental professionals to address current industry issues. Delegates have the opportunity to hear from key influencers, network, discuss and find solutions to the most pressing problems facing the profession. We’ll examine the future for the planning profession. Examining good design, reimagining town centres and debating infrastructure, merging tech with practical, seeking solutions to the housing crisis, taking inspiration from successful cities and planning for a diverse society, what is next and where are we going?
RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland
Date & time: THU 27 JUN 2019, 07:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Venue: Radisson Blu , 301 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8DL.
Join fellow property professionals for the RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland – an opportunity to network with professionals in the region. The dinner will provide the ideal setting to entertain clients, socialise with colleagues and generate new business contacts. Ian Fergusson, RICS Chairman for Scotland looks forward to welcoming guest’s to this year’s Annual Dinner. Set to be held at the prestigious Radisson Blu in Glasgow, with return of this highly anticipated black-tie event, also comes your opportunity to meet up with fellow members, friends and business partners old and new. We have an evening of superb food, entertainment and networking lined up, so put the date in your diary and secure your place now to avoid missing out.
Summer Excursion to Biggar Museum and New Lanark
Date & time: Saturday July 6 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Join us for a fascinating tour of this unique 18th century mill village sitting alongside the picturesque River Clyde. Now one of Scotland’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, New Lanark was founded in 1786 by David Dale, who built cotton mills and housing for the mill workers. In partnership with Robert Owen, a Welsh philanthropist and social reformer, New Lanark became a successful business and an early example of a planned settlement and so an important milestone in the historical development of urban planning. Workers enjoyed fair wages, free health care, a new education system and the first workplace nursery school in the world! In addition, Fellows of the Society will also be treated to a morning visit to Biggar and Upper Clydesdale Museum. This museum explores 14,000 years of rural and small town life in Upper Clydesdale. It focuses on the people who lived and worked in the area from prehistoric times up to the mid-20th century and illuminates a small part of their ordinary and extraordinary lives. Tickets cost £40 for Fellows and £45 for guests.
Retrofit 2019; Materials, Strategies, Innovations and Skills for the Future
Date & time: September 10th 2019, 9:20-12:55 (followed by a networking lunch).
Venue: The Lighthouse, Glasgow.
This event will explore technologies, practices, engagement strategies, design, funding opportunities and long term benefits that retrofitting can offer in Scotland and is an opportunity for those involved in the sector to engage with peers to tackle issues and create partnerships, to develop innovative strategies and solutions with other thought leaders while engaging with new potential partners, suppliers and clients.
Confirmed speakers include:
- Robin Webster, President, RIAS
- Dr Lori McElroy, Building Energy, Performance and Research Leader, BRE Scotland
- Dr Niall Kerr, Research Fellow, Energy Policy Effectiveness, University of Edinburgh
- Chris Morgan, Scottish Ecological Design Association
- Dr Mohammed Salah-Eldin Imbabi, Director of the Centre for Innovative Building Materials and Technologies, University of Aberdeen
- Phil Ford, Skills Planning Lead, Skills Development Scotland
Icon Scotland Group – Plenderleith Lecture 2019 – speaker announced, save the date!
Date: Thursday 28th November 2019.
Venue: Lighthouse, Glasgow.
Icon Scotland Group is delighted to announce that this year’s lecturer will be Liz Davidson IHBC, Hon FRIAS, OBE – Senior Project Manager, Mackintosh Building Restoration. This evening event will take place in Glasgow on Thursday 28th November 2019 at the Lighthouse, Glasgow. Booking details to follow on Icon website.
Training
CPD: Traditional Roof Slating (Edinburgh)
Date & time: Wednesday 22 May 2019, 13:00 – 14:00.
Venue: Architecture and Design Scotland, 146 Bakehouse Close, Edinburgh EH8 8DD.
This National Federation of Roofing Contractors CPD touches on many topics relevant to the maintenance and upgrade of tradition Scottish slate roofs. It will be presented by Graeme Miller from Bain & Irvine.
RICS CPD Day Aberdeen
Date & time: 20 June, 08:30am – 05:30pm
Venue: Hilton Hotel Aberdeen Treetops, 161 Springfield Road, Aberdeen, AB15 7AQ
Enhance your capabilities and knowledge around today’s ever-changing market trends, legislation, and technical guidance. Learn from leading industry professionals and take away practical solutions which can be implemented into your daily practice – benefiting both your business and personal professional development. 6 hours formal CPD
Icon Scotland Group 5-Day Practical Gilding Course
Date & time: 9th – 13th September 2019, 10.00 – 16.00.
Venue: Kelvin Hall,1445 Argyle Street, Glasgow
Fee: £350 – £ 550
Back by popular demand and extended to 5 days, this course aims to familiarise participants with the materials, methods and techniques of both water and oil gilding. The course provides opportunities to learn a variety of skills relating to gilding and the use of traditional materials and techniques.
The course is practical and theoretical, making it particularly useful to newly-qualified conservators. It is also suited to anyone with an interest in gilding – beginner, refresher or anyone with related experience. Tutor is Tim Ritson, Head of Paintings and Frames Conservation at the Royal Museums Greenwich. All tools and materials are included in the cost. The course will run from 10 – 4 each day.
Vacancies
Chair Recruitment
Cupar Development Trust is seeking to have a new Chair to take up post from December 2019.
Office Administrator
The Scottish Civic Trust is recruiting an Office Administrator (Maternity Cover).
Closing date for applications: 17 May 2019.
Senior Fundraising Officer
The Senior Fundraising Officer at Arts & Business Scotland will play a key role in developing the Fundraising strategy of Hearts and Minds.
Closing date for applications: Monday 27 May 2019.
Scotland Support Officer
The Architectural Heritage Fund has secured funding from Historic Environment Scotland to increase its capacity to deliver projects in Scotland through employing a new Scotland Support Officer.
Please send these by email only to recruitment@ahfund.org.uk by 5pm on Thursday 30th May.
Edinburgh World Heritage Communications Officer
Edinburgh World Heritage is looking to appoint an ambitious and creative Communications professional to this important role within our team.
Closing date Friday 31st May 2019 at 5pm.
Archaeology Scotland Project Officer
Due to several successful funding applications, Archaeology Scotland is now seeking short-term assistance to assist the delivery of our two community archaeology initiatives Adopt-a-Monument and Attainment through Archaeology.
Closing Date for Applications: Sunday 2nd June at 12 midnight
Managing Editor
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is seeking an experienced and motivated Managing Editor to take overarching responsibility for the management, design, production and marketing of a mix of online and print archaeology and history resources.
Deadline for applications: 11pm on Sunday 9th June
Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
The Scottish Government has confirmed today that Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions target will be net-zero by 2045. This coincides with the publication of the Committee on Climate Change’s report on the UK’s contribution to stopping global warming. What can the built environment sector do to support this and are current strategies (and Bills) sufficiently tailored to meet the target?
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) are asking for your views on their draft Climate Change and Environmental Action Plan (CCEAP) 2019-24. This document sets out how HES aim to address the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change to the organisation and to the wider historic environment. It also outlines how they will continue to support Scottish Government to meet its ambitious carbon reduction targets.
Scotland’s Landscape Alliance was formally launched last week by the Landscape Institute Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland. The Alliance is a great opportunity for a range of organisations to collaborate to maximise the public benefits from Scotland’s landscape and places whether economic, social, cultural or environmental. BEFS welcomes the initiative and will be participating in a number of the alliance’s working groups, including on landscape for healthy communities and landscape, land use and economy.
Given that there are over 17,000 volunteers in the built environment sector, the Scottish Government’s newly published national outcomes framework for volunteering may be of interest.
Edinburgh Traditional Building Forum will be delivering a Traditional Building Skills and Materials Event on 13 and 14 May in the quadrangle outside Edinburgh City Chambers, which members of the public are welcome to attend. The Forum are delivering a Homeowners Property Repair Event on 13 May to help identify and undertake repairs to your homes. They will also be holding a Traditional Building Skills Demonstration at the Scottish Parliament on 28 and 29 May and again at the Royal Highland Show in June. Don’t miss the opportunity to try your hand at some traditional building practices!
The full programme for the Architecture Fringe 2019 launches tomorrow (Friday 3 May). With almost 100 projects, events, exhibitions, talks, lectures and a summer school taking place across Scotland, this fourth edition of the #ArchiFringe will be the biggest yet.
The Arts Council have published a new toolkit for making the case for art and culture. You can also find our advocacy toolkit for the built environment here, alongside a fundraising toolkit and a range of historic environment best practice case studies from across Scotland.
In our blog this week, Jeff Saunders, Dig It Project Manager with Society of Antiquaries, tells us about the process of bringing Archaeology and Minecraft together, following their recent inspiring Edinburgh Science Festival event.
Former BEFS Chair, Graeme Purves, has published a think piece on Strategic Development in Scotland with the UK2070 Commission, which are currently working on a framework to address spatial inequalities across the United Kingdom. Read more about it here.
Finally, check out the fantastic number of events taking place this month below or in our calendar.
Consultations
Consultation on Environmental Principles and Governance in Scotland
Closes 11 May 2019.
Climate Change and Environmental Action Plan 2019-24
This HES consultation will close at 12pm on Wednesday 19 June.
Strengthening Fire Safety for High Rise Domestic Buildings
Opened 24 Apr 2019 and closes 17 Jul 2019.
Short-Term Lets: Consultation
Opened 28 Apr 2019 and closes 19 Jul 2019.
Easy access to listed buildings in Wales
Opened 25 April 2019 and closes 19 July 2019.
Publications
Net Zero – The UK’s contribution to stopping global warming (CCC 02/05/19)
Net-zero and the climate emergency (SPICe Briefing 02/05/19)
Short Scottish Secure Tenancy for homeowners: guidance for social landlords (SG 01/05/19)
Impact of the European Union in Scotland: examples (SG 30/04/19)
Interim Guidance on the Principles of Listed Building Consent (HES 25/04/19)
Rescue and Reuse: Communities, Heritage and Architecture (RIBA Publications)
Volunteering for All: national framework (SG 25/04/19)
Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey: 2018 (SG 24/04/19)
Resourcing the Planning System: Key Trends and Findings 2019 (RTPI Scotland 23/04/19)
Planning (Scotland) Bill – Stage 3 RTPI Scotland briefing (RTPI Scotland 23/04/19)
Energy Efficient Scotland programme: analysis of delivery mechanism (SG 19/04/19)
Historic Environment Circular –Updated (HES 04/04/19)
Heritage and Wellbeing: State of the Evidence (What Works Wellbeing 03/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
Climate Change action (SG 02/05/19)
Scotland will stop contributing to climate change within a generation under new, tougher climate change proposals.
Help for affordable homes (SG 30/04/19)
An additional £80 million over the next two years will help councils deliver affordable homes across Scotland.
More homes for rent (SG 29/04/19)
People renting will have more choice in where they live and greater security over their home through a £30 million investment from the Building Scotland Fund.
Building a fairer housing market (SG 28/04/19)
Ensuring the housing market is fairer and delivers more people the homes they want is at the heart of a package announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today.
Volunteering for al (SG 25/04/19)
The Volunteering Outcomes Framework aims to reduce barriers to volunteering for people from all sections of the community, regardless of their background.
Decrease in derelict and urban vacant land (SG 24/04/19)
The total amount of derelict and urban vacant land in Scotland has decreased by 716 hectares (6%) in the latest year, from 11,753 hectares in 2017 to 11,037 hectares in 2018.
News Releases
Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions ‘to be net-zero by 2045’ (BBC 02/05/19)
The Scottish government will legislate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2045 after receiving fresh advice from an expert panel.
Extra £80m funding to help councils deliver affordable homes (SHN 30/04/19)
The Scottish Government has made an additional £80 million available over the next two years to help councils deliver affordable homes.
Abbeys, alleys and augmented realities; Scotland’s urban past comes to life (HES 29/04/19)
Celebrating five years of community heritage projects, Past Forward – Stories of Urban Scotland takes you on a journey around the nation, discovering some of the best kept secrets in our towns and cities, as well as some familiar sites seen through fresh eyes.
Scottish housing project triumphs at national planning awards (SHN 25/04/19)
A housing-led regeneration of one of the largest brownfield sites in Scotland is among three Scottish planning projects to have won at the prestigious national awards ceremony of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
Dundee V&A short listed for Museum of the Year (Herald 25/04/19)
Dundee’s new V&A museum is in the running for the title of Museum of the Year.
Orkney hosts international workshop on climate change threat to World Heritage sites (HES 24/04/19)
A major international workshop is taking place on Orkney to set a benchmark for understanding the impact of climate change on World Heritage sites.
MSPs urged to drop Planning Bill’s extra duties (RTPI Scotland 23/04/19)
RTPI Scotland is warning MSPs that the Planning (Scotland) Bill may be unworkable as it stands, ahead of the Bill’s stage 3 debate, given the number of unfunded additional duties it currently contains.
Architecture Fringe set to take over The Lighthouse with 2019 programme (SCN 23/04/19)
The production team of the Architecture Fringe will take over The Lighthouse in central Glasgow for the whole of June as part of its 2019 programme.
Study aims to stamp out fire risk to historic buildings (SCN 23/04/19)
A fire-safety expert is to lead the first comprehensive study into the risk historic buildings face from fire with the hope of saving more of Scotland’s heritage from being lost.
Joint drive to tackle heritage crime in Scotland (HES 18/04/19)
New group launched to combat heritage crimes in Scotland.
Conservation news (SGLH 18/04/19)
the early months of the New Year have seen the culmination of several long-running conservation cases for Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage.
Robbed of Our History: Heritage Crime (HES 18/04/19)
We are fascinated with historic wrong-doings – but modern crimes committed against heritage aren’t making it into the history books. From Stirling to Scapa Flow, we uncover recent examples of heritage crime in Scotland.
Businesses Benefit from Listed Buildings (HE 2/04/19)
Business owners and operators based in listed buildings say they benefit from their historic premises.
Opinion & Comment
Opening site doors can open young minds (Brian McQuade for Scottish Construction Now 30/04/19)
Cities are louder than ever – and it’s the poor who suffer most (Guardian 25/04/19)
The opportunities offered by brownfield land (Fraser Lynse for Scottish Construction Now 23/04/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-22769: Michelle Ballantyne, South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 24/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that construction companies adhere to the established mortar standards in all new-builds.
Question S5W-22782: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to support house building and associated infrastructure.
Question S5W-22783: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many (a) affordable homes and (b) homes for social rent have been completed in each local authority area in each year since 2007, also broken down by how many have been (i) future-proofed to meet the needs of older people and an ageing population and (ii) adapted or built specifically to meet the accessibility requirements of disabled people, including wheelchair users.
Question S5W-22785: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many hectares of brownfield land are available for house building, and how this equates to the capacity for building new homes.
Question S5W-22786: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how much surplus land is owned by (a) central and (b) local government, and how this equates to the capacity for building new homes.
Question S5W-22788: Richard Lyle, Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to make (a) public and (b) private land available for house building in areas where there is a housing shortage but where market conditions act against this.
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Conservation 101 webinar
Date & time: Friday 3 May 2019, 9.30am – 12.15pm
Sign up to our free webinar, Conservation 101.
Hear from Historic Environment Scotland experts as they take you through the building blocks of conservation. Learn about the ethics and philosophy of building conservation, decay mechanisms and buildings defects, and the listing process. These sessions are run in conjunction with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This event is free. Booking is essential.
Tour of National Wallace Monument, Stirling
Date & time: Wednesday, 08 May 2019 at 6:00PM – 8:00PM
Venue: National Wallace Monument Visitor Centre, Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Stirling FK9 5LF
The Monument has recently had extensive external refurbishment and internal transformation for its reopening this spring. New interactive exhibitions on William Wallace, the Wars of Independence and in the Hall of Heroes provide a draw for visitors. This tour includes a briefing on the history and development of the monument and its surrounding site, discussing the challenges of managing a listed building as a popular tourist attraction, and a visit to, and climb of, the monument itself to view the new exhibitions. Assemble in the Visitor Reception Centre at the car park where refreshments will be available from 6pm.
Women in Scottish Archaeology | Wikipedia Edit-a-thon
Date & time: Thu, 9 May 2019, 10:00 – 16:00
Venue: Central Library, 7-9 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EG.
Did you know that just 18% of biographies on English Wikipedia are about women? We’re here to change that! Dig It! and Edinburgh Central Library in collaboration with Wikimedia UK are calling on YOU to add to and improve the world’s collective knowledge about women in Scottish archaeology. Spend the day learning how to become an editor of the world’s largest online encyclopedia and get to grips with a variety of amazing resources from Edinburgh Central Library. Learn about the lives and work of the women we’ve identified, or bring along your own knowledge about the women who have inspired you. You will actively help to build a global audience for Scotland’s rich culture and heritage, and bring forgotten stories to light.
People Powered Planning: Putting Communities on the Front Foot
Date & times: Saturday 11th May 2019 10 – 4.30pm
Venue: Trades Hall, Central Glasgow G1 1UH.
We know there are many people in Scotland who feel baffled, alienated and disenfranchised by the planning system. Others have gained some understanding, learnt to navigate and decode the systems and others have taken ownership and grabbed what opportunities there are to shape their local environments and fulfill community aspirations. We hope that this conference will link people up, provide some information about where to go for help and give some handy tips on how to successfully engage in planning. Importantly we also hope the conference will help to create a sense of a movement of people who are willing to campaign for change to make the planning system more responsive to people who want the best for their local areas.
Edinburgh Traditional Building Skills – Homeowners Property Repair Event Event
Date & time: May 13, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Venue: Edinburgh City Chambers, 253 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1YJ.
Edinburgh Traditional Building Forum will deliver a homeowners’ event on 13 May to help them identify and undertake repairs to their homes. The event will also highlight how to keep your home in a good state of repair with timely repairs which will ultimately save homeowners money if done correctly. Keeping your home in a good state of repair is the first step to making a home energy efficient. There will be experts from across the industry and public bodies giving homeowners impartial advice on how to start repairs and correct maintenance of their building. There will also be expert advice on overcoming issues of shared repairs and how City of Edinburgh Council can help homeowners experiencing these issues.
Edinburgh Traditional Building Skills Demonstration
Date & time: 13th – 14th May, 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Quadrangle outside Edinburgh City Chambers
Those attending will be very welcome discuss the route into the industry for local apprentices at Edinburgh College who will be giving mini-masterclasses to local school pupils. We will have four trades being demonstrated by apprentices are working with Developing the Young Workforce, Edinburgh, Midlothian & East Lothian Regional Group, to bring school children to try the skills on display. This event is part of larger Construction Scotland’s Inspiring Construction programme where we promote the vast array of careers available in the construction industry to school pupils to help them make their career choices.
wHY Landscape – Mark Thomann on Ross Pavilion & Recent Works
Date & time: 14th May 2019 at 6.30pm
Venue: Custom Lane, Leith
wHY is an interdisciplinary design practice dedicated to serving the arts, communities, culture and the environment. wHY are the lead for the team that won the competition to redevelop the Ross Pavilion in West Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh known as the Quaich Project. The project aims to bring people together, generating new connections both locally and internationally. Mark Thomann (landscape director at wHY) will present an intimate look at wHY’s Ross Pavilion & Gardens, the firm’s first project in Europe. Mark will also touch upon other recent works by the firm, and lessons learned from a career in landscape design. For more info about the Talks at the Lane.
Play, Social Justice and Urban Space – Perspectives from India and Scotland
Date & time: Sat, 18 May 2019, 09:30.
Venue: Bellfield, 16B Bellfield Street, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 2BP.
Play, Social Justice and Urban Space is an exciting international event exploring children’s use of space. How do children navigate their local environments? How do they claim space, making child-friendly environments in contested urban space? What role do adults have? The programme includes a rich mix of speakers from Scotland and India, music, art and dialogue. Light refreshments.
Glasgow’s Atlantic World: Tobacco, Sugar and Slavery
Date & time: Wed May 22nd, 6pm
Venue: 54 Bell Street, Glasgow
Glasgow’s historic transatlantic trade routes and history are present not only in the streets of Glasgow but also in the people, places and heritage of the Caribbean islands and the Americas up to today. Dr Stephen Mullen will explore the history of Glasgow’s links to the Americas and the Caribbean, before Councillor Graham Campbell tells us more in detail about Glasgow’s links to Jamaica, and why Jamaica is the Caribbean’s most Scottish island. £6
Archaeological Research in Progress day conference
Date & time: Saturday 25 May 2019 (9am – 5pm)
Venue: Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), 22-26 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PQ
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is managing the event this year (with our partners Archaeology Scotland) and the conference programme includes exciting new research findings and best practice in archaeology covering all periods from across Scotland and beyond. Event sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland, Forestry & Land Scotland, AOC Archaeology Group, Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, Guard Archaeology, Wessex Archaeology, LUC and SUERC.
Traditional Building Skills Demonstration at the Scottish Parliament
Date & time: MAY 28 AT 10:00 AM – MAY 29 AT 3:00 PM
Location: Scottish Parliament
Scottish Traditional Building Forum will be delivering a Traditional Building Skills and Materials Event on 28 and 29 May outside the Scottish Parliament which members of the public are welcome to attend. Working with various Developing Young Workforce teams, we have organised for school pupils from Glasgow, Falkirk, Fife and Edinburgh will receive a mini-masterclass in roof slating, stonemasonry, plastering and painting & decorating. The demonstrations will be delivered by Dundee & Angus College, Edinburgh College, City of Glasgow College and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors.
Heads of Planning Scotland Conference
Dates: Thursday the 6th and Friday the 7th of June.
Venue: South Hall Complex, Pollock Halls, 18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh, EH16 5AR
The Heads of Planning Scotland (HOPS) Conference will be held this year at the University of Edinburgh, Pollock Halls on Thursday the 6th and Friday the 7th of June. This year the theme of the Conference is Collaboration in Planning.
Talks at the Lane present IF_DO on Architecture as a Social Art
Date & time: 14th June 2019 at 6.30pm
Venue: Custom Lane, Leith
Founded in 2014 by Thomas Bryans, Sarah Castle & Al Scott the practice has an interest in the wider repercussions of architecture which provides a catalyst towards creating sustainable and healthy environments in which to live, learn, work and play.
Thomas and his fellow founding Directors all studied at University of Edinburgh and this Talk at the Lane is also part of the Architecture Fringe 2019 programme of events. Thomas will be discussing their ongoing community projects, research and teaching on how design can promote social spaces as a means of addressing social isolation. For more info about the Talks at the Lane.
Monuments in Monuments 2019
Date & times: Wednesday 2 – Friday 4 September 2019, 10am – 4pm
Venue: The Engine Shed
Full ticket: £300. Day tickets: £120
This conference explores the conservation challenges facing carved stones and objects inside historic buildings. Hear from specialists from all over the world about how traditional skills, emerging technology and conservation science are helping to overcome these challenges. Full conference or individual day tickets are available. Student rates are available.
Training
CPD: Damp in Traditional Buildings
Date & time: Wed May 8th, 12:30-1:30pm
Venue: 54 Bell St., Glasgow
When buildings become damp, either from external water ingress or from internal humidity and condensation, their materials decay faster and their occupants can be exposed to health hazards. Georgina Allison, conservation architect and lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, will remind us how traditional buildings are designed to deal with damp, and what conservation issues and solutions damp buildings may present. All GCHT CPD sessions are recognised by the IHBC, and attendees can obtain a CPD certificate upon completion. £10 per person /£5 for students, including light lunch.
Heritage Trust Network Scotland, Members’ Skills Training Event
Date & times: Monday 20th May, 10am to 4pm
Venue: The Engine Shed, Stirling
HTN are pleased to confirm that we have two highly regarded speakers lined up for our focussed training day including Moses Jenkins, who will talk on Energy Efficiency and Adaptation and Colin Tennant who will speak on Project Management. Both topics will no doubt feature in your current or upcoming heritage project, so we strongly recommend attending! The event will take place at Scotland’s Centre for Conservation, The Engine Shed in Stirling and we are grateful to be hosted by Historic Environment Scotland for the day. Refreshments and lunch will be provided. Book your places now! Please email Sarah on sarahpearce@heritagetrustnetwork.org.uk to confirm your attendance.
Repair and Maintenance of Masonry Arch Bridges
Date & time: 24 May 2019, 09.30 – 16.30.
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife.
Cost: £190 + vat …… Remember if you are a BLF, IHBC, RICS or RIAS member you are eligible for 20% discount on this seminar. Please just give us a call with your member number.
This one day masterclass looks at all aspects of masonry arch bridge construction and the materials utilized to determine the most appropriate repair schemes. It is suitable for building professionals, contractors, engineers and others involved in heritage work.
Conservation Summer School 2019
Dates: Monday 2 – Friday 7 June 2019
Venue: The Engine Shed, Stirling
Week ticket: £450. Day tickets: £100
Registration for our Conservation Summer School is now open. Learn about the latest techniques from top conservation experts, get hands-on with traditional skills and materials, and see conservation in action on site visits. We have flexible registration options, whether you want to book the full 5-day course, or individual days which are more relevant to your needs. Applications for student bursaries are open until Friday 10 May. Week and day tickets are also available.
Traditional Roofing Practical Workshop
Date & time: Monday, June 3rd, 6pm
Venue: Cathedral Square, Glasgow
Repairing and maintaining traditional roofs are key aspects of conserving the built environment. Join us for an early-evening practical session at Glasgow Cathedral, getting hands-on with the materials and techniques of slate and lead roofing. This event is aimed at professionals who would like to increase their technical skill and understanding, although enthusiasts are also very welcome.
Further information: stephanie@glasgowheritage.org.uk
CPD: Conserving Interwar Shopfronts
Date & time: Wed June 5th, 12:30-1:30pm
Venue: 54 Bell Street, Glasgow.
The shopfronts and signs of the 1920s and 30s are characterised by materials such as Vitrolite, bronze, faience, and terracotta, which present their own considerations and challenges as they age. Dr. Lindsay Lennie, one of Scotland’s foremost authorities on historic shopfronts, gives a specialised talk on the materials and methods of this brief but significant time period, and discusses conservation solutions to conserving interwar shopfronts. All GCHT CPD sessions are recognised by the IHBC, and attendees can obtain a CPD certificate upon completion. £15 per person, £10 students, including a light lunch.
Reinforced Concrete Masterclass – New for Summer 2019!
Date & time: 28 June 2019, 09.30 – 16.00
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife
Cost: £190 + vat …… Remember if you are a BLF, IHBC, RICS or RIAS member you are eligible for 20% discount on this seminar.
Come and join us to explore the fascinating world of reinforced concrete (yes, really really!) – learn what can be achieved with it, its constituents, its decay mechanisms and how it can be successfully repaired with a variety of methods and materials. Not all reinforced concrete buildings are carbuncles …CONCRETE can be COUTHIE! If we are listing more and more buildings and structures from the 20th Century, many of which will be of reinforced concrete construction, then we need to know how to fix them and prolong their lives. We have a huge variety of structures and buildings of reinforced concrete construction across the country. Research and analysis of these buildings has helped inform their appropriate repair, but there are many challenges ahead. Join us and learn from our gathered experts in this field for what should be a very informative and enjoyable day.
Vacancies
Building Craft Programme Coordinator
24k-26k, The Prince’s Foundation, Dumfries House, East Ayrshire
The Prince’s Foundation are on the lookout for a Programme Coordinator to manage and assist with their building craft training programmes. This role will support the next generation of master craftspeople, and ensure that the valuable skills required to conserve our historic built environment are kept alive. Download the Job Description here. Find out more here.
Deadline 20th May, 12.00pm
Vacancies at A&DS
Architecture and Design Scotland is looking for 4 people to join our team. If you would like to help deliver good architecture and successful places, collaborate with others and promote the value of good design, then we’d love to hear from you.
• Principal Design Officer (B3)
• Senior Design Officers (B2)
• Design Officers (B1)
Closing date: Midnight Monday 6 May 2019.
Development & Membership Manager
Are you passionate about the Heritage Sector? Do you want to work at the heart of heritage, shaping the future of The Heritage Alliance? The Heritage Alliance is the heritage sector’s umbrella organisation and advocacy body and we are seeking an outstanding person to take up the key role of Development and Membership Manager. The successful candidate will join the Alliance’s small, busy team based in offices in Southwark, just behind the Tate Modern.
The closing date for applications is 5th May 2019 with interviews expected a week later.
Appointment of Chair of Trustees
Edinburgh World Heritage is seeking an individual with drive and enthusiasm to replace Dr Brian Lang CBE, FRSE, in chairing its energetic and professional Board of Trustees, working with them and the Director to take the organisation forward during a time of change.
Closing date: by 5pm on Monday 27th May 2019.
Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
Historic Environment Scotland has published its new Historic Environment Policy for Scotland (HEPS) to help guide and inform decision-makers such as local authorities and asset owners. This policy has been in development for a number of years, with public and sector wide engagement. BEFS Policy & Advocacy Lead, Ailsa Macfarlane, provides a summary of the new policy and accompanying documents here.
We welcome the training that Historic Environment Scotland are already making available before the new policy is due to be formally adopted on the 1st May 2019. HEPS was launched in conjunction with HES’ new Corporate Plan 2019 Onwards: Heritage for All.
In anticipation of the publication of the revised Historic Environment Policy for Scotland, BEFS decided to undertake an analysis of how existing historic environment policies are utilised within the planning system. Read the analysis here.
BEFS responded to the Scottish Government’s ‘Scotland’s Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-2024’ Consultation. This response was brief and related to the important role and place of the historic environment within the Programme – including within high-level outcomes, as well as how the qualities of buildings within the historic environment were described within the consultation.
If you are involved with heritage in your local community in any way then this is for you! Join the Scottish Community Heritage Alliance (SCHA) for a discussion day about Scottish Community Heritage. The University of St Andrews, the National Library of Scotland and Ergadia Heritage have teamed together to organise a series of 12 community heritage research workshops around Scotland, funded by the Royal Society of Edinburgh. They will be talking about networks, sharing ideas about how a new national network might look, and what it could do for community heritage.
Peter Burman is stepping down as Vice-Chair of BEFS Board. Peter will continue in his capacity as a Trustee and Chair of the Historic Environment Working Group (HEWG) and we thank him for his expertise and support of the team. We hope that the time freed up will allow Peter to fully enjoy his forthcoming wedding. We would like to welcome our new Vice-Chair of the Board, longstanding BEFS Trustee, Ian Baxter.
We are delighted to promote such a fantastic array of events, CPD and training opportunities, and vacancies from across the built environment sector again this week. Do check out the sections below for details!
Consultations
Consultation on adding new categories to the definition of a House in Multiple Occupation
This consultation proposes adding new categories to the definition of HMO.
Opened 18 Apr 2019 and closes 8 Jul 2019.
DCMS Committee seeks evidence on the contribution of gardens to UK’s economy and tourism
The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee is launching a short inquiry to explore how gardens contribute to UK tourism, the economy and to our national heritage.
The deadline for submitting evidence is Tuesday 7th May at 5pm.
Local Government Committee investigates empty homes
The Local Government & Communities Committee has launched an inquiry into empty homes and how they can be brought back into use.
The call for written views will close on Friday 17 May.
MSPs call for evidence on business rates reform
The Local Government & Communities Committee has asked for written views on the Non-Domestic Rates Bill introduced on Monday 25 March.
The call for evidence closes on Thursday 30 May.
Community Engagement Baseline Survey for Owners and Managers of Land
The Scottish Land Commission is working with communities and with people who own and manage land to make sure that all people in Scotland have the opportunity to be involved in decisions about land that significantly affect them.
The survey will be open for responses until the end of May 2019.
New-Build Homes (Buyer Protection) (Scotland) Bill
Graham Simpson has lodged a proposal for a New-Build Homes (Buyer Protection) (Scotland) Bill, intended to establish standard missives for the sale of new-build homes, including redress for purchasers in respect of defects in construction.
The deadline to respond to the consultation is Thursday 27 June.
Publications
Brexit uncertainties masking longer term challenges to the Scottish economy (FAI 17/04/19)
Simplified planning zone housing pilots: update April 2019 (SG 16/04/19)
Social Tenants in Scotland, 2017 (SG 16/04/19)
Planning (Scotland) Bill: Revised Explanatory Notes (SG 15/04/19)
Community ownership: case studies (SG 08/04/19)
Historic Environment Policy for Scotland (HES 04/04/19)
Historic Environment Scotland Corporate Plan 2019 Onwards (HES 04/04/19)
The future of seaside towns (HoL 04/04/19)
News Releases
Notre Dame Tragedy: a personal loss for every European (EN 16/04/19)
Europa Nostra, the Voice of cultural heritage in Europe, wishes to express its deepest sympathy and immense sadness following yesterday’s fire that devastated Notre Dame of Paris.
Capital’s concrete concert hall plans backed before crunch hearing (Scotsman 16/04/19)
Proposals to build the first new concert hall in Edinburgh for more than 100 years have been backed by planners ahead of a crunch hearing.
Calls for new property tax to boost Scottish council funds (Scotsman 15/04/19)
A new system of property tax and environmental charges should be introduced to boost Scottish council funding, according to a report.
Scotland from the Sky returns for a second series (HES 15/04/19)
Three-part BBC1 Scotland series reveals Scotland’s hidden ancient past through aerial photography held in the Historic Environment Scotland (HES) archives.
IHBC’s newest Context out: – Featuring Scotland’s ‘Highlands and Islands’ (IHBC 12/04/19)
The latest issue of IHBC’s membership journal Context is now out, themed around practice issues relating to conservation in Scotland’s ‘Highlands and Islands’, including the challenges and achievements of working in diverse rural areas.
Scottish Land Fund grants more than £500,000 for community ownership projects (SHN 11/04/19)
A Highlands residents association is one of four community groups to receive financial support from the Scottish Land Fund to transfer ownership of local projects to the hands of local people.
Brexit impasse continues to challenge the market (RICS 11/04/19)
The housing market remained subdued in March, a picture that has been evident in the sales market for several months now, according to our latest UK Residential Market Survey.
New House of Commons Library Note on VAT and Churches: from reforms to grants (IHBC 09/04/19)
The House of Commons Library has issued a new Briefing Note that examines how construction work for churches is treated for VAT in the UK; proposals for reform in this area, and the changes made in Budget 2012, removing the zero rate of VAT which had applied to alteration work on listed buildings, while also giving details of the current grant scheme for church repairs.
Over £4 million investment for Scotland’s historic heartlands (HES 05/04/19)
A £4.4 million funding boost for regeneration projects in Scotland’s historic heartlands was announced today by Historic Environment Scotland.
New Learning Section (Engine Shed)
We have been making improvements to our website and have recently launched our brand new Learning Section. Take a look and explore the Engine Shed’s learning offering. Whether you are looking for formal learning opportunities, some Continuing Professional Development (CPD), or summer courses, we have something to suit all styles and levels of learning. Please get in touch if you have any feedback for us at technicaleducation@hes.scot.
Opinion & Comment
Why is Britain so bad at planning cities? (David Rudlin in the Guardian 11/04/19)
We Recycle Bottles. Why Don’t We Recycle Buildings? (SOM 03/2019)
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-20978: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 14/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for local authorities to be able to use a portion of the town centres fund for reducing non-domestic rates.
Answered by Derek Mackay (23/01/2019)
Question S5W-20977: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 14/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government when it will publish details of its proposed town centres fund, and what its position is on the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for business improvement districts and other organisations to be eligible to bid for funding.
Answered by Derek Mackay (29/01/2019)
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Rhind Lectures 2019, Hadrian’s Wall: A Study in Archaeological Exploration and Interpretation
Date & time: 6pm Friday 10th May @ 6:00 pm until 4pm Sunday 12th May
Venue: auditorium, National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, EH9 3EL
The six lectures will be given over the course of a weekend by Professor David Breeze OBE, BA, PhD, Hon DLitt, FSA, Hon FSA Scot, FRSE, Hon CIfA. Hadrian’s Wall was written about even when it was still in use as a frontier. Interest continued through the next 1000 years, but it was the spirit of enquiry generated by the Renaissance which led to more focussed study. Once archaeological excavations started, the pace quickened. Now we have an enormous data base even though only about 5% of the Wall has been examined. The 2019 Rhind Lectures are organised by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and are sponsored by AOC Archaeology Group.
People Powered Planning: Putting Communities on the Front Foot
Date & times: Saturday 11th May 2019 10 – 4.30pm
Venue: Trades Hall, Central Glasgow G1 1UH.
We know there are many people in Scotland who feel baffled, alienated and disenfranchised by the planning system. Others have gained some understanding, learnt to navigate and decode the systems and others have taken ownership and grabbed what opportunities there are to shape their local environments and fulfill community aspirations. We hope that this conference will link people up, provide some information about where to go for help and give some handy tips on how to successfully engage in planning. Importantly we also hope the conference will help to create a sense of a movement of people who are willing to campaign for change to make the planning system more responsive to people who want the best for their local areas.
RICS Rural Mid-Session Conference
Date & time: 16 May 2019, 9:00-16:45
Venue: SNH Battleby , Redgorton, Perth, PH1 3EW.
This conference will equip you with the right knowledge to leverage current opportunities for growth and resilience in the sector, so you can be better prepared to mitigate any risks to your business. Covering vital sessions such as environmental risks and global valuation, private water supplies and unlocking the potential of water, this conference will bring together rural professionals from across the region to discuss challenges and share industry expertise specific to Scotland. Further sessions will take a closer look at best practice when it comes to the valuation of rural properties, agriculture rent review process, the Scottish Beaver Migration Scheme and resulting environment implications.
Play, Social Justice and Urban Space – Perspectives from India and Scotland
Date & time: Sat, 18 May 2019, 09:30.
Venue: Bellfield, 16B Bellfield Street, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 2BP.
Play, Social Justice and Urban Space is an exciting international event exploring children’s use of space. How do children navigate their local environments? How do they claim space, making child-friendly environments in contested urban space? What role do adults have? The programme includes a rich mix of speakers from Scotland and India, music, art and dialogue. Light refreshments.
Scotland’s Housing: More than Just Numbers
Date & Time: Wed, 22 May 2019, 09:30 – 16:45.
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, 80 High St, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1TH.
Over the last 60 years housing in Scotland has been dominated by a drive for quantity rather than quality. However, in the last 20 years dissatisfaction with the lack of affordable, environmentally benign and future-proofed housing in Scotland has been growing and we are beginning to see some positive signs of change. Inspiration is being taken from many places, including Germany and Switzerland. However, the innovations they illustrate are often perceived as “too difficult” to achieve in Scotland. The event will address this perception – that “it would never work here” – by providing a forum in which to debate the institutions, mechanisms and actors that need to be put in place to overcome the current barriers and to progress with the best possible advice and experience.
Lime Burning on Lismore – Scottish Working Party
Date & time: 23-27 May 2019, 9am-5pm each day
Venue: Park Lime Kilns, Lismore, Oban
SPAB Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland and the Building Limes Forum invite you to the Scottish Working Party 2019 on the beautiful island of Lismore. This popular annual event attracts volunteers ranging from heritage and architectural professionals, to those with an informed amateur interest in buildings and history. Volunteering at the Working Party is a unique opportunity to learn from some of the country’s leading craftspeople in a relaxed setting. On Lismore we will be building a lime kiln, slaking and testing the lime, repairing the B listed kiln, and investigating the archaeology of the island. Deadline for applications is 23 April 2019.
RICS Dilapidations Conference, Scotland
Date & time: 30 May 2019, 08:45-17:00
Venue: The Studio, 67 Hope St, Glasgow, G2 6AE
The conference will provide a comprehensive update and expert guidance on the current and future issues impacting commercial landlords and tenants, building surveyors and valuers. Delivered by leading speakers at the forefront of dilapidations issues, the programme addresses all crucial areas and offers practical guidance to better your day-to-day practice. Bringing together the combined expertise of surveyors, valuers and legal professionals, the event will provide a roundup of recent case law and analyse the impact it will have on your day-to-day practice. The programme will also provide an update on technical issues such as, building services, leases and supersession.
Making more of what we’ve got – repurposing unused and underused spaces
Date & Time: Thu, 6 June 2019, 09:00 – 16:30.
Venue: Hamish Wood Building, Glasgow Caledonian University.
This year’s Central Scotland Green Network Forum conference is presented in partnership with the Scottish Land Commission to explore the theme of repurposing unused and underused sites. Over 9,000 hectares of the CSGN area is classified as vacant and derelict; this accounts for 78% of Scotland’s total. It holds huge potential to help make better places that support health and wellbeing, help boost the economy and mitigate against the challenges of climate change. In addition, we also have large areas of land associated with housing, business and transport which have little or no function. By rejuvenating these areas communities stand to benefit from increased engagement and empowerment, tackling social inequalities while increasing local pride and ownership.
Bright Sparks: Shining a Light on Museum Learning
Date & Time: Mon, 17 June 2019, 09:30 – 16:30.
Venue: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ.
Does your work with schools need some stimulation? Are you looking to re-invigorate your learning programmes or develop your learning practice? Do you want to know more about the Curriculum for Excellence? Perhaps you’re just interested in exploring new ways of working strategically and operationally in formal learning…Our Bright Sparks one-day learning symposium will be filled with inspiration from industry leaders on topics such as policy, practical methods for dialogue with schools, STEM, how to build a learning programme, innovative models for learning, and work-based learning.
RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland
Date & time: THU 27 JUN 2019, 07:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Venue: Radisson Blu , 301 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8DL.
Join fellow property professionals for the RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland – an opportunity to network with professionals in the region. The dinner will provide the ideal setting to entertain clients, socialise with colleagues and generate new business contacts. Ian Fergusson, RICS Chairman for Scotland looks forward to welcoming guest’s to this year’s Annual Dinner. Set to be held at the prestigious Radisson Blu in Glasgow, with return of this highly anticipated black-tie event, also comes your opportunity to meet up with fellow members, friends and business partners old and new. We have an evening of superb food, entertainment and networking lined up, so put the date in your diary and secure your place now to avoid missing out.
Scottish Living History Festival – Save the Date!
Date: Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September.
Location: Callendar House, Falkirk.
As part of our 75th anniversary celebrations Archaeology Scotland are planning a special weekend family orientated free event for all – the Scottish Living History Festival will launch this year’s Scottish Archaeology Month. Two full days of interactive hands-on activities, digital experiences (such as recreating archaeological sites in Minecraft) locally sourced high quality food vendors, period musicians, engaging talks from experts, popular talks linking archaeology to Game of Thrones, Outlander and Outlaw King, ancient craft workshops, re-enactment groups including the Antonine Guard and guided walks will all be on offer. There will be displays of skills in leather working, jewellery making, kilt making, metal working and promotion of artisans and craftspeople as well as many hands-on activities for children (simulated excavations, finds sorting, ancient writing, exploring artefact investigation kits, archaeological detective work, archery, marching with Roman soldiers and life as a Viking). We also plan to recreate a Roman milestone where young people can try out stone carving under expert supervision. More details on the website in due course.
Monument in Monuments – Conference
Dates: Monday 2 – Wednesday 4 September 2019
Venue: Engine Shed, Stirling
Cost: Early bird ticket: £125-250 (until Friday 19 April). Full Conference: £300. Day ticket: £60-120.
Our inaugural conference, Monuments in Monuments 2019, brings together conservation practitioners, students and professionals to investigate the challenges facing monument conservation. From Monday 2 – Wednesday 4 September 2019, hear from specialists and experts from around the globe, and explore how traditional skills, emerging technology and conservation science are helping to overcome these challenges. For more information and registration options, visit our website. Our early bird ticket discounts end on Friday 19 April. Student tickets are also available.
Training
CPD: Conserving Concrete
Date & time: Weds. 24th April 2019 | 12:30-1:30pm.
Venue: 54 Bell Street. Glasgow.
As the architectural heritage of the first half of the 20th century continues to age, an understanding of its more modern materials and methods is crucial to conserving our interwar and post-war buildings. Peter Drummond, FRIAS RIBA and director of Peter Drummond Architects, will present a session on conservation and repair approaches to architectural and decorative concrete. £10 per person / £5 for students, including light lunch.
Conservation 101
Date & time: Friday 3 May 2019, 9.30am – 12.15pm.
Venue: Engine Shed, Stirling
This course is the first in a series of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events which will be held quarterly in Stirling in partnership with RIAS and RICS. Hear from Historic Environment Scotland’s experts covering a wide range of topics in conservation. For further programme information and to register check our website. If you can’t attend this event in person, you can also register for our webinar. This event is free. Booking essential.
CPD: Damp in Traditional Buildings
Date & times: Weds. 8th May 2019 | 12:30-1:30pm.
Venue: 54 Bell Street, Glasgow.
When buildings become damp, either from external water ingress or from internal humidity and condensation, their materials decay faster and their occupants can be exposed to health hazards. Georgina Allison, conservation architect and lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, will remind us how traditional buildings are designed to deal with damp, and what conservation issues and solutions damp buildings may present. £10 per person /£5 for students, including light lunch.
Repair and Maintenance of Masonry Arch Bridges
Date & time: 24 May 2019, 09.30 – 16.30.
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife.
Cost: £190 + vat …… Remember if you are a BLF, IHBC, RICS or RIAS member you are eligible for 20% discount on this seminar. Please just give us a call with your member number.
This one day masterclass looks at all aspects of masonry arch bridge construction and the materials utilized to determine the most appropriate repair schemes. It is suitable for building professionals, contractors, engineers and others involved in heritage work.
RICS Commercial Property Conference, Scotland
Date & time: THU 6 JUN 2019, 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM.
Venue: Radisson Blu, 80 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TH.
The commercial property market is in transition and joining fellow professionals from across the sector to network, discuss and analyse key issues and opportunities, is as important as ever. The RICS Commercial Property Conference returns to Scotland to cover the latest policy, market and technological changes to help you stay ahead. This year’s programme will bring together agents, occupiers and investors to strengthen your understanding of the current economic outlook, latest occupier trends, growth opportunities, and risks to the commercial property sector. Whether you are in retail, leisure or office, there will be a session to update you on the current market outlook.
Attend this conference to be at the forefront of what is happening in the industry.
4 hours formal CPD. Link to Programme.
Summer School
Dates: Monday 3 – Friday 7 June 2019
Venue: Engine Shed, Stirling.
Cost: full week £450 or per day £100
Join us for an exciting and varied week of seminars, workshops and day trips in building conservation. This course is the perfect introduction to building conservation, and is a key event in our annual programme. Each day will focus on a different topic. If you cannot commit to a full week, we offer day tickets so you can attend the days that are most relevant to you. For more information about the programme or to book a place, visit the Summer School page on our website.
RICS CPD Day, Aberdeen 2019
Date & time: THU 20 JUN 2019, 08:30 AM – 05:10 PM.
Venue: Hilton Hotel Aberdeen Treetops, 161 Springfield Road, Aberdeen, AB15 7AQ
Enhance your capabilities and knowledge around today’s ever-changing market trends, legislation, and technical guidance. Learn from leading industry professionals and take away practical solutions which can be implemented into your daily practice – benefiting both your business and personal professional development. Everyone has different topics they are interested in, which is why this conference offers a choice of 18 breakout sessions to allow you to tailor the day specifically to your personal CPD needs. Choose from a range of practical breakout sessions, ensuring that the CPD you are set to gain will best meet your needs. 6 hours formal CPD. Link to Programme.
Rock to Roof
Location: Mount Stuart, Bute
Historic Environment Scotland in partnership with the Mount Stuart Trust, have extracted a small quantity of slate block from the historic quarry at Ardmaleish point. SPAB Fellow Richard Jordan, will be delivering a series of workshops and demonstrations in the grounds of Mount Stuart estate on splitting slate block into roofing slate. Scotland has a long history of slate quarrying. Slate from the Isle of Bute was recorded as early as 1445 when 130,000 slates produced from the quarry at Ardmaleish Point were used to repair the roof of the King’s Castle at Dumbarton. By the 1880s, slate production on Bute had all but ceased until the Hilton quarry was temporarily re-opened to provide roofing slate for Wester Kames Castle. It closed soon after in 1920. Event details and booking instructions will follow shortly. For any enquiries, please contact technicaleducation@hes.scot.
Vacancies
The Society is recruiting for a new ScARF Project Officer
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is seeking an exceptional candidate for the post of ScARF Project Officer. The post will help deliver the Society’s role within Aim 2 of Scotland’s Archaeology Strategy. The successful candidate will assist the ScARF Project Manager with the development and updating of the Scottish Archaeological Research Framework. Work will include helping to co-ordinate projects to create and publish new regional research frameworks as well as updating existing frameworks. The role will also build on the success of the recent ScARF Museums project to help encourage and build capacity for research on archaeological collections in museums.
Closing Date: Monday 22nd April 2019.
Planning Vacancies at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority
Do you have skills or experience in Development Management, Design, Built Heritage, or Conservation Architecture? If so, read on! Following recent changes with staff moving to promoted roles, and our planning team set to be as busy as ever with lots of planning applications in the pipeline, we have exciting opportunities to join the award-winning Planning teams at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority. These three roles provide a rare chance to be part of a high performing team within an ambitious organisation delivering significant benefits within Scotland’s first National Park and beyond. Our focus is on getting the right skills and experience for these roles so we are happy to talk flexibly about working hours.
Closing date is: Tuesday 23rd April 2019 @ 12noon.
Advocacy & Communications Officer
Are you passionate about the Heritage Sector? Do you want to work at the heart of heritage, shaping the future of The Heritage Alliance? The Heritage Alliance is the heritage sector’s umbrella organisation and advocacy body and we are seeking an outstanding person to take up the key role of Advocacy and Communications Officer. The successful candidate will join the Alliance’s small, busy team based in offices in Southwark, just behind the Tate Modern.
The closing date for applications is 1st May 2019 with interviews expected a week later.
Development & Membership Manager
Are you passionate about the Heritage Sector? Do you want to work at the heart of heritage, shaping the future of The Heritage Alliance? The Heritage Alliance is the heritage sector’s umbrella organisation and advocacy body and we are seeking an outstanding person to take up the key role of Development and Membership Manager. The successful candidate will join the Alliance’s small, busy team based in offices in Southwark, just behind the Tate Modern.
The closing date for applications is 5th May 2019 with interviews expected a week later.
Vacancies at A&DS
Architecture and Design Scotland is looking for 4 people to join our team. If you would like to help deliver good architecture and successful places, collaborate with others and promote the value of good design, then we’d love to hear from you.
- Principal Design Officer (B3)
- Senior Design Officers (B2)
- Design Officers (B1)
Closing date: Midnight Monday 6 May 2019.
Appointment of Chair of Trustees
Edinburgh World Heritage is seeking an individual with drive and enthusiasm to replace Dr Brian Lang CBE, FRSE, in chairing its energetic and professional Board of Trustees, working with them and the Director to take the organisation forward during a time of change.
Closing date: by 5pm on Monday 27th May 2019.
Commissioner Roles at Historic England
We are currently recruiting three people to join our Commission, the group of experts that make up our governing body. We are seeking candidates with backgrounds in architecture, archaeology and heritage-based tourism. Find out more about these roles and how to apply
Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
Historic Environment Scotland’s new Historic Environment Policy for Scotland and associated policy and guidance will be launched alongside their Corporate Plan tomorrow, Friday, 5th April. You will be able to view all the documents here once the link is live. The new policy has been informed by the What’s Your Heritage? campaign as well as extensive consultation, engagement and conversations with stakeholders working with the historic environment.
The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) and the Landscape Institute Scotland (LIS) are bringing together a range of organisations and individuals interested in the design, management and protection of Scotland’s Landscapes, to form Scotland’s Landscape Alliance (SLA). A launch event to develop the SLA is planned for 25th April 2019. Ahead of this, they are conducting research to gather the views of those with an interest or involvement in landscape in Scotland. The research will inform the work and focus of the SLA by providing potential areas for debate and action by different working groups. Share your views by completing this short online survey.
BEFS Director looks at the implications of two of the recommendations arising from a Parliamentary Committee report on the Glasgow School of Art fire, in our blog this week.
We have a fantastic selection of events and training coming up across the sector so do check out the listings below.
We are delighted to have our Communications and Policy Office, Saskia Smellie, back in the office this week, so if you would like to promote your activities in this bulletin, please do get in touch.
Consultations
Scotland’s Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-2024
Closes 9 Apr 2019.
Statements of Heritage Significance: Historic England advice note
This publication provides advice on ways to satisfy the requirement in the National Planning Policy Framework for applicants for heritage-related consents to provide information on heritage significance to help local planning authorities in making decisions on the impact of proposals for change to heritage assets. This is most easily provided in a statement of heritage significance. Comments are welcomed on this draft Historic England advice note.
This consultation will be open until 10 May 2019
Energy Efficient Scotland: Consultation
This consultation seeks to gather evidence which might support a change to the proposed timeframe to deliver standards for all properties across Scotland.
Opened 26 Mar 2019. Closes 17 Jun 2019.
Energy Efficient Scotland: the future of low carbon heat for off gas buildings – call for evidence
Evidence is being sought on technologies and actions necessary to support the decarbonisation of the heat supply of buildings that currently do not use mains gas as their primary heating fuel.
Deadline for submission of evidence: Tuesday 18 June 2019.
Consultation responses
Delivering improved transparency in land ownership in Scotland: consultation analysis (SG 03/04/19)
Publications
Wheelchair Accessible Housing Target: Guidance Note: MHDGN 201902 (SG 01/04/19)
Climate Challenge Fund: projects funded for 2019-2021 (SG 28/03/19)
Skills Investment Plan for Scotland’s Historic Environment Sector (HES 25/03/19)
The Scottish Heritage Partnership: Immersive Experiences Policy Report (21/03/19)
Heritage and Wellbeing: State of the Evidence (WWW 20/03/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
Improving wheelchair access in housing (29/03/19)
Local authorities will be required to provide wheelchair accessible housing across all tenures and report annually on progress.
Climate Challenge Fund (28/03/19)
Communities across Scotland will benefit from new support to tackle climate change and embrace the transition to a carbon-neutral society. The latest round Climate Challenge Fund for 2019-21 will support 87 projects.
Planning decisions: index (25/03/19)
List of correspondence available relating to current, or recently closed, planning decisions.
Scotland’s natural capital worth £273 billion (22/03/19)
A comprehensive assessment has been carried out for the first time of the monetary value of Scotland’s natural capital. The assessment has discovered that in 2015 the asset value of Scottish natural capital was an estimated £273 billion.
News Releases
Scotland’s historic buildings to receive £7m boost (HES 03/04/19)
The Heritage Impact Fund is available to organisations that wish to deliver economic and social impact through re-use of Scotland’s heritage buildings.
£1 entry to historic sites for Young Scots (HES 01/04/19)
HES will be partnering with Young Scot, along with the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Houses Scotland, to offer the discount to young people who want to explore Scotland’s historic sites.
New deadline for Community Assets (NLF 27/03/19)
Applying for funds to develop a local building or asset? If you are seeking National Lottery Community Assets funding then your last date to make an initial enquiry and start the application process is October 4, 2019. In addition, all projects seeking Community Assets funding must be ready to submit their final application documents and strategic plans by March 31, 2020
Nominate a heritage site for the 7 Most Endangered programme 2020 (EN 27/03/19)
The 7 Most Endangered programme identifies threatened monuments and sites in Europe and mobilises public and private partners – on a local, national and European level – to find a viable future for those sites. You can nominate a heritage site with the support of an organisation in your country that is a member of Europa Nostra or directly by joining our pan-European network of member and associate organisations.
Scotland out-performs rest of UK for 7th year running (HES 27/03/19)
Attractions in Scotland saw the biggest increase in visitors according to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA).
Rural Towns are Scotland’s Life Blood (STP 26/03/19)
Phil Prentice, Scotland’s Towns Partnership Chief Executive, has said that small and rural towns must be a key part of any future economic
Building on regeneration and heritage (SURF 25/03/19)
Scotland’s Regeneration Forum (SURF) and Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) are delighted to announce a new partnership agreement. Both organisations are keen to make even more of their shared interests in linking heritage and creative assets with community regeneration.
Skills Investment Plan for Scotland’s Historic Environment Sector (HES 25/03/19)
An action plan to ensure Scotland has the skills it needs to manage, protect and conserve its historic environment is being launched.
IHBC’s Gus Astley Student Award 2018 winner announced (23/03/19)
The winner of the IHBC Gus Astley Student Award for 2018 has been announced as Estefania Macchi, then on the IHBC-recognised conservation course at Strathclyde University, for her suite of research and design works for the Glasgow’s former St. James Board School Conservation Design Project, including her review paper on ‘Information management as the milestone for present and future practice’,
Applications Open for Doors Open Days Enabling Grant (SCT 18/03/19)
Does your building need a little help in getting ready for Doors Open Days? This year we are inviting applications for the Doors Open Days Enabling Grant. This will enable small scale works that will create access to a building during Doors Open Days.
Call for European Heritage Stories 2019 (EHD 18/03/19)
The Call for European Heritage Stories intends to identify the European Dimension of heritage sites and heritage work undertaken by the communities in Europe. It refers to past or existing “stories” that communities would like to share and potentially develop into a project to further contribute to their communities.
The Hill House: Collaborative Scientific Conservation in Action (HES 18/03/19)
Using cutting edge technology to monitor the condition of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Hill House in Helensburgh, a joint partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland is working to fully understand the extent of water damage to the famous Scottish building.
Opinion & Comment
The Planning Bill Could Break the System (HOPS 28/03/19)
Heritage & Wellbeing: State of the Evidence (WWW 20/03/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-22438: Adam Tomkins, Glasgow, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 01/04/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how it supports the regeneration of vacant and derelict land, and how much it has allocated to each local authority in each of the last five years to deal with this.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 29/04/2019
Question S5W-22377: Rachael Hamilton, Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 26/03/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what funding is available to protect archaeological sites.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 23/04/2019
Question S5W-22338: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 22/03/2019
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S5W-20977 by Derek Mackay on 29 January 2019, what its response is to the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for business improvement districts and other organisations to be eligible to bid for funding from the £50 million Town Centre Fund.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 05/04/2019
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament. Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5O-03041: Monica Lennon, Central Scotland, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 13/03/2019 R
To ask the Scottish Government when it last carried out an assessment of capacity in planning authorities.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (21/03/2019)
Other Parliamentary Activity
Non-Domestic Rates (Scotland) Bill
Derek Mackay has lodged the Non-Domestic Rates (Scotland) Bill. The Scottish Government has proposed the Bill in response to the Barclay Review, which set out recommendations on reforming the business rates system. The legislation includes provisions on revaluation timescales, independent schools, the business growth accelerator and empty properties. Parliament has published a copy of the Bill alongside explanatory notes, a financial memorandum and a policy memorandum.
Debates
Land Reform (21/03/19)
At Decision Time, the Conservative amendment to the Government motion on land
reform fell. The Labour amendment passed but the Green amendment fell with the Greens, Labour,
Liberal Democrats and Mark McDonald voting in favour and the SNP and Conservatives voting against. The amended motion passed.
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Victorian Edinburgh: Powerhouse of the Empire? World Heritage Day lecture
Date & time: Thursday 18 April; 18:00-19:00
Venue: The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, 11 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JQ
Scotland’s pre-eminent historian will deliver this year’s World Heritage Day lecture. Sir Tom Devine will explore the extraordinary success of late Victorian Edinburgh – as banking house to the British Empire, as patron of the arts and architecture, and as a city of considerable luxury and opulence.
Talks at the Lane present Karl-Heinz Schmitz on Architecture As Public Commodity
Date & time: 23rd April 2019 at 6.30pm
Venue: Custom Lane, Leith
Karl-Heinz Schmitz, architect and professor at the Bauhaus University, shares his views on public architecture as part of the Talks at the Lane series. The search for the space itself, the precision in the floor plan development and the aesthetic demands on the graphic realisation were the starting point for Schmitz’s career, which began in 1993 as a university teacher in Weimar. In addition to his work as a teacher, Karl-Heinz designed a series of buildings that testify an intensive examination of urban spaces and the work on existing buildings. In 2005, in collaboration with Hilde Barz-Malfatti, Schmitz completed reconstruction and extension of the Duchess Anna Amalia Library located in the middle of the historic palace and library ensemble. It has naturally become part of the urban tissue, uniting spaces and elements of the old and the new while at the same time developing an exciting fresh autonomy.
As part of the talk, Karl-Heinz will display some of his work alongside the work of his Bauhaus University students within our Exhibition Space.
The Mark Turnbull Travel Award Presentation & LIS AGM
Date & time: Wednesday 24 April; 18:15-20:10
Venue: Hunter Lecture Theatre, Hunter Building, 74 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9DF
Scotland’s Future Landscapes: Design for an Ageing Population. Learn from a world perspective to influence in Scotland. Dr Amber Roberts, Winner of the Mark Turnbull Travel Award reflects on her research and travels to Japan, Sweden and USA. How do we design for ageing populations and strengthen Scottish landscape practice under the legacy and influence of Ian McHarg?
CIfA2019 Archaeology: values, benefits, and legacies
Date & time: Wednesday 24 – Friday 26 April; 09:30–17:30
Venue: Royal Armouries Museum, 5 Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LE
Our 2019 conference will provide a forum for delegates to discuss and explore ideas around social value, public benefit, and the creation of knowledge. It offers the opportunity to think about legacy and how the work we undertake now will impact on future generations – from inspiring future careers to learning lessons from our failures. We also want to consider how a multitude of stakeholders – archaeologists, policy makers, clients, the public – value our discipline.
Crumble in discussion: “Are we sitting comfortably?”
Date & time: Thursday 25 April; 17:30–19:00
Venue: RIAS Bookshop, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BE
Join Crumble at the RIAS Bookshop for an evening of discussion on the notion of comfort, and how we feel about the environments in which we live. What makes us comfortable (or uncomfortable)? What can the architect do to create comfort in the world around us? Is the profession guilty of sitting too comfortably? Crumble is an independent architecture magazine edited and published by students from the University of Edinburgh. The team will be providing an introduction to the magazine and sharing some conclusions from their upcoming issue. This event is FREE to attend.
AF2019 April Meet-up – Glasgow
Date & time: Saturday 27 April; 10:15 (10:30 start) – 13:00
Venue: The Lighthouse, 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU
Join us at The Lighthouse for the April meet-up! These free-to-attend monthly meet-ups are very laid back and are open to anyone considering taking part in or contributing to the Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Programme. The Open Programme is a non-curated platform for self-directed projects, exhibitions, events and happenings. The meet-ups are an opportunity for you to hear more about the Architecture Fringe itself, to share your project thoughts and ideas, get feedback and meet new people.
Best practice approaches to place-based regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 2 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Storytelling Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful current approaches towards regenerating Scotland’s places with three winning projects from the ‘Most Improved Place’, ‘Housing’ and ‘Community Led Regeneration’ categories highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process.
Rhind Lectures 2019 – Hadrian’s Wall: A Study in Archaeological Exploration and Interpretation
Dates & times: Fri. 10 May (18:00-20:00), Sat. 11 May (11:00-17:00), Sun. 12 May (14:00-17:00).
Venue: National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance).
Hadrian’s Wall was written about even when it was still in use as a frontier. Interest continued through the next 1000 years. Once archaeological excavations started, the pace quickened. Now we have an enormous data base even though only about 5% of the Wall has been examined. The first two lectures in this series of six will review the excavations and surveys, theories and flights of fancy since the 1840s. The next two lectures concentrate on the different phases of activity on the Wall and through them seek understanding of how the Wall operated. The impact of the Wall on local people and the landscape is the subject of the fifth lecture, while in the final talk the state of Hadrian’s Wall today is considered, with time for questions.Lectures given by Professor David Breeze OBE, FSA, Hon FSA Scot, FRSE, Hon CIfA.
People Powered Planning: Putting Communities on the Front Foot
Date & times: Saturday 11th May 2019 10 – 4.30pm
Venue: Trades Hall, Central Glasgow G1 1UH.
We know there are many people in Scotland who feel baffled, alienated and disenfranchised by the planning system. Others have gained some understanding, learnt to navigate and decode the systems and others have taken ownership and grabbed what opportunities there are to shape their local environments and fulfill community aspirations. We hope that this conference will link people up, provide some information about where to go for help and give some handy tips on how to successfully engage in planning. Importantly we also hope the conference will help to create a sense of a movement of people who are willing to campaign for change to make the planning system more responsive to people who want the best for their local areas.
Community Business Matters – A Community Shares Scotland Workshop
Date & time: Tuesday 14 May; 10:30-14:00
Venue: Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Dalmeny Street Edinburgh EH6 8RG
Do you have aspirations to run a successful community business? Or perhaps you support people and communities with enterprising ideas? Then this is the event for you. Come along to Community Shares Scotland’s free workshop to learn more about the community shares funding model and how it helps community businesses grow and thrive. The workshop will be practical and inspiring – with a focus on sources of free support and lots of success stories from the previous 5 years of the Community Shares Scotland programme.
Community Business Matters – A Community Shares Scotland Workshop
Date & time: Wednesday 15 May; 10:30-14:00
Venue: Scottish Youth Theatre, 105 Brunswick St, Glasgow G1 1TF
Do you have aspirations to run a successful community business? Or perhaps you support people and communities with enterprising ideas? Then this is the event for you. Come along to Community Shares Scotland’s free workshop to learn more about the community shares funding model and how it helps community businesses grow and thrive. The workshop will be practical and inspiring – with a focus on sources of free support and lots of success stories from the previous 5 years of the Community Shares Scotland programme.
Overcoming barriers to employability facing Scotland’s young people: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Wednesday 15 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Glasgow Women’s Library, 23 Landressy Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow G40 1BP
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Glasgow Women’s Library provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards tackling barriers to employability facing young people in Scotland. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Youth Employability’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
RICS Rural Mid-Session Conference
Date & time: Thursday 16 May; 09:00-16:45
Venue: Scottish Natural Heritage, Battleby Conference Centre, Redgorton, Perth, PH1 3EW
This year’s Rural Mid-Session Conference comes back at the SNH with a refreshed agenda and will equip you with the right knowledge to leverage current opportunities for growth and resilience. Delivered through presentations and case studies, the event will focus on key sessions so you can be better prepared to mitigate any risks to your business.
The importance of culture & creative arts in community regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 30 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: Paisley Arts Centre, 15 New Street, Paisley PA1 1EZ
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in Paisley Arts Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards linking creative arts and culture into regeneration initiatives. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Creative Regeneration’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
RICS Commercial Property Conference, Scotland
Date & time: Thursday 6 June; 10:00-16:00
Venue: Radisson Blu, 80 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TH
With current uncertainty in the market, it is important to join fellow professionals to debate, analyse and address the major challenges and opportunities the real estate market faces in a post Brexit climate. The RICS Commercial Property Conference brings together agents, occupiers and investors to strengthen your understanding of the current economic outlook, latest occupier trends, growth opportunities, and risks to the commercial property sector. Book before Friday 12 April for the Early Bird discount. 4 hours formal CPD.
Patrick Geddes Centre Study Day: Modernism 1 India & Identity
Date & time: Tuesday 11 June; 10:00–16:00
Venue: Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PG
Patrick Geddes applied his culturally sensitive approaches to many projects during his time in India, drawing the friendship of Tagore and Ghandi. This period of dwindling colonial influence saw the search for a new Indian identity – a hot bed for early modernist architecture and design.
This study day also includes a light lunch; more information will be announced shortly.
Entry: from £22
Patrick Geddes Centre Study Day: Modernism 2 Geddes, Abercrombie & Pepler
Date & time: Tuesday 18 June; 10:00–16:00
Venue: Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PG
George Pepler & Patrick Abercrombie were instrumental in shaping post-war Britain. By exploring their modernist visions, Dr Alastair Fair (Chancellor’s Fellow in Architectural History, University of Edinburgh) and colleagues will consider the extent of Patrick Geddes’ influence on early modernism. This study day also includes a light lunch. Entry: from £22
RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland
Date & time: Thursday 27 June; 19:00-23:00
Venue: Radisson Blu, 301 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8DL
Join fellow property professionals for the RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland – an opportunity to network with professionals in the region. The dinner will provide the ideal setting to entertain clients, socialise with colleagues and generate new business contacts. Ian Fergusson, RICS Chairman for Scotland looks forward to welcoming guest’s to this year’s Annual Dinner. Set to be held at the prestigious Radisson Blu in Glasgow, with return of this highly anticipated black-tie event, also comes your opportunity to meet up with fellow members, friends and business partners old and new.
IHBC Annual School – Nottingham 2019
Dates: Annual School: Thursday 4 – Saturday 6 July; Day School: Friday 5 July
Venue: Nottingham Conference Centre, Burton Street, Nottingham NG1 4BU
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation will hold its 21st Annual School in Nottingham, hosted by the IHBC East Midlands Branch. This year’s school focuses on the theme of ‘Heritage, Risk & Resilience: confronting conservation calamities, exploring:
– Heritage challenges and insights into solutions for Fire | Flood | Structural Failure
– Case studies – Technical, practical and strategic advice
– Planning for the worst: dealing with the aftermath
The Annual School includes three exciting days of:
– Tours – Nottingham, Leicester, Derby & the East Midlands
– CPD support: Up to 20 hours Continuing Professional Development linked
– Business opportunities: Sponsors, exhibitors, networks & supporters
‘PKARF: Priorities in Progress’ Regional Archaeology Conference
Date & time: Friday 30 August, 09:00-17:00
Venue: Soutar Theatre, AK Bell Library, 2-8 York Place, Perth, PH2 8EP
Save the date and book your travel for the first conference organised as part of the Perth and Kinross (Regional) Archaeological Research Framework (PKARF). Join Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust for a summary of findings from the first year of knowledge assessment and here preliminary research priorities presented by leading experts. Contribute to the shaping of the future Framework by joining ‘think tank’ workshops to review draft period summaries, nominate case studies, highlight knowledge gaps, and share your opinions on where future archaeological research should be directed. Student Attendance Bursaries available to assist with the cost of travel and accommodation.
Training
Architectural Conservation CPD: Conservation Theory and Practice
Date & time: Wednesday 24 April, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The first session in a 6-part CPD programme offers an introduction to conservation theory and practice and is delivered by Peter Burman. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Traditional Masonry Repair C2 – Contractor Level 2
Date: Tuesday 30 April – Thursday 2 May
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
This 3-day workshop builds on the knowledge and skills gained on ‘C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars’. The workshop aims to enable you to complete seamless rebuilding and repair of traditional masonry to match original work. You will gain a conservation ethic and be able to develop repair strategies suitable for a variety of traditional masonry types. The course deals with build types from ashlar to rubble walling, as well as finishes including harling and limewashing. Participants will be able to undertake sensitive surface repairs to ashlar and profiled stone to the highest standards using indenting, part indenting and mortared surface repairs. This workshop provides the underpinning knowledge and a practical rehearsal of the assessment and accreditation procedure for SQA National Unit 2 and Unit 3.
Architectural Conservation CPD: The Repair and Maintenance of Traditional Roofs
Date & time: Wednesday 29 May, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The second session in the 6-part CPD programme is on the repair and maintenance of traditional roofs, delivered by Neil Grieve. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
RICS CPD Day, Aberdeen 2019
Date & time: Thursday 20 June; 08:30-17:10
Venue: Hilton Hotel Aberdeen Treetops, 161 Springfield Road, Aberdeen, AB15 7AQ
Hear the latest updates most relevant to you and your business right now. Learn from leading experts across land, property and the built environment at your regional conference. Enhance your capabilities and knowledge around today’s ever-changing market trends, legislation, and technical guidance. Choose from a range of practical breakout sessions, ensuring that the CPD you are set to gain will best meet your needs. 6 hours formal CPD.
Architectural Conservation CPD: Windows in Traditional Buildings
Date & time: Wednesday 26 June, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The third session in the 6-part CPD programme is on windows in traditional buildings and will be delivered by Roger Curtis. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Architectural Conservation CPD: Interior Decorative Finishes for Traditional Buildings
Date & time: Wednesday 25 September, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The fourth session in the 6-part CPD programme is on interior decorative finishes and will be delivered by Cait Whitson. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Perth Traditional Building Skills Roadshow
Date & time: Thursday 26 and Friday 27 September, 10:00-16:00
Venue: King Edward Street, Perth, PH1 5UT
Join Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust for two days of traditional buildings skills demonstrations in Perth City Centre ranging from stone carving to craft painting & decorating. Members of the Fife and Tayside Traditional Buildings Forum, apprentices, lecturers and building professionals will be on hand to answer questions and demonstrate the skills used to maintain and repair historic buildings in Scotland.
Architectural Conservation CPD: Decorative Plasterwork in Traditional Buildings
Date & time: Wednesday 30 October, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The fifth session in the 6-part CPD programme is on decorative plasterwork and will be delivered by William Napier. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Architectural Conservation CPD: Fire Safety Management for Historic Buildings
Date & time: Wednesday 27 November, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The final session in the 2019 CPD programme is on fire safety management and will be delivered by Mike Coull. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Vacancies
National Trust for Scotland – Trustee Appointment
This summer the National Trust for Scotland will hold elections for candidates to stand for four vacancies on its Board of Trustees. In particular, applications are being sought from candidates with a professional built heritage conservation background. All candidates must be able to demonstrate a passion for the cause of the Trust along with high level leadership experience. If you have the skills, time and passion to help us take our next steps, please do get in touch with Nicola Blyth, Governance Manager
Tel: 0131 458 0293
Email: elections@nts.org.uk
Applications close: 12pm, Wednesday 17 April 2019.
All the Latest News, Consultations, Events And Job Vacancies From The Heritage And Built Environment Sector
BEFS News
Planning Bill update
Yesterday morning (20 March) the Scottish Government Chief Planner, John McNairney, spoke at the Scottish Young Planners’ Conference 2019 – the Finance Memorandum for the amended Planning (Scotland) Bill has now been launched and we are told to expect Stage 3 before the Parliamentary summer recess. BEFS will continue to report, brief and update Members as information becomes available. All previous information can be found on BEFS Planning page
In this month’s blog, Ailsa Macfarlane considers some of the issues raised by the speakers at the ‘Scotland at a Crossroads Heritage Past and Futures’ Symposium.
BEFS regularly meets with the Greenspace Scotland Young Placechangers team, and the other members of the Ideas Fund advisory board. A recent update showed that professionals from across place-related organisations have been signing-up to be part of the Skills Bank – if you could give your time (flexible opportunities) have a look at the Skills Bank page below
This is your last chance (survey closes 22 March) to give us your views on the Principles of Prioritisation – full information and survey details can be found here
BEFS is delighted to be sponsoring the forthcoming Archives Matter: Heritage, Memory and Identity event in Stirling on Wednesday 17 April. This is the second in a series of events organised by the Scottish Council on Archives to promote greater awareness of the importance and usefulness of archives to many different sectors including education; healthcare; architecture; cultural heritage, both local and national; archaeology, academia; and genealogical research. The conference will feature presentations from academics, historians, archivists, architects and representatives of community archive groups.
Consultations
Infrastructure Commission Call for Evidence
Written submissions are requested concerning drivers for inclusive growth & low carbon economy; the appropriateness of current infrastructure; and infrastructure assessment & prioritisation
Deadline for submission of evidence: Friday 3 May 2019
Publications
Town Centre Living: A Caring Place (ADS/STP 20/03/19)
Co-housing: Future Homes for Older Scots (Vivarium Trust 19/03/19)
Rethinking Smart Futures: Focused on people, enabled by transport, powered by technology (PwC 12/03/19)
The Glasgow School of Art Mackintosh Building: The loss of a national treasure (SP 08/03/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
Investigation into the Issues Associated with Large Scale and Concentrated Land Ownership in Scotland (LC 20/03/19)
The Scottish Land Commission has published a report on large scale land ownership in Scotland. The report found that concentrated land ownership is having significant effects on communities across rural Scotland. The authors recommended introducing a public interest test for large land transfers and a Statutory Land Rights & Responsibilities Review. The group also suggested promoting more diverse forms of private ownership to help achieve land reform objectives and increasing local engagement in land usage.
Planning and Environmental Appeals Stakeholder Forum meeting: July 2018 (SG 19/03/19)
Note of meeting of Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) and stakeholders on 18 July 2018.
Funding for cross border growth deal (SG 13/03/19)
The Scottish Government is prepared to invest up to £85 million over ten years to drive inclusive growth across the region. It will fund economic development activity across a range of themes, including digital connectivity, tourism, regeneration and skills.
City centre investment for Glasgow (SG 11/03/19)
The Scottish Partnership for Regeneration in Urban Centres Fund is committing £12 million from the Building Scotland Fund for renovation of the Cerium Building.
Tourism Tax (SG 07/03/19)
Messages from the national discussion
Evidence from the national discussion
News Releases
SURF – Scotland’s Regeneration Forum has successfully launched a new Heritage & Creative Alliance (SURF 19/03/19)
The main aim is to enhance practical cooperation between Scotland’s leading funders and policy influencers. Representatives from 11 national heritage and creative agencies met in SURF’s Govan office last week. They agreed that closer joint working on shared interests, expertise and resources could be a productive catalyst for more successful, inclusive and sustainable community regeneration. SURF’s Heritage & Creative Alliance will collaboratively link national agencies’ policies and resources to the place-based priorities, assets and partnerships in SURF’s five Alliance for Action programme sites
BRE leads policy-makers and experts’ debate on building a better Scotland (SHN 12/03/19)
Twenty-one of Scotland’s senior policy-shapers and key building experts, academics, and commentators were welcomed to a roundtable in Edinburgh earlier this year to debate: “What Kind of a Britain are we Building: Scotland?”
Scottish Natural Heritage short film competition: Why invest in nature? (SLI 11/03/19)
A short film contest for young people aged 16-30 about why businesses should invest in nature, to provide businesses and policymakers with a better understanding of how they rely on and have an impact on nature and ensure that Scotland’s environment can thrive. Built Environment Category sponsored by Robertson Group.
CPD boost from Designing Buildings Wiki: Brush up on the evaluation of building performance IHBC (08/03/19)
A building’s performance (or efficiency) is a measure of how well it functions in relation to designated criteria such as physical, social or environmental considerations. DBW features guidance on how a building’s physical efficiency can be evaluated, and how to measure whether the resources necessary to design and construct a building have been used effectively.
Committee calls for public inquiry into Glasgow School of Art fires (SP 08/03/19)
The circumstances surrounding the two fires at the Glasgow School of Art’s Mackintosh Building should be the subject of a public inquiry with judicial powers, following an inquiry into the issue by MSPs on the Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Affairs Committee.
Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism Awards 2019 (ECTN 08/03/19)
The 2019 edition of the Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism Awards is now open for applications. The theme of this year’s edition is “Culture and Heritage for Responsible, Innovative and Sustainable Tourism” and seeks to contribute to the legacy of the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018, including the European Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage.
Deadline for applications: 1 July 2019
More school trips are needed to inspire a passion for heritage (Ecclesiastical 07/03/19)
Research finds millions of young people never visit museums, galleries or theatres.
Scottish visitor attractions record an increase in visitor numbers for the fifth year in a row
(ASVA 05/03/19)
The two top sites, The National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh Castle, each attracted more than 2 million visits, only the second time that a visitor attraction in Scotland has surpassed the 2m milestone.
Opinion & Comment
Blog-Scotland Build: Adding Value Through Good Design (ADS 20/03/19)
All aboard for trams to Newhaven as project gets the green light (CEC 14/03/19)
The biggest risks are the ones we never talk about (DM 13/03/19)
International Perspectives Pose Questions for Scottish Land Reform (LC 13/03/19)
Planning Bill ‘dangerously close’ to failure, claim independent panel members (SCN 12/03/19)
We must fix Planning Bill: SPF Chairman (SPF 06/03/19)
Where are you on your planning journey? Can you help someone else who is on theirs? (PD 04/03/19)
How can planning better support thriving rural communities? (NWP 21/02/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5O-03041: Monica Lennon, Central Scotland, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 13/03/2019 R
To ask the Scottish Government when it last carried out an assessment of capacity in planning authorities.
Current Status: Due in the Chamber on 21/03/2019
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5O-03012: Miles Briggs, Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 13/03/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has made of the potential impact of a tourist tax on the tourism sector in Edinburgh and Lothian.
Taken in the Chamber on 20/03/2019
Question S5O-03001: Annabelle Ewing, Cowdenbeath, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 06/03/2019
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the operation of the town centre fund.
Taken in the Chamber on 14/03/2019
Question S5W-21930: Finlay Carson, Galloway and West Dumfries, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 05/03/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what statutory protection is available to home owners to protect them from excessive charges for repairs by (a) registered social landlords and (b) factors.
Answered by Kevin Stewart 14/03/19
Question S5F-03121: Keith Brown, Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 04/03/2019
To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government’s response is to the UK Government’s Stronger Towns Fund.
Taken in the Chamber on 07/03/2019
Other Parliamentary Activity
Planning Scotland Bill
The Delegated Powers & Law Reform Committee published a series of suggestions and questions on the delegated powers aspects of the Planning (Scotland) Bill at Stage 2.
Motion S5M-16015: Andy Wightman, Lothian, Scottish Green Party, Date Lodged: 26/02/2019
Who Owns Scotland?
That the Parliament believes that a modern, democratic society requires open and transparent information on the ownership, use and value of land; commends the report published by Community Land Scotland (Towards Land Ownership Transparency); notes the ambition to create a Scottish Land Information System (SCOTLIS) to provide comprehensive information about land and property; understands that the target to register all land owned by Scotland’s public bodies by 2019 is unlikely to be achieved; regrets that it remains difficult, time-consuming and expensive for citizens in Lothian and across Scotland to obtain land information, and notes the view that information about the ownership, use and value of land should be made freely available to the people of Scotland.
Supported by: Ross Greer, John Finnie, Alison Johnstone, Lewis Macdonald, Mark McDonald, Mark Ruskell, Alex Rowley, Colin Smyth, Jackie Baillie, David Torrance, Patrick Harvie, Monica Lennon, Neil Findlay, Alex Cole-Hamilton, Mike Rumbles, Gail Ross, Angela Constance
Taken in the Chamber on 12/03/2019
Motion S5M-16004: Stuart McMillan, Greenock and Inverclyde, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/02/2019
Scottish Tourism Month 2019
That the Parliament recognises that March is Scottish Tourism Month, which is coordinated by the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA); understands that the aim of this is to engage, connect and inspire all of Scotland’s tourism businesses and organisations, as well as celebrate the enormous contribution that tourism makes to the economy; believes that the industry will come together to host a variety of sectoral, destination and business events under the mantra, Tourism is Everyone’s Business; understands that the month offers an opportunity for anyone and everyone to get involved in the networking events and tourism conversations all over the country, including Scotland’s Marine Tourism Conference, which takes place at the Beacon Arts Centre in the Greenock and Inverclyde constituency on 6 March; considers Inverclyde to be the country’s marine tourism capital; notes the calls for everyone to engage with the month, and hopes that the annual conference of the STA on 13-14 March is a success in bringing stakeholders together and proves to be impactful and inspiring.
Supported by: Miles Briggs, Claire Baker, Alison Harris, Bill Kidd, Richard Lyle, John Mason, Kenneth Gibson, Stewart Stevenson, Jamie Halcro Johnston, Gillian Martin, Jackie Baillie, Sandra White, Ruth Maguire, Fulton MacGregor, Alexander Burnett, Jenny Gilruth, David Torrance, Clare Adamson, Gail Ross, Angela Constance, Maureen Watt, Emma Harper
Taken in the Chamber on 19/03/2019
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
AF2019 March Meet-up – Edinburgh
Date & time: Saturday 30 March; 10:15 (10:30 start) – 13:00
Venue: Custom Lane, 1 Customs Wharf, Leith EH6 6AL
Join us for the March meet-up! These free-to-attend monthly meet-ups are very laid back and are open to anyone considering taking part in or contributing to the Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Programme. The Open Programme is a non-curated platform for self-directed projects, exhibitions, events and happenings. The meet-ups are an opportunity for you to hear more about the Architecture Fringe itself, to share your project thoughts and ideas, get feedback and meet new people. The meet-ups are analogue so just bring ideas or images to stick up on the wall. Open to all, free to attend. A lovely way to spend a Saturday morning!
Conservation of the Scots’ Cemetery, Kolkata: Beyond the Tangible
Date & time: Thursday 4 April; 18:00
Venue: Adam House, 3 Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1HT
The Scottish Cemetery, Kolkata was laid out in 1820 by the St. Andrew’s Church for the Scots, Presbyterians, and other protestant denominations. It fell into disuse after the independence of India and by 1950 was abandoned and slowly became derelict. In 2008, Kolkata Scottish Heritage Trust, a Scottish Charity, took up the responsibility of restoring the Scottish Cemetery to its former glory. Dr Neeta Das will speak about her experiences of conserving such a rich selection of monuments. Neeta has long been an enthusiastic follower of SPAB Principles, and we are very pleased to welcome her to Scotland on this occasion.
Victorian Edinburgh: Powerhouse of the Empire? World Heritage Day lecture with Professor Sir Tom Devine
Date & time: Thursday 18 April; 18:00-19:00
Venue: The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, 11 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JQ
Scotland’s pre-eminent historian will deliver this year’s World Heritage Day lecture. Sir Tom will explore the extraordinary success of late Victorian Edinburgh – as banking house to the British Empire, as patron of the arts and architecture, and as a city of considerable luxury and opulence.
The Mark Turnbull Travel Award Presentation & LIS AGM
Date & time: Wednesday 24 April; 18:15-20:10
Venue: Hunter Lecture Theatre, Hunter Building, 74 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9DF
Scotland’s Future Landscapes: Design for an Ageing Population
Learn from a world perspective to influence in Scotland. Dr Amber Roberts, Winner of the Mark Turnbull Travel Award reflects on her research and travels to Japan, Sweden and USA. How do we design for ageing populations and strengthen Scottish landscape practice under the legacy and influence of Ian McHarg?
CIfA2019 Archaeology: values, benefits, and legacies
Date & time: Wednesday 24 – Friday 26 April; 09:30–17:30
Venue: Royal Armouries Museum, 5 Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LE
Our 2019 conference will provide a forum for delegates to discuss and explore ideas around social value, public benefit, and the creation of knowledge. It offers the opportunity to think about legacy and how the work we undertake now will impact on future generations – from inspiring future careers to learning lessons from our failures. We also want to consider how a multitude of stakeholders – archaeologists, policy makers, clients, the public – value our discipline: financially, politically and intellectually and to think about how effective we are in communicating that value through the stories we tell.
Crumble in discussion: “Are we sitting comfortably?”
Date & time: Thursday 25 April; 17:30–19:00
Venue: RIAS Bookshop, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BE
Join Crumble at the RIAS Bookshop for an evening of discussion on the notion of comfort, and how we feel about the environments in which we live. What makes us comfortable (or uncomfortable)? What can the architect do to create comfort in the world around us? Is the profession guilty of sitting too comfortably?
Crumble is an independent architecture magazine edited and published by students from the University of Edinburgh. The team will be providing an introduction to the magazine and sharing some conclusions from their upcoming issue.
This event is FREE to attend.
AF 2019 April Meet-up – Glasgow
Date & time: Saturday 27 April; 10:15 (10:30 start) – 13:00
Venue: The Lighthouse, 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU
Join us at The Lighthouse for the April meet-up! These free-to-attend monthly meet-ups are very laid back and are open to anyone considering taking part in or contributing to the Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Programme. The Open Programme is a non-curated platform for self-directed projects, exhibitions, events and happenings. The meet-ups are an opportunity for you to hear more about the Architecture Fringe itself, to share your project thoughts and ideas, get feedback and meet new people. The meet-ups are analogue so just bring ideas or images to stick up on the wall. Open to all, free to attend. A lovely way to spend a Saturday morning!
Best practice approaches to place-based regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 2 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Storytelling Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful current approaches towards regenerating Scotland’s places with three winning projects from the ‘Most Improved Place’, ‘Housing’ and ‘Community Led Regeneration’ categories highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process.
Rhind Lectures 2019 – Hadrian’s Wall: A Study in Archaeological Exploration and Interpretation
Date & time: Friday 10 May (6pm-8pm), Saturday 11 May (11am-5pm) and Sunday 12 May (2pm-5pm).
Venue: National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance).
Hadrian’s Wall was written about even when it was still in use as a frontier. Interest continued through the next 1000 years, but it was the spirit of enquiry generated by the Renaissance which led to more focussed study. Once archaeological excavations started, the pace quickened. Now we have an enormous data base even though only about 5% of the Wall has been examined. To understand our interpretations of Hadrian’s Wall today, it is necessary to start in the 1840s, and in particular consider the work and influence of John Collingwood Bruce (Rhind lecturer in 1883). The first two lectures in this series of six will review the excavations and surveys, theories and flights of fancy since that decade. The next two lectures concentrate on the different phases of activity on the Wall and through them seek understanding of how the Wall operated. The impact of the Wall on local people and the landscape is the subject of the fifth lecture, while in the final talk the state of Hadrian’s Wall today is considered, with time for questions.
Lectures given by Professor David Breeze OBE, FSA, Hon FSA Scot, FRSE, Hon CIfA.
Overcoming barriers to employability facing Scotland’s young people: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Wednesday 15 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Glasgow Women’s Library, 23 Landressy Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow G40 1BP
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Glasgow Women’s Library provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards tackling barriers to employability facing young people in Scotland. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Youth Employability’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
RICS Rural Mid-Session Conference
Date & time: Thursday 16 May; 09:00-16:45
Venue: Scottish Natural Heritage, Battleby Conference Centre, Redgorton, Perth, PH1 3EW
This year’s Rural Mid-Session Conference comes back at the SNH with a refreshed agenda and will equip you with the right knowledge to leverage current opportunities for growth and resilience. Delivered through presentations and case studies, the event will focus on key sessions so you can be better prepared to mitigate any risks to your business.
The importance of culture and creative arts in community regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 30 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: Paisley Arts Centre, 15 New Street, Paisley PA1 1EZ
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in Paisley Arts Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards linking creative arts and culture into regeneration initiatives. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Creative Regeneration’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
RICS Commercial Property Conference, Scotland
Date & time: Thursday 6 June; 10:00-16:00
Venue: Radisson Blu, 80 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TH
With current uncertainty in the market, it is important to join fellow professionals to debate, analyse and address the major challenges and opportunities the real estate market faces in a post Brexit climate. The RICS Commercial Property Conference brings together agents, occupiers and investors to strengthen your understanding of the current economic outlook, latest occupier trends, growth opportunities, and risks to the commercial property sector. Whether you are in retail, leisure or office, there will be a session to update you on the current market outlook.
A key theme running throughout the day is the main factors impacting your commercial property portfolio. The event will explore how issues such as lease flexibility, sustainability and technology will impact those investing in commercial property and what occupiers are now demanding from their properties and agents.
Programme
Book before Friday 12 April for the Early Bird discount.
4 hours formal CPD
Patrick Geddes Centre Study Day: Modernism 1 India & Identity
Date & time: Tuesday 11 June; 10:00–16:00
Venue: Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PG
Patrick Geddes applied his culturally sensitive approaches to many projects during his time in India, drawing the friendship of Tagore and Ghandi. This period of dwindling colonial influence saw the search for a new Indian identity – a hot bed for early modernist architecture and design.
This study day also includes a light lunch; more information will be announced shortly.
Entry: from £22
Patrick Geddes Centre Study Day: Modernism 2 Geddes, Abercrombie & Pepler
Date & time: Tuesday 18 June; 10:00–16:00
Venue: Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PG
George Pepler & Patrick Abercrombie were instrumental in shaping post-war Britain. By exploring their modernist visions, Dr Alastair Fair (Chancellor’s Fellow in Architectural History, University of Edinburgh) and colleagues will consider the extent of Patrick Geddes’ influence on early modernism. This study day also includes a light lunch.
Entry: from £22
RICS CPD Day, Aberdeen 2019
Date & time: Thursday 20 June; 08:30-17:10
Venue: Hilton Hotel Aberdeen Treetops, 161 Springfield Road, Aberdeen, AB15 7AQ
Hear the latest updates most relevant to you and your business right now. Learn from leading experts across land, property and the built environment at your regional conference. Enhance your capabilities and knowledge around today’s ever-changing market trends, legislation, and technical guidance. Choose from a range of practical breakout sessions, ensuring that the CPD you are set to gain will best meet your needs.
6 hours formal CPD
RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland
Date & time: Thursday 27 June; 19:00-23:00
Venue: Radisson Blu, 301 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8DL
Join fellow property professionals for the RICS Annual Dinner 2019, Scotland – an opportunity to network with professionals in the region. The dinner will provide the ideal setting to entertain clients, socialise with colleagues and generate new business contacts. Ian Fergusson, RICS Chairman for Scotland looks forward to welcoming guest’s to this year’s Annual Dinner. Set to be held at the prestigious Radisson Blu in Glasgow, with return of this highly anticipated black-tie event, also comes your opportunity to meet up with fellow members, friends and business partners old and new.
Book before 29 March to take advantage of our early bird discounted rate.
IHBC Annual School – Nottingham 2019
Dates: Annual School: Thursday 4 – Saturday 6 July; Day School: Friday 5 July
Venue: Nottingham Conference Centre, Burton Street, Nottingham NG1 4BU
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation will hold its 21st Annual School in Nottingham, hosted by the IHBC East Midlands Branch. This year’s school focuses on the theme of ‘Heritage, Risk & Resilience: confronting conservation calamities, exploring:
– Heritage challenges and insights into solutions for Fire | Flood | Structural Failure
– Case studies – Technical, practical and strategic advice
– Planning for the worst: dealing with the aftermath
The Annual School includes three exciting days of:
– Tours – Nottingham, Leicester, Derby & the East Midlands
– CPD support: Up to 20 hours Continuing Professional Development linked
– Business opportunities: Sponsors, exhibitors, networks & supporters
‘PKARF: Priorities in Progress’ Regional Archaeology Conference
Date & time: Friday 30 August, 09:00-17:00
Venue: Soutar Theatre, AK Bell Library, 2-8 York Place, Perth, PH2 8EP
Save the date and book your travel for the first conference organised as part of the Perth and Kinross (Regional) Archaeological Research Framework (PKARF). Join Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust for a summary of findings from the first year of knowledge assessment and here preliminary research priorities presented by leading experts. Contribute to the shaping of the future Framework by joining ‘think tank’ workshops to review draft period summaries, nominate case studies, highlight knowledge gaps, and share your opinions on where future archaeological research should be directed. Student Attendance Bursaries available to assist with the cost of travel and accommodation.
Training
Maintaining Traditional Buildings
Date: Friday 29 March
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife KY11 3EN
A must for anyone who owns or is responsible for a traditional building.
This course provides the perfect starting point if you are considering undertaking some simple repairs yourself or will enable you to speak your builder’s language and be confident that you are being given the correct advice.
This seminar will outline the maintenance that traditional buildings require and attendees will gain an understanding of traditional building techniques and the correct materials to use when undertaking repairs. This will also be an excellent opportunity to speak to the Scottish Lime Centre Trust’s expert tutors about your project, attendees are welcome to bring along photos and mortar samples for some specific advice.
Above Eaves Level P1 – Traditional Slate Roofs
Date: Tuesday 2 – Wednesday 3 April
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
This 2-day course aims to provide an introductory guide to traditional Scottish roofs including function, structure, types of trusses, external roof shapes, typical details and decorative features and the causes of deterioration and the main causes of failure. Practical work includes sizing and trimming of slates, setting out and nailing a simple traditional slate roof, undertaking repairs, executing a mortar skew fillet and installing rainwater goods correctly.
By the end of the course attendees will be able to recognise the structure of roofs, identify different types of trusses, different external roof shapes, their detailing, decorative features. Understand how natural slate was formed and the variety of slates used in the past on traditional roofs and the main causes of failure on a roof. Specifying roof repairs with sufficient detail to retain the character of a traditional slate roof.
The practical sessions will enable you to trim and size slates, set out and nail a simple traditional slate roof, execute a mortar skew fillet and install rainwater goods correctly.
Technical Seminar: Stained Glass
Date & time: Wednesday 3 April; 10:00–16:30
Venue: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
This new technical seminar delves into the use of decorative glass in buildings. Listen to the experts cover various topics from the properties and characteristics of stained glass, to its decay mechanisms and conservation.
Cost: £35.00 Non-members; £31.50 HES members
Conservation of Surface Finishes
Dates: Thursday 4 – Friday 12 April (4 days)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RD
Discover the history and conservation of a range of internal and external surface finishes traditionally used on Scotland’s historic buildings. Study the science behind paints and coatings and the complex issues involved in the conservation of historic finishes today. This course offers a historic overview of the use of paints and other coatings in Scottish architectural traditions, from the medieval period through to the 20th century. Explore the impact of internationally renowned Scottish artists such as Adam, Cottier, Mackintosh and Traquair. Learn about technological developments, from hand-mixed coatings using natural materials such as lime and earth pigments, to the manufacturing of paints and varnishes on an industrial scale and innovative synthetic materials. You will get the chance to study the physical properties of paints, varnishes and other coatings, high-style decorative finishes such as gilding and stencilling, and the technical skills and knowledge required to conserve, restore and replicate these finishes today.
Cost: £420
To register your interest email technicaleducation@hes.scot
Architectural Conservation CPD: Conservation Theory and Practice
Date & time: Wednesday 24 April, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The first session in a 6-part CPD programme offers an introduction to conservation theory and practice and is delivered by Peter Burman. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Traditional Masonry Repair C2 – Contractor Level 2
Date: Tuesday 30 April – Thursday 2 May
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
This 3-day workshop builds on the knowledge and skills gained on ‘C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars’. The workshop aims to enable you to complete seamless rebuilding and repair of traditional masonry to match original work. You will gain a conservation ethic and be able to develop repair strategies suitable for a variety of traditional masonry types.
The course deals with build types from ashlar to rubble walling, as well as finishes including harling and limewashing. Participants will be able to undertake sensitive surface repairs to ashlar and profiled stone to the highest standards using indenting, part indenting and mortared surface repairs
This workshop provides the underpinning knowledge and a practical rehearsal of the assessment and accreditation procedure for SQA National Unit 2 and Unit 3.
Vacancies
Edinburgh World Heritage Conservation Projects Officer
The Officer will support the delivery of the Conservation Funding Programme projects by:
– supporting the delivery of key conservation projects
– advancing the future-proofing our heritage programme
– strengthening engagement with people and communities
– ensuring a high level of quality control on all project grant documentation
Closing date for applications: 5pm, Friday 29 March
National Lottery Heritage Fund Director: Scotland
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest dedicated funder of heritage in the UK, and everything we do for the heritage is made possible by National Lottery players. We are seeking exceptional candidates for the role of Director Scotland. This is an exciting time to join the Fund as it launches its ambitious Strategic Funding Framework and develops new ways of supporting and strengthening the UK’s heritage. The Director Scotland will play a key role in taking this forward, responsible for our investment and engagement activities across Scotland and will be an inspiring leader with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time (35 hours p/w)
Location: Scotland. Interviews will be held in Edinburgh on 16 April 2019.
Salary: Up to £61k per annum (subject to review) Job Ref: BD001.01
Closing date: midnight, 29 March 2019
Perth City Mills Development Officer
Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust are seeking to appoint a historic buildings conservation professional to join our team to:
• Lead on the production of a Conservation Management Plan and Training and Volunteer Plan and Office Accommodation and Management Plan
• Lead on community and stakeholder consultation and the development of a costed project proposal and fund-raising strategy leading to funding applications for a 3-5 year project beginning in 2020
• Contribute to plans to sub-let the Trust’s Library Lodge building and the physical move of staff to Lower City Mills
Salary: £30,000 p.a. Full-time, 1-year fixed term contract.
Application is by covering letter and CV by 5pm, Friday 5 April 2019.
Interviews will be held on Monday 15 April 2019.
Full job description and personal specification
Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) Development Officer
Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust are seeking to appoint a historic buildings conservation professional to join our team to:
• Update the Conservation Area Appraisal (2009) and Management Plan, research and develop specific projects and initiatives for the bid, working with Trust staff and key staff from Perth and Kinross Council
• Produce a Learning Plan, Professional Training Plan, and project and administrative proposals while developing community partners and correlating a final bid with additional funding as required.
Salary: £30,000 p.a. Part-time, 2-year fixed-term contract
Application is by covering letter and CV by 5pm, Friday 5 April 2019.
Interviews will be held on: Tuesday 16 April 2019.
Full job description and personal specification
National Trust for Scotland – Trustee Appointment
This summer the National Trust for Scotland will hold elections for candidates to stand for four vacancies on its Board of Trustees.
In particular, applications are being sought from candidates with a professional built heritage conservation background. All candidates must be able to demonstrate a passion for the cause of the Trust along with high level leadership experience.
If you have the skills, time and passion to help us take our next steps, please get in touch with Nicola Blyth, Governance Manager
Tel: 0131 458 0293
Email: elections@nts.org.uk
Applications close: 12pm, Wednesday 17 April 2019.
Chief Executive – Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT)
The Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) seeks to change the face of Central Scotland by restoring and transforming the landscape of an area stretching from Ayrshire and Inverclyde in the west, to Fife and the Lothians in the east.
In anticipation of the retirement of Chief Executive, Simon Rennie, they are now seeking a new Chief Executive to lead the development of the Central Scotland Green Network (the largest environmental project of its kind in Europe) and to lead and manage the Central Scotland Green Network Trust. Working closely with the senior team, you will set the strategic direction of CSGNT in order to bring about ambitious plans of bringing real change to the environment, economy and people of Central Scotland. Reporting to the CSGNT Board, you will work closely with CSGNT’s Chair and will play a key role in projecting the Trust’s ambitions and in managing key stakeholder relationships.
Salary: £60k – £70k
Please send your completed application form along with your CV and any other supporting material in PDF format to recruitment@csgnt.org.uk by Wednesday, 27 March 2019.
First interviews will take place in Shotts on Thursday 25 April 2019.
The Latest News, Consultations, Events And Job Vacancies from the Heritage and Built Environment Sector
BEFS News
BEFS have been leading on Prioritisation work for the built and historic environment since Autumn 2018. Our research and discussions will help to inform the work on the Built Heritage Investment Plan taking place within Historic Environment Scotland and the OPiT Built Heritage Investment Group.
Many involved organisations and individuals have given their time, views, methodologies and valued critique to develop a suggested set of Principles for Prioritisation. These Principles were discussed at a public event in Edinburgh on 25 February.
Further to our event, and feedback from participants and interested parties, we have produced a short questionnaire designed to aid progress of this valuable work. Please see full details here
We very much want your considered opinions on this area of work – please log your responses to the survey by noon, Friday 22 March 2019.
Consultations
Historic Marine Protected Areas (HES 20/02/19)
Views requested concerning proposals on the designation of two Historic Marine Protected Areas:
Scapa Flow, Orkney and The Queen of Sweden, Shetland
Opened: 20 February 2019. Closes: 6pm, 17 April 2019
Environmental Principles and Governance in Scotland Consultation (SG 16/02/19)
Opinions requested on maintaining effective environmental governance following an exit from the European Union.
Opened: 16 February 2019. Closes: 11 May 2019
Publications
Joint Housing Policy and Delivery Group Meeting – Discussion Papers on Tenement Maintenance February 2019 (SG 27/02/19)
Shared space: How Scottish housing co-ops build communities (Coop UK 26/02/19)
Scottish House Condition Survey – Local Authority Analyses (SG 26/02/19)
Centre for the Study of Financial Innovation: Report on housing and finance in an ageing society
(CSFI 25/02/19)
Barclay Implementation Advisory Group (SG 22/02/19)
Analyses of Responses
Final Report
Factsheet: Building Standards contact information (SG 22/02/19)
UK housing: Fit for the future? (CCC 21/02/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
£20m of support for regeneration in local communities (SG 07/03/19)
Communities across Scotland are to benefit from a share of £20.4m to support local regeneration activity.
New scheme to support town centres (SG 01/03/19)
A £50 million fund to help boost town centres has been launched.
News Releases
Strengthening economic cases for housing: the productivity gains from better housing outcomes (PS 27/02/19)
Professor Duncan Maclennan has published research making a case for housing construction to be classed as infrastructure investment, akin to investment in transport links, water and communications.
Another record-breaking year for Scottish heritage sites (HES 27/02/19)
Heritage visitors have generated £620 million local tourism expenditure
New ambassadors to champion green action (DEFRA 27/02/19)
George McGavin named as one of the UK’s Green Action Ambassadors.
Scotland’s Towns Partnership’s Funding Finder (STP 26/02/19)
The Funding Finder is the go-to place to source potential funding. Comprising nine categories, the Finder provides easy to read information on current funding streams, highlighting announcements of new funds and application deadlines. Download the February 2019 Funding Finder
Legislative proposal for assisting self- and custom-builders in Scotland (RICS 25/02/19)
RICS asks the Scottish Government to prioritise alternative solutions to housing development aimed at supporting self- and custom-build.
Construction sector devises plan to brace for Brexit (CITB 25/02/19)
Action Plan for Industry identifying the need for construction to adopt a twin-track strategy: growing investment in the domestic workforce and driving up productivity, while working with Government to agree how to maintain access to migrant workers to give it the breathing space to adapt.
Rural Planning Policy to 2050: Research to Inform NPF 4 (SG/Savills/Inherit 25/02/19)
What challenges will rural communities & businesses face in the next 30 years and how will these translate into development on the ground? Take part in this Scottish Government commissioned research & help inform preparation of future planning policy.
Closing date: Friday 22 March 2019
Rural Homes, Rural Lives Campaign (SRA 22/02/19)
The campaign states that rural housing is the key to unlocking rural economic potential. It calls on the Scottish Government, local authorities, community organisations, housing associations, landowners and employers to work together to ensure rural equity in housing provision.
UK homes unfit for the challenges of climate change (CCC 21/02/19)
In a new report the CCC warns that the UK’s legally-binding climate change targets will not be met without the near-complete elimination of greenhouse gas emissions from UK buildings.
Opinion & Comment
Kathleen Veitch: uncovering an architect (HES 01/03/19)
Scottish Parliament at 20: the unfinished business of land reform (HM 28/02/19)
Coul Links: One of the wildest parts of Britain is under threat (Scotsman 26/02/19)
Concrete Week (Guardian 25/02-03/03 19)
Common Space Special Week of Coverage on Scotland’s Towns & Places (22/02/19)
Westminster’s high street reforms ‘could leave Scotland behind’ (Scotsman 21/02/19)
Maybe Modern Ruins Are Just the Kind of Failure We Need (FA 18/02/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-21930: Finlay Carson, Galloway and West Dumfries, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 05/03/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what statutory protection is available to home owners to protect them from excessive charges for repairs by (a) registered social landlords and (b) factors.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 19/03/2019
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5O-02915: John Mason, Glasgow Shettleston, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 20/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what its response is to the Interim Recommendations Report by the Working Group on Maintenance of Tenement Scheme Property.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (27/02/2019)
Question S5W-21618: Jamie Halcro Johnston, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 11/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has for the implementation of the updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EU) 2018/844 and the creation of strategies (a) to improve indoor air quality, (b) for renovating existing buildings to improve energy efficiency and (c) to make buildings ready for smart energy systems.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (26/02/2019)
Question S5W-21530: Dean Lockhart, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 07/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many large housing development sites with outline planning permission there are in each local authority area, broken down by the number of houses.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (22/02/2019)
Question S5W-21531: Dean Lockhart, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 07/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what information it has regarding the build-out rate for large housing development sites in each local authority area.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (22/02/2019)
Question S5W-21388: Oliver Mundell, Dumfriesshire, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 04/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what help it offers to communities that are seeking to (a) improve the appearance of buildings that are considered to be “eyesores” and (b) bring derelict buildings back to use.
Answered by Aileen Campbell (21/02/2019)
Question S5W-21336: Gail Ross, Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 30/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how complete the Scottish Land Register is.
Answered by Kate Forbes (19/02/2019)
Other Parliamentary Activity
Planning Scotland Bill
The Delegated Powers & Law Reform Committee published a series of suggestions and questions on the delegated powers aspects of the Planning (Scotland) Bill at Stage 2.
Funding of EU Structural Fund Priorities in Scotland, post-Brexit
Finance & Constitution Committee calls for views on funding of EU structural fund priorities.
The closing date for responses is Thursday 25 April 2019.
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
RTPI Scotland Young Planners Conference 2019
Date & time: Wednesday 20 March; 09:00–17:30
Venue: Apex Hotel, Dundee
Our 2019 Young Planners’ Network conference takes place in the beautiful city of Dundee. This year we will be looking at how young planners can ‘deliver great places now and for the future’. A jam packed line up with some of the most esteemed built environment professionals in the country will be complemented by afternoon workshops, helping improve and refine skills critical for your development as a professional planner. We are expecting another sell-out event so don’t delay and book tickets today.
Volunteer Management Training Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 21 March; 10:00-16:00
Venue: Millenium Hotel, George Square, Glasgow, G2 1DS
Organised by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, this one-day course covers some key areas of volunteer management to help ensure that you are confident when involving volunteers. We will look at what is needed to be ready for volunteers and ensure they feel welcome and ready to start. Drawing on your own experience we will consider the positive impact that effective communication and support can have on ensuring a volunteering positive experience. Finally, we’ll touch on evaluating your volunteer contributions to ensure that all the great activities that are delivered are celebrated!
Further/Booking Details
Our Past, Our Future: Young People & Heritage
Date & time: Wednesday 27 March; 09:30-17:00
Venue: AK Bell Library, Perth
This one-day conference at the AK Bell Library in Perth will bring together a range of speakers to share their experiences working on different heritage engagement projects across Scotland. We will reflect upon activities undertaken during the Year of Young People (2018) and explore how best to support young people’s interest in the past as they become the heritage caretakers of the future. The keynote address will be given by Dr Jeff Sanders who has delivered high-profile projects for the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, including the successful Dig It! engagement programme since 2015.
Debate: (Re)moving statues. Should statues ever be removed when circumstances change?
Date & time: Wednesday 27th March; 18:00-20:00
Venue: St Andrew’s in the Square, St Andrew’s Square, Glasgow, G1 5PP
Statues are ubiquitous and often bypassed as unnoticed elements of the urban furniture. And yet statues are also, in their depiction and representation of real life people, highly symbolic. Often statues which represent people who are celebrated in their own era can become embarrassing or even offensive to the values of a future generation. It is no coincidence – especially in an era of all-pervasive media and screens – that statues can even come to stand in for the people they depict with the toppling of statues of dictators as the preeminent symbol of revolution and therefore of the toppling of anachronistic ideologies. But statues are also objects and works of art in their own right, often created by highly skilled and revered artists. The removal or destruction of statues not only eradicates them as archival and art historical artefacts, it can symbolise the erasure of collective memory of historical events and past follies. Join us for a lively debate on this fascinating topic looking in particular at statues in Glasgow.
Speaking with clarity, confidence and impact: a master class
Date & time: Friday 29 March; 09:30-17:00
Venue: Edinburgh Training Centre and Conference Venue, 16 St Mary’s Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SU
Carol Jefferson-Davies, a former BBC producer in the UK and abroad, has trained many types of presenters for radio and tv documentaries and other clients for conferences, business and law courts. In this Master Class Carol will share years of insight and experience, revealing the ‘secrets’ of communicating really effectively with different types of audience and coach you in a range of skills that will not only improve your abilities but also boost your confidence. You will obtain insight, encouragement, individual personalised coaching, a tool kit of strategic techniques, as well as awareness of vital dos and don’ts. Whatever your current level of ability – whether in need of some basic help or simply a bit more polish – this is a Master Class not to be missed. Organised by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, it’s the difference a day makes to the rest of your speaking engagements.
Further/Booking Details
AF2019 March Meet-up – Edinburgh
Date & time: Saturday 30 March; 10:15 (10:30 start) – 13:00
Venue: Custom Lane, 1 Customs Wharf, Leith EH6 6AL
Join us for the March meet-up! These free-to-attend monthly meet-ups are very laid back and are open to anyone considering taking part in or contributing to the Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Programme. The Open Programme is a non-curated platform for self-directed projects, exhibitions, events and happenings. The meet-ups are an opportunity for you to hear more about the Architecture Fringe itself, to share your project thoughts and ideas, get feedback and meet new people. The meet-ups are analogue so just bring ideas or images to stick up on the wall. Open to all, free to attend. A lovely way to spend a Saturday morning!
Scotland’s Future Landscapes: Design for an Ageing Population
Date & time: Wednesday 24 April; 18:00-20:10
Venue: Hunter Lecture Theatre, Hunter Building, 74 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9DF
Learn from a world perspective to influence in Scotland
Dr Amber Roberts, Winner of the Mark Turnbull Travel Award reflects on her research and travels to Japan, Sweden and USA. How do we design for ageing populations and strengthen Scottish landscape practice under the legacy and influence of Ian McHarg?
CIfA2019 Archaeology: values, benefits, and legacies
Date & time: Wednesday 24 – Friday 26 April; 09:30–17:30
Venue: Royal Armouries Museum, 5 Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LE
Our 2019 conference will provide a forum for delegates to discuss and explore ideas around social value, public benefit, and the creation of knowledge. It offers the opportunity to think about legacy and how the work we undertake now will impact on future generations – from inspiring future careers to learning lessons from our failures. We also want to consider how a multitude of stakeholders – archaeologists, policy makers, clients, the public – value our discipline: financially, politically and intellectually and to think about how effective we are in communicating that value through the stories we tell.
Further/Booking Details
AF2019 April Meet-up – Glasgow
Date & time: Saturday 27 April; 10:15 (10:30 start) – 13:00
Venue: The Lighthouse, 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU
Join us at The Lighthouse for the April meet-up! These free-to-attend monthly meet-ups are very laid back and are open to anyone considering taking part in or contributing to the Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Programme. The Open Programme is a non-curated platform for self-directed projects, exhibitions, events and happenings. The meet-ups are an opportunity for you to hear more about the Architecture Fringe itself, to share your project thoughts and ideas, get feedback and meet new people. The meet-ups are analogue so just bring ideas or images to stick up on the wall. Open to all, free to attend. A lovely way to spend a Saturday morning!
Best practice approaches to place-based regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 2 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Storytelling Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful current approaches towards regenerating Scotland’s places with three winning projects from the ‘Most Improved Place’, ‘Housing’ and ‘Community Led Regeneration’ categories highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process.
Booking Information
Rhind Lectures 2019 – Hadrian’s Wall: A Study in Archaeological Exploration and Interpretation
Date & time: Friday 10 May (18:00-20:00), Saturday 11 May (11:00-17:00) and Sunday 12 May (14:00-17:00).
Venue: National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance).
Hadrian’s Wall was written about even when it was still in use as a frontier. Interest continued through the next 1000 years, but it was the spirit of enquiry generated by the Renaissance which led to more focussed study. Once archaeological excavations started, the pace quickened. Now we have an enormous data base even though only about 5% of the Wall has been examined. To understand our interpretations of Hadrian’s Wall today, it is necessary to start in the 1840s, and in particular consider the work and influence of John Collingwood Bruce (Rhind lecturer in 1883). The first two lectures in this series of six will review the excavations and surveys, theories and flights of fancy since that decade. The next two lectures concentrate on the different phases of activity on the Wall and through them seek understanding of how the Wall operated. The impact of the Wall on local people and the landscape is the subject of the fifth lecture, while in the final talk the state of Hadrian’s Wall today is considered, with time for questions.
Lectures given by Professor David Breeze OBE, FSA, Hon FSA Scot, FRSE, Hon CIfA.
Overcoming barriers to employability facing Scotland’s young people: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Wednesday 15 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Glasgow Women’s Library, 23 Landressy Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow G40 1BP
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Glasgow Women’s Library provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards tackling barriers to employability facing young people in Scotland. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Youth Employability’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
Booking Information
The importance of culture and creative arts in community regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 30 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: Paisley Arts Centre, 15 New Street, Paisley PA1 1EZ
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in Paisley Arts Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards linking creative arts and culture into regeneration initiatives. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Creative Regeneration’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
Booking Information
IHBC Annual School – Nottingham 2019
Dates: Annual School: Thursday 4 – Saturday 6 July; Day School: Friday 5 July
Venue: Nottingham Conference Centre, Burton Street, Nottingham NG1 4BU
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation will hold its 21st Annual School in Nottingham, hosted by the IHBC East Midlands Branch. This year’s school focuses on the theme of ‘Heritage, Risk & Resilience: confronting conservation calamities, exploring:
– Heritage challenges and insights into solutions for Fire | Flood | Structural Failure
– Case studies – Technical, practical and strategic advice
– Planning for the worst: dealing with the aftermath
The Annual School includes three exciting days of:
– Tours – Nottingham, Leicester, Derby & the East Midlands
– CPD support: Up to 20 hours Continuing Professional Development linked
– Business opportunities: Sponsors, exhibitors, networks & supporters
Further information
‘PKARF: Priorities in Progress’ Regional Archaeology Conference
Date & time: Friday 30 August, 09:00-17:00
Venue: Soutar Theatre, AK Bell Library, 2-8 York Place, Perth, PH2 8EP
Save the date and book your travel for the first conference organised as part of the Perth and Kinross (Regional) Archaeological Research Framework (PKARF). Join Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust for a summary of findings from the first year of knowledge assessment and here preliminary research priorities presented by leading experts. Contribute to the shaping of the future Framework by joining ‘think tank’ workshops to review draft period summaries, nominate case studies, highlight knowledge gaps, and share your opinions on where future archaeological research should be directed. Student Attendance Bursaries available to assist with the cost of travel and accommodation.
Further information
Training
Future-proofing our heritage: the role of maintenance in mitigating the effects of climate change
Date & time: Friday 15 March, 09:00-13:00
Venue: A&DS, 9 Bakehouse Close, 146 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DD
A special half-day maintenance CPD event to explore the issues and solutions presented by the need to regularly maintain our historic building stock in the face of a changing climate.
Exploration of the fundamentals of maintenance, comparing and contrasting traditional and post-war buildings, and what lessons can be learned from the current Edinburgh World Heritage project in Turkey.
Cost: £15/£10 EWH members
Historic Glass and Glazing Conservation
Dates: Wednesday 27 March – Wednesday 10 April (5 days)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RD
This course will explore a range of issues associated with the manufacture, use and conservation of plain and decorative glass, and traditional glazing systems, in Scotland’s historic built environment. You will get a historic overview of these materials, for their early beginnings in the Roman period and early 17th-century glassmaking industries, to technological advancements and innovation in their manufacture today. Study the science of glass manufacture, its composition, and its physical properties. Students will learn how to carry out archival research in order to identify the artist, craftsman or studio responsible for the original work and thereby establishing the cultural significance of the work or site. This course will teach you current conservation principles and how to undertake appropriate repairs, from an initial survey, through to specification, procurement and on-site repair of existing or installation of new material – all according to best current principles of best conservation practice.
Cost: £405
To register your interest: email Technical Education
Maintaining Traditional Buildings
Date: Friday 29 March
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife KY11 3EN
A must for anyone who owns or is responsible for a traditional building.
This course provides the perfect starting point if you are considering undertaking some simple repairs yourself or will enable you to speak your builder’s language and be confident that you are being given the correct advice.
This seminar will outline the maintenance that traditional buildings require and attendees will gain an understanding of traditional building techniques and the correct materials to use when undertaking repairs. This will also be an excellent opportunity to speak to the Scottish Lime Centre Trust’s expert tutors about your project, attendees are welcome to bring along photos and mortar samples for some specific advice.
Above Eaves Level P1 – Traditional Slate Roofs
Dates: Tuesday 2 – Wednesday 3 April
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
This 2-day course aims to provide an introductory guide to traditional Scottish roofs including function, structure, types of trusses, external roof shapes, typical details and decorative features and the causes of deterioration and the main causes of failure. Practical work includes sizing and trimming of slates, setting out and nailing a simple traditional slate roof, undertaking repairs, executing a mortar skew fillet and installing rainwater goods correctly.
By the end of the course attendees will be able to recognise the structure of roofs, identify different types of trusses, different external roof shapes, their detailing, decorative features. Understand how natural slate was formed and the variety of slates used in the past on traditional roofs and the main causes of failure on a roof. Specifying roof repairs with sufficient detail to retain the character of a traditional slate roof.
The practical sessions will enable you to trim and size slates, set out and nail a simple traditional slate roof, execute a mortar skew fillet and install rainwater goods correctly.
Technical Seminar: Stained Glass
Date & time: Wednesday 3 April; 10:00–16:30
Venue: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
This new technical seminar delves into the use of decorative glass in buildings. Listen to the experts cover various topics from the properties and characteristics of stained glass, to its decay mechanisms and conservation.
Cost: £35.00 Non-members; £31.50 HES members
Booking information
Conservation of Surface Finishes
Dates: Thursday 4 – Friday 12 April (4 days)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RD
Discover the history and conservation of a range of internal and external surface finishes traditionally used on Scotland’s historic buildings. Study the science behind paints and coatings and the complex issues involved in the conservation of historic finishes today. This course offers a historic overview of the use of paints and other coatings in Scottish architectural traditions, from the medieval period through to the 20th century. Explore the impact of internationally renowned Scottish artists such as Adam, Cottier, Mackintosh and Traquair. Learn about technological developments, from hand-mixed coatings using natural materials such as lime and earth pigments, to the manufacturing of paints and varnishes on an industrial scale and innovative synthetic materials. You will get the chance to study the physical properties of paints, varnishes and other coatings, high-style decorative finishes such as gilding and stencilling, and the technical skills and knowledge required to conserve, restore and replicate these finishes today.
Cost: £420
To register your interest email Technical Education
Architectural Conservation CPD: Conservation Theory and Practice
Date & time: Wednesday 24 April, 12:30-13:30 (light refreshments from 12:15)
Venue: The Fair Maid’s House, 15-19 North Port, Perth, PH1 5LU
The first session in a 6-part CPD programme offers an introduction to conservation theory and practice and is delivered by Peter Burman. Whether you are starting out in a buildings related career, looking to refresh your conservation knowledge, encounter historic buildings as part of your work portfolio, or have limited knowledge of the best conservation practice to employ on a project involving buildings built before 1919, this is the CPD programme for you. Sessions are delivered in Perth by industry accredited professionals and are recognised CPD by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Scottish Traditional Building Forum (STBF).
Booking information
Traditional Masonry Repair C2 – Contractor Level 2
Dates: Tuesday 30 April – Thursday 2 May
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
This 3-day workshop builds on the knowledge and skills gained on ‘C1 Making and Using Traditional Mortars’. The workshop aims to enable you to complete seamless rebuilding and repair of traditional masonry to match original work. You will gain a conservation ethic and be able to develop repair strategies suitable for a variety of traditional masonry types.
The course deals with build types from ashlar to rubble walling, as well as finishes including harling and limewashing. Participants will be able to undertake sensitive surface repairs to ashlar and profiled stone to the highest standards using indenting, part indenting and mortared surface repairs
This workshop provides the underpinning knowledge and a practical rehearsal of the assessment and accreditation procedure for SQA National Unit 2 and Unit 3.
Vacancies
Participation Manager – National Trust for Scotland
This job leads teams to deliver programmes of work across the Trust, designed to increase participation in conservation activities at properties and increased inclusion from individuals and groups who do not currently engage with the Trust. The job holder will work with colleagues across the Trust to ensure these programmes meet local property needs, and to support the delivery of these programmes on the ground.
Location: Hermiston Quay, Edinburgh
Interested applicants should forward a completed application form by email to Work for Us or by post to National Trust for Scotland, 5 Cultins Road, Edinburgh, EH11 4DF by 15 March 2019
National Lottery Heritage Fund Director: Scotland
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest dedicated funder of heritage in the UK, and everything we do for the heritage is made possible by National Lottery players. We are seeking exceptional candidates for the role of Director Scotland. This is an exciting time to join the Fund as it launches its ambitious Strategic Funding Framework and develops new ways of supporting and strengthening the UK’s heritage. The Director Scotland will play a key role in taking this forward, responsible for our investment and engagement activities across Scotland and will be an inspiring leader with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time (35 hours p/w)
Location: Scotland. Interviews will be held in Edinburgh on 16 April 2019.
Salary: Up to £61k per annum (subject to review) Job Ref: BD001.01
Further details/Applications
Closing date: midnight, 29 March 2019
Perth City Mills Development Officer
Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust are seeking to appoint a historic buildings conservation professional to join our team to:
• Lead on the production of a Conservation Management Plan and Training and Volunteer Plan and Office Accommodation and Management Plan
• Lead on community and stakeholder consultation and the development of a costed project proposal and fund-raising strategy leading to funding applications for a 3-5 year project beginning in 2020
• Contribute to plans to sub-let the Trust’s Library Lodge building and the physical move of staff to Lower City Mills
Salary: £30,000 p.a. Full-time, 1-year fixed term contract.
Application is by covering letter and CV by 5pm, Friday 5 April 2019
Interviews will be held on Monday 15 April 2019.
Full job description and personal specification
Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) Development Officer
Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust are seeking to appoint a historic buildings conservation professional to join our team to:
• Update the Conservation Area Appraisal (2009) and Management Plan, research and develop specific projects and initiatives for the bid, working with Trust staff and key staff from Perth and Kinross Council
• Produce a Learning Plan, Professional Training Plan, and project and administrative proposals while developing community partners and correlating a final bid with additional funding as required.
Salary: £30,000 p.a. Part-time, 2-year fixed-term contract
Application is by covering letter and CV by 5pm, Friday 5 April 2019
Interviews will be held on: Tuesday 16 April 2019.
Full job description and personal specification
Chief Executive – Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT)
The Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) seeks to change the face of Central Scotland by restoring and transforming the landscape of an area stretching from Ayrshire and Inverclyde in the west, to Fife and the Lothians in the east.
In anticipation of the retirement of Chief Executive, Simon Rennie, they are now seeking a new Chief Executive to lead the development of the Central Scotland Green Network (the largest environmental project of its kind in Europe) and to lead and manage the Central Scotland Green Network Trust. Working closely with the senior team, you will set the strategic direction of CSGNT in order to bring about ambitious plans of bringing real change to the environment, economy and people of Central Scotland. Reporting to the CSGNT Board, you will work closely with CSGNT’s Chair and will play a key role in projecting the Trust’s ambitions and in managing key stakeholder relationships.
Salary: £60k – £70k
Please send your completed application form along with your CV and any other supporting material in PDF format to Recruitment by Wednesday, 27 March 2019
First interviews will take place in Shotts on Thursday 25 April 2019
Further Information
BACK
All the latest heritage news, consultations, events and job vacancies
BEFS News
We have now published our responses to Historic Environment Scotland’s recent consultations. Following a well-attended workshop with members to inform our responses, you can view our detailed submissions to both consultations below:
Designations and Scheduled Monuments Consultation
Demolition and Use and Adaptation of Listed Buildings Consultation
Taking a lead from the December workshop dialogues (based on submissions from the sector), BEFS has drawn together some suggested Principles for Prioritisation. What these principles are, and how they might be utilised by the sector will be presented on Monday 25 February. To get the opportunity for a first look at the Principles, and to be involved in feeding back on the process – book here.
During this event we will hear from Emily Tracey (Project Manager with HES) about the progress of the Our Place in Time – Built Heritage Investment Plan Group; and also receive a presentation from Scottish Canals who have worked with EY to develop a matrix and methodological approach to enable them to best manage their assets.
Our first blog from Euan Leitch concerns recent planning decisions and questions the involvement of politicians in the decision-making process.
Ailsa Macfarlane’s blog asks: What good do current concepts of ‘community’ do us? and considers the outmoded employment of the term community in current discussions.
This is the final call for contributions to the cross party Scottish Parliamentary Working Group on Tenement Maintenance’s Consultation. Responses need to be submitted by 27 February 2019; full details can be found here
Consultations
Changing Places Toilets: Building Standards Consultation (SG 18/02/19)
Opinions sought on building standards being amended to ensure more Changing Places Toilets are available in public buildings and spaces.
Opened: 18 February 2019. Closes 13 May 2019
Environmental principles and governance after Brexit: Consultation (SG 16/02/19)
Evidence is being gathered on future arrangements for the application of EU environmental principles and for environmental governance in Scotland, in the event that the UK exits the EU.
Opened: 16 February 2019. Closes: 11 May 2019
Climate Ready Scotland: Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-2024 (SG 12/02/19)
Opinions invited on the draft programme for autumn publication.
Opened: 12 February 2019. Closes: 9 April 2019
Publications
IPPR Paper: Facing up to the age of environmental breakdown (IPPR 12/02/19)
Delivering Sustainable Flood Risk Management (SG 11/02/19)
The effects of ending the zero carbon homes policy (ECIU 10/02/19)
Our Place in Time Annual Report 2018 (HES 07/02/19)
Heritage Sector Insights – 2018-19 (Ecclesiastical 07/02/19)
Environmental Planning After Brexit (RTPI 31/01/19)
Housing and Ageing: Linking strategy to future delivery for Scotland, Wales and England 2030 (SUII
31/01/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
Infrastructure Commission appointed (SG 11/02/19)
An independent commission to advise on a 30 year strategy for infrastructure investment has appointed its final members.
News Releases
Survey reveals catalogue of concerns for Scottish charities (SCVO 20/02/19)
The majority of respondents to the survey are worried about what increased demand for services and lack of secure funding will mean for the people and communities they support over the next 12 months.
Architecture Fringe 2019 – sponsors sought (AF 18/02/19)
Sponsorship Opportunities brochure sets out how to contribute to make the Architecture Fringe 2019 the best yet.
Call for evidence on Scotland’s progress towards the UN SDGs (SCVO 15/02/19)
Scotland’s SDG Network and the Scottish Government have issued a call for evidence on Scotland’s progress towards the UN SDGs
New £7m loan and social investment fund to secure the future of the UK’s historic buildings (AHF 14/02/19)
The Heritage Impact Fund will support organisations with a clear social mission seeking to deliver demonstrable local economic and community impact, as well as helping deliver projects that support the sustainability of historic buildings.
Scottish Land Fund announces recipients of latest round of funding (NLCF 13/02/19)
Seven communities from the Borders to Raasay have been awarded cash for their projects.
Drochaid a’ Chaolais Chumhaing/Kylesku Bridge in Sutherland has been awarded Category A status (HES 13/02/19).
Drochaid a’ Chaolais Chumhaing/Kylesku Bridge has been recognised as being of special architectural interest and is the first to be legally named in Gaelic.
Applications open for Tesco Bags of Help Centenary Grants (GSS 11/02/19)
Tesco Bags of Help Centenary Grants are inviting applications from not-for-profit organisations for projects that bring significant benefit to communities.
Saltire Society 2019 Housing Awards launched (SSS 11/02/19)
Nominations are now open for the 2019 Saltire Society Housing Design Awards.
Deadline for submissions: 8 March 2019
Glasgow Council approves new strategy to make best use of its property and land estate (GCC 07/02/19)
The new strategy will guide the council on making the best use of its substantial property and land estate, the biggest in the city.
Heritage sector generated over £4bn for Scotland’s economy in 2017-18 (HES 07/02/19)
Scotland’s historic environment continues to make a strong contribution to the nation’s economy, as seen in the latest annual performance report for the sector.
Design Council appoints new Director of Architecture and the Built Environment (DC 06/02/19)
Sue Morgan has been appointed as the organisation’s new Director of Architecture and the Built Environment.
Creative Europe – Brexit update (06/02/19)
Advice for UK lead and partner organisations concerning applications for the forthcoming Creative Europe calls.
AIM launches 2019 Member and Stakeholder Survey
The Association of Independent Museums invites opinions on how it can better help heritage organisations prosper in the next few years. They particularly welcome responses to their short survey from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland; non-AIM members can take part.
The survey will close on 4 March 2019.
Creating Better Towns – Aide Memoire Published (STP 16/01/19)
A free, simple aide-memoire for Councils and stakeholders in towns has been published, to identify and clearly define best practice, methodologies and the key ingredient for Creating Better Towns.
Opinion & Comment
An introduction to Edinburgh’s social housing, 1890-1945 (MD 19/02/19)
Alter rules so rights stack up for tenement living – David Alexander (Scotsman 14/02/19)
Fears of A9 dualling impact on historic sites (BBC 13/02/19)
Tackling poverty is about making places work better for people (RTPI 12/02/19)
Dumfries and Galloway Cases Panel voice their concern about a worrying trend in the appeal process (AHSS 12/02/19)
Brexit not an obstacle to environmental planning, study suggests (HES 11/02/19)
Civic cultural partnerships key to driving growth (AP 08/02/19)
Arms-length body set to buy Glasgows’ iconic buildings (TFN 08/02/19)
Part 2: Them & Us (or why we might need a dose of populism in planning) (PD 06/02/19)
School Pupils to be taught construction skills (HM 05/02/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament. Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-21618: Jamie Halcro Johnston, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 11/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has for the implementation of the updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EU) 2018/844 and the creation of strategies (a) to improve indoor air quality, (b) for renovating existing buildings to improve energy efficiency and (c) to make buildings ready for smart energy systems.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 11/03/2019
Question S5W-21530: Dean Lockhart, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 07/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how many large housing development sites with outline planning permission there are in each local authority area, broken down by the number of houses.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 07/03/2019
Question S5W-21531: Dean Lockhart, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 07/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what information it has regarding the build-out rate for large housing development sites in each local authority area.
Current Status: Expected Answer date 07/03/2019
Parliamentary Questions and Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-21277: Kezia Dugdale, Lothian, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 29/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is regarding the banning of most domestic wood burning stoves by 2022, in light of plans by the UK Government to do so.
Answered by Roseanna Cunningham: 14/02/2019
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Talks at the Lane present Colm Moore on Temporal Architecture
Date & time: Thursday 28 February; 18:30
Venue: Custom Lane, 1 Customs Wharf, Leith EH6 6AL
Custom Lane invites you to join Colm Moore of Clancy Moore Architects to discuss their practice as part of the Talks at the Lane series.
Date & time: Monday 4 March; 18:30
Venue: St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, 13 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA
Since the second, devastating fire at Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Glasgow School of Art, the project to restore this iconic building has been seismically changed in timescale and expansiveness – but in the underlying intent to restore to the City it’s much cherished and creative ‘castle on the hill’. Liz Davidson’s lecture will explore the aftermath of the fire and the ways in which the restoration team have re-examined their approach to the much greater challenge ahead of them.
All welcome – admission £5 (free for students), no booking required.
Archaeological Science: looking to the future
Dates & times: Monday 11 March; 18:00-19:00 in Edinburgh & Tuesday 12 March; 19.00-20.00 in Lerwick.
Venues: Monday in the National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance); Tuesday in the Shetland Museum and Archives, Hay’s Dock, Lerwick, ZE1 0WP.
The application of science as a tool for analysing and interpreting archaeological remains is becoming much more commonplace. From the first measurements of the radiocarbon dates almost 70 years ago, providing an increasingly robust understanding of the chronology of the past, through to ancient DNA and isotopes, giving an insight into people’s diet and where they come from. This lecture will explore some of the challenges and opportunities of working with science in archaeology, before looking towards where we might see advances in the future.
Lecture given by Dr Lisa Brown FSA Scot MCIfA, Archaeological Science Manager at Historic Environment Scotland.
Date & time: Tuesday 12 March; 10:00 – 16:00
Venue: Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2JL
The way we heat our buildings is going to change dramatically in the coming years. The new Planning (Scotland) Bill, Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies and district heating regulations will have a significant impact on how planning approaches energy and place, with the potential to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions and create new, local economic opportunities.
Zero Waste Scotland is hosting a free workshop to help planners understand more about the changing policy landscape and how these changes might be addressed in practice. The session is free for all planning professionals, whether in the public or private sector.
Date & time: Thursday 14 March; 08:30 – 17:10
Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro, Perth Rd, Dunblane, FK15 0HG
Join RICS CPD Day, Dunblane to enhance your capabilities and knowledge around today’s ever-changing market trends, legislation and technical guidance. Learn from leading industry professionals and take away practical solutions which can be implemented into your daily practice – benefiting both your business and personal professional development. The conference offers a choice of 18 breakout sessions to allow you to tailor the day specifically to your personal CPD needs, network with colleagues and peers in your region and put your questions to leading experts in their field.
RTPI Scotland Young Planners Conference 2019
Date & time: Wednesday 20 March; 09:00–17:30
Venue: Apex Hotel, Dundee
Our 2019 Young Planners’ Network conference takes place in the beautiful city of Dundee. This year we will be looking at how young planners can ‘deliver great places now and for the future’. A jam packed line up with some of the most esteemed built environment professionals in the country will be complemented by afternoon workshops, helping improve and refine skills critical for your development as a professional planner. We are expecting another sell-out event so don’t delay and book tickets today.
Our Past, Our Future: Young People & Heritage
Date & time: Wednesday 27 March; 09:30-17:00
Venue: AK Bell Library, Perth
This one-day conference at the AK Bell Library in Perth will bring together a range of speakers to share their experiences working on different heritage engagement projects across Scotland. We will reflect upon activities undertaken during the Year of Young People (2018) and explore how best to support young people’s interest in the past as they become the heritage caretakers of the future. The keynote address will be given by Dr Jeff Sanders who has delivered high-profile projects for the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, including the successful Dig It! engagement programme since 2015.
Best practice approaches to place-based regeneration: A SURF Award Shared Learning Workshop
Date & time: Thursday 2 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Storytelling Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful current approaches towards regenerating Scotland’s places with three winning projects from the ‘Most Improved Place’, ‘Housing’ and ‘Community Led Regeneration’ categories highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process.
Rhind Lectures 2019 – Hadrian’s Wall: A Study in Archaeological Exploration and Interpretation
Date & time: Friday 10 May (6pm-8pm), Saturday 11 May (11am-5pm) and Sunday 12 May (2pm-5pm).
Venue: National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance).
Hadrian’s Wall was written about even when it was still in use as a frontier. Interest continued through the next 1000 years, but it was the spirit of enquiry generated by the Renaissance which led to more focussed study. Once archaeological excavations started, the pace quickened. Now we have an enormous data base even though only about 5% of the Wall has been examined. To understand our interpretations of Hadrian’s Wall today, it is necessary to start in the 1840s, and in particular consider the work and influence of John Collingwood Bruce (Rhind lecturer in 1883). The first two lectures in this series of six will review the excavations and surveys, theories and flights of fancy since that decade. The next two lectures concentrate on the different phases of activity on the Wall and through them seek understanding of how the Wall operated. The impact of the Wall on local people and the landscape is the subject of the fifth lecture, while in the final talk the state of Hadrian’s Wall today is considered, with time for questions.
Lectures given by Professor David Breeze OBE, FSA, Hon FSA Scot, FRSE, Hon CIfA.
Date & time: Wednesday 15 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: The Glasgow Women’s Library, 23 Landressy Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow G40 1BP
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in the Glasgow Women’s Library provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards tackling barriers to employability facing young people in Scotland. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Youth Employability’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
Date & time: Thursday 30 May; 10:00-13:30
Venue: Paisley Arts Centre, 15 New Street, Paisley PA1 1EZ
This free half-day SURF Awards workshop event in Paisley Arts Centre provides an opportunity to explore successful approaches towards linking creative arts and culture into regeneration initiatives. The winning and highly commended projects from the ‘Creative Regeneration’ category highlighted in the 2018 SURF Awards process will provide comment on their experiences and transferable learning.
IHBC Annual School – Nottingham 2019
Dates: Annual School: Thursday 4 – Saturday 6 July; Day School: Friday 5 July
Venue: Nottingham Conference Centre, Burton Street, Nottingham NG1 4BU
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation will hold its 21st Annual School in Nottingham, hosted by the IHBC East Midlands Branch. This year’s school focuses on the theme of ‘Heritage, Risk & Resilience: confronting conservation calamities, exploring:
- Heritage challenges and insights into solutions for Fire | Flood | Structural Failure
- Case studies – Technical, practical and strategic advice
- Planning for the worst: dealing with the aftermath
The Annual School includes three exciting days of:
- Tours – Nottingham, Leicester, Derby & the East Midlands
- CPD support: Up to 20 hours Continuing Professional Development linked
- Business opportunities: Sponsors, exhibitors, networks & supporters
Training
Dates and time: Monday 25 February-Friday 1 March or Monday 3-Friday 7 June; 08:30 – 17:00 daily
Venue: RICS, 125 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4AD
A facilitative and evaluative approach to mediation in the built environment. Highly practical and intensive, the RICS Mediation Training Programme will prepare you to mediate the most complex disputes to the highest standards across land, property, construction and infrastructure.
Our expert trainers will provide you with in-depth, practical coaching and you will receive feedback from both your trainer and your peers.
CPD: 50 hours
Conservation of Non-Ferrous Metals
Dates: Wednesday 6 – Wednesday 20 March (3 days)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RD
Discover the issues associated with non-ferrous metals in Scotland’s historic built environment. Study materials including bronze and brass, their cultural significance and how they’ve been used in traditional buildings. You will get an overview of the cultural significance of non-ferrous metals in Scottish architecture from the medieval period to the 20th century, and the diversity of items manufactured in non-ferrous metals. Learn the fundamental characteristics and physical properties of non-ferrous metals, and the metallurgical processes for producing alloys. This course will also teach you current conservation principles and how to undertake appropriate repairs, from an initial survey, through to specification, procurement and on-site repair of existing or installation of new material – all according to best current principles of best conservation practice.
Cost: £330
To register your interest: email technicaleducation@hes.scot
A Place for all Mortars Masterclass
Date: Friday 15 March
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife KY11 3EN
This masterclass aims to demonstrate that there is a place for all mortars by explaining more about the mortars we have available today. These range from hot mixed mortars, closely replicating historic mortars, to formulated ready mixed mortars. We have a huge variety of lime binders available to us today compared to the fairly limited range on offer when the lime enlightenment first began. Research and analysis has helped us understand why we should specify mortars to closely replicate those originally used, however, modern pressures force us to look at mortars more practically. This masterclass looks at all mortars and the advantages and disadvantages of various applications.
Date: Saturday 16 March
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
Learn the skills to help you carry out your own mortar pointing repairs.
This popular one day workshop is aimed at those who would like to undertake repointing works as part of a renovation project or simply as general maintenance to traditional masonry structures. A practical ‘hands on’ training day, attendees will learn to undertake repointing works to with confidence. This course will give a sound understanding of traditional building technology, repair techniques and the materials to use when carrying out repointing. Attendees are encouraged to bring along images of their projects to discuss with the SLCT tutor on the day.
Historic Glass and Glazing Conservation
Dates: Wednesday 27 March – Wednesday 10 April (5 days)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RD
This course will explore a range of issues associated with the manufacture, use and conservation of plain and decorative glass, and traditional glazing systems, in Scotland’s historic built environment. You will get a historic overview of these materials, for their early beginnings in the Roman period and early 17th-century glassmaking industries, to technological advancements and innovation in their manufacture today. Study the science of glass manufacture, its composition, and its physical properties. Students will learn how to carry out archival research in order to identify the artist, craftsman or studio responsible for the original work and thereby establishing the cultural significance of the work or site. This course will teach you current conservation principles and how to undertake appropriate repairs, from an initial survey, through to specification, procurement and on-site repair of existing or installation of new material – all according to best current principles of best conservation practice.
Cost: £405
To register your interest: email technicaleducation@hes.scot
Vacancies
Edinburgh World Heritage is looking to appoint a Grants Officer. The role will involve providing support for the successful delivery of the Conservation Funding Programme (70% of the role) and delivery of the maintenance programme (30% of the role).
Main responsibilities will include:
– Providing technical advice and support
– Promoting ongoing maintenance
– Ensuring that all grant documentation is compliant at every stage of the project cycle
Closing date for applications: 5pm, Wednesday 27 February
Prince’s Foundation Building Craft Programme
Applications are now open for the Prince’s Foundation Building Craft Programme, where you will work with a wide range of building crafts and expert craftspeople to take your skills to the next level.
The Foundation believe it is crucial to preserve these valuable skills, which are gradually being lost as the average age of workers in the Historic Buildings sector approaches retirement age. The course is designed for craftspeople looking to bridge the gap between basic qualifications and becoming a master craftsperson working in the heritage sector.
Deadline: Friday 1 March
BACK
News, views and upcoming events in the Built Environment sector
BEFS News
Many will have picked up the news that the Heritage Lottery Fund has rebranded as the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as part of its Strategic Funding Framework 2019-24. There are further details in the News Release section below and they are holding open workshops in West Lothian, Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow, Inverness and Dundee over the next few months. Places are free but limited so booking is necessary.
You can still register to attend our Prioritisation & the Historic Environment Event at The Scottish Story Telling Centre on Monday 25 February. Discover more about our findings from the December workshop on the heritage sector and hear an update on how it complements the Our Place in Time – Built Heritage Investment Plan Group.
HES currently has 2 consultations running, covering four policy and managing change documents. BEFS has already held a workshop to gather Member views but, as ever, we encourage all organisations and individuals to form their own Consultation responses with further detail relating to their areas of knowledge and expertise.
The first, covers both Demolition and the Adaptation of Listed Buildings documents and closes at 6pm on Friday 15th February.
The second, covers Designations and Scheduled Monument Policy and this closes on Tuesday 19th February.
There is also still time to contribute to the cross-party Scottish Parliamentary Working Group on Tenement Maintenance’s Consultation. Your responses are required by 27 February 2019; full details of the interim recommendations and how to respond can be found here.
Finally, don’t miss out on the range of upcoming events and training featured below.
Consultations
Valuation of Development Land (RICS)
Help shape valuation surveyors’ day to day work
Opened: 7 January 2019. Closes: 18 February 2019
Reinvigorating Commonhold: the alternative to leasehold ownership (Law Commission)
Opened: 10 December 2018. Closes: 10 March 2019
Consultation Responses
Scotland’s Forestry Strategy – 2019-2029 (SG 06/02/19)
Publications
Cultural Cities (CC 05/02/19)
Annual Cities Outlook Report (CFC 28/01/19)
Building Beautiful (PE 28/01/19)
Inform Guide: Damp Gables (Engine Shed 15/01/19)
Scottish Government News Releases
Action Against Flooding (SG 06/02/19)
Communities across Scotland to benefit from more than £700,000 additional funding to improve flood protection.
Compulsory Purchase in Scotland: A guide for property owners and occupiers (SG 04/02/19)
Guidance for property owners and occupiers who believe they may be affected by a Compulsory Purchase project.
New Fire Safety Standards for Scottish Homes (SG 01/02/19)
New rules to reduce deaths in household fires, with improved standards introduced for fire and smoke alarms in Scottish homes.
High Hedges (Scotland) Act 2013 – Revised Guidance to Local Authorities 2019 (SG 31/01/19)
Revised guidance, following discussions with local authorities and interest groups, updating the High Hedges (Scotland) Act 2013 and addressing problems caused by high hedges.
Planning Application Decision Times Published (SG 29/01/19)
Statistics on quarterly planning performance, detailing number of planning applications decided across Scotland and average decision times for most types of application, including housing.
More Homes for Scotland (SG 25/01/19)
Funding increase assisting the drive to increase the supply of affordable homes via the 2019/20 Scottish Budget.
News Releases
Scottish Land Commission champions engagement process for successful land management (SLC 31/01/19)
Launch of new Protocol and toolkit setting out practical advice on how landowners, land managers and communities can work together to make better – and fairer – decisions about land use.
Heritage Alliance Travel Grant (IHBC 31/01/19)
The Heritage Alliance, with support from the British Council, is offering travel grants to support UK heritage professionals to develop mutually beneficial international projects and partnerships for their organisations. Apply here
Deadline: 5pm, Friday 15 February. Travel must be completed by 1 November 2019.
Scottish led project to be part of CACHE knowledge exchange funded projects (Cache 30/01/19)
University of Stirling project concerning Tenant Participation in the Private Rented Sector is one of five projects being funded.
New-look National Lottery Heritage Fund unveils plans for the next five years (HF 30/01/19)
A major devolution of decision-making across the whole of the UK is at the heart of new plans to distribute more than £1billion of National Lottery money to the UK’s heritage over next five years.
Heritage Alliance opens survey estimating Brexit impacts on heritage employees (IHBC 29/01/19)
The Heritage Alliance is calling on sector bodies to complete, share & retweet its 5-minute survey on EU Workers to help understand how Brexit will affect heritage sector employees.
Scotland’s Towns Partnership’s Funding Finder (STP 29/01/19)
The Funding Finder is the go-to place to source potential funding. Comprising nine categories, the Finder provides easy to read information on current funding streams, highlighting announcements of new funds and application deadlines. Download the January 2019 Funding Finder for more details.
2020 World Monuments Watch (WMF 29/01/19)
Nominations have opened for the 2020 World Monuments Watch. 25 sites from around the world in need of urgent action will be partnered with local stakeholders to design and implement targeted activities—including advocacy, planning, education, and conservation interventions in the historic built environment.
Deadline: 5pm, 1 March 2019
Social housing and green infrastructure design fund launched (GSS 28/01/19)
An opportunity for a path-finding social housing provider to access a package of financial and design support, helping to deliver an innovative social housing development and maximising the benefits of the vegetated land and water within and around housing sites.
Design Council launches Inclusive Environments CPD (DC 28/01/19)
Launch of a course for built environment professionals, providing them with an increased understanding and knowledge of inclusive design as standard practice at a national level.
My Place Awards and My Place Photography Competition (SCT 28/01/19)
The My Place Awards celebrate buildings, landscape, public realm and civic projects that have had a positive impact in local neighbourhoods, and delivered tangible benefits for communities.
Deadline: 22 February 2019
Funding announced for new collaborative centre for cultural value (AHRC)
The Arts and Humanities Research Council, part of UK Research and Innovation, has announced new funding for the creation of a collaborative Centre for Cultural Value, the first of its kind in the UK.
Opinion & Comment
Ministers reject plans for £450m Loudoun Castle resort (BBC 07/02/19)
How private landlords are destroying our tenements (SHN 05/02/19)
Community Engagement in decisions relating to land (SLC 05/02/19)
Prince Charles could ditch Scottish Eco-Village (TFN 04/02/19)
Leith Walk Development Campaign – latest (TER 30/01/19)
Holmhead Stone Circle: A Megalithic Mistake (HES 28/01/19)
A wider perspective on the planning bill: why we are where we are with planning – Dr Andy Inch (PD 27/01/19)
Political uncertainty ‘takes toll’ on building activity (RICS 24/01/19)
Edinburgh Council could buy your tenement flat and rent it back – to get it fixed (EEN 24/01/19)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-21388: Oliver Mundell, Dumfriesshire, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 04/02/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what help it offers to communities that are seeking to (a) improve the appearance of buildings that are considered to be “eyesores” and (b) bring derelict buildings back to use.
Expected Answer date 04/03/2019
Question S5W-21336: Gail Ross, Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 30/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government how complete the Scottish Land Register is.
Expected Answer date 27/02/2019
Question S5W-21277: Kezia Dugdale, Lothian, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 29/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is regarding the banning of most domestic wood burning stoves by 2022, in light of plans by the UK Government to do so.
Expected Answer date 26/02/2019
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Question S5W-21030: Murdo Fraser, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 16/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government whether it is responsible for the protection and enhancement of the country’s historic environment.
Answered by Fiona Hyslop (28/01/2019)
Question S5W-21031: Murdo Fraser, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 16/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government whether Historic Environment Scotland, as a statutory consultee in the A9 dualling project, is responsible for the protection and enhancement of the (a) historic environment and (b) inventory battlefield at Killiecrankie.
Answered by Fiona Hyslop (28/01/2019)
Question S5W-21032: Murdo Fraser, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 16/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government whether it considers it conferred sufficient power on Historic Environment Scotland to be able to protect and enhance the (a) historic environment and (b) inventory battlefield at Killiecrankie.
Answered by Fiona Hyslop (28/01/2019)
Question S5W-20978: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 14/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for local authorities to be able to use a portion of the town centres fund for reducing non-domestic rates.
Answered by Derek Mackay (23/01/2019)
Question S5W-20977: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 14/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government when it will publish details of its proposed town centres fund, and what its position is on the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for business improvement districts and other organisations to be eligible to bid for funding.
Holding Answer issued by Derek Mackay (28/01/2019)
Other Parliamentary Activity
Motions: Graham Simpson: Housing Through the Lens of Ageing (17/01/19)
Debates: Housing through the Lens of Ageing (29/01/19)
Events
AF2019 February Meet-up – Inverness
Date & time: Saturday 9 February; 10:15 (10:30 start) – 13:00
Venue: The Bike Shed, 21D Grant Street, Inverness IV3 8BN
Join the first Architecture Fringe meet-up in the North of Scotland!
These free-to-attend meet-ups are very laid back and are open to anyone considering taking part in or contributing to the Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Programme. The Open Programme is a non-curated platform for self-directed projects, exhibitions, events and happenings. The meet-ups are an opportunity for you to hear more about the Architecture Fringe itself, to share your project thoughts and ideas, get feedback and meet new people. The meet-ups are analogue so just bring ideas or images to stick up on the wall. Open to all, free to attend. A lovely way to spend a Saturday morning!
The State Funeral and Heraldry of Mary Queen of Scots
Date & time: Monday 11 February (18:00-19:00) in Edinburgh, Tuesday 12 February (19:30-20:30) in Aberdeen.
Venue: Monday in the National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance); Tuesday in the Regent Building Lecture Theatre, Regent Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX.
Lecture by John Malden FSA Scot, President Heraldry Society of Scotland Royal Heraldry.
Preserving and Interpreting the Berlin Wall in a World of New Walls
Date & time: Wednesday 13 February; 18:00 (£6 – booking via website)
Venue: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
The Berlin Wall was the Icon of the Cold War, symbolising a divided world until its political fall in November 1989. Today, not much is left of the world famous155km structure. Thanks to efforts initiated in December 1989, seven sections of the Wall and other border installations were listed and officially designated Historic Monuments by 1992. Today, the Berlin Wall Foundation is responsible for four prominent sites with a total of approximately 4 Million visitors a year. How are these precious physical remains being treated? What stories are being told, and what does the Berlin Wall stand for today?
Tackling Flooding Together
Date & time: Saturday 16 February; 10:30-14:30
Venue: The National Christian Outreach Centre, Riggs Road, Perth PH1 1PR
The Scottish Flood Forum (SFF) is holding another of its successful community networking events with support from Floodre who are engaging with flood risk communities across Britain as part of their transition plan. This community focussed event will give people the opportunity to share experience and discuss what we can do to tackle flooding together in a mutually supportive environment, so come along and give your views.
Heritage Trust Network Event: Scotland Members’ Meeting – Dundee
Date & time: Monday 18 February; 10:00-15:00
Venue: Dundee Central Baptist Church
Join us for our quarterly members’ meeting, to hear key speakers and build your contacts within Scotland’s network of Building Preservation Trusts and Community Groups involved in the rescue of historic buildings. This meeting will focus on the new National Lottery Heritage Fund (former Heritage Lottery Fund) and will offer the chance to hear all about the new funding streams available and ask any questions. Non-members are welcome to attend their first meeting without joining up, Attendance is free.
Highlands’ Heritage Hooley
Date & time: Tuesday 19 February; 18:00-20:00
Venue: Inverness Town House, High Street, Inverness IV1 1JJ
Join us for some lively conversation about what’s happening in Scottish heritage in a beautiful setting with music and refreshments. We’re inviting groups involved with the built environment to learn from each other’s experiences and build up local connections, with the opportunity to pick the brains of the sector’s major stakeholders. Representatives from Historic Environment Scotland, Heritage Lottery Fund, the Architectural Heritage Fund and the Heritage Trust Network, as well as local authorities, will all be there to answer your burning questions over a glass of something cheering in deepest darkest February.
Transforming Transport – Getting from A to EV
Date & time: Thursday 21 February, 14:00
Venue: The Studio, Level 9, 67 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 6AE
From operators of energy assets, electricity networks to those working in transport, infrastructure and smart technology, this is a must attend event for anybody concerned with the detail surrounding the decarbonisation of our transport fleet. This event boasts speakers at the forefront of the transport transition – and is an excellent opportunity to learn about practical challenges and commercial opportunities delivering low-carbon transport will bring.
Central Belt Heritage Hooley
Date & time: Tuesday 26 February; 18:00-20:00
Venue: Linlithgow Burgh Halls, Linlithgow, EH49 7AH
Join us for some lively conversation about what’s happening in Scottish heritage in a beautiful setting with music and refreshments. We’re inviting groups involved with the built environment to learn from each other’s experiences and build up local connections, with the opportunity to pick the brains of the sector’s major stakeholders. Representatives from Historic Environment Scotland, Heritage Lottery Fund, the Architectural Heritage Fund and the Heritage Trust Network, as well as local authorities, will all be there to answer your burning questions over a glass of something cheering in deepest darkest February.
Talks at the Lane present Colm Moore on Temporal Architecture
Date & time: Thursday 28 February; 18:30
Venue: Custom Lane, 1 Customs Wharf, Leith EH6 6AL
Custom Lane invites you to join Colm Moore of Clancy Moore Architects to discuss their practice as part of the Talks at the Lane series.
Colm Moore is a partner of Dublin based architecture practice Clancy Moore. Established with Andrew Clancy in 2008, the practice works across Ireland and Europe seeking to understand ‘context‘ the fullest sense of the word – physical, historical, social, legislative and economic.
Since 2008 the practice has been the recipient of a number of national and international awards including the 2012 AAI Downes Medal for excellence in architectural design. In 2015 the practice was one of four emerging Irish practices involved in the London Festival of Architecture. Then in 2018, they were presented with the accolade of BD Young Architect of the Year. The practices work has been published and exhibited worldwide.
This talk follow on from Izat Arundell & Collaborators, Rural Office for Architecture and STUDIO NIRO.
Booking Details
Archaeological Science: looking to the future
Dates & times: Monday 11 March; 18:00-19:00 in Edinburgh & Tuesday 12 March; 19.00-20.00 in Lerwick.
Venues: Monday in the National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance); Tuesday in the Shetland Museum and Archives, Hay’s Dock, Lerwick, ZE1 0WP.
Lecture given by Dr Lisa Brown FSA Scot MCIfA, Archaeological Science Manager at Historic Environment Scotland.
Planning for Low Carbon Heat
Date & time: Tuesday 12 March; 10:00 – 16:00
Venue: Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2JL
The way we heat our buildings is going to change dramatically in the coming years. The new Planning (Scotland) Bill, Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies and district heating regulations will have a significant impact on how planning approaches energy and place, with the potential to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions and create new, local economic opportunities.
Zero Waste Scotland is hosting a free workshop to help planners understand more about the changing policy landscape and how these changes might be addressed in practice. The session is free for all planning professionals, whether in the public or private sector.
RICS CPD Day, Dunblane
Date & time: Thursday 14 March; 08:30 – 17:10
Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro, Perth Rd, Dunblane, FK15 0HG
Join RICS CPD Day, Dunblane to enhance your capabilities and knowledge around today’s ever-changing market trends, legislation and technical guidance. Learn from leading industry professionals and take away practical solutions which can be implemented into your daily practice – benefiting both your business and personal professional development. The conference offers a choice of 18 breakout sessions to allow you to tailor the day specifically to your personal CPD needs, network with colleagues and peers in your region and put your questions to leading experts in their field.
RTPI Scotland Young Planners Conference 2019
Date & time: Wednesday 20 March; 09:00–17:30
Venue: Apex Hotel, Dundee
Our 2019 Young Planners’ Network conference takes place in the beautiful city of Dundee. This year we will be looking at how young planners can ‘deliver great places now and for the future’. A jam-packed line up with some of the most esteemed built environment professionals in the country will be complemented by afternoon workshops, helping improve and refine skills critical for your development as a professional planner. We are expecting another sell-out event so don’t delay and book tickets today.
Our Past, Our Future: Young People & Heritage
Date & time: Wednesday 27 March; 09:30-17:00
Venue: AK Bell Library, Perth
This one-day conference at the AK Bell Library in Perth will bring together a range of speakers to share their experiences working on different heritage engagement projects across Scotland. We will reflect upon activities undertaken during the Year of Young People (2018) and explore how best to support young people’s interest in the past as they become the heritage caretakers of the future. The keynote address will be given by Dr Jeff Sanders who has delivered high-profile projects for the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, including the successful Dig It! engagement programme since 2015.
Training
Conservation of Timberwork
Dates: Monday 18 February – Tuesday 26 March 2019 (5 days)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Stirling
Timber is one of Scotland’s most significant building materials. It has a rich history from cruck frame houses to decorative internal timbers, and is used across a range of building features. This course will provide an introduction to the essential biology of timber used in Scotland over the centuries, and will trace its sources, from early early samples of Scots origin to imports from the Baltic states and North America.
Examine timber’s physical properties, its natural weathering and decay processes, and its resilience to man-made damage or interference. You will learn about the complex issues surrounding decay caused by wet and dry rots, and current best practice methods to remove and prevent fungal problems in timber.
You will learn current conservation principles and how to undertake appropriate repairs, from an initial survey, through to specification, procurement and on-site repair of existing or installation of new material – all according to best current principles of best conservation practice.
Cost: £420.
Historic Concrete and Cements Conservation
Dates: Monday 19 February – Tuesday 26 March (5 days, TBC)
Venue: Forth Valley College, Stirling
Examine the relatively recent traditions of cement, gypsum and lime concrete construction in Scotland’s in Scotland’s built environment, and the practical conservation issue surrounding this important traditional building material.
This course will give an overview of the development and use of concrete since the 18th century and the manufacture of its most common forms. You will discover the wide range of structures built using this material across Scotland, from lighthouses and viaducts, to houses and office blocks.
You will also learn about the practical challenges faced in repairing and conserving historic concrete structures. Discover the appropriate methods of surveying historic concrete structures, diagnosing defects and the urgency and practicality of repairs or treatment. You will also learn how to devise specifications for repairs using appropriate and sustainable materials, safe work practices and working with contractors with the necessary expertise.
Cost: £405.
Drystone Walling
Date: Saturday 2 March, 09:30 – 4:30
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
Have you always wanted to try drystone walling? Would you like to add to your skills set? Why not join us for this one day workshop aimed at those who would like to learn the basics of dry stone walling to be able to undertake their own projects. During the course you will construct a new drystone wall and also gain the techniques needed to repair existing structures.
Dates: Monday 4 March – Monday 3 June; 09:00 – 17:00
Venue: RICS, 125 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4AD
Gain status in the market as a qualified expert witness
This 12-week blended learning programme designed to give you a sound knowledge of the law and best practice. Practically orientated and founded on the official RICS Professional Guidance, this course will ensure you develop the core competencies needed to be an effective expert witness.
What are the core competencies?
• Managing the appointment
• Managing the post appointment process
• Constructing a comprehensive expert report
• Cooperating productively with other experts
• Delivering effective expert evidence in court
CTA:
Repairing Traditional Masonry P1 – Professional Level 1
Dates: Tuesday 5 – Wednesday 6 March
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife KY11 3EN
This is our most popular 2 day workshop for building professionals and provides an introduction to the effective conservation and repair of traditional masonry structures and buildings, for the most part using traditional lime based mortars.
By the end of the course attendees will be able to recognise vernacular and historic finishes to masonry buildings and will gain an understanding of building diagnostics in order to be able to develop specifications in relation to exposure, season, substrates and the nature of masonry repairs required.
Making & Using Hot Mixed Lime Mortars
Date: Friday 8 March
Venue: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife KY11 3DR
This one day workshop aims to provide an introductory guide to the preparation and use of ‘hot mixed’ lime mortars, that is, mortars prepared by slaking quicklime, sand and natural hydraulic lime binders (and possibly other additives like tallow or pozzolans) to more closely mimic the appearance and technical performance of conservation mortars and in some cases offer advantages in use and technical performance over more conventional ‘cold mortars’. More and more clients and specifiers are asking building contractors to make and use ‘hot mixed’ mortars on their repair jobs, so get ahead of the game and brush up your knowledge and skills with us.
Vacancies
Prince’s Foundation Building Craft Programme
Applications are now open for the Prince’s Foundation Building Craft Programme, where you will work with a wide range of building crafts and expert craftspeople to take your skills to the next level.
The Foundation believe it is crucial to preserve these valuable skills, which are gradually being lost as the average age of workers in the Historic Buildings sector approaches retirement age. The course is designed for craftspeople looking to bridge the gap between basic qualifications and becoming a master craftsperson working in the heritage sector.
Deadline: Friday 1 March
Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications In Our News Bulletin.
BEFS News
The cross party Scottish Parliamentary Working Group on Tenement Maintenance published interim recommendations last week that it sees as central to improving how owners maintain communal property. The recommendations include statutory:
• property inspections,
• owner associations,
• sinking funds.
The working group is seeking responses by 27th February 2019 with full details of the interim recommendations and how to respond here.
In December BEFS held a workshop with individuals from across the heritage sector who had responded to our earlier call for ideas on prioritisation. The follow up event, open to all, will be on Monday 25th February at the Scottish Story Telling Centre in Edinburgh. We plan on sharing the findings of the workshop, update on how it complements the Our Place in Time – Built Heritage Investment Plan Group and look at one organisational prioritisation matrix. Booking details here.
Historic Environment Scotland has opened a consultation on its Designations and Scheduled Monuments Policy. BEFS Membership will be examining this along with the consultation on Demolition, Use and Adaptation of Listed Buildings guidance in early February.
In September 2018 BEFS responded to the Scottish Government Culture Strategy consultation. On 23/01/2019 the Scottish Government released a number of publications analysing the responses to the 2018 consultation. Full details can be found here.
Early in the summer of 2018 BEFS Members, SCAPE, were part of the project ‘Learning From Loss’ which examined the impacts of climate change on heritage and the interface with local communities. They have now published papers and an excellent short film. You can find both here.
The Planning (Scotland) Bill will give communities the right to develop proposals for the development and use of land through a new type of plan, known as a Local Place Plan. PAS have designed a short survey to gather views on what support communities would like to see and what barriers they believe would stop them taking part.
Greenspace Scotland are seeking professionals in the natural/built environment and youth work sector to form a Scotland-wide Skills Bank to support the Young Placechangers programme. As a member of the Advisory Board, BEFS would recommend taking the opportunity to join as a Skills Bank member. Deadline for applications is: 5pm 11 February 2019
BEFS Trustee and Director of Scottish Confucius Institute for Business & Communication at Heriot-Watt University, Ian Baxter has blogged in response to BEFS recent workshop on prioritisation. It is a thought provoking piece discussing the need to proactively put ourselves in others’ shoes and asking if behaviour change is the heritage sector’s next strategic challenge.
In our second blog, Bill Pagan, BEFS Trustee and a founder of the Cupar Development Trust, provides an update on activities in the town following the 2017 charrette with interesting details on being a pilot Digital Improvement District.
Finally, if you have been keeping up with some of the online chatter about different approaches to heritage you might find this podcast on of interest.
Consultations
Scotland’s Construction Sector Inquiry – Call for Views
The Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Fair Work Committee is seeking views on the construction sector in Scotland.
The closing date for receipt of submissions is Wednesday 13 February 2019
Consultation on Scottish Charity Law
Opened 7 Jan 2019. Closes 1 Apr 2019
Consultation on Principles and Practice for Designation and Scheduled Monument Policy and Procedures (HES)
Deadline: 6pm on Tuesday 19 February 2019
Demolition of Listed Buildings and The Use and Adaptation of Listed Buildings (HES)
Deadline: 6pm on Friday 15 February 2019
Consultation Responses
Building Standards Compliance and Fire Safety Consultation Analysis Report
A Culture Strategy for Scotland Responses
Publications
Architecture and Design Scotland’s Annual Review (A&DS 18/01/19)
Planning, Economy, Place Literature Review (SG 17/01/19)
Energy Performance of Buildings Directive: second cost optimal assessment (MHCLG 14/01/19)
Building for our future: A vision for social housing (Shelter 08/01/19)
Marine Protected Area Network – 2018 Report to the Scottish Parliament (SG 21/12/18)
Review of Tenancy Deposit Schemes in Scotland (SG 21/12/18)
Guidance for public bodies covering the purchase of products or services where heritage is an issue of concern (SG 19/12/18)
Launch of a new strategic framework for heritage science (NHSF 05/12/18)
Scottish Government News Releases
Boost for Tay cities region (SG 07/01/19)
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed £40 million will be invested in the new road, which will link the A9 over the River Tay to the A93 and A94 north of Scone, reducing congestion in Perth and opening up sites for housing and economic development.
Less Favoured Areas scheme (SG 07/01/19)
Hill farmers and crofters in Scotland’s most remote areas will continue to receive assistance under the Less Favoured Area Support Scheme (LFASS) into 2020.
News Releases
GovTech Catalyst funding secured (SNH 22/01/19)
An innovative project that will help improve planning around Scotland’s most valuable natural sites has secured funding of up to £1.25 million. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has been granted the award through the UK-wide GovTech Catalyst Challenge to develop a new online service for protected areas.
IHBC Marsh Awards (IHBC 15/01/19)
Submissions are open for the IHBC Marsh Award ‘Successful Learning in Heritage Skills’. The award is designed to recognise the contribution of an individual for their significant learning in traditional building activities and craft skills. Deadline: 28 February 2019
Architecture Fringe 2019 – Open Call pack (AF 09/01/19)
The Architecture Fringe 2019 Open Call is now open for confirmed submissions to the 2019 Open Programme. You can submit your events, projects, exhibitions and happenings using the button below. The Open Call closes for confirmed submissions at 12 noon on Monday 8th April 2019
Shelter Report: RICS backs findings as starting point (RICS 08/01/19)
RICS believe the Shelter report recommendations must be picked up and driven forward by government. RICS has long called for more government resources to improve the housing sector, including more awareness and oversight at ministerial level, a national organisation to keep plans on track, and an independent ombudsman service to ensure fairness.
23 Remarkable Places Listed in 2018 (HE 20/12/18)
A former lifeboat house in Essex, two Rolls Royce testing hangars in Nottingham and a thatched memorial bus shelter in Dorset are among our highlights of the places listed in 2018
The My Place Awards and My Place Photography Competition 2019 (SCT)
The Scottish Civic Trust are delighted to announce the launch of their new My Place Scotland website. Entries for both the My Place Awards and My Place Photography Competition 2019 can now be made online. The closing date for both is Friday 22 February 2019
Place Value Wiki call for submissions
Place Value Wiki is a collaborative platform for anyone interested in the empirical links between aspects of place quality and aspects of place value.
Opinion & Comment
Handling Scotland’s derelict sites (James Simpson & Ian Hood, Scotsman 06/01/19)
Scotland’s proposed new Rights Act and land reform (SLC 11/12/18)
Dundee: Think global, act local (Design Council 11/12/18)
Parliamentary Questions
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Scottish Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.Questions in which a member has indicated a declarable interest are marked with an “R”.
Question S5W-20977: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 14/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government when it will publish details of its proposed town centres fund, and what its position is on the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for business improvement districts and other organisations to be eligible to bid for funding.
Question S5W-20978: Bill Bowman, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 14/01/2019
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on the Scottish Retail Consortium’s call for local authorities to be able to use a portion of the town centres fund for reducing non-domestic rates.
Events
Country house politics: negotiating boundaries between the public and the private
Date: Monday 28 January; 16.00
Venue: Board Room, Scottish Confucius Institute for Business & Communication (Postgrad Centre Room 1.02, First floor)
Seminar organised jointly by Confucius Institute & Intercultural Research Centre
Speaker: Dr Ben Cowell, Director-General of Historic Houses
Sustainable Construction Launch: Meet & Greet with Sandy Halliday
Date: Thursday 31 January; 17.30– 19.00
Venue: RIAS Bookshop, 15 Rutland Square, Edinburgh, EH1 2BE
Come along to the RIAS Bookshop for a meet and greet with Sandy Halliday to celebrate the launch of Sustainable Construction (Second Edition). Sandy will give a short talk followed by a Q&A and book signing. Copies of the book will be available to purchase on the evening for the special discounted price of £32.99.
RSA Edinburgh Area: Shaping New Places Through the Human-Centred Smart City
Date: Tuesday 5 February; 18.00–19.45
Venue: Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation, Old High School, 12 Infirmary Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LZ
“How can the ‘Smart City’ be imagined as a place for people, where technology is servant, not master? How is the ‘Smart City’ understood by different cities internationally? How are wellbeing and human flourishing, climate change, inclusive growth, and other pressing agendas addressed through this concept? If not ‘smart’ then what would a city be?” These are the questions being addressed at the RSA Edinburgh Area Network re-launch in February.
Culture & Business Fund Scotland – Perth Roadshow
Date: Wednesday 6 February; 13.00-16.00; Evening Reception: 17.00-19.30
Venue: Workshop-Perth Museum and Art Gallery, 78 George Street, Perth, PH1 5LB. Reception-Perth Theatre, 185 High Street, Perth PH1 5UW
The event will offer tips on developing creative partnerships with businesses, a detailed session on the application criteria and a Q&A to answer queries about the fund. This afternoon workshop will be followed by an evening reception for businesses taking place at 5pm in Perth Theatre. The event will offer businesses information about CBFS and how partnerships with cultural organisations can bring significant social and economic impact for all involved.
To book your place at one or both of these events, contact: Events or call: 0131 556 3353.
The State Funeral and Heraldry of Mary Queen of Scots
Date & time: Monday 11 February (18.00-19.00) in Edinburgh, Tuesday 12 February (19.30-20.30) in Aberdeen
Venue: Monday in the National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance); Tuesday in the Regent Building Lecture Theatre, Regent Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX
Lecture by John Malden FSA Scot, President Heraldry Society of Scotland Royal Heraldry.
Preserving and Interpreting the Berlin Wall in a World of New Walls
Date & time: Wednesday 13th February; 18.00 (£6 – booking via website)
Venue: The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 1QZ
The Berlin Wall was the Icon of the Cold War, symbolising a divided world until its political fall in November 1989. Today, not much is left of the world famous155km structure. Thanks to efforts initiated in December 1989, seven sections of the Wall and other border installations were listed and officially designated Historic Monuments by 1992. Today, the Berlin Wall Foundation is responsible for four prominent sites with a total of approximately 4 Million visitors a year. How are these precious physical remains being treated? What stories are being told, and what does the Berlin Wall stand for today?
Archaeological Science: looking to the future
Date & time: Monday 11 March (18.00-19.00) in Edinburgh, Tuesday 12 March (19.00-20.00) in Lerwick
Venue: Monday in the National Museum Scotland auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF (use Lothian Street entrance); Tuesday in the Shetland Museum and Archives, Hay’s Dock, Lerwick, ZE1 0WP
Lecture given by Dr Lisa Brown FSA Scot MCIfA, Archaeological Science Manager at Historic Environment Scotland.
Training
Business Briefing: Preparing Your Business for Audit (Edinburgh)
Date: Tuesday, 22 January 2019, Registration: 08.45 | Event 09.00-11.00
Venue: RSM, First Floor, Quay 2, 139 Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 9QG
Cost: Free for Arts & Business Scotland members, £25 + VAT for non-members.
Audit is more than a grudge purchase! How to prepare for and get the most from your audit. All charities with over £500k of income require an external audit and RSM, as one of the leading UK charity auditors, are committed to helping the Charities sector to ensure it gets real value from external audit to help management and Trustees to fulfil their governance responsibilities. If you are a finance manager/ director or Trustee of a charity which requires an audit this session is for you.
A Guide to Tax for Arts & Heritage Organisations (Edinburgh)
Date: Wednesday, 23 January 2019, Registration: 12.30 | Event 13.00 – 16.30
Venue: Arts & Business Scotland, Rosebery House, 9 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5EZ
Cost: Members. £55 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Arts & Heritage). £85 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Corporate). Non-Members: £85 + VAT for non-members (Arts & Heritage). £105 + VAT for non-members (Corporate)
This half-day seminar is a must for all financial or budget holding staff and anyone who wants to know how tax affects (and can benefit) arts and heritage organisations with charitable status in Scotland. The accompanying general tax guide provides a practical summary of the training and guidance on how tax affects the arts and heritage organisations. The event and guide are also a great refresher and reference for those who need reminding of basic principles and want to know how different taxes interact with each other.
Legacies: How to Develop a Campaign and Secure Long-Term Financial Security
Date: Tuesday, 5 February 2019 Registration: 10.15 | Event 10.30 – 16.30
Venue: Arts & Business Scotland, Rosebery House, 9 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5EZ
Cost: Members. £145 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Arts & Heritage); £195 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Corporate). Non-Members. £195 + VAT for non-members (Arts & Heritage); £245 + VAT for non-members (Corporate)
Legacies are the fastest growing source of income in the voluntary sector – up over 50% in the last ten years. Not just for big named charities, the fastest growing sector in this area of fundraising is the cultural sector, embracing both arts and heritage organisations. This course, specifically for the cultural sector in Scotland, has been created in partnership with and will be delivered by Richard Radcliffe who has over 30 years’ experience in helping non-profits grow legacy income.
Beyond The GDPR – How to Market and Fundraise Lawfully (Edinburgh)
Date: Thursday, 7 February 2019 Registration: 12.30 | Event 13.00 – 16.30
Venue: Arts & Business Scotland, Rosebery House, 9 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5EZ
Cost: Members. £55 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Arts & Heritage); £85 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Corporate). Non-Members. £85 + VAT for non-members (Arts & Heritage); £105 + VAT for non-members (Corporate)
Laura Irvine, partner at Davidson Chalmers LLP, will provide an update on marketing, fundraising and data protection law. The activity around the GDPR and getting ready for implementation proved a significant challenge for cultural organisations and sometimes the approach taken was based on incorrect advice or pressure as some organisations dealt with databases issues. As the dust settles and as a new law, the ePrivacy Regulation is pending, this training day will be an opportunity to reflect on marketing and fundraising activities in a post-GDPR world. With ample opportunities to discuss the approach your organisation took and is now taking and to find out what the legal position is and is likely to be going forward. Book now for this new post- GDPR training event.
Sponsorship: Developing Creative Partnerships (Edinburgh)
Date: Tuesday, 26 February 2019. Registration: 10.15 | Event 10.30 – 16.30
Venue: Arts & Business Scotland, Rosebery House, 9 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 5EZ
Cost: Members. £95 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Arts & Heritage); £145 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Corporate). Non-Members. £145 + VAT for non-members (Arts & Heritage); £195 + VAT for non-members (Corporate)
This ‘how-to’ guide to sponsorship will take you through the key steps to sponsorship from attracting a business to nurturing and developing long lasting cultural and business partnerships. If you have little experience or just want a refresher on this area of fundraising, then this seminar is aimed to help you on your journey to sponsorship success. Peppered with sponsorship stories gathered from Arts & Business Scotland match funding programmes.
Telling It Like It Is – Effective Copywriting (Edinburgh)
Date: Wednesday, 27 February 2019 Registration: 10.15 | Event 10.30 – 16.30
Venue: Arts & Business Scotland, Rosebery House, 9 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 5EZ
Cost: Members. £95 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Arts & Heritage); £145 + VAT for Arts & Business Scotland members (Corporate). Non-Members. £145 + VAT for non-members (Arts & Heritage). £195 + VAT for non-members (Corporate)
This one-day training session is aimed at anyone looking to improve their copywriting skills to support their fund-raising activities. Offering a combination of project-based, hands-on writing exercises with tips, techniques and critical theory, the session explores the five stages of the copywriting process. While the training provides a specific focus on writing a case for support, the resulting learning can be applied to all kinds of fundraising communications.
Vacancies
Project Intern Officer – RTPI Scotland
A fantastic opportunity to work at RTPI Scotland in a crucial year for the Scottish planning system. An ideal role for any budding policy or planning professionals.
Application Deadline: Monday 28 January 2019
Building Repair (Grants) Manager – Glasgow City Heritage Trust
An exciting opportunity has become available for a professional to support the implementation of the Trust’s building repair grants programme for the benefit of all people living and working in and visiting Glasgow.
Please don’t hesitate to contact the Director Torsten Haak on: 0141 552 1331 for an informal discussion.
Application Deadline: Thursday 31 January 2019
Next Step Initiative is offering The Ethnic Minority Career Museum, & Built Environment Heritage Traineeships (With Bursary).
Applications are open for 7 full time 12-month accredited work-based placements in heritage management starting March 2018.
Training Bursary grant of £13,500 gross per annum.
Available Positions:
Conservation & Culture Traineeship x 1 (Edinburgh)
Museums & Galleries Traineeship x 2 (Edinburgh)
Technical Conservation Skills Traineeship x 2 (Stirling)
Museum and Heritage Traineeship x 2 (Glasgow)
Please see the following link for more information: Traineeships
If you have problems downloading the Application Pack, please email: Recruitment
Extended application deadline: Monday 4 February 2019 at 5pm