Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications With BEFS Bi-Monthly Bulletin.
BEFS News
The Chancellor, Phillip Hammond, has presented the Autumn Budget, the second budget of 2017. The key heritage announcements include £4 million to Jodrell Bank, the UK’s next candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Site status and £2 million Cultural Development Fund funding for place based cultural development. Read The Heritage Alliance’s full summary of the Budget from a heritage perspective, here.
Within the context of the Scottish planning review, the National Trust for Scotland commissioned research to better understand public perceptions of how well the planning system is delivering. The results show there is still much to be done to get a planning system that people have confidence in, and that delivers the kind of places that they want. Read the full report.
We have a fitting blog for you this week, given that we are celebrating Scotland’s Towns Week. Lauren Pennycook, Policy and Development Officer at Carnegie UK Trust, reflects on the Trust’s new report Searching for Space: What place for towns in public policy? and the challenges facing Scotland’s towns.
Consultations
Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme: Second Consultation on Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategies, and Regulation of District and Communal Heating
Opened 14 November and closes 20 February 2018.
Consultation Responses
Consultation on the socio-economic duty: Analysis of responses (SG 23/11/17)
Consultation on Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme: Analysis of Responses (SG 14/11/17)
Publications
Icon launches next five-year strategy: 2017-21 (ICON 11/17)
Housing (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill – SPICe Breifing (16/11/17)
Private Sector Rent Statistics, Scotland, 2010 to 2017 (SG 14/11/17)
The Land Question: Fixing the dysfunction at the root of the housing crisis (Civitas 11/11/17)
Scottish Government News Releases
Budget falls short for Scotland (SG 22/11/17)
Finance Secretary responds to UK Government financial plans. The UK Government’s budget does not represent a good deal for Scotland, as a consequence of a real terms cut to Scotland’s revenue block grant of over £200m next year.
Average 2 bedroom private rents up by 4.4% (SG 14/11/17)
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland. Between 2016 and 2017, 15 out of 18 areas of Scotland saw increases in average rent levels for 2 bedroom private rental properties, ranging from 0.7% in the Ayrshires to 6.9% in Lothian and 7.0% in Greater Glasgow.
State of Economy report (SG 10/11/17)
Strong jobs market drives pick-up in growth. The latest report on Scotland’s economic performance has shown a strong first half of 2017. The State of the Economy paper has been published by Scotland’s Chief Economist, Dr Gary Gillespie.
News Releases
Builders vow to ensure Scots not left behind following Budget for housing (SHN 23/11/17)
With the Chancellor yesterday announcing a raft of measures aimed at significantly increasing levels of home building and “reviving the British dream of home ownership”, Scotland’s home building industry vowed to continue to hold the Scottish Government to account to ensure those living north of the border were not left behind.
Forres Voted Scotland’s most Beautiful High Street (STP 23/11/17)
The Moray town of Forres has been crowned as Scotland’s Most Beautiful High Street, after winning a public vote out of a final shortlist of ten towns competing for the title. See full results here.
Call for Scottish third sector to show value and support for EU nationals (SCVO 11/17)
The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is calling for third sector organisations across the country to put supports in place to encourage EU nationals on their staff to remain in Scotland.
Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland – Special Notice (RIAS 17/11/17)
The Royal Incorporation has agreed to the request from our Secretary, Neil Baxter Hon FRIAS Hon FRIBA, to leave the organisation after ten years of service.
PM: We must get back to building the homes this country needs (DCLG 15/11/17)
Prime Minister Theresa May will pledge that it is her personal mission to ‘build more homes, more quickly’. The number of new homes delivered each year has been increasing since 2010, but the Prime Minister will say there is more we can do to build the homes the country needs.
Interactive map of construction activity across UK and Ireland launched (IHBC 15/11/17)
Considerate Constructors Scheme(CCScheme) has launched a pioneering construction map information to offer a single point of reference for construction activity across the UK and Ireland.
Glorious Gardens – the Second Stage is under way (SGLH 13/11/17)
Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage’s Glorious Gardens project is entering its second stage. The purpose is to produce a conservation strategy for the historic designed landscapes of the Clyde and Avon Valleys based on site records, researched and written by a team of volunteers, during Phase 1 of the project.
Creating Inspiring Learning Spaces (A&DS 11/17)
One of our top priorities is to help create inspiring places for learning. Drawing from our years of experience of working across the learning estate, we collaborate with local authorities to regenerate space for learning, by design. Our focus is on facilitating ‘space to succeed’ for all learners. We work to these principles derived from policy drivers, and in collaboration with learners, educators and estates practitioners.
The Heritage Alliance response to the Migration Advisory Committee (THA 11/11/17)
The Heritage Alliance has responded to The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)’s call for evidence to advise the Government on the likely economic and social impacts of the UK’s exit from the European Union, and on how the UK’s immigration system should be aligned with a modern industrial strategy
IHBC New Research Note ‘New arrangements for National Amenity Society (NAS) statutory consultations in England’ (IHBC 11/17)
For anyone looking for insights on new NAS consultation arrangements in England, and related good practice more generally, the IHBC’s new Guidance Note – developed in consultation with England’s NASs and available on the IHBC’s ToolBox resource – is an essential new starting point.
Scotland’s environment website
The gateway to everything you want to know about Scotland’s environment. This website brings together environmental information and data in one place so that is easy to search, discover, analyse and interpret. Find out more about Scotland’s environment web.
Forestry Commission Scotland’s Revised Historic Environment Resource Guide (FCS 11/17)
This resource guide has been designed as a route map to the information and advice available to forest and woodland managers in regard to the historic environment. The guide identifies the various designations and legislation that may apply to the historic environment, and provides links to the legislation and guidance on these designations.
Self and custom build challenge fund: prospectus and form (SG 09/11/17)
The Self and Custom Build Challenge Fund is now open for applications. It will support projects which deliver innovative housing models that contribute to increasing housing supply through self and custom build. Applications should be submitted by Friday 1 December 2017.
Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning (SG 09/11/17)
The Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning are one of the Government’s most prestigious awards. They celebrate achievements in planning, from the detail of processing to the bigger picture of creating places which will become the legacy of our professionalism. Having shortlisted 22 projects in the four categories of Partnership, Place, Plans and Process, they have now recognised 16 projects with awards for 2017.
Opinion & Comment
Interview: Roseanna Cunningham on what Brexit means for the environment (Holyrood 23/11/17)
Blog: We’re changing private renting for the better (SHN 23/11/17)
What Makes a Great Learning Environment? Designer Blogs (A&DS 17/11/17)
Real community planning in Lockerbie? (Nick Wright 13/11/17)
Blog: Why I am sleeping in the park – Graham Ross (A&DS 11/17)
Blog: Why I am sleeping in the park – Jim MacDonald (A&DS 11/17)
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”.
Richard Lyle S5W-12873
To ask the Scottish Government what (a) housing and (b) electrical safety standards must Airbnb and other similarly-let premises meet, and what assessment it has made of how many are meeting these. (SP 22/11/17)
Alison Johnstone S5W-12770
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of the recommendation in A Low Carbon Building Standards Strategy for Scotland that it should have been introduced in 2016-17, when it will set the date for the delivery of net zero-carbon new buildings. (SP 16/11/17)
Alison Johnstone S5W-12771
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S4W-19841 by Derek Mackay on 10 March 2014, whether it will provide an update on what progress it is making on delivering the recommendations in A Low Carbon Building Standards Strategy for Scotland: 2013 Update. (SP 16/11/17)
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-12180: Michelle Ballantyne, South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 24/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that the Regulation of Energy Efficiency in Private Sector Homes (REEPS) will not disproportionately disadvantage rural homeowners.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (06/11/2017)
Debates
Motions for debate today (23/11/17)
Bob Doris: Building Regulations and Fire Safety in Scotland – That the Parliament notes the conclusions and recommendations in the Local Government & Communities Committee’s 9th Report 2017 (Session 5), Building Regulations and Fire Safety in Scotland (SP Paper 213), and welcomes contributions from Members on the key issues and questions set out in that report.
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
COTAC 2018 conference – ‘BIM for Heritage: Stepping into the Future with the Past’
When: 8 December
Where: London
COTAC’s 2017 conference, ‘BIM for Heritage: Stepping into the Future with the Past’, on 8 December in London, is co-sponsored by IHBC and Ramboll, and offers delegates a unique overview of the challenges and benefits in heritage-related BIM practice, including recent publications and emerging case studies.
Training
Structural Repair of Historic Buildings Masterclass
Date: 23 February 2018
Venue: Charlestown Workshops, Fife
Time: 09.30 – 16.30
Cost: £190 + vat …… Remember if you are a BLF, IHBC or RIAS member you are eligible for 20% discount on this seminar. Please just give us a call with your member number.
The aim of this Masterclass is to provide professionals with a sound understanding of the philosophy of conservation and a better understanding of the relationship between structural engineering and conservation, of safety issues and of the aesthetics of conservation based structural repairs.
Transform your approach to community engagement
SP=EED Verification is for anyone who would like to enhance their skills and become recognised as a community engagement practitioner. Previous participants have come from local authorities, planning consultancies, the energy sector, and third sector organisations. SP=EED is a two-part programme: Part 1 is an interactive workshop facilitated by our trainers, with Part 2 being an assessed written reflective learning assessment based on a real life engagement process you have been involved in. Upcoming date for Part 1: Edinburgh, Thursday 25 January 2018 *places still available*
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 tel: BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241
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Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications With BEFS Bi-Monthly Bulletin.
BEFS News
Our Parliamentary section this week features Parliamentary questions from Andy Wightman MSP, Rhoda Grant MSP, Graham Simpson MSP, Michelle Ballantyne MSP and Liam McArthur MSP and their respective answers, relating to stone-built and traditional buildings, heritage, energy efficiency, house building and vacant land.
Andy Wightman MSP, Housing spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, launched his Homes First campaign this week to control the rapid and unregulated growth of short-term lets, where owners of residential properties offer them as holiday accommodation. The subject was also debated in the Scottish Parliament as a members’ business debate (motion S5M-08370) on 8th November.
As part of their 50th anniversary celebrations, the Scottish Civic Trust’s Annual Conference, on Monday 27 November in Glasgow, tackles the theme of “Fifty years of conservation areas”. Book your place now!
Also, it is not too late to sign up for Scotland’s Community Heritage Conference, in celebration of the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, held in Glasgow tomorrow and on Saturday. The Conference offers the opportunity for heritage volunteers and professionals to network, showcase their achievements, share experiences and create future working partnerships.
Living Streets Scotland and Carplus Scotland are researching how new housing developments can be designed to make it easier to walk, cycle or use public transport. They are seeking views of built environment practitioners, and would really appreciate your help with the research by completing a short, anonymous survey (3 snapshot questions).
Consultations
Brexit and Local Government inquiry (BP)
The Communities and Local Government Committee’s Brexit and Local Government inquiry looks at which powers currently held by the EU could be transferred to town halls after the UK’s exit.
The closing date for submissions is Tuesday 14 November.
Guidance for Local Authorities when carrying out their new duties and functions under Part 9 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015
Closes 17 Nov 2017.
Call for evidence on the reform of the Green Deal Framework (DBEIS)
This call for evidence is to improve our knowledge of stakeholders’ views on the Green Deal Framework, and whether there is scope for changing the framework so that it can better support current and future needs.
This consultation closes on 23 November 2017.
Practical Fire Safety Guidance for Existing Premises with Sleeping Accommodation (SG)
This consultation is to seek comment on a revised volume of practical fire safety guidance.
Opened 7 Nov 2017 and closes 5 Feb 2018.
The Scottish Government is currently consulting on proposals to revise the Code of Conduct for registered property factors and other related amendments to the Property Factors (Scotland) Act 2011. A number of events are being held to discuss and debate the proposals and questions raised in the consultation: 24 November 2017 in Edinburgh, 28 November 2017 in Glasgow, 29 November 2017 in Aberdeen, and 11 December 2017 in Dundee.
Publications
The Culture, Tourism, Europe & External Relations Committee’s SPICe Brexit update (SP 01/11/17)
Scottish Council Housing Income and Expenditure 2016-17 (SG 31/10/17)
Age, Home and Community – The First Five Years (SG 30/10/17)
This is a mid point review of Age, Home and Community: A Strategy for Housing for Scotland’s Older People: 2012 -2021.
Building Regulation and Fire Safety in Scotland (SP 30/10/17)
The Local Government & Communities Committee has published its report. It concluded there needed to be more homebuyer support in the event of building defects and poor build quality, including for a Clerk of Works to become a “familiar face” on building sites.
The Culture, Tourism, Europe & External Relations Committee’s SPICe Brexit update (SP 26/10/17)
Scottish Government News Releases
Help to build own home (SG 08/11/17)
A new £4 million self-build loan fund offering financial backing to people who want to build their own homes will be available from next year. Housing Minister Kevin Stewart confirmed the fund was being set up following a successful pilot in the Highlands.
£15 million for affordable housing (SG 06/11/17)
Innovative funding scheme contributes to 50,000 affordable homes target. More than £15 million for affordable housing projects has been raised through an innovative funding scheme, supporting the development of over 200 homes for social rent across the country.
Local community land transfer in Skye (SG 03/11/17)
Forestry land at Fairy Pools to be owned by community group. An organisation in Skye are to become the first to acquire land under a new scheme to transfer publicly-owned forestry assets, to the benefit of local communities.
£1 million for Rothesay Pavilion (SG 31/10/17)
Restoration boost for celebrated site. More than £1 million of European funding for the restoration of Rothesay Pavilion will help create new jobs, Economy Secretary Keith Brown has said.
Supporting local communities (SG 27/10/17)
Community and third sector projects have been allocated a share of £29 million, to find new ways to tackle poverty and improve people’s lives. The funding, which includes £12.5 million from the European Social Fund, supports the Fairer Scotland Action Plan, published last year. It will benefit around 170 community and third sector groups who will use the investment to deliver projects tackling inequality and supporting inclusion.
Affordable housing for older people (SG 25/10/17)
Shared equity schemes increase access to housing and home ownership. Older people will have greater access to affordable homes with the introduction of greater flexibility to shared equity schemes, Housing Minister Kevin Stewart has announced.
News Releases
Green community ambitions – £400,000 to boost the environment (CSGN 08/11/17)
Communities across the central belt can bring environmental and health benefits to their areas by bidding for a share of a £400,000 fund. The 2018-19 round of the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) funding will offer investment to projects promoting active travel, woodland planting, community growing and restoring land. Since 2010 £6.3 million has been invested in more than 180 projects.
Heritage Groups Warn Government over Flawed Approach to Retrofitted Older Homes (CLA 08/11/17)
Several leading heritage organisations have formed an alliance to raise concerns with the Government over the way ‘flawed’ energy efficiency policy treats traditional buildings. The CLA, the organisation representing rural landlords, has joined together with others including the Church of England and the National Trust to write to the Government to explain that the one-size-fits-all approach to energy efficiency fails to recognise the unique nature of heritage properties.
Homelessness on the rise across the UK (Guardian 08/11/17)
A new analysis from Shelter and Shelter Scotland has revealed that the number of people recorded as homeless in the UK has risen to 307,000. The research covered data on rough-sleeping, social services and temporary accommodation, but the charities have warned that the true figure may be even higher because government records are not definitive. In Scotland, there were 28,297 households assessed as homeless, with 10,873 in temporary accommodation and an estimated 5,000 people sleeping rough.
Group on Skye first to acquire land under community scheme (SHN 07/11/17)
An organisation in Skye is to become the first to acquire land under a new scheme to transfer publicly-owned forestry assets, to the benefit of local communities. Forest Enterprise Scotland (FES) launched the Community Asset Transfer Scheme earlier this year. Minginish Community Hall Association (MCHA) applied to purchase land close to the Fairy Pools, an increasingly popular tourist site.
Is heritage good for your health? Share your views! (THA 03/11/17)
Listen to the audio and view the slides of The Heritage Alliance’s 2017 heritage debate ‘Is heritage good for your health’ here. The debate raised some good points and highlighted useful case studies from our panellists. Now we want to hear your experiences with health and heritage. Please fill out this short survey monkey questionnaire and share some case studies with us for a short briefing looking at the links between heritage and health.
Heritage 2020: #HeritageChat on 16 November (THA 03/11/17)
The first #HeritageChat will run on 16 November 2017, 13.00-14.00 (UK time).
#HeritageChat is a new monthly TwitterChat being coordinated by Heritage 2020 on behalf of the historic environment sector. The first session is being led by the Historic Houses Association, tweeting as @HeritageChat, and will explore innovation and entrepreneurship in heritage (tying into Global Entrepreneurship Week which runs 13-19 November #GEW2017).
Social Bite launches report on ‘Housing First’ strategy (SHN 01/11/17)
Social Bite has published a new study focussed on eradicating homelessness in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee. The report by researchers at Heriot-Watt University gives a detailed breakdown of homelessness statistics in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee and a clear roadmap of how to collaborate to end homelessness in Scotland.
Healthier Places (A&DS 11/17)
Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) is working with the Scottish Government Health & Social Care Directorate (SGHSCD) and Health Facilities Scotland (HFS) to support Health Boards create truly healing places. Quality underpins the future vision for healthcare in Scotland; the quality of support and services provided by the NHS, Local Authorities and the Third Sector, and the quality of environment needed to support each community in this.
Thirty-minute commute ‘saves up to £86,000 on house prices’ (BBC 30/10/17)
Living 30 minutes outside of Scotland’s largest cities could save commuters up to £86,000 in house prices, according to the Bank of Scotland (BoS). Properties half an hour outside of Edinburgh were £86,371 cheaper on average while equivalent homes outside of Glasgow were £22,000 cheaper.
Opinion & Comment
SFHA chief executive Sally Thomas looks ahead in housing (Holyrood 07/11/17)
New SFHA chief executive Sally Thomas is bringing some fresh ideas but she’s also keen to listen.
Making the best use of our assets – Scottish Empty Homes conference 2017 (LGiU 03/11/17)
Shaheena Din, National Project Manager for the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership, previews the Scottish Empty Homes Conference taking place on Wednesday 15th November.
Why place? (Claire Bynner, LGiU)
Prevention, performance, participation, partnership; the four pillars of the Christie Commission are now well-known. But what about ‘place’? Here What Works Scotland Research Associate Claire Bynner examines the role of place-based approaches, what ‘place’ offers to public service development and delivery, and also what it doesn’t.
Designing across the generations for age-friendly places (A&DS)
Going outdoors is essential for maintaining health and wellbeing into later life, but many older people find it becomes less easy, enjoyable and meaningful as they age, writes Iain Scott, Co-investigator of Mobility, Mood and Place (MMP).
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”.
Kate Forbes S5O-01425
To ask the Scottish Government how it is assisting remote and rural communities with community land buyouts. (SP 08/11/17)
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-11720: Andy Wightman, Lothian, Scottish Green Party, Date Lodged: 03/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government when it plans to consult on vacant land, as announced by the First Minister on 2 March 2016.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (25/10/2017)
Question S5W-11860: Rhoda Grant, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 06/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what measures it will put in place to ensure that buildings are wind and watertight before it introduces measures to address energy efficiency, such as a Warm Homes Bill and the Scottish Energy Efficiency Programme.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (25/10/2017)
Question S5W-11855: Graham Simpson, Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 06/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government whether it considers the Energy Performance Certificate to be appropriate for stone-built properties, and what the reasons are for its position on this matter.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (25/10/2017)
Question S5W-11854: Graham Simpson, Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 06/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government how it can ensure that there will be a supply chain of professional accredited assessors for traditional buildings; how it will assess their accreditation standards, what steps it is taking to ensure that training and qualifications are developed to establish a qualified workforce to support the installation of energy efficiency measures.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (25/10/2017)
Question S5W-11853: Graham Simpson, Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 06/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government how it ensures that lessons learned from failing energy retrofit remedies to traditional buildings are made available to homeowners and assessors.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (25/10/2017)
Question S5W-11852: Graham Simpson, Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 06/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will put measures or exemptions in place in energy efficiency legislation to ensure that (a) important heritage, (b) listed and (c) pre-1919 buildings are protected from inappropriate adaptations.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (25/10/2017)
Question S5W-12065: Liam McArthur, Orkney Islands, Scottish Liberal Democrats, Date Lodged: 17/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what progress has been made to make buildings more energy efficient since it was announced that this would be designated as a national infrastructure priority.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (06/11/2017)
Question S5W-12179: Michelle Ballantyne, South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 24/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to reduce the cost of building houses in rural areas compared with urban areas.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (06/11/2017)
Debates
Members’ Business for debate (SP 08/11/17)
Andy Wightman: Homes First—That the Parliament notes what it understands as the anxiety being expressed by communities over the rapid growth in entire homes being let for short-term occupancy across urban and rural Scotland and the view that this should not be at the expense of people in housing need nor compromise the peaceful enjoyment of people’s homes; believes that this issue is long-standing in parts of the Highlands and the south-west and that this form of letting is now increasingly displacing residential communities in Edinburgh and across Lothian; notes reports of distress being felt by residents, particularly in communal property in the centre of the capital; acknowledges the recently-launched Homes First campaign, and notes the calls for all parties to urgently bring forward planning, fiscal or regulatory measures to enable local government to provide effective controls over the change of use of residential property to short-term let property.
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Looking Up & Looking Out for Tenements
When: Saturday 11th November 2017, 2pm-4.30pm, .
Where: 996 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, G41 2HA.
In the run up to National Maintenance Week Glasgow City Heritage Trust in collaboration with Under One Roof invite you to become a tenement detective for the day as we send you on an investigative walk around some of Glasgow’s traditional buildings in search of common issues and potential repairs. The ‘Looking Up & Looking Out’ tour will explore the common spaces of Camphill Gate, as well as gaining access to the communal roof space, where we will get amongst the chimney pots and experience a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area.
Looking Up & Looking Out for Tenements
When: Sunday 12th November 2017 | 2pm-4.30pm.
Where: Garnethill Multicultural Centre, Glasgow.
In the run up to National Maintenance Week Glasgow City Heritage Trust in collaboration with Under One Roof invite you to become a tenement detective for the day as we send you on an investigative walk around some of Glasgow’s traditional buildings in search of common issues and potential repairs. Garnethill is a predominately residential area located in the city centre of Glasgow. The ‘Looking Up & Looking Out’ tour will explore the late Georgian and Early Victorian tenements from the streets which surround the Garnethill Multicultural Centre.
From Banditry to Books, from Reiving to Screeving: The Borders Enlightenment
When: November 13 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
Where: National Museum Scotland Auditorium, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF.
Lecture given by Professor Ted Cowan Hon FSA Scot, Emeritus Professor of Scottish History and Literature, University of Glasgow. This lecture seeks to explore and assess enlightenment influence upon the inhabitants of the Scottish Borders. It also asks whether it is possible that folk with surnames such as Hume and Scott, up to their necks in all kinds of violence, feuding, skullduggery and general mayhem, through to 1603 could, two or three generations later, transform or be transformed, into some of the most distinguished of recipients and exponents of enlightenment.
From Banditry to Books, from Reiving to Screeving: The Borders Enlightenment
When: November 15 @ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: Dumfries Museum, Dumfries.
Lecture given by Professor Ted Cowan Hon FSA Scot, Emeritus Professor of Scottish History and Literature, University of Glasgow.
Please contact Dumfries Museum on 01387 253374 to reserve a free place at the lecture or via email.
Scottish Land Commission Strategy Debate
When: Monday 11 December 2017, from 17:00 – 19:00.
Where: James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH.
Please join us for a presentation by Andrew Thin, Chairman, Scottish Land Commission, followed by a Q&A/debate about the work of the Commission and its potential impact on both urban and rural Scotland. This event, being run jointly by the James Hutton Institute and RSA – via its MCICH Network – is open to Fellows of the RSA, staff and board members of the James Hutton Institute and to all those interested in the Commission’s work from private, public and third sector perspectives.
Vacancies
Senior Planner (Scottish Government)
We are currently seeking applications for a Senior Planner within Planning and Architecture Division based in Edinburgh. This is a permanent and pensionable appointment and new entrants will normally start on the minimum of the pay range. Senior Planners take ownership of key planning issues and develop national policy, advice and solutions in response to issues that arise. This role requires positive collaborative working with a wide range of internal government departments, including transport, energy, economic development, environment and housing. Extensive external engagement with all the key agencies, Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) , planning authorities, the private sector, community and representative bodies and other interest groups is essential.
Closing date: 4 Dec 2017.
Head of Strategic Development (CSGNT)
Working directly with our Chief Executive, this vacancy provides an exciting opportunity to influence the strategic direction and policy development of the Central Scotland Green Network, the largest environmental project of its kind in Europe. In addition, you will have responsibility for our Development Team, you will line manage CSGNT’s specialist communications, heritage, brownfield land, monitoring and evaluation, GIS and IT staff. With considerable freedom to operate, this post will appeal to creative, problem-solving individuals, who are self-starters and able to plan and manage their workload through to completion.
The closing date for applications is 20 November 2017.
London Based Team Coordinator And Administrator (AHF)
We are currently seeking to appoint a full-time Team Coordinator and Administrator to help ensure the smooth running of the organisation, to help it communicate the impact of its work and to provide support to the AHF’s Investment, Finance and Operations teams and the Chief Executive.
Closing Date: 9am on 20th November, 2017
Get The Latest Built Environment News, Events, Vacancies, Consultations And Publications With BEFS Bi-Monthly Bulletin.
BEFS News
In recent months we have witnessed renewed parliamentary interest in the topic of building maintenance, particularly around the challenges faced in buildings under multiple ownership. BEFS is looking to gather some specific case studies for use in advocacy on the topic. Read more about BEFS aims and how to submit your examples here.
There are a number of parliamentary receptions on the built environment in November, which offer fantastic advocacy opportunities. Join RICS for their Tenement Maintenance Parliamentary Reception on 1st November. Also keep an eye out for STBFs parliamentary reception on Scottish Traditional Building Skills on 21st November and LIS’s reception on ‘Landscape for Scotland’ on 14th November.
The Scottish Parliament’s Acting Lobbying Registrar has confirmed that the new Lobbying Register will come into force from Monday 12th March 2018. From this date forward, certain face-to-face meetings with MSPs, Scottish Government Ministers, special advisers or the Permanent Secretary will need to be registered. In addition, a four-month familiarisation period has begun, allowing test returns to be made on the new register website.
Get ahead of the game! In 2018 Scotland puts its young people (8-26 year olds) in the spotlight. The Year of Young People 2018 (YOYP) is led by the Scottish Government, in collaboration with VisitScotland, EventScotland, Young Scot, Children in Scotland, Scottish Youth Parliament, Creative Scotland and YouthLink Scotland. VisitScotland have created a handy toolkit for you to plan how you’ll take advantage and benefit from the year.
In this week’s blog, Joanna Hambly, The SCAPE Trust, tells us about Scotland’s Coastal Heritage at Risk Project and the role of volunteers in surveying Scotland’s coastal archaeological heritage.
Check out our new section of the bulletin that highlights opinion and comment pieces relating to the built and historic environment.
Consultations
Brexit and Local Government inquiry launched (BP 17/10/17)
The Communities and Local Government Committee’s Brexit and Local Government inquiry looks at which powers currently held by the EU could be transferred to town halls after the UK’s exit.
Guidance for Local Authorities when carrying out their new duties and functions under Part 9 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015
Closes 17 Nov 2017.
Consultation Responses
Housing (Amendment) Scotland Bill – Finance & Constitution Committee’s Call for Evidence Submissions
Publications
The cost of housing for low-income renters (Institute for Fiscal Studies xx/10/17)
A short briefing on a ‘no-deal Brexit scenario’ (Institute of Economic Affairs xx/10/17)
Help to Buy (Scotland) Administrative Procedures (SG 25/10/17)
Administrative Procedures for Agents administering the Help to Buy (Scotland) Affordable New Build Scheme.
New Supply Shared Equity (NSSE) Administrative Procedures (SG 25/10/17)
The Administrative Procedures for the RSLs and LAs administering the New Supply Shared Equity (NSSE) scheme
Open Market Shared Equity (OMSE) Buyer Information Leaflet (SG 25/10/17)
The Scottish Government Model Private Residential Tenancy Agreement (SG 18/10/17)
Scottish Government News Releases
Local Housing Allowance (SG 25/10/17)
Joint call to halt ‘damaging’ rates for social rented sector. Around 12,000 young people could be facing a shortfall up to £8.6 million through UK Government plans to introduce Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates to the social rented sector.
£1.5m for Community Choices Fund (SG 24/1017)
Communities from Arbroath to Ullapool will share £1.5 million to increase the numbers of people involved in making decisions about investment in their local areas.
Bute House repairs (SG 23/10/17)
Bute House, the official residence of the First Minister of Scotland, has temporarily closed to enable unscheduled essential repair work to take place. Recent routine monitoring revealed that urgent ceiling repairs and further inspection work are required to the A listed building.
Progress at Brexit meeting (SG 16/10/17)
A set of principles to guide negotiations around any potential UK or GB wide frameworks after Brexit has been agreed. But Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe, Michael Russell made clear that the Scottish Government continues to be unable to recommend that the Scottish Parliament gives consent to the EU Withdrawal Bill unless significant changes are made.
News Releases
Landmark launch for online Scottish land information service (SHN 24/10/17)
A new resource has been launched which will allow citizens, communities, professionals and business to access comprehensive information about any piece of land or property in Scotland for the first time. Launched today by the Keeper of the Registers of Scotland, Sheenagh Adams, ScotLIS, a lynchpin of Registers of Scotland’s (RoS) digital transformation, is an easy to use, map-based, online land information service.
New LSE analysis suggests Scotland would lose billions of pounds with Brexit (Herald Scotland 24/10/17)
London School of Economics analysis has warned Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow will be among the hardest hit cities in the UK after Brexit. Scotland would suffer a “devastating” Brexit bombshell with its towns and cities losing nearly £30 billion as a result of the UK leaving the EU without a deal, analysis suggests.
Scotland’s ‘heritage angels’ crowned (HES 17/10/17)
Heritage volunteers, professionals and organisations from across the country were honoured in the capital this evening (Monday 16 October), as the winners of the Scottish Heritage Angel Awards 2017 were revealed.
Revised Westminster boundary proposals criticised (Boundary Commission for Scotland 17/10/17)
The Boundary Commission for Scotland has published the revised proposals for UK Parliament constituencies that reflect responses to a consultation on the initial proposals published in October 2016. The 2018 Review of UK Parliament Constituencies will result in the total number of seats being reduced from 650 to 600, with the number of Scottish seats decreasing by six to 53.
Labour MSP launches fire safety Bill (Herald Scotland 15/10/17)
Scottish Labour MSP David Stewart has launched a new members’ bill on fire safety in social housing following the Grenfell Tower disaster.
Parliamentary Committees engage in inter-parliamentary dialogue on Brexit at Westminster (SP 13/10/17)
Senior representatives of three Scottish Parliament Committees today participated in inter-parliamentary dialogue on Brexit related issues including the implications of the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill upon the devolution settlements in the United Kingdom.
Proof that places shape who we are – and what that means for society today (NTS xx/10/17)
Scientific research carried out by the National Trust has found that natural and historic places have a powerful effect on all of us. In the ‘Places that Make us report’ the National Trust set out to understand the depth of people’s connection with place.
FutureTown Design Competition (STP xx/10/17)
STP invites you to take part in the third annual FutureTown Design Competition to gain media profile for your town and a keynote slot to present your idea at the annual Towns Tea Party! Shortlisted entries will also be displayed in a showcase exhibition at Scotland’s Towns Conference on 21 November. The deadline for entries is 5pm on Monday 6 November.
Opinion & Comment
Making Local Place Plans work (Kate Houghton, RTPI Scotland)
Case Study: Your Kirkwall (David McAllister, PAS)
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”.
Michelle Ballantyne S5W-12180
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that the Regulation of Energy Efficiency in Private Sector Homes (REEPS) will not disproportionately disadvantage rural homeowners. (SP 24/10/17)
Michelle Ballantyne S5W-12179
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to reduce the cost of building houses in rural areas compared with urban areas. (SP 24/10/17)
Liam McArthur S5W-12065
To ask the Scottish Government what progress has been made to make buildings more energy efficient since it was announced that this would be designated as a national infrastructure priority. (SP 20/10/17)
Parliamentary Questions & Answers
Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.
Colin Beattie S5O-01362
To ask the Scottish Government what progress it is making toward reaching its target of building 50,000 affordable homes before the end of the parliamentary session.
Taken in the Chamber on 25/10/2017
John Mason S5O-01346
To ask the Scottish Government what consideration it is giving to how tenement housing can be better maintained.
Taken in the Chamber on 25/10/2017
Question S5W-11526: Andy Wightman, Lothian, Scottish Green Party, Date Lodged: 25/09/2017
To ask the Scottish Government how much each local authority spent on rural housing projects in 2016-17, also broken down by the (a) (i) name and (ii) postcode of each project, (b) grant-receiving organisation, and (c) number of (A) units and (B) bed spaces.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (12/10/2017)
Question S5W-11851: Patrick Harvie, Glasgow, Scottish Green Party, Date Lodged: 05/10/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what the timescale is for the next revision of the National Planning Framework.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (11/10/2017)
Debate
Portfolio Question Time: Communities, Social Security and Equalities
Housing Maintenance (Tenements)
John Mason (Glasgow Shettleston) (SNP):
To ask the Scottish Government what consideration it is giving to how tenement housing can be better maintained. (S5O-01346)
The Minister for Local Government and Housing (Kevin Stewart):
The maintenance of the common parts of tenements is principally the responsibility of the owners and is usually governed by rules and conditions that are set out in the title deeds for the flats within a block.
The Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 provides a structure, known as the tenement management scheme, for the maintenance and management of tenements. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 gave local authorities discretionary powers to require owners to carry out work on substandard houses and to provide assistance with repairs and improvements to private property. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2014 amended those powers to make them more effective and introduced new provisions to allow local authorities to pay missing shares for work that is agreed by a majority of owners in a tenement.
In the private rented sector, the new private residential tenancy, which comes into effect in December this year, will significantly improve tenant security and better enable tenants to exercise their right to report a breach of the repairing standard to the housing and property chamber of the first-tier tribunal.
Motions
Motion S5M-08370: Andy Wightman, Lothian, Scottish Green Party, Date Lodged: 24/10/2017
Tackling Short-term Lets in Scotland
That the Parliament notes what it understands as the anxiety being expressed by communities over the rapid growth in entire homes being let for short-term occupancy across urban and rural Scotland and the view that this should not be at the expense of people in housing need nor compromise the peaceful enjoyment of people’s homes; believes that this issue is long-tanding in parts of the Highlands and the south-west and that this form of letting is now increasingly displacing residential communities in Edinburgh and across Lothian; notes reports of distress being felt by residents, particularly in communal property in the centre of the capital; acknowledges the recently-launched Homes First campaign, and notes the calls for all parties to urgently bring forward planning, fiscal or regulatory measures to enable local government to provide effective controls over the change of use of residential property to short-term let property.
Current Status: Eligible for Members’ Business, Pending Cross Party Support
Motion S5M-08354: Ben Macpherson, Edinburgh Northern and Leith, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 24/10/2017
Maintenance of Tenement Communal Property
That the Parliament recognises that a significant proportion of people in Edinburgh and across Scotland live in tenement buildings; believes that the maintenance of communal property, otherwise known as the common parts or “Scheme Property” as defined in the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004, in tenements is essential to the upkeep of the buildings and the standard of living for owner occupiers and tenants; understands with concern that, in many cases, such Scheme Property is in a state of disrepair, degradation or deterioration; believes that current legislation is not consistently fulfilling its intention to encourage owners to establish effective arrangements for managing communal repairs and undertaking maintenance; acknowledges the various potential solutions put forward by groups and individuals in the housing sector to help address this issue, and notes the view that, for the wellbeing of owner occupiers and tenants and to sustain and enhance the country’s urban infrastructure and environments, the government should review the situation and consider any legislative changes, new initiatives, enhanced use of existing rules and/or further action by local authorities that could facilitate improved upkeep of Scheme Property.
Supported by: Stewart Stevenson, Joan McAlpine, Graham Simpson, Miles Briggs, John Mason, Graeme Dey, David Torrance, Ash Denham, Jenny Gilruth, Clare Haughey, Jeremy Balfour, Fulton MacGregor, Ivan McKee R
Current Status: Eligible for Members’ Business, Pending Cross Party Support
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Perth: Past, Present, Future
When: Thursday 26 October 2017, 7.00pm-9.00pm.
Where: Royal George Hotel, Tay Street, Perth.
Perth: the fair city in the heart of Scotland. Once a thriving hub of enterprise large and small, has Perth now lost its way? A key event to highlight the joint 50th anniversaries of the Scottish Civic Trust and Perth Civic Trust, this seminar considers Perth’s history and heyday, its current issues and challenges, and what can be done to encourage a more positive future, with a particular emphasis on retailing in the city centre. There will be plenty of opportunities for discussion and questions.
Icon Conference: Scotland Tour of Highlights
When: 27th October, from 9.00 – 16.30
Where: Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh.
Due to popular demand, Icon Scotland Group will host a one-day event returning to some of the themes and presentations given in the Scotland and Care of Collections Group sessions at last year’s Icon conference in Birmingham. The day will comprise ten presentations from across the UK on a wide range of subjects and will allow plenty of time for networking. Refreshments and lunch are
provided. Tickets: £30 – £70.
British architects, landscape designers and gardeners in Russia
When: Monday 6th November 2017 at 6.30pm.
Where: St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, 13 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA.
Dr Patricia Andrew is an art and garden historian with a career in galleries and museums, and has also served on the Committee of the Garden History Society in Scotland. She specialises in Scottish artists at home and abroad from the 18th Century to the present day. This is a joint lecture with Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage, focusing on the legacy of British (particularly Scottish) architects, garden designers and engineers in Russia.
Designing across the generations for age-friendly places
When: 8th November 2017 from 6pm – 8pm.
Where: A&DS, Bakehouse Close, 146 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DD.
Over a three-and-a-half-year period, the Mobility, Mood and Place (MMP) research project has been bringing together early career designers and older participants to envision places, from homes to public spaces, which are inclusive, enabling and inspirational. The project’s findings have implications for the way we design for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities so that going outdoors in younger years becomes a lifelong passion for getting out and about. On Wednesday 8th November 2017, join A&DS and the MMP team for the launch of the project’s latest publication.
Community Heritage Conference 2017
When: Friday 10 November 2017 to Saturday 11 November 2017.
Where: Strathclyde University’s Technology and Innovation Centre, Glasgow.
We are delighted to announce booking for Community Heritage Conference is now open. Over two days we have more than sixty presentations, debates and workshops lined up to celebrate and explore the dizzying range of heritage projects across Scotland, with guest contributions for other parts of the UK, from across Europe, and from the USA. As always we will have dozens of displays, as well as our One Minute Mayhem – an ‘open mic’ session giving anyone the opportunity to stand up and have their say for 60 seconds. Tickets are priced at just £30 for the two days (including lunch). Please contact Cara Jones if you would like to book space for a display or would like to take the stage for the One Minute Mayhem.
‘From Banditry to Books, from Reiving to Screeving: The Borders Enlightenment’
When: November 13 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
Where: National Museum Scotland Auditorium, Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1J.
Lecture given by Professor Ted Cowan Hon FSA Scot, Emeritus Professor of Scottish History and Literature, University of Glasgow. This lecture seeks to explore and assess enlightenment influence upon the inhabitants of the Scottish Borders. It also asks whether it is possible that folk with surnames such as Hume and Scott, up to their necks in all kinds of violence, feuding, skullduggery and general mayhem, through to 1603 could, two or three generations later, transform or be transformed, into some of the most distinguished of recipients and exponents of enlightenment.
‘From Banditry to Books, from Reiving to Screeving: The Borders Enlightenment’
When: November 15 @ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm.
Where: Dumfries Museum, The Observatory, Rotchell Road, Dumfries, DG2 7SW.
Lecture given by Professor Ted Cowan Hon FSA Scot, Emeritus Professor of Scottish History and Literature, University of Glasgow. Please contact Dumfries Museum on 01387 253374 to reserve a free place at the lecture or via email (dumfries.museum@dumgal.gov.uk)
‘There goes the neighbourhood’ –Academy of Urbanism Neighbourhood Summit
When: November 22 @ 12:00 pm – November 23 @ 5:30 pm.
Where: West Park Conference Centre, 319 Perth Road, Dundee DD2 1NN.
As part of Scotland’s Towns Week, the Academy and its partners are holding a one-and-a-half-day event focusing on changing neighbourhoods, following the success of the 2016 event Streets Beyond – Beyond Streets. Drawing from national and international examples, the aim is to explore the physical, social and economic attributes that make for successful neighbourhoods. Using lessons from successful ‘established’ neighbourhoods, we aim to identify factors that can help regenerate existing neighbourhoods and making new neighbourhoods and estates more ‘liveable’.
SCT Conference 2017: 50 Years of Conservation Areas – Booking Now Open!
When: 27 November 2017
Where: Trades Hall, Glasgow.
As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations and recognising that the Civic Amenities Act was passed in 1967, the Scottish Civic Trust’s next annual conference, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and The Institute of Historic Building Conservation, will tackle the theme of “Fifty years of conservation areas” – what has been learned, what has been lost, and what are the threats and opportunities in the future.
Helen Shenton to give 2017 Plenderleith Lecture
When: 30th November, from 18.15 – 19.15.
Where: National Galleries of Scotland, The Mound, Edinburgh.
Icon Scotland Group is delighted to announce that this year’s Plenderleith Lecture will be given by Helen Shenton, Librarian and College Archivist of Trinity College Dublin. The title of the 20th Annual Harold Plenderleith Memorial Lecture will be, “Conservation+, personal reflections on a journey from conservator to director”. The lecture will be followed by a drinks reception. The event will as usual be preceded by Icon Scotland Group’s AGM (to which all Group members are invited) from 17.00 -18.00. We are also pleased to announce that a CPD visit to the National Museums Conservation Collections Centre in Granton will run in the afternoon of the same day from 14.30 to 16.30, and is bookable separately through Eventbrite.
Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon & West Boathouse
When: Saturday, 2nd December 2017, 10:30-12:30
Where: McLennan Arch, Saltmarket entrance to Glasgow Green, Glasgow G1 5JZ.
SPAB Scotland is organising a visit of the spectacular Britannia Panopticon Music Hall and the ‘cute’ West Boathouse, before heading to Glasgow’s Christmas Market. Built in 1857, the Britannia Panopticon, on Trongate, “is an exceptionally rare survival of a music hall and the earliest and sole surviving example of its type in Scotland” –possibly even the earliest in Britain– as the listing description for this heritage designated building (Category A) notes. The West Boathouse, in Glasgow Green, dates from 1905 and is now Category B listed. The boathouse is a “by far the largest” of this “rare building type in Scotland”. For both buildings, conservation works are under preparation, and we will learn more from the professionals involved about their challenges and concepts when planning the works. After the building visits, we will head to the Christmas Market to celebrate (a day early) the start of the Advent season.
Training
IHBC’s Course Connection Day 2017: Free support & networking for conservation-curious Students
When: 23 Nov – Ask Carla ASAP!
Where: Birmingham.
The IHBC’s celebrated ‘Course Connection Day’ takes a new twist in 2017 as students on any UK specialist course can apply to join the IHBC for a free, expenses-paid introductory day of conservation and career support, with limited places allocated on application to IHBC Support Officer and lead for the Day, Carla Pianese. Contact the lead for the day, IHBC’s Support Officer Carla Pianese.
Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage – Fundraising: Make it Happen (St Andrews)
When: Thursday 2nd November, 9:15am – 4:30pm.
Where: Learning Loft, Museum of the University of St Andrews.
Cost: £25/£50 + VAT.
This one-day training event explores funding opportunities for heritage groups and organisations with a focus on private sources (charitable trusts, businesses and individuals). The event includes an overview of the fundraising process; the seven steps of fundraising, and an in-depth look at how to develop an effective case for support for your organisation or project. There will be plenty of opportunity to discuss ideas and share stories at the training. All refreshments and lunch are provided and travel bursaries are also available.
Vacancies
Project Manager (Edinburgh World Heritage)
We are looking to appoint a Project Manager to lead and manage the conservation and adaptation of the Canongate Housing development. The main purpose of the position will be to lead and manage EWH’s programme of conservation and adaptation of the Canongate Housing development in order to deliver a collaborative and successful project.
To apply for this role, please send us your CV, together with a completed application from and covering letter in support of your application by 5PM, Friday 27th October 2017.
Engagement and Monitoring Officer (Edinburgh World Heritage)
We are looking to appoint an Engagement and Monitoring Officer to engage with the residents of the Canongate Housing development.The main purpose of the position will be to engage with the residents of the Canongate Housing development in order to deliver a collaborative and successful project.
To apply for this role, please send us your CV, together with a completed application from and covering letter in support of your application by 5PM, Friday 3rd November 2017.
London Based Team Coordinator And Administrator (AHF)
We are currently seeking to appoint a full-time Team Coordinator and Administrator to help ensure the smooth running of the organisation, to help it communicate the impact of its work and to provide support to the AHF’s Investment, Finance and Operations teams and the Chief Executive.
Closing Date: 9am on 20th November, 2017.
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 tel: BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241.
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Get the latest built environment news, events, vacancies, consultations and publications with BEFS bi-monthly bulletin.
BEFS News
The Chief Planner has provided an update on progress with the review of the Scottish planning system. An analysis of responses to the Position Statement was also published last week. If you missed BEFS response in August, you can find it and a comment on the Position Statement on our website. Finally, to find information about where the planning review is up to and the work that has been done so far, you may wish to check out RTPI Scotland’s updated Planning Review webpage.
As readers will be aware, the SNP Conference 2017 took place this week. BEFS was pleased to see that a resolution submitted by Ben Macpherson MSP (Edinburgh North & Leith) on the important issue of Maintenance of Tenement Communal Property was passed.
BEFS newest team member, Policy and Advocacy Officer, Ailsa Macfarlane, reflects on the Scottish Government’s recent conference on housing in our blog this week.
We have once again an array of fascinating built environment events, conference, seminars and away-days taking place in October and November. For details see our events section below or BEFS calendar.
Consultations
A consultation on a draft revised code of conduct for registered property factors
Opened 6 Oct 2017 and closes on 15 Jan 2018.
Guidance for Local Authorities when carrying out their new duties and functions under Part 9 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015
Closes 17 Nov 2017.
Consultation Responses
Planning Review: Analysis of Position Statement Responses (SG 06/10/17)
Publications
Brexit: What’s at stake for businesses (SG 11/10/17)
Scottish Land Rights and Responsibilities Statement (SG 28/09/17)
Scottish Government News Releases
New scheme to boost investment in housing (SG 12/10/17)
Rental income guarantee scheme to support build-to-rent market. Housing Minister Kevin Stewart has announced the launch of a Rental Income Guarantee Scheme (RIGS), to boost new investment in private rented housing.
Beyond City Deals (SG 05/10/17)
Next steps for city region deals outlined. The Scottish Government will support the creation of regional economic partnerships across Scotland as a vehicle to drive inclusive economic growth, Economy Secretary Keith Brown has confirmed. As outlined in the Enterprise and Skills Review, the expansion of the regional economic policy beyond city deals will pave the way for regional economic partnerships for every part of Scotland.
Scotland’s economy continues to grow (SG 04/10/17)
GDP grows by 0.1% over second quarter of 2017. Scotland’s GDP grew by 0.1% in the second quarter of 2017, increasing by a total of 0.7% since the start of the year, according to Scotland’s latest GDP statistics published today. Over the past 12 months, Scotland’s GDP increased by 0.5%, with the services industry in particular driving growth.
Making more of Scotland’s land (SG 28/09/17)
Vision for land rights and responsibilities. A ‘world first’ vision for land rights and responsibilities has been published. The Scottish Land Rights and Responsibilities Statement outlines a strong and dynamic relationship between its land and people, where rights and responsibilities are fully recognised and fulfilled.
Support for housing (SG 28/09/17)
Challenge fund announced for custom and self-built homes. Housing Minister Kevin Stewart will today announce £90,000 to support pilot projects to assist people wanting to build their own homes with a new Challenge Fund. Speaking at the closing event of the Festival of Architecture in Edinburgh on Thursday, Mr Stewart will confirm the new fund will be open for applications by the end of October.
News Releases
Is Dumfries the happiest place in Scotland? (BBC 11/10/17)
A south of Scotland town has emerged as the happiest in the country, according to a recent survey.
Dumfries was named the top spot north of the border in the annual “happy at home” index compiled by Rightmove.
Record-breaking summer for Scotland’s historic sites (HES 06/10/17)
It’s been a spectacular summer for Scotland’s historic sites as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) announced record-breaking visitor figures for the 2017 summer season today (Friday 6th October).
The period from April to September 2017 saw the historic sites in the care of HES record an impressive overall 20% increase in footfall on the same period last year, making it the busiest season on record.
Report – Alienating, insecure and unaffordable: Living in Scotland’s Private Rented Sector (CW 06/10/17)
The private rented sector continues to have an appalling record on housing security, affordability and quality, a Common Weal report analysing new data on the experience of households in Scotland has found. Its findings are based on data in the Scottish Household Survey 2016, published by the Scottish Government at the end of September this year.
£2 billion boost for affordable housing and long term deal for social rent (DCLG & PM 04/10/17)
Government has confirmed plans for a new generation of council and housing association homes. Funding for affordable homes will be increased by a further £2 billion to more than £9 billion.
Public sector building projects must focus on quality – Holyrood Committee (SP 03/10/17)
Lessons must be learned by the entire public sector in order to make sure that new public buildings are safe. This is the conclusion of a report issued today by the Scottish Parliament’s Education and Skills Committee which looked at the safety of the school estate in Scotland.
Work begins on multimillion pound Green Infrastructure projects (SNH 03/10/17)
Close to £20 million will be spent transforming urban green spaces, says Scottish Natural Heritage. Work has begun on one of seven major urban greenspace projects that have been awarded Green Infrastructure Funds (GIF) by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). SNH is delivering this funding on behalf of Scottish Government, using money from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Scottish Natural Heritage Announces Social Housing Research (SNH 03/10/17)
On World Habitat Day, Scottish Natural Heritage announces recently commissioned research into the opportunities for green infrastructure within housing projects Everyone in Scotland should be able to access nature on their doorstep, according to new SNH Chief Executive Francesca Osowska.
Fanfare as Paisley launches City of Culture 2021 bid (BBC 29/09/17)
Paisley’s bid to become the UK City of Culture 2021 has been sent off with a fanfare in the town.
Crowds gathered to wave flags and watch more than 150 singers perform songs with Paisley roots.
Members’ News
Aspiring for Change in Cowdenbeath (PAS 11/10/17)
PAS has embarked on a new and exciting project made possible by the Aspiring Communities Fund and the European Social Fund led by the Scottish Government. The project kicked off in September at Beath High School where we hosted a performance of ‘Plan’ for around 20 pupils.
RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence 2018 now open for entries (RTPI)
The RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence are the longest running and most high-profile awards in the industry. For 40 years they have rewarded the brightest talent in the profession; the teams, projects and individuals that transform economies, environments and their communities all over the UK and internationally.
Satirical view of the Planning Review – It’s all up Bill Plannning now! (RTPI 29/09/17)
Jim Birrell provides a lighthearted take on the planning review. It was a time of turbulence and tempest. Two men and a wise lady told us so in 60 pages of inspiration, perspiration and independence of thought. “Your system for the planning world is not broken but it badly needs fixed, repaired and you must speak with your people more and mean it”.
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”.
Graham Simpson S5W-11852
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will put measures or exemptions in place in energy efficiency legislation to ensure that (a) important heritage, (b) listed and (c) pre-1919 buildings are protected from inappropriate adaptations. (SP 06/10/17)
Graham Simpson S5W-11853
To ask the Scottish Government how it ensures that lessons learned from failing energy retrofit remedies to traditional buildings are made available to homeowners and assessors. (SP 06/10/17)
Graham Simpson S5W-11854
To ask the Scottish Government how it can ensure that there will be a supply chain of professional accredited assessors for traditional buildings; how it will assess their accreditation standards, what steps it is taking to ensure that training and qualifications are developed to establish a qualified workforce to support the installation of energy efficiency measures. (SP 06/10/17)
Graham Simpson S5W-11855
To ask the Scottish Government whether it considers the Energy Performance Certificate to be appropriate for stone-built properties, and what the reasons are for its position on this matter. (SP 06/10/17)
Graham Simpson S5W-11856
To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to review the (a) Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure and (b) Energy Performance Certificate to incorporate Scotland-specific building performance data. (SP 06/10/17)
Rhoda Grant S5W-11860
To ask the Scottish Government what measures it will put in place to ensure that buildings are wind and watertight before it introduces measures to address energy efficiency, such as a Warm Homes Bill and the Scottish Energy Efficiency Programme. (SP 06/10/17)
Patrick Harvie S5W-11851
To ask the Scottish Government what the timescale is for the next revision of the National Planning Framework. (SP 05/10/17)
Andy Wightman S5W-11720
To ask the Scottish Government when it plans to consult on vacant land, as announced by the First Minister on 2 March 2016. (SP 04/10/17)
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-11429: Graham Simpson, Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 20/09/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what information it has regarding how many private high-rise blocks in each local authority area have combustible cladding.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (28/09/2017)
Question S5W-11426: Rhoda Grant, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 20/09/2017
To ask the Scottish Government how many community land purchases have been made in each local authority area; when each purchase took place and what the acreage was of each.
Answered by Roseanna Cunningham (28/09/2017)
Question S5W-11425: Rhoda Grant, Highlands and Islands, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 20/09/2017
To ask the Scottish Government when its report into community land purchases will be published.
Answered by Roseanna Cunningham (28/09/2017)
Question S5W-11380: Dean Lockhart, Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 19/09/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what resources it will contribute towards the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Deal, and when it expects the negotiations regarding the deal to conclude.
Answered by Paul Wheelhouse (29/09/2017):
Question S5W-11428: Graham Simpson, Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 20/09/2017
To ask the Scottish Government how many (a) housing association, (b) local authority and (c) private sector-run (i) sheltered and (ii) very sheltered homes there are.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (02/10/2017)
Other Parliamentary Activity
The Parliament has agreed the following parliamentary recess dates in 2017:
• 7 to 22 October 2017 (inclusive)
• 23 December 2017 to 7 January 2018 (inclusive)
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Lecture: How the Other Half Lives
When: 19th October from 7pm-9pm.
Where: GCHT, 54 Bell Street, Glasgow.
More than any other city in Scotland, Glasgow is renowned for its traditional tenements. Often considered to be class-neutral they provide accommodation ranging from the tiny, single room flat to an enormous elite apartment, helping to create integrated communities and physical homogeneity.
Community Empowerment – implications for planning and property
When: 9.30am – 4.00pm, Tuesday 24 October 2017.
Where: PAS, 125 Princes Street, Edinburgh.
This conference (run jointly by JH Planning and PAS) focuses on those aspects of current and anticipated future legislation that will have a particular impact on the built environment – and in particular on:
• Extension of the community right to buy to urban areas
• Asset transfer requests
• Aligning community planning and spatial planning through a statutory link
• Incorporation of community-led local place plans into the local development plan
Cockburn Annual Lecture – Mapping Edinburgh’s Social History
When: Thu 26 October 2017, 19:00 – 21:00.
Where: City Chambers, 253 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1YJ.
Buildings and urban design – spaces and places – inform the way we use, remember and navigate the city, and so sensitivity to memories of the urban past are central to individual identity, civic engagement and community building in the future. The presentation by Professor Richard Rodger will explore how an understanding of the ways spaces and places developed in Edinburgh is crucial to understanding the contemporary city.
Perth: Past, Present, Future
When: Thursday 26 October 2017, 7.00pm-9.00pm.
Where: Royal George Hotel, Tay Street, Perth.
Perth: the fair city in the heart of Scotland. Once a thriving hub of enterprise large and small, has Perth now lost its way? A key event to highlight the joint 50th anniversaries of the Scottish Civic Trust and Perth Civic Trust, this seminar considers Perth’s history and heyday, its current issues and challenges, and what can be done to encourage a more positive future, with a particular emphasis on retailing in the city centre. There will be plenty of opportunities for discussion and questions.
Icon Conference: Scotland Tour of Highlights
When: 27th October, from 9.00 – 16.30
Where: Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh.
Due to popular demand, Icon Scotland Group will host a one-day event returning to some of the themes and presentations given in the Scotland and Care of Collections Group sessions at last year’s Icon conference in Birmingham. The day will comprise ten presentations from across the UK on a wide range of subjects and will allow plenty of time for networking. Refreshments and lunch are
provided. Tickets: £30 – £70.
The architecture of Kininmonth & Spence
When: 2nd November, 17:30 – 19:00.
Where: University of Edinburgh, Minto House, Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JZ.
The architectural historian Dr. Clive B. Fenton, of Docomomo Scotland, will talk about the 1930s design of the renowned architects William Kininmonth and Basil Spence, firstly for their own architectural firm in Edinburgh during the early 1930s and later as part of Rowand Anderson, Paul & Partners.
Celebrating 250 years of Edinburgh’s New Town
When: 13th November, from 18:30 – 20:00.
Where: St. Andrew’s & St. George’s West Church, George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA.
Join us to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Edinburgh’s New Town with an evening of lectures and films at the wonderful Georgian church of St. Andrew’s & St. George’s West, an absolute New Town highlight. The speakers are Dr. James Simpson OBE, cofounder of the renowned architectural firm Simpson & Brown, and Ranald MacInnes, a long-term heritage specialist at Historic Scotland / Historic Environment Scotland. Details of their talks and the film screenings will be published shortly.
Edinburgh, Lothians and Borders Archaeology Conference
When: Saturday November 18, from 9:00am – 4:45pm.
Where: Queen Margaret University, Musselburgh.
This annual conference is organised by City of Edinburgh Council, East Lothian Council and Scottish Borders Council. It provides an important opportunity to hear and discuss first-hand accounts of the archaeological fieldwork and research being undertaken in Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, and the Scottish Borders.
Scotland’s Towns Conference 2017 – Creating the Future History of Scotland’s Towns: The Key to Social, Cultural and Economic Wellbeing
When: 21st November, from 9am – 4pm.
Where: Paisley Town Hall.
This year Scotland celebrates the richness of its history and heritage, and the role of the past in shaping our present-day places, cultures and identities. This is particularly true for towns, whose heritage tells our story as a nation, from medieval burghs and seats of kings, to hubs of the industrial revolution, and ‘new town’ symbols of post-war modernity.
SCT Conference 2017: 50 Years of Conservation Areas – Booking Now Open!
When: 27 November 2017
Where: Trades Hall, Glasgow.
As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations and recognising that the Civic Amenities Act was passed in 1967, the Scottish Civic Trust’s next annual conference, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and The Institute of Historic Building Conservation, will tackle the theme of “Fifty years of conservation areas” – what has been learned, what has been lost, and what are the threats and opportunities in the future.
Helen Shenton to give 2017 Plenderleith Lecture
When: 30th November, from 18.15 – 19.15.
Where: National Galleries of Scotland, The Mound, Edinburgh.
Icon Scotland Group is delighted to announce that this year’s Plenderleith Lecture will be given by Helen Shenton, Librarian and College Archivist of Trinity College Dublin. The title of the 20th Annual Harold Plenderleith Memorial Lecture will be, “Conservation+, personal reflections on a journey from conservator to director”. The lecture will be followed by a drinks reception. The event will as usual be preceded by Icon Scotland Group’s AGM (to which all Group members are invited) from 17.00 -18.00. Tickets for the Plenderleith Lecture can be obtained through Eventbrite. We are also pleased to announce that a CPD visit to the National Museums Conservation Collections Centre in Granton will run in the afternoon of the same day from 14.30 to 16.30, and is bookable separately through Eventbrite.
Training the City: Built Heritage Legacy of a Railway Battle
When: Monday 4th December 2017, at 6.30pm.
Where: St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA.
Tom Parnell is an architectural historian, and is currently a Senior Casework Officer for Historic Environment Scotland. He has a personal interest in the built heritage legacy of railway development and de-development. His talk looks at railways in Edinburgh, particularly the dash for Leith in the later 19th Century, examining what might have been, what was lost and what legacy survives today.
Training
Traditional Masonry Repair C2-Contractor Level 2
When: 24 – 26 October 2017.
Where: Merryhill Training Centre, Fife
Time: 09.30 – 16.30
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.
Maintaining Traditional Buildings
When: 27 October 2017
Where: Charlestown Workshops, Fife
Time: 10.00 – 15.00
A must for anyone who owns or is responsible for a traditional building.
The seminar provides the perfect starting point if you are considering undertaking some simple repairs yourself or will enable you to speak your builder’s language and be confident that you are being given the correct advice.
Resourcing Scotland Heritage Training
25th October – In Focus: Full Cost Recovery (Edinburgh)
2nd November – Fundraising: Make it Happen (St Andrews)
15th November – In Focus: Storytelling using Media (Edinburgh)
22nd November – Telling it like it is: How effective copywriting can help your case for support (Glasgow)
Full details can be found on the website.
Vacancies
Curator/Senior Curator, Medieval Archaeology & History
Based at the National Museum of Scotland this permanent, full-time post will support the work of the Scottish History and Archaeology Department. Working within the Department’s Medieval Archaeology and History Section, which is concerned with the period in Scotland’s history from the Romans to the Renaissance, your duties will include responsibility for collections; acquisitions; exhibitions; research; publications; and responding to public enquiries.
Closing Date: Sunday, October 29th, 2017.
IHBC Consultant Policy Advisor
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation is commissioning consultancy services to carry out its Policy function. The work will commence immediately and the current contract will last for 12 months from the date of appointment when the IHBC the contract will be reviewed. As the IHBC’s Consultant Policy Advisor you will:
• help to shape the IHBC’s approach to policy and advocacy activities;
• enhance our ability to develop and respond to policy support and strengthen IHBC’s ability and capacity to influence the policies of governments, voluntary and professional bodies and non-governmental organizations throughout the UK;
• respond to consultations and take part in policy debates;
• build policy relationships on behalf of IHBC;
• promote the value of conservation and of the conservation profession to policy makers.
Closing date: 17.00 on Monday 23 October.
Could you be the next SPAB Scholar or Fellow?
The search is on for our 2018 Scholars and Fellows and if you’re an architect, building surveyor or engineer interested in building conservation then think about applying for the SPAB Scholarship. SPAB are also looking for craftspeople with a passion for old buildings and conservative repair for the Fellowship programme.
Apply by submitting a completed application form by 1st December.
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 tel: BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241.
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BEFS News
We would like to introduce you all to Ailsa Macfarlane who started with us last Tuesday as our Policy & Advocacy Officer. Ailsa joins us from Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage and you can find a bit more about her background on our website.
The Scottish Government has published the Scottish Household Survey 2016. Key findings show that the number of adults who visited historical or archaeological places increased by 6 percentage points between 2012 and 2016 (28 to 34 per cent).
The fourth round of Brexit negotiations got underway this week and senior figures within the UK and Scottish Governments met regarding the EU (Withdrawal) Bill.
Scottish Parliament’s Information Centre (SPICe) has created an information hub on the UK’s decision to leave the EU. The Finance & Constitution Committee is calling for evidence on the impact of Brexit and the closing date for responses is Friday.
SCVO has also been working hard to gather the views of Scotland’s third sector. Do you have contact with European networks and institutions? What issues do you collaborate with European organisations on? Help SCVO build a more accurate picture of the networks and projects the Scottish third sector is involved in by completing the European Connections mapping survey.
Finally, we have a large number of fantastic events coming up next month so do check them out below or in our events calendar.
Consultations
The Scottish Parliament’s Finance & Constitution Committee is calling for evidence on the impact of Brexit.
The closing date for responses is Friday 29 September 2017.
Community Empowerment and Common Good Property: Consultation on Draft Guidance
Closes 29 Sep 2017.
Updating of the School Premises (General Requirements and Standards)(Scotland) Regulations 1967
Closes 9 Oct 2017.
The Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Jobs & Fair Work Committee has issued a call for evidence on Scotland’s economic performance.
The inquiry’s focus is to understand economic trends and divergences since 2007 between Scotland, the UK and Europe. It seeks to identify economic challenges and opportunities facing Scotland during the next decade. The deadline for written submissions is 13 November 2017
Consultation Responses
Land Rights and Responsibilities Statement Consultation Analysis (SG 14/09/17)
Publications
Scottish Household Survey Key Findings 2016 (SG 26/09/17)
Scotland’s People Annual Report: Results from the 2016 Scottish Household Survey (SG 26/07/17)
The proposed amendments to the EU (Withdrawal) Bill (SG 19/09/17)
Joint letter to Prime Minister re EU (Withdrawal) Bill (SG 19/09/17)
Letter from Michael Russell to Finance and Constitution Committee (SG 19/09/17)
Scottish Government News Releases
Building and fire safety (SG 27/09/17)
Two leading experts have been announced as the chairs of the two groups that will take forward the review of building standards. Professor John Cole will chair the review of enforcement and compliance and Dr Paul Stollard will chair the review of fire safety in building standards.
Scottish Household Survey 2016 (SG 26/09/17)
Increasing numbers of people in Scotland feel they are managing well financially and nine out of ten people rate their neighbourhood as a good place to live. These are some of the key findings from the Scottish Household Survey 2016 published today.
Devolution must be protected (SG 25/09/17)
Speaking after today’s meeting with UK First Secretary of State Damian Green on the issues surrounding the current draft of the EU Withdrawal Bill – which was also attended by Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe Michael Russell and Scottish Secretary David Mundell – Deputy First Minister John Swinney said:
Clarity on Brexit Bill vital (SG 24/09/17)
Ministers to meet UK counterparts. The UK Government must ‘urgently stop any power grab’ over policy areas exercised at EU level through the draft Withdrawal Bill, Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe, Michael Russell has warned.
Defending devolution (SG 19/09/17)
Justice, farming, fishing, environment and rail among “power grab” list. The Scottish and Welsh governments have today jointly published amendments to the European Union (Withdrawal Bill), to prevent the UK Government taking control of devolved policy areas.
Scottish Government backs Paisley 2021 bid (SG 19/09/17)
The Scottish Government has given its financial backing to Scotland’s bid if Paisley is named UK City of Culture 2021. The Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, made the announcement while attending the first of a series of culture conversation events which took place at the University of the West of Scotland campus in the heart of Paisley.
Homelessness and rough sleeping action group (SG 19/09/17)
£50 million ‘Ending Homelessness Together’ fund. Further details of a new short term action group which will identify the actions and changes needed to end rough sleeping and transform the use of temporary accommodation in Scotland, has been announced by Housing Minister Kevin Stewart in a Ministerial statement today.
News Releases
Search for Scotland’s ‘heritage angels’ enters final stage (HES 27/09/17)
The search to find Scotland’s ‘heritage angels’ is gearing up, with the final shortlist for the Scottish Heritage Angel Awards 2017 revealed today (Wed 27 Sep).
Fine homeowners who sell draughty homes, suggests report (BBC 27/09/17)
Frontier Economics has published a new report on energy efficiency. The firm recommends fining homeowners who sell properties that do not meet energy efficiency standards. It also called for new financing schemes and stamp duty rebates for those who do choose to insulate their homes.
Five tips to help you prepare for GDPR (SCVO 26/09/17)
Never mind the countdown to Christmas, there’s only 241 days left to get ready for Data Protection D-Day! So what can you do to minimise the risks to your organisation and make sure you’re ready for GDPR? Here are five tips to start off with.
McLeish launches Scottish Alliance for People and Places (SAPP 21/09/17)
The Scottish Alliance for People and Places, chaired by former First Minister Henry McLeish, has launched its campaign. The Alliance, comprising ten organisations working across the planning and placemaking sectors, has come together to urge the Scottish Government and Scottish Parliament to deliver a more inclusive, collaborative and innovative planning system when the Planning Bill is introduced to Holyrood later this year.
Call for Applications – Howdens Scottish Empty Homes Champion of the Year Awards (Shelter)
The Howdens’ Scottish Empty Homes Champion of the Year Awards are intended to provide a method for showcasing exemplary contributions to the field of private sector empty homes work in Scotland. The awards are open to practitioners, campaigners, community groups and elected members who raise the profile of private sector empty homes issues in Scotland. Self-nomination is encouraged! Closing date for entries is midnight on 6th October 2017.
Future sea-level rise will increase potential flood risks in Firth of Clyde area (SNH 21/09/17)
Sea levels will rise by up to 0.47m by 2080, a new report published by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has highlighted.
Heritage Boost to England’s Economy Revealed in New Report (HE 21/09/17)
A new report published today by Historic England has revealed the vital contribution of heritage to England’s economic prosperity. Heritage is an important source of employment and draws millions of visitors each year. England’s unique collection of historic buildings provides premises for businesses, homes for residents and can help reverse decline in town centres.
SCVO series of papers on topics relating to Brexit (SCVO)
SCVO has been asked by the Scottish Government, UK Government and European Commission to support Scotland’s third sector to provide its perspectives and recommendations on making the best of Brexit for Scotland’s people and communities. These are presented in a series of five discussion papers, which we hope will help the sector deliberate and review the impact of Brexit on its own future and that of the people it works with.
£22.8 million boost to give power back to communities (DCLG 20/09/17)
Communities across England are set to benefit from a package of support worth £22.8 million to help them develop plans to give them a real say in the development of their area.
Apply now for the Community Capacity and Resilience Fund! (SCVO)
Community organisations and groups which aim to help people mitigate the effects of welfare reform by providing them with the support and skills they need can now apply for the third phase of the Community Capacity and Resilience Fund (CCRF).
Members News
A collaborative approach to creating homes (A&DS 20/09/17)
Whether it’s a house or a flat, a castle or a cottage, where we call home matters. Our health and well-being, our educational attainment, and many of our life choices depend on where we live. As a result, housing is one of our biggest challenges and the overwhelming reliance on the market as the go-to provider is looking increasingly in need of a reboot. For these reasons, A&DS has made support for the delivery of more and better homes one of its top priorities.
PAS responds to Scottish Government consultation on The Socio-Economic Duty (PAS 20/09/17)
PAS responded strongly in favour of this duty, noting the origins of the British planning system in addressing health and inequality, and making decisions in the public good. In particular, PAS welcomes the application of the socio-economic duty to Local Development Plans.
ScARF Bursaries available: Association for Environmental Archaeology conference 2017 (SoAoS 20/09/17)
The ‘Association for Environmental Archaeology conference 2017’ will take place from December the 1st to December the 3rd 2017 in Edinburgh, Scotland. The Scottish Archaeological Research Framework (ScARF) is offering student bursaries to support attendance at the conference. These bursaries are designed to allow students to hear about current research in archaeology and participate in discussions within the discipline.
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”.
Andy Wightman S5W-11526
To ask the Scottish Government how much each local authority spent on rural housing projects in 2016-17, also broken down by the (a) (i) name and (ii) postcode of each project, (b) grant-receiving organisation, and (c) number of (A) units and (B) bed spaces. (SP 25/09/17)
Rhoda Grant S5W-11425
To ask the Scottish Government when its report into community land purchases will be published. (SP 21/09/17)
Rhoda Grant S5W-11426
To ask the Scottish Government how many community land purchases have been made in each local authority area; when each purchase took place and what the acreage was of each. (SP 21/09/17)
Graham Simpson S5W-11428
To ask the Scottish Government how many (a) housing association, (b) local authority and (c) private sector-run (i) sheltered and (ii) very sheltered homes there are. (SP 21/09/17)
Graham Simpson S5W-11429
To ask the Scottish Government what information it has regarding how many private high-rise blocks in each local authority area have combustible cladding. (SP 21/09/17)
Dean Lockhart S5W-11380
To ask the Scottish Government what resources it will contribute towards the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Deal, and when it expects the negotiations regarding the deal to conclude. (SP 19/09/17)
Debates
Motion S5M-07862: Fiona Hyslop, Linlithgow, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 25/09/2017
Recognise and Support Paisley’s 2021 UK City of Culture and Dundee’s 2023 European Capital of Culture Bids
That the Parliament recognises the significant contributions that the communities of Paisley and Dundee make to Scotland’s rich tapestry of cultural life and the local, national and international boosts that Paisley’s 2021 UK City of Culture and Dundee’s 2023 European Capital of Culture bids will bring; fully supports both bids, which will promote Scotland’s cultural and creative talent and showcase its inspiring building design and places to UK and European partners; notes that the Paisley bid will deliver a spectacular year-long cultural and events programme inspired by the rich textile heritage of the city and will be inclusive, accessible and appeal to a range of local, national and international audiences; recognises that the bid is part of broader heritage and culture-led regeneration plans seeking to transform Paisley into a vibrant cultural destination, growing the cultural, creative and visitor economy, and re-positioning Paisley as a place recognised for cultural excellence; further recognises that Dundee is on a pioneering journey with culture and creativity driving the continuing regeneration of the city and its waterfront, which includes a world-class design museum in the V&A; supports Dundee’s plans to build on its UNESCO City of Design status, learning from other European cities’ approaches, and supports the valuable role that the bid will have in promoting Dundee’s rich cultural heritage and exciting future.
Debated in the Chamber on 27/09/17. Read full transcript of debate here.
Events
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Scottish Architectural Ironwork
When: Friday 29th September.
Where: Engine Shed, Stirling.
The day will cover early ironwork in Scotland, the Carron Iron Co, the Lion Foundry of Kirkintilloch and other important firms. The team currently restoring The Val d’Osne Ross Fountain in Edinburgh will talk about the project and their previous project of the award winning Paisley Fountain of George Smith and Co. Hear about the iron bandstand tradition and overseas influence of Scottish ironwork and ironworkers and peruse important archives and materials related to Scottish ironwork. You might also be interested in joining us for a freewalking tour of Stirling on the 28th of September or come to the Engine Shed on the 30 September to take part in our free Heavy Metal Weekend activities. Tickets for the seminar are priced at £40, to book a place, please visit our website.
Lecture: Edinburgh’s Unbuilt ‘Opera House’, 1960 – 1975
When: Monday 2nd October. Time: 18:30.
Where: St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA
Cost: £5 (£2.50 students).
This talk by Dr Alistair Fair examines the infamous proposals of 1960–1975 for a major new theatre in central Edinburgh. Popularly known as the ‘opera house’, the proposed Castle Terrace Theatre (which was never built) was a regular fixture in the local press, with frequent reports of delays, funding crises, architectural debate, and concerns about the designs themselves. This talk will ask: what went wrong?
Last BRICK Workshop in Scotland
When: 3rd October 2017, from 9:30 am – 4:15 pm.
Where: New Cumnock Town Hall.
We would like to invite you to our last BRICK workshop in Scotland. We will be coming to New Cumnock on 03 October 2017. This exciting day will focus on topics relating to governance, procurement and project management, all essential to the proper planning for reusing heritage sites. The day will also feature presentations on a range of heritage regeneration projects, all at different stages of their project journey. The workshop will include a range of presentations by national experts, including: Diane Gray, Development Manager from HLF in Scotland, Simon Green, Historic Environment Scotland, Gordon Neill, Development and Facilities Manager for Dumfries House.
Heritage and Innovation
When: 3rd October, 13:30-1800.
Where: Bowhill, Selkirk.
The Royal Society of Arts has a half day inter-disciplinary event looking at a variety of subjects with ten speakers delivering “provocations” to spark debate as Scotland moves towards the end of Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. For detailed registration/ticket price information and the list of ten diverse speakers and subjects, including two SEFARI speakers, please email SL&E member Ann Packard apmcich@btinternet.com who chairs the RSA Fellows’ (a) Borders and (b) Media, Creative Industries, Culture and Heritage Networks. She is also available via 0131 556 2052.
Riddle’s Court: A Conservation Story
When: Friday 6th October 10.00 – 16.00.
Where: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PG.
Fee: £30 / £25 concession (lunch included).
Celebrating SHBT’s achievement in securing Riddle’s Court for future generations, this study day charts the conservation story of the building’s restoration. Join us as we hear from our project architect, Sarah Gear, on how she and the site team reconfigured a 16th century merchant’s house for 21st century activity using Patrick Geddes’ own example of conservative surgery as precedent. We will also be joined by Scottish Wall Painting’s lead conservator Karen Dundas, who worked on the historic painted ceilings and Nevin of Edinburgh, decorative arts restorers, will demonstrate paint graining techniques used throughout the internal decoration.
‘His little hour of royalty’: Charles Edward Stuart at the Palace of Holyroodhouse
When & where: 9th October in Edinburgh. 10th October in Aberdeen.
Lecture given by Dr Jacqueline Riding, Historian, Author and Honorary Research Fellow, Birkbeck College, University of London. In the autumn of 1745 Charles Edward Stuart established a court at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, an episode that was later described by Andrew Lang as ‘his little hour of royalty.’ Yet, at this time, no one could have predicted for certain the outcome of the prince’s campaign. This lecture will challenge Lang’s glib assessment of the Stuart court at Holyrood, re-presenting it as a crucial part of, rather than an adjunct to, Charles’ restoration attempt.
Dumfries and Galloway’s Autumn Trip
When: Wednesday 11th October. Time: 11:30.
Where: Dumfries House Gardens & Auchinleck House
Cost: entrance fee (attendees must provide their own transportation)
Over the past two years Dumfries House’s Walled Gardens have been transformed with newly restored terraces and greenhouses. There are 5 acres to explore so something for every taste. Auchinleck House has had a long and varied history. The site has been dwelt on since the 13th century but the current house was built c.1760 by the 8th Laird of Auchinleck. It later passed on to his colourful son the diarist and biographer James Boswell.
Scotland’s Churches Trust Marion Fraser Memorial Lecture
When: Thursday, 12th October from 6:30 pm for a 7:00pm start.
Where: Canongate Kirk, Royal Mile, Edinburgh.
“The Chapel Royal in Scotland” given by The Very Rev Professor Iain Torrance FRSE. The lecture will be followed by light refreshments. For further information contact info@scotlandchurchestrust.org.uk or telephone on 0131 225 8644.
Riddle’s Court and St Cecilia’s Hall: Patronage and Processionals
Courtly ritual in the reign of James VI
When: Friday 17th November 10.00 – 16.00
Where: Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PG.
Fee: £30 / £25 concession (lunch included)
In 1598, Riddle’s Court was the scene of a diplomatic banquet attended by James VI and Anne of Denmark. Through a lens of ritual, ceremony and patronage this study day explores the relationship music and performance would have played during this royal visit. Hear from top academics who shed light on the backdrop to such an event. Medieval Music ensemble ‘Gaita’ will give us a flavour of music performed in the late medieval era and in partnership with the historic instrument collection at St Cecilia’s Hall, Sarah Deters will guide us through the University of Edinburgh’s formidable collection of renaissance instruments housed in the fully restored eighteenth century concert venue.
Scotland’s Towns Conference 2017 – Creating the Future History of Scotland’s Towns: The Key to Social, Cultural and Economic Wellbeing
When: 21st November, from 9am – 4pm.
Where: Paisley Town Hall.
This year Scotland celebrates the richness of its history and heritage, and the role of the past in shaping our present-day places, cultures and identities. This is particularly true for towns, whose heritage tells our story as a nation, from medieval burghs and seats of kings, to hubs of the industrial revolution, and ‘new town’ symbols of post-war modernity.
Vacancies
IHBC Consultant Policy Advisor
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation is commissioning consultancy services to carry out its Policy function. The work will commence immediately and the current contract will last for 12 months from the date of appointment when the IHBC the contract will be reviewed. As the IHBC’s Consultant Policy Advisor you will:
• help to shape the IHBC’s approach to policy and advocacy activities;
• enhance our ability to develop and respond to policy support and strengthen IHBC’s ability and capacity to influence the policies of governments, voluntary and professional bodies and non-governmental organizations throughout the UK;
• respond to consultations and take part in policy debates;
• build policy relationships on behalf of IHBC;
• promote the value of conservation and of the conservation profession to policy makers.
Closing date: 17.00 on Monday 23 October.
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BEFS NEWS
The Scottish Government has now published its Programme for Scotland in 2017-18. Read BEFS Chair’s comment on the programme from a built environment perspective.
Do you seek to influence or lobby MSPs, Scottish Ministers, Scottish Special Advisers or the Permanent Secretary? If so, from the new year, you will need to register any ‘regulated lobbying’ with the Scottish Parliament’s lobbing register. The Scottish Parliament have now published their draft Parliamentary Guidance document to assist with stakeholder preparations for the implementation of the Lobbying (Scotland) Act 2016. Comments on the guidance, specifically relating to any errors or omissions, should be submitted by 28 September 2017.
As you will be aware, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on 25 May 2018. GDPR will be the biggest change in data protection law for 20 years. This morning the Government published the new Data Protection Bill. The Bill transposes the GDPR into UK law and also fills in some of the gaps in the GDPR on exemptions etc. You may find the following resources, among others, useful when preparing for the GDPR in your organisation:
• Information Commissioner’s Office – Overview of the GDPR
• Information Commissioner’s Office – Preparing for the GDPR in 12 Steps
• Act Now Training – GDPR resources
• 9 ways your business can prepare for the GDPR
• Shepherd and Wedderburn – Countdown to GDPR
If you missed our screening of Dispossession: The Great Social Housing Swindle earlier in the year, come along to the Cameo Edinburgh screening at 8.30pm this evening. The film will be followed by a Q&A with director, Paul Sng, Sarah Boyack, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, and Andy Wightman MSP, chaired by BEFS very own Euan Leitch.
CONSULTATIONS
Climate Change Bill
Closes 22 Sep 2017.
Fire and smoke alarms in Scottish homes: consultation
Consultation seeking views on possible changes to standards required for fire and smoke alarms in Scottish homes.
Opened 8 Sep 2017 and closes 1 Dec 2017.
Building Scotland’s Low Emission Zones
This consultation paper sets out the proposed arrangements and options to deliver a consistent approach to designing, building and managing Low Emission Zones (LEZs) in Scotland.
Opened 6 Sep 2017 and closes 28 Nov 2017.
PUBLICATIONS
Housing Statistics for Scotland 2017: Key Trends Summary (SG 12/09/17)
Making Places initiative 2017-2018: prospectus and application form (SG 11/09/17)
Prospectus and application form for the Making Places initiative – the evolution of the Charrettes fund. Applications are open until Friday 13 October 2017.
A Nation With Ambition: The Government’s Programme for Scotland 2017-18 (SG 05/09/17)
Home Energy Efficiency programmes for Scotland: Summary Delivery Report 2015/16 (SG 31/09/17)
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASES
Making Scotland the best place to invest (SG 12/09/17)
Mackay goes beyond Barclay to boost business. In a UK first, new properties will not pay Business Rates until they are occupied and their tenant will not pay for the first 12 months thereafter, Cabinet Secretary for Finance Derek Mackay has today announced.
EU Withdrawal Bill (SG 12/09/17)
The Scottish Government cannot recommend the Scottish Parliament give its consent to the EU (Withdrawal) Bill in its current form, the Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe Michael Russell has told MSPs.
More affordable housing approved (SG 12/09/17)
The number of affordable homes approved over the year to the end June 2017 has increased by 30% on the previous year, bringing the total number of approvals over the year to 10,612.
3% increase in housing supply (SG 12/09/17)
Total new housing supply in Scotland increased by 3% in 2016-17, to 18,539 new housing units, or 571 more homes than the previous year.
Designing communities (SG 09/09/17)
People to have say in the design of their area. Communities across Scotland can bid to take part in a new £325,000 scheme to regenerate their neighbourhood, Local Government Minister Kevin Stewart announced today. The Making Places Initiative will help bring communities together to agree improvements for their area based on local need and priorities.
Building and fire safety (SG 08/09/17)
The fifth meeting of a Ministerial Working Group, set up to review building and fire safety following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, has taken place today.
Flexible Workforce Development Fund (SG 07/09/17)
From today, Scotland’s employers can apply for part of a new £10 million fund to partner with colleges to deliver in-work skills training. The Flexible Workforce Development Fund (FWDF) will be available to organisations across the private, public and third sectors who are subject to the UK Government’s Apprenticeship Levy.
Culture conversations (SG 07/09/17)
People across the country are being encouraged to get involved in shaping Scotland’s new culture strategy, with three more public events to take place. Following sessions held in July in Dundee and Inverness, public events are now planned during September and October in Paisley, Dumfries and Galashiels, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced today.
Brexit planning process ‘unacceptable’ (SG 06/09/17)
Minister raises concerns over lack of engagement by UK Government. The process for post-Brexit planning needs to change so that the position of the Scottish Government – particularly in areas that directly affect devolution – is properly represented according to the Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe.
Landlord registration enforcement (SG 06/09/17)
Guidance on regulating landlords in the private rented sector has issued to all local authorities. The guidance will support local authorities to effectively regulate the landlord registration system, which requires councils to maintain a register of private landlords and ensure that only landlords it judges to be fit and proper are allowed on the register.
Programme for Government (SG 05/09/17)
Seizing the opportunities of the low carbon revolution, investing in future economic growth and improving the lives of all our young people will be central to the Scottish Government’s Programme for the coming year.
NEWS RELEASES
St Cyrus public consultation begins (SNH 14/09/17)
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) want to hear from people with an interest in St Cyrus National Nature Reserve (NNR) to help prepare a new ten-year plan for the reserve.
Get ready for Scottish Lobbying! (SCVO 13/09/17)
A look at who’ll be affected when new Lobbying (Scotland) Act starts. In this blog, I look at exclusions (i.e. where you don’t need to register), outline some possible lobbying scenarios and highlight what’s not covered by the Act.
Data laws to be made fit for digital age (DDCMS 12/09/17)
The Government has today outlined vital protections and flexibilities for the nation’s world-leading research, financial services, journalism and legal services as part of its plans to update data protection legislation for the modern era.
Flexible Workforce Development Fund means a race for funding (SCVO 12/09/17)
One of the prominent themes of the Scottish Government’s recent decisions on employability has been the side-lining of the third sector. The Apprenticeship Levy is no different.
Making Places initiative 2017-2018 (A&DS 11/09/17)
The Scottish Government have launched the 2017 to 2018 Making Places initiative to encourage communities to positively and actively contribute to the development of their local places. Making Places represents a broadening of the Charrette Mainstreaming Programme to support communities at all stages of their thinking.
Programme for Government: A brave new world? (SCVO 07/09/17)
Do the First Minister’s announcements mark a truly radical change in approach and will actions match the warm rhetoric?
Housing system that works for everyone key to tackling housing crisis, say home builders (HFS 05/09/17)
With the First Minister renewing her mission to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping in today’s Programme for Government announcement, the country’s home building industry emphasised the fundamental importance of ensuring that Scotland has a housing system that works for everyone.
Tesco Bags of Help funds 225 projects in Scotland every 2 months. You can apply now for up to £4000 for projects that bring benefits to the community. This includes outdoor or indoor improvements, activities and equipment purchases. Get your application going – more here.
MEMBERS NEWS
World’s largest heritage photography competition and Scottish Archaeology Month (AS 11/09/17)
Wiki Loves Monuments, a photography competition to capture our heritage, launched at the beginning of September, 2017, and runs throughout the month. Archaeology Scotland is sponsoring the first place prize for the best photo from Scotland- 1 year’s membership – as part of Scottish Archaeology Month.
Paisley Traditional Building Skills event features in Parliamentary Motion (STBF 07/09/17)
The Traditional Building Skills Demonstration in Paisley on 4 & 5 September was featured in a parliamentary motion by Maurice Golden MSP who visited the event.
RTPI Scotland welcomes confirmation of Planning Bill (RTPI Scotland 06/09/17)
RTPI Scotland has welcomed the First Minister’s confirmation in her Programme for Government that the Planing Bill remains a priority.
EU Withdrawal Bill (RTPI 06/09/17)
Commons Briefing #1 from the Royal Town Planning Institute.
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-09723: Jackie Baillie, Dumbarton, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 19/06/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what guidance (a) has been and (b) will be delivered to (i) housing developers and (ii) local authorities to ensure that social housing developments announced as part of its £1.75 billion investment in affordable housing take account of the needs of ethnic minority families, including the provision of housing that is appropriate for (A) larger families and (B) families that often have to rent housing in the private sector but which are on lower incomes.
Answered by Angela Constance (06/07/2017)
MOTIONS
S5M-07613 Adam Tomkins: Housing—That the Parliament recognises that the lack of housing supply is one of the biggest challenges that Scotland faces and believes that the planning system needs urgent and radical reform; considers that a new deal on housing is required; believes that a national housing and infrastructure agency should be established and that the First Minister should appoint a cabinet secretary for housing and infrastructure; urges ministers to examine the case for a new generation of new towns and garden villages; recognises that improving existing properties and bringing empty ones back into use should form a core component of housing policy, and highlights the importance of housing for improving health and wellbeing and for meeting climate targets through energy efficiency and sustainable development. Supported by: Graham Simpson, Liam Kerr*, Annie Wells*, Tom Mason* (SP 13/09/17)
*S5M-07613.4 Pauline McNeill: Housing—As an amendment to motion S5M-07613 in the name of Adam Tomkins (Housing), leave out from first “recognises” to end and insert “believes that a safe, warm home should be available to everybody; considers that support for social housing should be a central part of housing policy and that it should be available as a choice of housing tenure; believes in the importance of community involvement in housing; recognises that affordable homes for those on low incomes can be a potential stepping stone out of poverty and that the current lack of such homes in Scotland is pushing people into poverty; believes that delays to universal credit payments are leading to increasing housing arrears and potential homelessness, while flatlining incomes are making it increasingly difficult for people to afford a home; agrees that a long-term national infrastructure project with a focus on social housing is
required to deliver the homes needed across Scotland, in particular in rural areas; recognises that this would also provide the certainty that the construction industry workforce needs; believes that a well-resourced planning system that strikes the right balance between communities and developers will be key to this, and recognises that there should be a continued focus on upgrading Scotland’s current housing stock and that, to truly tackle fuel poverty in the private rented sector, a minimum standard of Energy Performance Certificate of Band C should be introduced by 2025.” (SP 13/09/17)
*S5M-07613.3 Andy Wightman: Housing—As an amendment to motion S5M-07613 in the name of Adam Tomkins (Housing), leave out from first “recognises” to end and insert “believes that the current model of housing delivery has failed, and that a generation of young people face greater uncertainty and inequality as a result; further believes that a bold package of land reform measures is needed to provide sufficient affordable quality and warm homes, and that housing policy should aim to make housing more affordable across all tenures; supports taxing vacant and derelict land to reduce speculative land banking, rent controls that reflect the quality of the property and limit future rent rises, professionalising the private rented sector for the benefit of tenants and divesting public pension funds from fossil fuels and investing them in housing; opposes social security reform that puts people at risk of homelessness, and calls on the Scottish Government to set an interim target for all homes, where technically feasible and appropriate, to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate of Band C by 2025 to tackle fuel poverty and improve
energy efficiency.” (SP 13/09/17)
*S5M-07613.2 Angela Constance: Housing—As an amendment to motion S5M-07613 in the name of Adam Tomkins (Housing), leave out from “the lack” to end and insert “good quality, warm and affordable housing is vital to ensuring a Scotland that is fair for this and future generations; welcomes the 69,000 affordable homes delivered since 2007 and the commitment to deliver 35,000 social rented homes, as part of the Scottish Government’s wider aim to deliver 50,000 affordable homes over the current parliamentary term; acknowledges the longer-term funding of £1.75 billion made available to all councils to support them with their plans for accelerating affordable housing delivery; recognises the steps taken to safeguard social housing for the future by abolishing the right to buy; welcomes the Scottish Government’s commitment to action on planning, land and infrastructure to secure the housing developments that the country needs, including measures to strengthen community engagement; recognises that the Scottish Government’s housing infrastructure fund will help unlock key development sites; welcomes the continued commitment to delivering housing as a key way of promoting inclusive growth, and condemns the welfare changes that have been introduced by the UK Government that have led people to be insecure in their homes, including the introduction of the so-called bedroom tax, removal of financial support for housing for under 21s, and the six-week delay in receiving the first payment of universal credit, which is leading to housing arrears.”Supported by: Kevin Stewart* (SP 13/09/17)
*S5M-07613.1 Alex Cole-Hamilton: Housing—As an amendment to motion S5M-07613 in the name of Adam Tomkins (Housing), leave out from “a national housing” to “infrastructure” and insert “this should have a particular emphasis on building new homes for social rent, with increased targets to re-establish it as a valid long-term option for people; considers that, alongside an increase in housing supply, changes to social security are required to improve options and security, such as returning housing benefit to young people; recognises that the aspiration to build new properties and transform hundreds of thousands of existing properties into sustainable warm homes is dependent on the availability of skilled labour; believes that college cuts and the UK Government’s policies in relation to Brexit and immigration jeopardise the ability find this”. (SP 13/09/17)
DEBATES
Debate on motion S5M-07613, in the name of Adam Tomkins, on housing (SP 13/09/17)
EVENTS
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Property Repair & Maintenance Event
When: Monday 25th September 2017 from 5.30-7.30pm.
Where: ESPC, 107 George Street, Edinburgh.
Vital information will be provided to help you:
– Find out the condition of your property
– Find out the process required to repair and maintain your property
– Learn what funding options are available to you
– Talks from professionals who can start you on the right track
– Q&A opportunity at help desks
Why not come along to this free event. If you would like to attend please BOOK YOUR PLACE rsvp to: conservation@hypostyle.co.uk OR CALL 0131 555 0688.
Arts & Business Scotland Culture & Business Fund Scotland Workshop & Reception
When: Thursday 28 September 2017 from 15:30 to 19:30.
Where: The Rockfield Centre, Stevenson Street, Oban, PA34 5NA.
A free workshop that will give arts and heritage organisations the opportunity to learn about the Culture & Business Fund Scotland. The fund provides £ for £ match funding for arts and heritage organisations who gain sponsorship from first time business sponsors or business sponsors who have not sponsored culture in the last two years. An informal drinks and canapés reception for businesses and cultural organisations. Opportunities for networking and presentations featuring case studies of successful cultural and business partnerships from across Scotland. Guidance and advice on effective and collaborative engagement.
Patrick Geddes Learning Festival
When: Thu, 28 Sep 2017, 09:30 – Fri, 29 Sep 2017, 17:00.
Where: Patrick Geddes Centre, Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG.
Following on from the success of the 2016 PAS conference; “Outlook: Exploring Geddes in the 21st Century” and in light of growing international interest in the work of Sir Patrick Geddes, PAS will host a follow-on conference this September. PAS is excited to say that we are working in partnership with the Patrick Geddes Learning Centre for the two-day conference.
The Heritage Trust Network Conference 2017 – Inspiring Heritage for All
When: Monday, 2nd October to Wednesday, 4th October.
Where: Guildhall, Kingston upon Hull.
This year the Heritage Trust Network’s conference will take place in Hull, City of Culture.
Have a look at the full three day programme and the wealth of inspiring speakers and workshops here.
Edinburgh’s Unbuilt ‘Opera House’, 1960 – 1975
When: Monday 2nd October 2017 at 6.30pm.
Where: St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA.
Dr Alistair Fair is Chancellor’s Fellow and Lecturer in Architectural History, at the University of Edinburgh. He is a specialist in post-war architecture in Britain and has recently completed a book on post-war theatre building. This talk examines the infamous proposals of 1960 – 1975 for a major new theatre in central Edinburgh that were a regular fixture in the local press. Alistair looks at what went wrong.
A lecture to celebrate 250 years of the New Town
When: 5th October, from 18:00 – 20:30.
Where: The Glasite Meeting House, 33 Barony Street, Edinburgh EH3 6NX.
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the approval of James Craig’s winning design for the Edinburgh New Town. In this lecture, Adam Wilkinson, Director of Edinburgh World Heritage, will delve into the conditions that led to the creation of the New Town, and the subsequent development of our remarkable city centre. He will also touch on the work of the last 45 years to ensure this legacy remains one of the most spectacular survivals from the Georgian and early Victorian period.
Stirling Skills Demonstration Day
When: 5th and 6th October 2017.
Where: Port Street (between the entrance to the Thistles centre and New Look), Stirling.
The Stirling Traditional Skills Demonstration is being hosted by the Stirling City Heritage Trust in partnership with the Forth Valley Traditional Building Forum. The purpose of the event is to encourage young people to think about a career in traditional building skills, as well as raising general awareness of the skills that are so important in maintaining our historic environment. Come along and try your hand at stone masonry, roof slating, joinery and painting and decorating and discover the skills that are so important to maintaining our built heritage. The event is a free drop in and we look forward to seeing many of you there!
Housekeeping Scotland Convention: A vision for homes, communities & places
When: Sat 7 October 2017, 11:00 – 17:00.
Where: Sir Charles Wilson Building, 1 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8NN.
Houses are not just walls with price tags. Houses are homes, which are the centre of communities, and it is communities which form places. The Housekeeping Scotland Convention is the start of a long term Common Weal project aiming to build a genuinely transformative agenda for housing in Scotland that re-establishes homes as the beating heart of communities and places, not as financial assets for speculative gains.
British architects, landscape designers and gardeners in Russia
When: Monday 6th November 2017 at 6.30pm.
Where: St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PA.
Dr Patricia Andrew is an art and garden historian with a career in galleries and museums, and has also served on the Committee of the Garden History Society in Scotland. She specialises in Scottish artists at home and abroad from the 18th Century to the present day. This is a joint lecture with Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage, focusing on the legacy of British (particularly Scottish) architects, garden designers and engineers in Russia.
VACANCIES
Publications Officer (SoAoS)
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is a charity (Charity No SC 010440) and independent publisher of high-quality peer reviewed books and journals covering the entirety of Scotland’s past with a particular focus on archaeology and history. The Society is seeking an enthusiastic Publications Officer to support our publishing activity. This position will offer excellent and highly varied experience in all aspects of academic publishing, including editorial, design and marketing responsibilities.
Deadline for applications: 5pm on Sunday 17 September 2017. Interviews will be held on 25 September 2017.
World Heritage Site Project Assistant (EWH)
Edinburgh World Heritage are looking to appoint a World Heritage Site Project Assistant to assist with the delivery of a series of projects focusing on the conservation and enhancement of the historic environment within the World Heritage Site, including the “Twelve Closes” project. The main purpose of the position will be to assist the World Heritage Site Project Manager with the administration, fundraising and delivery of World Heritage projects. To apply for this role, please send us your CV, together with a completed application from and covering letter in support of your application by 5PM, Wednesday 20th September 2017.
Project Architect (HES)
The post will be responsible for the co-ordination and delivery of conservation and maintenance projects within the HES Investment Plan at the Properties in the Care of Scottish Ministers. This will include development, project management and delivery of the HES investment plan projects in our conservation, visitor facing facilities, site infrastructure, M&E installations, Climate Change and carbon reduction programmes.
Closes 27 Sep 2017.
National Investment Plan Co-ordinator for Conservation (HES)
The post will be responsible for the co-ordination and delivery of conservation and maintenance projects within the HES Investment Plan at the Properties in the Care of Scottish Ministers. This will include development, project management and delivery of the HES investment plan projects in our conservation, visitor facing facilities, site infrastructure, M&E installations, Climate Change and carbon reduction programmes.
Closes 27 Sep 2017.
PhD: Wrestling With Social Value: An Examination of Methods and Approaches For Heritage Management and Conservation
The University of Stirling is offering a funded PhD Studentship in collaboration with Historic Environment Scotland (HES). The studentship provides costs of Home/EU fees and student maintenance (at AHRC rates) for 3 years of PhD study. International students are welcome to apply, but will be liable for the difference between Home and International fees. The successful candidate will be expected to commence study on 1st January 2018.
Closes: 6th October 2017
Get The Latest Built Environment News, Consultations, Publications And Vacancies.
BEFS NEWS
The Scottish Government’s programme for 2016-2017 gave a commitment to developing a culture strategy for Scotland. The ball started rolling at an event in June and the Scottish Government is now collecting ideas and views for the proposed strategy. Read BEFS initial response to the discussion and the development of the strategy.
The Barclay Review on Non-Domestic Rates has two proposals with direct implications for owners of listed buildings: the existing 100% vacant listed building rate relief limited to 2 years but expanding the categories of properties that can qualify for Fresh Start relief (50%) so that all listed property can benefit. SCVO and RICS both discuss the report in more detail below.
At a time when we are witnessing the catastrophic impact of storm Harvey across the pond, Community Resilience Manager Paul Laidlaw from the Scottish Flood Forum tells us about the challenges we face in managing flood risk in Scotland, in our first blog this week.
Shaz Morton, Common Weal Skye Coordinator, and Andrew Prendergast, a rural development practitioner, describe the key aspects of community-led housing and look at two initiatives in the Highlands & Islands, in our second blog this week.
Scottish Archaeology Month is back this September, promoting hundreds of events taking place all over Scotland. There are free talks, tours, exhibitions, workshops and hands-on events to help you discover some of the amazing history, heritage and archaeology on your doorstep.
There are a range of interesting conferences, training and events coming up this autumn, so do check out the events section below.
CONSULTATIONS
The Socio Economic Duty
Closes 12 Sep 2017.
Climate Change Bill
Closes 22 Sep 2017.
A Culture Strategy for Scotland – What does culture mean to you?
SG are having conversations with individuals, artists, cultural organisations, communities and other sectors across Scotland. These conversations are helping to create a strategy that will set out future priorities for culture in Scotland.
Submit your views and ideas by 5pm on Friday 27 October 2017.
Guidance for Local Authorities when carrying out their new duties and functions under Part 9 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015
This consultation, developed in partnership by a Tripartite Group consisting of local authorities, the Scottish Allotments & Gardens Society and Scottish Government, represents the next phase of our journey to updating the legislation on allotments.
Opened 25 Aug 2017 and closes 17 Nov 2017.
Crofting Consultation 2017
This consultation seeks views of crofters, and those with an interest, on the pathway of any potential new legislation to reform crofting law.
Opened 28 Aug 2017 and closes 20 Nov 2017.
PUBLICATIONS
Government Expenditure & Revenue Scotland 2016-17 (SG 23/08/17)
Report of the Barclay Review of Non-Domestic Rates (SG 22/08/17)
Practical Fire Safety Guidance for Existing Non-Residential Premises (SG 18/08/17)
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASE
Park of Keir planning decision (SG 30/08/17)
Ministers to grant permission in principle. The Scottish Government intends to grant planning permission in principle for a proposed tennis and golf centre at Park of Keir in Dunblane.
Increased support for Govanhill tenants (SG 29/08/17)
Powers granted to tackle housing conditions in private sector. Additional powers have been given to Glasgow City Council to tackle problems in the private rented sector in Govanhill.
Future of Crofting 9SG 28/08/17)
A consultation on the priorities for future crofting law has been launched by Rural Affairs Secretary Fergus Ewing. The public consultation seeks opinions on the form of new legislation and priorities for legislative change to ensure crofting law is fit for the 21st century.
No EU deal is ‘unthinkable’ (SG 28/08/17)
Call for UK Government to commit to remain in Single Market.
Extra £10m for Edinburgh Festivals (SG 27/08/17)
Five-year programme to maximise cultural and economic impact. The Edinburgh Festivals will receive a £10 million boost over the next five years, the First Minister has confirmed.
Queensferry Crossing – a bridge to economic resilience (SG 27/08/17)
£245 million under budget bridge set to open. The Queensferry Crossing will welcome its first traffic on Wednesday morning (30 August), marking the culmination of a momentous journey.
Amendments to UK Brexit Bill will be proposed (SG 22/08/17)
First Ministers of Wales and Scotland agree actions to counter serious risks to devolution. First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones and First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon today agreed to work together on amendments to the UK Government’s EU Withdrawal Bill.
One stop shop for iconic bridges (SG 18/08/17)
Driver info for Queensferry Crossing available. With the countdown underway for the Queensferry Crossing opening, a new website for the Forth Bridges was launched today by the Minister for Transport Humza Yousaf.
NEWS RELEASES
Fire safety of your building: advice for tenants and residents (DCLG 30/08/17)
Advice if you have concerns about the fire safety of your building.
Charity Sector Set to Adopt Brexit Positions (SCVO 28/08/17)
With Brexit negotiations between the UK Government and Europe leaders now underway, Scotland’s charities and voluntary organisations now face the daunting task of ensuring Brexit has the least negative impact possible on Scotland’s communities.
Building Safety Programme (DCLG updated 25/08/17)
A co-ordinated national response to the fire at Grenfell Tower.
Rare Scottish seal matrix at risk of leaving the UK (DDCMS 25/08/17)
Arts Minister John Glen has placed a temporary export bar on a Scottish two-part seal matrix to provide an opportunity to keep it in the country.
Heritage Impact Statements in Wales (IHBC 25/08/17)
From 1 September 2017 a Heritage Impact Statement will be required to support any application for listed building or conservation area consent in Wales. The Heritage Impact Statement will replace the Design and Access Statement in the application process for listed building consent.
Housebuilding soars to highest levels in almost a decade (DCLG 24/08/17)
The number of new build homes that have started to be built has surged to the highest level since 2008, as shown by figures released today (24 August 2017).
UK outlines proposals for shared approach on data protection (DDCMS 24/08/17)
The Government has set out its plans for arrangements that could ensure personal data would continue to move back and forth between the UK and the EU in the future in a safe, properly regulated way.
What does the Barclay Review of Business Rates mean for charities in Scotland? (SCVO 22/08/17)
Report out today calls for changes to non-domestic rates. Earlier today, the Barclay Review of Business Rates released the report of their findings and recommendations.
Cyber Security in Charities (DDCMS 21/08/17)
The Government has carried out research with UK registered charities to explore their awareness, attitudes and experiences around cyber security.
The role of culture, sport and heritage in place shaping (DDCMS 18/08/17)
This research explores the role of culture, sport and heritage assets, and investment in driving positive economic and social outcomes at the local level.
Apply for EU Prize for Cultural Heritage / Europa Nostra Awards 2018 (EN 18/08/17)
The European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage / Europa Nostra Awards is Europe’s top honour in the heritage field. It recognises the best achievements in conservation, research, dedicated service as well as education, training and awareness-raising.
Open Call for Proposals: Scotland + Venice 2018 (A&DS 16/08/17)
Creative teams are invited to submit proposals for a project to celebrate architecture and Scotland’s Year of Young People 2018, with the potential to show the project at one of the most prestigious architecture events in the world – the Biennale Architettura, Venice in 2018. To find out more, please follow this link.
MEMBERS NEWS
Developing Trailblazer Apprenticeships (ICON 30/08/17)
Our CEO Alison Richmond wrote earlier this year of the opportunities presented by apprenticeships for the conservation sector. Since then much work has been happening in the background – read on for more on what we’ve been up to!
Open Letter to the Lord Provost (AHSS, EWHT, SCT & Cockburn Association 29/08/17)
The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland in collaboration with the Cockburn Association, Edinburgh World Heritage Trust and the Scottish Civic Trust, have today submitted an open letter to the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, urging that the application be refused.
Countdown to Doors Open Days 2017 with 50 Favourite Scottish Doors! (SCT 29/08/17)
To celebrate the launch of Doors Open Days 2017 and its own 50th anniversary, the Scottish Civic Trust has invited writers, artists, architects, academics and members of the public to nominate theirfavourite Scottish door.
IHBC on ‘Fire’ and ‘Thatch’: New ‘Guidance Note’ out on IHBC’s ToolBox (IHBC 29/08/17)
The IHBC has launched a new Guidance Note (GN2017/5) on ‘Thatching, chimney stacks and fire’, exploring a single issue that brings together the most fundamental considerations in conservation practice: material, construction, design and risk.
Barclay Review: A welcome addition to the debate (RICS 23/08/17)
We welcome the publication of the Barclay Review of business rates as “a welcome addition to the debate” surrounding Scotland’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.
In The Footsteps of Geddes (PAS 22/08/17)
In The Footsteps of Geddes is a Heritage Lottery funded project, focused on connecting young people from backgrounds facing various challenges with their places and heritage through Geddesian visual education, using modern technology and the Place Standard tool.
OTHER PARLIAMENTARY BUSINESS
- Parliamentary recess ends on 03/09/2017 at 5pm.
EVENTS
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
RSA Fellows’ Borders Network event: “Our Economy: What next?”
When: Wed 6 September 2017, 17:30 – 19:00.
Where: Scottish Borders Council Headquarters, Newtown St Boswells TD6 0SA.
The meeting, which will comprise a Presentation and a Q&A Session with William Dowson, Bank of England Agent for Scotland, will be held under the Chatham House Rule. The RSA thanks Scottish Borders Council for consent to use the Council Chamber for this meeting, and to publicity partners for relevant promotion assistance.
Paisley: Past, Present, Future
When: 21 September 2017, 7-9pm.
Where: Paisley Methodist Church Hall.
Paisley, Scotland’s largest town and once the flourishing centre of the weaving industry, rich in beautiful architecture and civic pride, is now a shadow of its former self. However, with recent improvements to the public realm and key buildings and a new sense of optimism around the bid to become UK City of Culture in 2021, now is a good time to look afresh at the town. Where have we come from, where are we now, and where are we going? Free.
The Scottish Planning & Environmental Law (SPEL) Conference 2017
When: Thursday 21 September.
Where: Edinburgh.
The 26th SPEL Conference ‘Anticipating and Preparing for Change’ takes place in the run up to the publication of the Planning White Paper towards the end of the year. Although the precise nature of change is not yet known, we can speculate where it may happen and what the consequences might be. As we anticipate what a future planning system is going to look like, planning reform is not the only driver of change. he process of Brexit will also impact on planning. A number of high profile speakers will consider how change is likely to shape their various areas of expertise and its likely impact on planning in Scotland.
European dark sky places conference
When: 20-22 September 2017.
Where: Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland.
Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, in partnership with Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park and with the support of the International Dark Skies Association are delighted to announce the first European Dark Skies Conference. The conference takes place in one of the very best places to observe the night sky– Galloway in South West Scotland and in the heart of the UNESCO Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, a world-class environment designation awarded to places that promote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature. #darkskies2017
Patrick Geddes Learning Festival
When: Thu, 28 Sep 2017, 09:30 – Fri, 29 Sep 2017, 17:00.
Where: Patrick Geddes Centre, Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PG.
Following on from the success of the 2016 PAS conference; “Outlook: Exploring Geddes in the 21st Century” and in light of growing international interest in the work of Sir Patrick Geddes, PAS will host a follow-on conference this September. PAS is excited to say that we are working in partnership with the Patrick Geddes Learning Centre for the two-day conference.
RTPI Scotland Annual Conference: Planners as Visionaries, Facilitators and Enablers
When: Tuesday 3 October 2017.
Where: COSLA Conference Centre, Edinburgh.
The planning system in Scotland is undergoing a significant review and a Planning Bill is scheduled to be published before the end of the year. At the same time UN Habitat III in Quito has published the new urban agenda which outlines how planners and planning have a vital role in improving the quality of life for people by creating inclusive, successful and sustainable places. The conference will look at the key issues we face in Scotland to develop an agenda for change. It will hear about opportunities, challenges faced and the new thinking and doing required from inspirational and forward thinking people. Conference delegates will have the opportunity to discuss these with others and help develop and agree the way forward.
Old and New Icons: The Role of Landscape Architecture
When: 12th of October from 6:00pm.
Where: CCA in Glasgow.
Landscape institute Scotland are pleased to announce the next Reflections series talk “Old and New Icons: The Role of Landscape Architecture.” A talk that explores how landscape architecture is playing a pivotal role in the revival of old icons, and the development of the new. Rolf Roscher from erz will be discussing their work for the famous post-war masterpiece, St Peter’s Seminary at Cardross. Ben Palmer from Open will present Open’s contribution to the new V&A in Dundee – the first ever dedicated design museum in Scotland.
Perth: Past, Present, Future
When: 26 October 2017, 7-9pm.
Where: Royal George Hotel, Perth
Perth: the fair city in the heart of Scotland. Once a thriving hub of enterprise large and small, has Perth now lost its way? A key event to highlight the joint 50th anniversaries of the Scottish Civic Trust and Perth Civic Trust, this seminar considers Perth’s history and heyday, its current issues and challenges, and what can be done to encourage a more positive future, with a particular emphasis on retailing in the city centre. There will be plenty of opportunities for discussion and questions. Free.
SCT CONFERENCE 2017: 50 Years of Conservation Areas
When: 27 November 2017.
As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations and recognising that the Civic Amenities Act was passed in 1967, the Scottish Civic Trust’s next annual conference, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and The Institute of Historic Building Conservation, will tackle the theme of “Fifty years of conservation areas” – what has been learned, what has been lost, and what are the threats and opportunities in the future. The conference will take place on Monday 27 November at the Trades Hall, Glasgow. SAVE THE DATE! Email gaby.laing@scottishcivictrust.org.uk to register your interest. Booking information will be available soon.
TRAINING
Transform your approach to community engagement – Training event
When: 28th September.
Where: Inverness (afternoon/central location).
PAS is running a workshop next month in Inverness aimed at developing skills in community engagement and relevant for anyone who would like to become recognised as a community engagement practitioner. Previous participants have come from local authorities, planning consultancies, third sector organisations, academia and community groups, as well as the energy and communications sectors.The cost of the programme is £250 per person. We are also experienced in delivering SP=EED Verification as in-house training. Please contact david@pas.org.uk for more details.
Heritage project management- A to Z from the IHBC – An IHBC ‘Unique Learning Experience’
When: 18-19 October 2017.
Where: Auckland Castle and Bishop Auckland, Co. Durham.
On 18-19 October 2017, the IHBC, including the IHBC’s North Branch, is partnering with national and local interests in and around Bishop Auckland, to offer unique, first hand insights into current practice and principles in heritage project management across a £90 million suite of projects inspired by private philanthropy and faith, from inspiration and inception to development and implementation.
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 tel: BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241.
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BEFS NEWS
BEFS has responded to the latest Position Statement published by Scottish Government on the planning review. BEFS has expressed disappointment that the scope of the review has shifted from major reform to a series of procedural changes. BEFS has flagged up the inherent tension in seeking to balance greater community participation with the planning system while speeding up and simplifying decision-making processes. For a review of BEFS Members’ submissions and links to some of BEFS members’ submissions, read our news release.
Following BEFS event on barriers to community engagement in planning, we have two blogs that follow the planning theme this week.
Nick Wright, of Nick Wright Planning, reflects on the findings of his report on barriers to community engagement in planning, commissioned by the Scottish Government.
Leah Lockhart, The Democratic Society, outlines some of the key themes that came out of the discussion at BEFS event and how digital engagement can overcome barriers to community engagement.
In our third blog this week, Harry Woodward, Tenant Participation Officer, Dunedin Canmore, writes in a personal capacity about Paul Sng’s documentary ‘Dispossession: The Great Social Housing Swindle’ and reflects on BEFS event with Tower Block UK.
I am sure you are all looking forward to Doors Open Days in September. Also, don’t miss the Festival of Architecture 2017 next month.
CONSULTATIONS
European Union (Withdrawal) Bill (SP 08/17)
The Scottish Parliament Finance and Constitution Committee intends to undertake scrutiny of the Bill including consideration of the expected legislative consent memorandum following the Parliament’s summer recess. In order to inform the Committee’s evidence taking, the Committee is seeking views on the impact of the Bill upon the devolution settlement and the expected legislative consent memorandum.
The closing date for responses is Friday 29 September 2017.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has launched a consultation on its Gaelic Language Plan for 2018 to 2023.
The consultation runs from 15 August to 31 October.
House of Lords Select Committee on Citizenship and Civic Engagement Call for Evidence:
The committee is keen to hear from a wide range of individuals, groups and organisations in order to understand the nature of the citizenship challenge for different parts of society; the aim being to identify new ways of building bridges within and between communities, and to support civic engagement.
Deadline: 8 September 2017.
PUBLICATIONS
Rural heritage under threat: looking after our landscapes post Brexit (The Heritage Alliance)
HLF funding for community asset transfer (HLF)
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASES
Brexit threatens environmental ambition (SG 17/08/17)
The Scottish and Welsh environment ministers will today pledge to work together to resist the UK Government’s attempt to take control of devolved powers.
Taking action on climate change (SG 16/08/17)
Organisations across Scotland are being encouraged to host events and raise awareness of the impact of climate change as part of Climate Week 2017. Running from 18 – 22 September, Scotland’s Climate Week will highlight the actions people and organisations can take together to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate.
£4.4 million announced for energy efficiency projects across Scotland (SG 10/08/17)
Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme (SEEP) phase 2 pilots. Councils will share £4.4 million to improve energy efficiency in homes, businesses, public buildings and community projects. 15 local authorities will use the funding to deliver innovative ways to reduce emissions and tackle fuel poverty.
Brexit Bill talks (SG 09/0/17)
Speaking after today’s meeting with UK First Secretary of State Damian Green on the issue of the repatriation of powers following Brexit – which was also attended by Deputy First Minister John Swinney and Scottish Secretary David Mundell – Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe Michael Russell said: “Today was a useful opportunity for an exchange of views between ourselves and the UK Government on Brexit and the repatriation of powers it will involve.”
‘Schools Out’ for the Queensferry Crossing (SG 09/08/17)
Following confirmation that the official opening by The Queen will take place on 4 September, and in response to local feedback, an additional 10,000 people from local schools and community groups on both sides of the Forth will have the chance to walk onto the bridge the next day (5 September). Then, from 6 September onwards, the bridge will re-open to traffic, with no pedestrian access.
Queensferry Crossing official opening (SG 04/08/17)
Date set for new Forth bridge to be opened by The Queen. The Queensferry Crossing will be officially opened by Her Majesty The Queen on 4 September 2017.
Funding our maritime heritage (SG 04/08/17)
£500,000 for the Scottish Fisheries Museum’s iconic flagship, Reaper, has been announced during the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, by Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop. The funding will allow for a full refit of the historic herring drifter, which for the last thirty years has acted as an outreach ambassador for the museum, for Fife and for Scotland. This will be its most comprehensive refit since 1903.
Scotland’s coastline at risk (SG 04/08/17)
New mapping tool highlights threat to coastline. Nearly a fifth of Scotland’s coastline is at risk of erosion, threatening some of the country’s most prized land and infrastructure within the next 30 years.
NEWS RELEASES
First Ever Heritage Awareness Day Launched (HES 17/08/17)
HES is urging people across Scotland to come face to face with history as details of the inaugural Heritage Awareness Day were revealed at the iconic Leith Theatre today (Wednesday 16 August). Heritage Awareness Day – Scotland’s first-ever day dedicated to celebrating heritage – will take place on Friday 6th October, as the country continues to celebrate the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.
Voting is now open for the Scotland’s Most Beautiful High Street (STP 15/08/17)
After receiving fantastic entries, a judging panel of representatives from Scotland’s Towns Partnership and Keep Scotland Beautiful have drawn up a shortlist of 10 finalists. The winner will be decided by an online public vote, which will be open until 1 October 2017. The winner will be announced at Scotland’s Towns Conference in Paisley on 21st November 2017.
Historic Environment Scotland Launch Gaelic Language Consultation (HES 15/08/17)
HES has launched a consultation on its Gaelic Language Plan for 2018 to 2023. The plan seeks to build upon the organisation’s success with Gaelic development, which includes the incorporation of Gaelic interpretation into 29 of its historical sites, a learning program that has benefitted over 4,000 pupils and teachers and a strong portfolio of Gaelic media content for adult learners.
Could superfast broadband aid planning in Scotland? (RICS 14/08/17)
The Scottish Government has pledged to ensure that 100 per cent of Scotland has access to superfast broadband by 2021. But is there a way to maximise this pledge in conjunction with the planning system?
Homelessness in Scotland predicted to rise by over 50% by 2041 (SHN 10/08/17)
There are currently 11,800 people across Scotland either sleeping rough, staying in hostels, living in unsuitable temporary accommodation, sofa surfing or experiencing other forms of the worst types of homelessness such as squats, refuges or sleeping in cars. Now new expert analysis conducted for Crisis by Heriot-Watt University has revealed that this figure is expected to rise to 12,200 by 2021 before accelerating to 18,100 – a rise of 53% on current levels – in 2041.
Search is on for Scotland’s next generation of social innovators (Firstport 09/08/17)
The Social Innovation Competition – which opens for applications today (9 August) – celebrates and supports individuals and start up companies in Scotland that are using their creativity and imagination to solve pressing social issues, focusing on culture, heritage and tourism. This is particularly relevant as Scotland celebrates the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.
Housing crisis ‘hitting young Scots and PRS tenants more than most’ (SHN 08/08/17)
Young people and private renters are disproportionately affected by a “terrible shortage” of affordable homes in Scotland, according to a new report. Figures from Shelter Scotland’s ‘Impact Report’ have highlighted that a shortage of affordable homes, welfare reform and stagnant wages have seen tenants struggling to afford housing costs.
Seminars will help congregations with building maintenance (CoS 04/08/17)
Caring for church buildings is one of the most challenging tasks facing any congregation or presbytery. Whether you are undertaking a major refurbishment of your church or halls, or you simply need to make a roof repair, building repairs raise questions about everything from funding sources to planning regulations.
£15 million Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund to boost region’s tech, creative and cultural industries (DDCMS 04/08/17)
Towns and cities across Northern England will be able to bid for a share of a new £15 million fund to help build a lasting regional legacy from the Great Exhibition of the North, Culture Secretary Karen Bradley announced today.
A survey is *still* not the answer to everything – return of the alternative evaluation techniques (SCVO 08/17)
After what we’re sure was a long and trying wait, we’re delighted to present the eagerly awaited follow-up to A Survey is not the Answer to Everything! Determined to avoid falling into the all too common ‘disappointing second album’ trap, we’ve been biding our time, doing our research, and are pretty confident that these evaluation techniques will blow your socks off.
Home Secretary commissions major study on EU workers (HO 27/07/17)
The Home Secretary has today (27 July) commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee to examine the role EU nationals play in the UK economy and society.
HLF funding for community asset transfer (HLF 24/07/17)
Research, undertaken by Locality, examining the extent of the funding HLF has provided for asset transfer projects. The transfer of ownership and management was encouraged in the in the 2011 Localism Act. According to research by the New Local Government Network, over 70% of local authorities have carried out at least one asset transfers and 95% of local authorities expect asset transfer to play an increasingly important role in the next 5 years.
MEMBERS NEWS
Digital Towns Pilot Programme: Call for Applications (STP 08/17)
Scotland’s Towns Partnership is seeking applications from Towns, City Neighbourhoods, Business Improvement Districts and other town stakeholder organisations to participate in the national Digital Towns Pilot Programme, which is being supported by Scottish Government.
Applications are due by 5pm, Thursday 31st August 2017.
IHBC’s new Note on ‘Townscape’: Addressing knowledge gaps in heritage policy development (IHBC 04/08/17)
The IHBC has launched a new Guidance Note (GN2017/4) on ‘Townscape as an important concept in conservation area management’, to explain the importance the Institute places on townscape as a specific concept in the proper management of conservation areas, and address current gaps in national policy development in England.
PAS takes part in TEDx event at Queen Margaret University (PAS 05/17)
PAS Chief Executive Petra Biberbach was invited to speak at this year’s TEDx QMU event a few weeks ago. The theme was ‘Our Transgenerational World’.
Petra spoke about ‘Bridging the Gaps’ between our different generations, placemaking from an intergenerational perspective – and why all ages must be more involved in shaping their communities. The video is now online.
SCT Annual Conference 2017: 50 Years of Conservation Areas (SCT)
SAVE THE DATE! 27 November 2017
As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations and recognising that the Civic Amenities Act was passed in 1967, the Scottish Civic Trust’s next annual conference, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and The Institute of Historic Building Conservation, will tackle the theme of “Fifty years of conservation areas” – what has been learned, what has been lost, and what are the threats and opportunities in the future.
50 Favourite Scottish Doors for Doors Open Days 2017 (SCT)
As part of its 50th anniversary celebration the Scottish Civic Trust is inviting everyone from celebrities to members of the public to nominate their favourite Scottish door. For fifty consecutive days this summer, we will celebrate a favourite door to a Scottish building. Find out what happened behind each door to make it so special in people’s lives – Granny’s house? First holiday? Best gig? School? Favourite castle? Even a pub?
Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours for a New Planning System (RTPI 31/07/17)
Craig McLaren, Director of RTPI Scotland, discusses research led by RTPI on future skills needs for planners. Earlier in the year RTPI Scotland was commissioned by Scottish Government undertake research into the skills needs for planners. This was undertaken in the context of the Review of the Planning System.
EVENTS
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Playing the Past Kicking off
When: Monday 21st August.
Where: Cathkin Park in Glasgow.
Archaeology Scotland’s ‘Playing the Past’ project will be kicking off on Monday 21stAugust to uncover Cathkin Park’s rich sporting heritage as part of the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. Originally known as Hampden Park, Cathkin Park’s football stadium had played host to games since 1884 with games that attracted thousands of supporters. The stadium fell into disrepair after the home team, Third Lanark, folded 50 years ago in 1967. The park still holds the remains of the pitch and the terracing.
Archaeology Scotland will be excavating and surveying Cathkin Park in Glasgow ahead of the Open Day on Saturday 26 August. ‘Playing the Past’ is the park’s first archaeological excavation and members of the public are invited to view the progress throughout the week.
There are still spots available to take part in the excavation and an Open Day will also run from 11am to 4pm on Saturday 26 August with the opportunity to explore a mobile museum and excavate. Visitors are encouraged to bring along any images and memories from the park to be recorded. This event will also act as the launch for the annual Scottish Archaeology Month.
If you would like to take part in the excavation, please get in touch with the team at adopt@archaeologyscotland.org.uk to book your place.
Join us for an exclusive and fascinating trip to the Isle of May
When: Sunday 3rd September 2017.
Where: Isle of May.
We will visit the harbour, lighthouse, beacon, wartime remains, the bathhouse and St Adrian’s Priory. As an extra we will also gain entry to the ‘low lights’ and the engine room. Your host, Peter Yeoman, excavated some of the archaeology on the island and will give his insight and experience to much of the island 4000+ year history. On top of all that, the wonderful birdlife and seals will be all around. Our bus will pick up from west Edinburgh at 8.30am (location tbc) and take us to Anstruther where we will board the May Princess to sail out to the island. However you can opt to meet the group at Anstruther for the reduced price below. The sailing trip will be last around 4 ½ hours. There are toilet facilities at Anstruther and within the visitor centre on the island. Most of the island is accessible with care. The bus will return to Edinburgh around 5pm.
Tickets cost (includes ferry): Archaeology Scotland members £50. Non-members £55. Ticket cost (meeting at Anstruther): Archaeology Scotland members £33. Non-members £36
To book call 0300 012 9878 or register and pay at our website
Scottish Shared Transport Conference
When: Thursday 21 September 2017.
Where: The Golden Lion Hotel, 8 – 10 King Street, Stirling FK8 1BD.
In partnership with the RTPI, Carplus Bikeplus is excited to announce the launch of the Scottish Shared Transport Conference 2017. Shared transport initiatives are helping to create engaged communities, and a sustainable future for us all. This free to attend conference will discuss the importance of planning for a low-carbon lifestyle, demonstrate viable car ownership alternatives, highlight successful projects, and provide access to those at the forefront of establishing new approaches to sustainable living in towns and cities. Hear from expert speakers including Daisy Narayanan from Scotland’s Towns Partnership, and Colin Black from Arcadis, plus learn from interactive break-out sessions. More details here:
RTPI Scotland Annual Conference – The New Agenda: Planners as Visionaries, Facilitators and Enablers
When: Tuesday 3 October 2017.
Where: COSLA Conference Centre, Edinburgh.
The conference will look at the key issues we face in Scotland to develop an agenda for change. It will hear about opportunities, challenges faced and the new thinking and doing required from inspirational and forward thinking people. Conference delegates will have the opportunity to discuss these with others and help develop and agree the way forward.
Edinburgh, Lothians and Borders Archaeology Conference
When: Saturday November 18, 2017 from 9:00am – 4:45pm.
Where: Queen Margaret University, Musselburgh.
This annual conference is organised by City of Edinburgh Council, East Lothian Council and Scottish Borders Council. It provides an important opportunity to hear and discuss first-hand accounts of the archaeological fieldwork and research being undertaken in Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, and the Scottish Borders.
TRAINING
One day course: The Use of Drone Aircraft in Surveying Buildings, Landscapes and the Wider Historic Environment
The Scottish Traditional Skills Training Centre is presenting a Course in the Use of Drone Aircraft in Surveying the Condition and Assessing the Conservation, Repair and Maintenance requirements of difficult to access areas of historic buildings, bridges and other important elements of our Built and Landscape Heritage.
Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage is delivering a series of training courses and events across Scotland.
Our training is best suited to registered charities and constituted community groups. Take a walk through our simple question and answer page to determine which course is right for you. We have two main training courses and a series of ‘In Focus’ events. If you are interested in any particular event or fundraising topic, please do get in touch – we may be able to bring an event to your area info@scotheritage.org.
Traditional Building Skills Training
Scottish Lime Centre Trust offer a wide range of vocational and professional courses combining theory and practical working sessions designed to ensure that there are courses to suit everyone.
VACANCIES
Application for International Project Officer (EWHT)
We are looking to appoint an International Project Officer to assist with the delivery of the Heritage Skills Build Peace and Capacity in Mardin and Diyarbak?r project. EWH and the Istanbul-based Association for the Protection of Cultural Heritage (KMKD) have formed a partnership to deliver a joint training programme for two historic cities in Turkey.
Closing date for applications: 5pm on Wednesday 23rd August 2017.
RIAS Consultancy – Manager (RIAS)
The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) is looking for an experienced professional to join our RIAS Consultancy team on a flexible part-time basis. The post offers the opportunity for someone with flare and drive, to join the Secretary and Treasurer’s office and help to develop the existing RIAS Consultancy business. RIAS Consultancy has over 20 years of unrivalled experience in developing the full range of competitive processes for selecting design teams and contractors. The appointee must be able to promote and communicate client aspirations in a manner that engages the design and construction community.
Closing date is Friday 1st September 2017 Interviews will take place on Friday 8th September 2017.
Transformation and Business Services Director (SNH)
SNH are looking for someone with experience and a track record in the following areas:
– A strategic approach to acquiring, managing and using information and expert knowledge to meet corporate objectives.
– An ability to analyse and prioritise information and communicate it authoritatively to a range of customers including senior politicians and the SNH Board.
– Effective management of people and finances to ensure high performance, collaborative working and efficiency.
– Working in a senior management team to provide leadership to the organisation, helping to set and deliver corporate goals and adjusting to the requirements of change in a leadership team context.
– Effective working with a wide range of stakeholders.
Closing date: Midnight on 3 September 2017
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 tel: BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241.
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BEFS NEWS
BEFS has responded to the consultation on energy efficiency and condition in private renting housing, which proposes a gradual introduction of standards using energy performance certificates as a method for assessment. BEFS has highlighted that EPC ratings do not apply readily to traditional buildings, and notes that management practice is a key factor, along with an understanding of how traditional buildings perform. Read BEFS full response here.
The deadline to response to the Places, People and Planning – Position Statement is coming up on 11th August. Don’t miss the opportunity to have your say.
There are still a few days left to nominate individuals or groups for the Scottish Heritage Angel Awards 2017.
One day left of the early bird offer for RTPI’s annual conference, The New Agenda: Planners as Visionaries, Facilitators and Enablers, in Edinburgh in October.
BEFS recently hosted a film screening of Paul Sng’s documentary ‘Dispossession: The Great Social Housing Swindle’ followed by a Q&A with the director, in collaboration with Tower Block project at University of Edinburgh. In the first of our blogs, Kate Houghton, Planning Policy & Practice Officer RTPI Scotland, reflects on the documentary and lessons for a planner.
In our second blog this week, BEFS Chair, Graeme Purvis, tells us about the restoration of an overgrown renaissance garden in Granton as a catalyst for urban renewal.
CONSULTATIONS
Places, People and Planning – Position Statement – June 2017
Closes 11 Aug 2017.
Climate Change Bill
The Scottish Government intends to introduce a new Climate Change Bill with even more ambitious targets. Proposals include setting targets based on actual emissions, increasing the 2050 target to 90% emissions reduction, and making provisions for a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target to be set when a credible and costed pathway can be demonstrated.
Opened 30 Jun 2017. Closes 22 Sep 2017.
Community Empowerment and Common Good Property: Consultation on Draft Guidance
This is a consultation on guidance for local authorities on how to fulfil the requirements of Part 8 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 in relation to common good property.
Opened 30 June 2017. Closes 29 September 2017.
The Socio Economic Duty
In 2017, Scotland will become the first part of the UK to introduce the socio-economic duty. The Scottish Government wants to make sure that this duty is introduced so as to have maximum positive impacts. So it’s important to get implementation right and this consultation paper is a key way to make sure we do.
Opened 18 Jul 2017. Closes 12 Sep 2017.
CONSULTATION RESPONSES
A Consultation on Procedure of the First-tier Tribunal (FTT) Housing and Property Chamber – Analysis of responses to the public consultation
PUBLICATIONS
Annual and Quarterly Planning Performance Statistics, 2016/17 (SG 25/07/17)
Up My Street – Buildings at Risk Catalogue 2017-18
SAVE Britain’s Heritage’s latest Buildings at Risk Catalogue features over 100 decaying buildings from across the country in need of new owners or new uses.
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASES
Tenants and landlords to benefit from new regulations (SG 28/07/17)
Letting agents have six months to prepare for compliance with a new, statutory Code of Practice, set to improve standards and empower customers. Housing Minister Kevin Stewart is writing to all commercial letting agents to highlight the changes and their responsibilities, and the need to comply by January 31 2018.
£1.2m for affordable housing in Fort William (SG 26/07/17)
200 homes planned for Upper Achintore site. At least 200 new affordable homes will be built in Fort William, following the award of a £1.2 million grant from the Scottish Government to Lochaber Housing Association (LHA). The site will develop a variety of mixed tenure homes for rent and private use, on the Association’s recently acquired site at Upper Achintore.
People and Communities Fund (SG 25/017/17)
Organisations across Scotland, supporting hundreds of community led projects that put people first, are to receive £8.6m funding for the year 2017/18. The funding, announced by Housing Minister Kevin Stewart today (July 25th), will have a positive impact on thousands of lives in Scotland – with support ranging from training/upskilling, employability advice, activities for young people, peer mentoring, and healthy eating initiatives.
Planning decision times published (SG 25/07/17)
Local Development decisions were quicker in 2016/17. The average decision time for Local Developments (26,986 applications) in 2016/17 was 9.2 weeks, four days quicker than the average of 9.7 weeks in the previous year and the quickest annual figure since the start of this data collection in 2012/13. Local housing applications were decided in an average of 12.7 weeks, one week quicker than the previous year (13.7 weeks).
Socio-economic duty (SG 18/07/17)
Public sector to do more to reduce inequalities. In a UK first, public bodies in Scotland will be required to put reducing poverty and inequality at the heart of their decision making.
Cladding and school buildings (SG 14/07/17)
Scottish Government provides further update. Building standards systems and regulations for high rise domestic properties in Scotland means that the specific type of ACM, which was used on Grenfell Tower, should not be used in their cladding systems.
Increase in affordable housing (SG 07/07/17)
The Scottish Government has committed more than £1.75 billion over the next three years to enable local authorities to plan and deliver the affordable housing needed in their communities, delivering the ambitious target of at least 50,000 affordable homes by 2021.
Regenerating coastal communities (SG 06/07/17)
£4.3 million to improve access and facilities. Projects for attracting tourists, creating new jobs and boosting economic growth in coastal communities will receive £4.3 million funding.
NEWS RELEASES
Share your success with SURF (SURF 01/08/17)
SURF is currently welcoming applications to our 2017 SURF Awards for Best Practice in Community Regeneration. Each year, SURF and the Scottish Government team up to highlight, share and celebrate success and innovation in efforts to improve the physical, social and/or economic fabric of disadvantaged communities across Scotland through the prestigious SURF Awards.
RTPI Awards for Research Excellence 2017: shortlist announced (RTPI 28/07/17)
From cycling to commuting, housing to land ownership and the digital economy – this year’s RTPI Awards for Research Excellence shortlist, announced today, reflects the depth and breadth of planning research. Seventeen research projects are competing across five categories: Planning Consultancy Award, Academic Award, Early Career Researcher Award, Student Award, and the Sir Peter Hall Award for Wider Engagement.
Heritage 2020 Action Plans published (HA 27/07/17)
The Heritage 2020 vision concentrates on five strategic areas for collaboration, each of which will be developed further by a cross-sector working group looking at new ways of working together on the priorities of each theme. All five Heritage 2020 working groups have now published action plans and these can be viewed on each group’s page alongside information on the groups’ most recent meetings.
All-Party Parliamentary Inquiry into Arts, Health and Wellbeing Launches Report (AHRC 21/07/17)
A new report has been launched showing that the arts have a significant and positive impact on health and wellbeing. Creative Health: The Arts for Health and Wellbeing comes as the result of an inquiry led by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing (APPGAHW). The research was funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, the Wellcome Trust, and Paul Hamlyn Foundation.
City Deal boost for Edinburgh and south-east Scotland (BBC News 20/07/17)
The UK and Scottish governments are each investing £300m in the project. The money will be used to support innovation, infrastructure, housing, tourism and culture including a new concert hall in St Andrew Square.
Five towns and cities shortlisted for UK City of Culture 2021 (DDCMS 14/07/17)
Coventry, Paisley, Stoke-on-Trent, Sunderland and Swansea have been shortlisted to host UK City of Culture 2021, Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism, John Glen announced today
Change of name for DCMS (DDCMS 03/07/17)
In a move that acknowledges the way the Department’s remit has evolved, the Prime Minister and Culture Secretary Karen Bradley have agreed a departmental name change. The Department will continue to be referred to as DCMS in all communications, but is now the department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
National Lottery gives 500 Scottish groups reason to celebrate (BLF 27/06/17)
Over £3.8 million in National Lottery funds is today (TUES 27 JUNE) being shared by almost 500 groups across Scotland. The windfall means grassroots groups delivering everything from wheelchair football to after-school holiday clubs and drama workshops to hip-hop dance sessions now get the green light to go ahead.
Energy efficient buildings: increased energy savings and better living conditions (EU 26/06/17)
The Council agreed today its position on a proposal for a revised directive on the energy performance of buildings. The aim of the proposal is to promote energy efficiency in buildings and to support cost-effective building renovation with a view to the long term goal of decarbonising the highly inefficient existing European building stock.
MEMBERS NEWS
Communities Across Scotland To Benefit From New Community Development Grant Funding (AHF 01/08/17)
This year, The Architectural Heritage fund (AHF) launched a new grant fund supported by Historic Environment Scotland (HES). Due to additional three-year funding of up to £200,000 from HES, the AHF is able to expand its grant-giving programme to include a new Scottish Community Development Grant that will help support historic building regeneration projects in communities across Scotland.
Six Stunning Sites Unearthed in Search for Scotland’s Hidden Gems (SoAoS 01/08/17)
Winners chosen by popular vote include Viking-era monuments, a “castle on the hill” and a medieval burial ground. Dig It! 2017, the year-long celebration of archaeology, has been coordinating the Scotland-wide search. Over 12,000 votes have been cast over the last two months and with the polls now closed, the winners have been revealed.
50 Favourite Scottish Doors (SCT 01/08/17)
As part of its 50th anniversary celebration the Scottish Civic Trust is inviting everyone from celebrities to members of the public to nominate their favourite Scottish door. For fifty consecutive days this summer, we will celebrate a favourite door to a Scottish building.
Royal High School Update (AHSS 25/07/17)
Following the local elections in May, the City of Edinburgh Council have appointed a new Development Management Sub-Committee. The committee will meet on the 31st August 2017 to consider the second hotel application from Duddingston House Properties and the Urbanist Group for the former Royal High School on Regent Terrace. Anyone is welcome to attend the proceedings which will start at 10.00am in the City Chambers on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh.
Festival of Architecture 2017 (AHSS 25/07/17)
If you enjoyed the Festival of Architecture 2016, you’ll be delighted to learn that the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland are bringing the festival back for a second year!
Bold ambitions and strong community engagement – 2017 Student Award winners announced (A&DS 07/17)
A bold proposal with an ambitious idea about democracy and a detailed plan with strong community engagement scoop Scotland’s student awards. Paschalis Kyrtsopoulos, University of Strathclyde, and Naomi Rubbra, ESALA, are winners at annual A&DS and RIAS Scottish Student Awards for Architecture 2017.
IHBC makes history again: New joint conservation practice statement (IHBC 24/06/17)
The IHBC has launched our joint ‘Conservation Professional Practice Principles’ at the 2017 Day School and AGM in Manchester, which offers a new, accessible statement on practice principles for specialists working in built and historic environment conservation roles.
Edinburgh World Heritage to support restoration of historic Turkish cities near Syrian border (EWHT 20/06/17)
Edinburgh World Heritage announced today that it had been awarded funding by the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, in partnership with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, to support the restoration of the historic cities of Mardin and Diyarbakir in a region of Turkey that has suffered as a result of the recent escalation of violence and political uncertainty.
2017 CSGN Forum Survey Results (CSGN 06/07/17)
The 2017 CSGN Forum drew inspiration from across the globe with leading experts from Italy, Belfast and Copenhagen underlining the need for greenspace, green infrastructure and active travel routes in cities and urban environments.
Introducing HLF’s Heritage Ambassadors (HLF 06/17)
HLF has recruited a group of 16-25 year old ‘ambassadors’ to help transform the way young people experience and interact with heritage. Drawn from across the UK, the 17 new Heritage Ambassadors will help decide how money is awarded through HLF’s new £10million Kick the Dust funding programme. They will also work with HLF to find ways of increasing the number of young people visiting and getting involved with heritage.
EVENTS
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
A walk in the footsteps of John Hope: Hidden Stories of The Meadows
When: 12 AUGUST 2 P.M. – 4 P.M
Where: Meet at the East end of The Meadows by the entrance to the East Meadows Play Park on Melville Drive EH9 9EX.
Once the site of the Borough Loch, the Borough Muir has witnessed important events in the history of Scotland. Guardian Historian Christopher Dingwall and Marilyn Brown, author of Scotland’s Lost Gardens, will lead a walk and describe the changes which have occurred in its layouts The Meadows over several hundred years. They will also explain its role in the social life of Edinburgh.
Tickets cost £5 and can be paid for either on line through BACS sort code 30-25-81, SGLH account 11313660, reference “Meadows”, or in cash on the day.
Falkland Craft Symposium
When: 18-20 August 2017.
Where: Falkland Centre for Stewardship, Falkland Estate.
Talks, Discussions, Workshops, Demonstrations, Networking and Site Tours. A celebration of craft skills inspired by the craft of the House of Falkland. Options to attend one, two or three days. Tickets cost from £20 per person and covers site tours, all talks, workshops and demonstrations, lunch, refreshments and even a ceilidh on Saturday night!
Contemporary Houses of Lower Deeside
When: Saturday 19th August, from 2PM – 4PM.
Where: Aberdeenshire.
Join us for a visit to cutting-edge contemporary houses in Lower Deeside, Aberdeenshire. Included will be 64 Kirk Brae, Cults, which is designed, owned and inhabited by AHSS North East’s treasurer, Mr Charles Smith. The £12 fee will include tea.
Sustainable Building 2017: creating homes and communities for the future
When: September 6th 2017
Where: Saracen House, Glasgow
This conference will not only consider the incorporation of sustainable principles within the process of new buildings and the retrofitting of existing stock, changes in public policy, the evolution and innovation of design, the development of new materials, the creation of jobs and apprenticeships within these new communities; it will also examine the progress made towards reaching Scotland’s ambitious housing targets.
Book Conservation Skills for Paper Conservators 2-Day Workshop
When: 14th – 15th November.
Where: National Library of Scotland, 159 Causewayside, Edinburgh.
A theory and practical workshop for 10 delegates run by Icon accredited book conservator Caroline Scharfenberg. This workshop addresses the need for paper conservators to have a basic knowledge about book structures and the typical damage found in book collections. These skills will enable paper conservators to stabilise book collections and to better assess damage and the required repair. It will also allow paper conservators to better identify damaged bound material, which will have to be addressed by a professional accredited book conservator.
Save the Date! Harold Plenderleith Memorial Lecture 2017
When: 30th November 2017
Where: Edinburgh, exact venue tbc.
Icon Scotland group is delighted to announce that this year’s lecturer will be Helen Shenton, Librarian and College Archivist of Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. More details to follow.
TRAINING
Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage is delivering a series of training courses and events across Scotland.
Our training is best suited to registered charities and constituted community groups. Take a walk through our simple question and answer page to determine which course is right for you. We have two main training courses and a series of ‘In Focus’ events. If you are interested in any particular event or fundraising topic, please do get in touch – we may be able to bring an event to your area info@scotheritage.org.
Traditional Building Skills Training
Scottish Lime Centre Trust offer a wide range of vocational and professional courses combining theory and practical working sessions designed to ensure that there are courses to suit everyone.
VACANCIES
Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage Contract
Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage (SGLH) is seeking applications for a contract to initiate and manage an innovative and exciting, two phase project. The purpose of the project is to develop for publication a Conservation Strategy and Conservation Guidance Notes for Landowners. It will cover the CAVLP and Falkirk Council areas commencing October 2017. This project represents the second stage of a pilot project (‘Glorious Gardens’) launched by SGLH in 2014.
Closing date 11/8/17.
Chartered Institute for Archaeologists – Board of Directors lay director recruitment
Do you want to help the leading professional body representing archaeologists working in the UK and overseas? Do you have the governance skills required to help to direct a small but ambitious organisation? CIfA, the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, is looking for two directors from outside the profession. If you are interested, or know someone who might be, please see the Information for candidates and Application form.
Deadline for applications: 28 August 2017. Interviews: 20 September 2017.
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 tel: BEFS Office on 0131 220 6241.
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BEFS NEWS
The Scottish Government has today published an analysis of responses to the consultation on Place, People and Planning, the review of the Scottish planning system, accompanied by a position statement on proposals it plans on taking forward. BEFS Planning Taskforce will be responding to the latter.
As part of the review the Scottish Government commissioned research into barriers to community engagement in the planning system. BEFS has invited two members of the team, John Lord of Yellow Book and Nick Wright to share their findings and recommendations. Book your free place at Barriers to Community Engagement in Planning on 1st August now.
BEFS responded to the recent consultation on Engaging Communities in Decisions Relating to Land, suggesting that the guidance could go further in setting out the types of engagement considered appropriate in different scenarios; querying the meaning of ‘significant land holdings’; and also seeking clarification on how the guidance is to be used in urban areas. Read the full response here.
If you contributed to the ‘What’s Your Heritage’ consultation, the analysis of responses and workshops is now out. This piece of research will contribute to a revision of the designation criteria and advice and consents policy in the Historic Environment Scotland Policy Statement in 2018. BEFS will be working on this with its members in 2017.
The Scottish Thistle Awards 2017/18 have a new category – Historic Environment Scotland – Best Heritage Tourism Experience. To mark the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology 2017, this award is designed to celebrate Scotland’s rich and vibrant heritage and those who bring it to life.
It might only be half way through the Year of History Heritage and Archaeology, but it’s time to start planning for 2018 the Year of Young People. The aim of the year is to inspire Scotland through its young people.
The ArchiFringe kicks of this weekend and you might have to move fast to book tickets for some of the events which are taking place across Scotland in July. But it’s also an opportunity for a heads-up for the Festival of Architecture taking place in September.
Finally, we’ve picked out some built environment related events from the Edinburgh International Book Festival that might be of interest.
The next bulletin will be at the beginning of August. The team at BEFS wish you a good summer break!
CONSULTATIONS
Places, People and Planning – Position Statement (SG 29/06/17)
Taking into account the wide range of views expressed to the proposals set out in the Places, People and Planning consultation, Scottish Ministers have published a Position Statement which sets out changes they are considering taking forward.
Consultation closes 11 August 2017.
Energy efficiency and condition standards in private rented housing: A Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme Consultation
Closes 30 Jun 2017.
CONSULTATION RESPONSES
Planning Review: analysis of consultation responses (SG 29/06/17)
Improving Transparency in Land Ownership in Scotland – Consultation Analysis (SG 28/06/17)
What’s Your Heritage? Consultation Report (HES 20/06/17)
PUBLICATIONS
Planning Review: Young Scot survey results (SG 29/06/17)
Results from the survey commissioned by Young Scot to support our Places, People and Planning consultation.
Questions relating to a possible Land Value Tax: FOI release (SG 29/06/17)
Information request and response under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002.
Managing Change in the Historic Environment: Castles and Towerhouses (HES 13/06/17)
The document provides guidance for anyone considering a castle consolidation or restoration project, such as owners, local authorities or other interested parties.
Managing Change in the Historic Environment: Guidance notes (HES)
Download Managing Change in the Historic Environment guidance on making changes in line with Scottish Historic Environment Policy and Scottish Planning Policy.
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PRESS RELEASES
Transforming planning (SG 29/06/17)
Proposals to transform the approach to planning for homes and infrastructure projects have been put forward by the Scottish Government. The ‘Places, People and Planning’ position statement sets out aspirations for a more effective system, which supports business while working with communities to ensure development happens in the right places.
Ministerial Working Group on building and fire safety (SG 28/06/17)
The second meeting of a Ministerial Working Group, convened to examine building and fire safety regulatory frameworks, has taken place today.
Homelessness and Housing Options Statistics Published (SG 27/06/17)
Homelessness applications and the number assessed as homeless or likely to become homeless within two months both reduced during 2016/17. However, the number of households in temporary accommodation continues to increase.
Rural Parliament support (SG 25/06/17)
Rural communities will have a stronger voice thanks to funding for the Rural Parliament announced by Environment and Land Reform Secretary Roseanna Cunningham. The £200,000 funding for Scottish Rural Action (SRA) will support delivery of their 2017–19 Action Plan, which contains five policy areas debated and chosen by rural communities at the 2016 Rural Parliament in Brechin.
Comment on cladding and high rise buildings (23/06/17)
Communities Secretary provides further update. Communities Secretary Angela Constance said: “This week, we asked local authorities to give us further information about their high rise domestic buildings. They have reported that they have over 500 high rise domestic buildings in their areas…”
£10 million for affordable housing (SG 23/06/17)
Investment for homes in the Highlands. A £10 million fund to build affordable homes across the Highlands has been announced by Housing Minister Kevin Stewart today (23rd June). The Highland Infrastructure Fund is a partnership with The Highland Council and will support and accelerate the delivery of affordable housing across the region.
Comment on cladding and high rise buildings (SG 22/06/17)
Communities Secretary provides update. Communities Secretary, Angela Constance, said: “Scottish building regulations state that cladding on high rise domestic buildings built since 2005, and cladding added to existing high rise domestic buildings since 2005, should be made of non-combustible materials or a cladding system that has met stringent fire tests.
Protecting the marine environment (SG 21/06/17)
Monitoring of Marine Protected Areas. Fishermen can support the monitoring and surveying of some of Scotland’s most vulnerable marine habitats as part of a new strategy.
Review of building and fire safety regulations (SG 20/06/17)
The first meeting of a Ministerial Working Group, convened to examine building and fire safety regulatory frameworks, has taken place today.
NEWS RELEASES
HES leads climate change initiative (HES 28/06/17)
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is leading an international initiative to support communities across Northern Europe in assessing the impact of climate change on historic buildings, archaeological sites and other heritage locations.
Engine Shed Officially Opens (HES 26/06/17)
Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs encourages the public to explore Scotland’s built heritage. An exciting new chapter for Scotland’s heritage sector begins today as Historic Environment Scotland unveils The Engine Shed, its pioneering £11m national building conservation centre.
Public will have say in Scotland’s new National Cultural Strategy, says culture secretary (Herald Scotland 26/06/17)
Fiona Hyslop said that the conversation about the plan would be broadened after a meeting of nearly 100 writers, performers, directors, arts company executives, poets and film writers at the Glasgow Women’s Library to discuss the SNP vow to establish the strategy.
Safety of Scotland’s high rise homes to be examined (SP 26/06/17)
The Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Communities Committee will scrutinise accommodation in Scotland’s high rise communities, by expanding an on-going inquiry into housing and building regulations in Scotland.
Scottish government launches tower block safety review (Urban Realm 26/06/17)
The Scottish Government has launched a tower block safety review in the wake of the Grenfell Tower blaze in London as part of a wider review of building standards in the wake of the tragedy.
Results of Public Campaign, ‘What’s Your Heritage?’ Announced (HES 20/16/17)
A report on what heritage means to Scots has been published today (Tuesday 20 June) by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and reveals which of Scotland’s places, buildings and monuments should be recognised and celebrated.
How Good is Our Place? Place Standard wins top planning award (A&DS 16/06/17)
The Place Standard developed by Scottish Government, NHS Health Scotland and Architecture and Design Scotland has won in the Excellence in Planning for Wellbeing category in the Royal Town Planning Institute’s (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence 2017. The Awards for Planning Excellence are the most established and respected awards in the UK planning industry.
Heritage Alliance and British Council webinar on cultural heritage post Brexit (HA 15/06/17)
Lizzie Glithero-West FSA, Chief Executive of the Heritage Alliance, and Silke Pillnger, Director of EU Arts from the British Council, chaired a webinar ‘What role can Heritage play in the future of the cultural sector post-Brexit’. The discussion started with an in-depth interview with our expert panel – Ben Cowell, Director General of the Historic Houses Association, Henry Owen-John, Head of International Advice at Historic England and Peter Hinton, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists. This was followed by an open Q&A session.
Mapping the creative value chains (HA 15/06/17)
The EU has published A study on the economy of culture in the digital age. This maps the different value chains for visual arts, performing arts, cultural heritage, artistic crafts, book publishing, music, film, TV and broadcasting as well as multimedia. The study examines how the competitive position of the cultural and creative sectors (CCS) is affected by digitisation.
Co-producing quality places: Learning for the Place Standard (A&DS)
Community empowerment sits at the heart of the Scottish approach to making places work. Changing places with people is about sharing a sense of the issues and ambitions, supported by examples of the art of the possible.
Digging Deeper: What communities think about regeneration projects (A&DS)
As part of the process of informing and engaging communities in the regeneration of Pennywell, Community Action North [CAN] organised a study trip to Mannheim and Vauban in Germany to learn about the way different communities co-produced places for people. The trip was facilitated by Governance International, who bring a wealth of experience in co-producing better outcomes with citizens.
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”.
S5W-09693 Daniel Johnson: To ask the Scottish Government how many schools have
aluminium composite cladding panels installed, and what information it has on other buildings that have had these panels installed. (SP 19/06/17)
S5T-00595 Jackie Baillie: To ask the Scottish Government what checks have been undertaken on residential tower blocks and new public buildings, including schools, in light of the recent tragic event at Grenfell Tower. (SP 20/06/17)
S5W-09759 Gordon MacDonald: To ask the Scottish Government when the Queensferry
Crossing will open to traffic. (SP 20/06/17)
S5W-09723 Jackie Baillie: To ask the Scottish Government what guidance (a) has been and (b) will be delivered to (i) housing developers and (ii) local authorities to ensure that social housing developments announced as part of its £1.75 billion investment in affordable housing take account of the needs of ethnic minority families, including the provision of housing that is appropriate for (A) larger families and (B) families that often have to rent housing in the private sector but which are on lower incomes. (SP 20/06/17)
S5W-09767 Daniel Johnson: To ask the Scottish Government how many building control officers there have been in each local authority in each of the last 10 years, also broken down by the number of each type of building that have responsibility for. (SP 20/06/17)
S5O-01165 David Stewart: To ask the Scottish Government whether the ministerial working group on fire safety will review building standards regulations regarding the provision of automatic fire suppression systems. (SP 21/06/17)
S5O-01170 Dean Lockhart: To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to increase the availability of social housing in rural communities. (SP 21/06/17)
S5O-01171 Bruce Crawford: To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that local authorities and the housebuilding sector can be confident that the goal of 50,000 new affordable homes by 2021 is reached. (SP 21/06/17)
OTHER PARLIAMENTARY BUSINESS
The Parliament has agreed the following parliamentary recess dates in 2017:
- 1 July to 3 September 2017 (inclusive)
- 7 to 22 October 2017 (inclusive)
DEBATES
Members’ Business Debate on the subject: The Scottish Civic Trust, 50 Years of Protecting Scotland’s Built Heritage
Motion debated:
S5M-05856 Linda Fabiani: The Scottish Civic Trust, 50 Years of Protecting Scotland’s Built Heritage—That the Parliament congratulates the Scottish Civic Trust on its 50th anniversary; notes that the trust began in 1967 to respond to the destruction of buildings and townscapes around Scotland; acknowledges that it helped to save New Lanark from dereliction and assisted in developing a network of local civic trusts around Scotland; welcomes initiatives that it has established, including Doors Open Day and the My Place Awards; recognises that the trust has an ongoing commitment to save buildings and townscapes, keeping communities at the heart of its movement, and thanks all volunteers, past and present, for their sterling work. (SP 20/06/17)
Read the full transcript of the debate here.
EVENTS
For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.
Global Challenges in Cultural Heritage Conference
When: 1st – 3rd September 2017.
Where: University of Stirling.
The Global Challenges in Cultural Heritage conference programme has been released with over 20 sessions presented by international speakers from United Kingdom, Europe, China and Australia. The programme offers the opportunity to hear from leading academics and heritage professionals who will discuss the significance and value of cultural heritage using local and international examples. Workshops run by Historic Environment Scotland will offer practical based learning opportunities in digital documentation, building pathology and craft skills. This is a fantastic opportunity for academics and practitioners to collaborate in finding solutions to global cultural heritage challenges.
RTPI Scotland Annual Conference – The New Agenda: Planners as Visionaries, Facilitators and Enablers
When: Tuesday 3 October 2017.
Where: COSLA Conference Centre, Edinburgh.
The conference will look at the key issues we face in Scotland to develop an agenda for change. It will hear about opportunities, challenges faced and the new thinking and doing required from inspirational and forward thinking people. Conference delegates will have the opportunity to discuss these with others and help develop and agree the way forward.
VACANCIES
Banff CARS vacancy – Aberdeenshire Council
You will concentrate on a wide range of issues primarily in relation to building conservation, regeneration, listed buildings and conservation areas. Working in a team, you will be responsible for both statutory work and project implementation. The range of work involves progressing the Banff Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme, giving advice on listed building applications and undertaking conservation area reviews