BEFS NEWS

A number of heritage and built environment organisations are publishing manifestos ahead of the General Election in June. Here are a few that you may find of interest:
•    RICS: Priorities for the Built Environment
•    RTPI: Manifesto for the 2017 General Election
•    Cultural Learning Alliance: Manifesto for Arts and Cultural Learning
•    The Heritage Alliance: Heritage Manifesto 2017
•    Town & Country Planning Association: Building the future – the TCPA’s manifesto for the 2017 general election

An update on the planning review has been published by the Chief Planner, which provides information on current work streams being taken forward by the Planning and Architecture Division.

Scottish Traditional Building Forum is hosting a Traditional Building Skills Demonstration in St. Andrew’s Square, Edinburgh, on 22nd- 23rd May 2017. The event will feature demonstrations by local apprentices of their traditional building skills with school children, and their teachers, and traditional building experts providing advice on how to repair and maintain traditionally built homes.

In our blog this week, Eila Macqueen, Director of Archaeology Scotland, reflects on the recent parliamentary debate on outdoor learning (see section on debates for link to transcript and Parliament TV video) and Archaeology Scotland’s experience of offering place-based learning.

CONSULTATIONS

Consultation on funding of The Scottish Energy Performance Certificate Register
The purpose of this consultation is to update stakeholders on the current status of the Scottish Energy Performance Certificate Register (SEPCR), to advise on pending action to amend the statutory fees payable on lodgement of energy performance data and to seek views on the manner in which the register is funded.
Opened 8 May 2017 and closes 19 Jun 2017.

Consultation on a Scottish Energy Strategy: The future of energy in Scotland
Consultation closes 30 May 2017.

Consultation on Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme
Consultation closes 30 May 2017.

Draft Management Plan for the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site (2017-2022)
Consultation closes on 5 June 2017.

Guidance on Engaging Communities in Decisions Relating to Land
Consultation closes 16 Jun 2017.

CONSULTATIONS RESPONSES

Consultation on the future of the Scottish Planning System
View submitted responses where consent has been given to publish the response.

PUBLICATIONS

Planning Circular 1 2017: Environmental Impact Assessment regulations 2017 (SG 16/05/17)
Guidance on The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017

Forestry and Land Management (Scotland) Bill – Equality Impact Assessment – Results (SG 11/05/17)
Results of the Scottish Government’s Equality Impact Assessment of the Forestry and Land Management(Scotland) Bill

Architecture and Design Scotland – Corporate Strategy 2017 – 2020

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASES

New chair for SNH (SG 11/05/17)
Environment Secretary confirms appointment. Dr Mike Cantlay has been appointed as the chair of the board of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) by Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Roseanna Cunningham.

Modernising forestry (SG 11/05/17)
Forestry and Land Management Bill introduced to parliament. The Scottish Parliament will consider forestry legislation for the first time in its history after the introduction of a Forestry and Land Management (Scotland) Bill.

Scotland’s first urban right to buy (SG 09/05/17)
Consent granted for Portobello church purchase. A community group in Edinburgh is set to become the first organisation in an urban area to benefit from community right to buy powers.

NEWS RELEASES

Cutting-edge technology takes medieval Rosslyn Chapel around the world (HES 16/05/17)
A new mobile app, launched today at the Rosslyn Chapel, will let members of the public see the Chapel’s renowned stonework wherever they are in the world.

Plácido Domingo and EU Commissioner Navracsics announce Grand Prix winners of the European Heritage Awards 2017 in Turku (EN 15/05/17)
The winners of the 2017 EU Prize for Cultural Heritage / Europa Nostra Awards, Europe’s top honour in the field, were celebrated this evening during a high-profile event at St. Michael’s Church in Turku, Finland. Maestro Plácido Domingo, President of Europa Nostra, and Tibor Navracsics, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, co-hosted the European Heritage Awards Ceremony.

Protect your charity against cyber-attacks (SCVO 14/05/17)
You could not fail to miss the coverage of the worldwide ransomware attack over the weekend which particularly affected the NHS. The scale of the attack, and its impact on public services, is unprecedented. However, similar attacks happen on a daily basis and third sector organisations must protect themselves from risks of operating in the digital world.

Adapting to Climate Change in Rural Scotland – Leaning from the US (RTPI Scotland 12/05/17)
Graham Marchbank follows up on his blog from March with more details on climate conversations as a tool for building resilience to the effects of climate change in rural Scotland.

Statistical News Release: The Proportion of Scotland’s Protected Sites in Favourable Condition 2017 (SNH 12/05/17)
Scottish Natural Heritage has today released the latest figures tracking the proportion of Scottish protected natural features in favourable or recovering status.

IHBC’s 2017 School bursaries still available (IHBC 12/05/17)
Some bursaries are still available for the IHBC’s 2017 School in Manchester on ‘Transport Infrastructure’, on 22-24 June, so if you need help, apply now!

Global Challenges in Cultural Heritage Conference –Proposals for Panels & Papers (Stirling University 12/05/17)
As part of the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, Global Challenges in Cultural Heritage celebrates the newly formed partnership between the University of Stirling, The Palace Museum in Beijing and Historic Environment Scotland. The conference seeks to explore approaches to specific challenges in relation to a range of shared issues including Significance, Value and Meaning in Cultural Heritage, Technology and Innovation in Heritage and Conservation Challenges and Opportunities. Proposals for panels and individual papers addressing cultural heritage themes to be submitted by 22 May 2017.

Brexit and the Third Sector – will we have a place in Europe? (SCVO 10/05/17)
As the unedifying spectacle that is UK general election continues to depress us with its stage managed press conferences and lack of genuine debate, you have to question the state of our democracy.

Scottish Confucius Institute for Business & Communication at Heriot-Watt University joins the Heritage Alliance (THA 10/05/17)
The Heritage Alliance would like to welcome the newest member, the Scottish Confucius Institute for Business & Communication at Heriot-Watt University. The SCIBC is part of a global family of Confucius Institutes. It is developing a significant stream of activities related to the heritage and tourism sectors, based on promoting understanding, professional development, research and dialogue on areas mutual interest between the UK and China.

Edinburgh’s 101 Objects (EWHT 05/05/17)
Discover the rich history of Edinburgh through 101 of its most treasured objects. To celebrate the year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, this unique visitor experience will bring Edinburgh’s vibrant past to life.

MEMBERS NEWS

Scottish Civic Trust Celebrates 50 Years (SCT 12/05/17)
The Scottish Civic Trust, the national body for the civic movement in Scotland, celebrates its 50th birthday today, 12 May 2017. Exactly 50 years ago, the trust held its inaugural meeting at the University of Glasgow.  Since then it has been at the heart of protecting, celebrating and recording Scotland’s architecture and places, old and new.

IHBC on CPD: ‘Talk to people’ and use the tools (IHBC 10/05/17)
IHBC Director Seán O’Reilly has written an opinion piece for the new RICS Building Conservation Journal on Continuing Professional Development (CPD), in which he observes that some of the best CPD comes from talking to people who have contrasting views on conservation, while other IHBC members such as Henry Russell and John Edwards offer invaluable practice updates and insights on useful tools such as BS 7913.

Corporate Sponsorship opportunities for the Guidelines for Impact Assessment for Cultural Heritage (CiFA 08/05/17)
The project to develop new Guidelines for Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment was launched at the CIfA Annual Conference on 26 April. The Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) have signed an agreement to author these new guidelines.

PARLIAMENTARY QUESTION

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”.

S5O-00980 Alison Harris: To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to review the guidance on what constitutes a dangerous building. (SP 11/05/17)

S5W-09171 Edward Mountain: To ask the Scottish Government what the cost is of the transfer of the powers over the management of the Crown Estate; how these costs will be met, and what additional costs the Crown Estate has to meet. (SP 10/05/17)

S5W-09176 Edward Mountain: To ask the Scottish Government what aspects of the management of the Crown Estate will be devolved to local authorities. (SP 10/05/17)

S5W-09183 Graham Simpson: To ask the Scottish Government what steps it takes to help maintain tenement buildings. (SP 10/05/17)

S5W-09184 Graham Simpson: To ask the Scottish Government what information it has regarding how many tenement buildings have been demolished as a result of falling into disrepair in each year since 2007. (SP 10/05/17)

PARLIAMENTARY QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Questions marked with a triangle (?) are initiated by the Government in order to facilitate the provision of information to the Parliament.

Pauline McNeill (Glasgow) (Lab): 
To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government is doing to better resource planning authorities, in light of an increase in planning fees for major applications from 1 June 2017. (S5F-01264)

The First Minister (Nicola Sturgeon): 
We need a planning system that supports both businesses and communities to deliver high-quality development on the ground. There has been a general understanding that fee levels are too low and that, in many instances, they are not in proportion to the work that is involved in processing planning applications. We have always been clear that fees and performance go hand in hand. Therefore, we are increasing the maximum fee for major planning applications to provide further resources to councils to improve performance. The Government will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure that planning services deliver for Scotland’s communities.
Read the full response.

Question S5W-08764: Maurice Golden, West Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 11/04/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to (a) review and (b) regulate speculative land purchasing practices to obtain planning permission on greenbelt and agricultural land.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (28/04/2017)

Question S5W-08883: Pauline McNeill, Glasgow, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 20/04/2017
To ask the Scottish Government when it will publish the findings of its research into barriers to engagement and the role of community councils in planning.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (02/05/2017)

DEBATES

Members’ business debate on motion S5M-05008, in the name of Brian Whittle, on heritage and environmental conservation charities’ support for outdoor learning. 

Motion debated:
That the Parliament acknowledges the work of various national conservation charities, including RSPB Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland, in the provision and promotion of outdoor education; believes that outdoor education should be seen as an important component of the curriculum, with meaningful benefits to both pupils’ learning and their health; considers that sites such as Culzean Castle in South Ayrshire, which is run by the National Trust for Scotland, the RSPB’s Mersehead Reserve in Dumfries and Galloway, and the Dumfries House Estate in East Ayrshire endeavour to work with local schools to arrange visits to their sites, along with various educational activities; understands that many organisations have seen a marked decline in the number of pupils participating in recent years; believes that, while visits are often provided at little or no direct cost to schools, the cost of transport has become prohibitive as school budgets have been squeezed; notes the calls on schools across Scotland to consider making use of schools attainment funding to support greater use of outdoor education, and thanks RSPB Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland and other similar organisations for their commitment to supporting outdoor learning.

Read the full transcript of the debate.
You can also watch the debate on Parliament TV.

EVENTS

For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.

Sacred Heritage: Archaeology, Identity and Medieval Beliefs – Rhind Lectures
When: May 19 @ 6:00 pm – May 21 @ 5:00 pm.
Where: Auditorium National Museum Scotland, Edinburgh.
Medieval churches and monasteries are key features of the British landscape, contributing to local identities and sense of place. Yet the relationship between heritage and medieval religion has received relatively little critical reflection. These lectures will place research on medieval beliefs within a wider framework of sacred heritage, reflecting on issues of value, authenticity and interpretation. The lectures develop chronologically from the 12th century to the use of archaeology today, with case studies focusing on Scottish monasticism and Glastonbury Abbey.

 Archaeological Research in Progress 2017
When: 27 May 2017.
Where: National Museums Scotland Auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF.
The Society is hosting the 2017 ARP conference, the national conference examining recent and ongoing archaeological projects across Scotland. Please book online or phone 0131 247 4133. Tickets £35 for Fellows, Archaeology Scotland members and students. £40 full price.

AHSS Strathclyde Group – Briglands House & St. Andrews Guided Walk
When: Saturday 27th May 2017, from 9:00 – 15:00.
Where: Briglands House & St Andrews.
Cost: £30.00 per person, to include coach travel, all entries, morning coffee and lunch.
Meet at the bus stance on North Hanover Street across the road from the side entrance to Queen Street Station. The coach tour from Glasgow will include Briglands House, Rufflets Hotel for lunch and St Andrews. There will be a two hour walk round St. Andrews. We hope to end the walk in an 18th century house with a lovely restful garden owned by one of our members.

Arts & Business Scotland Development Forum (Edinburgh)
When: Thursday, 1 June 2017 from 15:00 to 18:00.
Where: Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, National Galleries of Scotland, The Mound, Edinburgh.
Development Forums provide an opportunity for participants from the cultural, public and private sector to engage and share best practice. The next Arts & Business Scotland Development Forum is designed to promote and support the Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage programme. This event is open to both members and non-members of Arts & Business Scotland. The Topic in Focus is Capital Fundraising, which will provide a unique opportunity to hear from two speakers with considerable experience in this area: Alan Horn, Director of Development, The Glasgow School of Art, and Gill Poulter, Heritage Director, Dundee Heritage Trust. They will share their insight into and knowledge of the capital projects they have been instrumental in delivering.

Lessons from Planning Complaints to the Ombudsman in Scotland
When: Tuesday 6 June, 6 – 8pm.
Where: Edinburgh.
Cost: Free for PAS volunteers, £5 for non-volunteers
Planning is one of the public services which continues to attract a high number of complaints to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO). Graham U’ren has provided independent professional advice to the Ombudsman on such complaints for 10 years. In this session, he will outline the statutory framework within which the SPSO operates with particular relevance to planning and related services. He will then highlight some common areas of complaint and the way in which the planning system has responded. The aim is to assist PAS volunteers to advise clients on situations which may potentially involve formal complaint procedures and how to manage expectations in doing so. Book your place at events@pas.org.uk.

Sir Patrick Geddes Commemorative Lecture 2017 – Poverty, Places and Equality: A role for place based approaches?
When: Wednesday, 07 June 2017 at 5:45PM – 8:15PM.
Where: The Lighthouse, Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU.
Naomi Eisenstadt – Independent Advisor to the Scottish Government on Poverty and Inequality.

AHSS Forth & Borders Group – Save the Royal High School Fundraising Concert and Reception
When: Thursday 8th June 2017, from 18:30 – 21:30
Where: Stockbridge Parish Church, 7B Saxe Coburg Street, Edinburgh EH3 5BN
Tickets: £45 including post-concert reception.
Two world-class pianists: Malcolm Martineau and Steven Osborne, with eminent
soprano Lorna Anderson, will perform works by Beethoven and Schubert. Proceeds will go towards funding the campaign to save the Royal High School from a hotel scheme that The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland believes will irretrievably damage one of the most important Greek Revival buildings in the UK and the world and, by extension, the set piece of Calton Hill, which lies at the core of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site.

SAH Glasgow Seminar “Making and Re-Making Glasgow: Heritage and Sustainability”
When: Saturday, June 10, 2017 from 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM.
Where: Mackintosh Queen’s Cross, 870 Garscube Rd, Glasgow.
Cost: Tickets £20.
Join speakers from University of Glasgow, Glasgow Museums, Historic Environment Scotland, Glasgow Building Preservation Trust, and The National Trust for Scotland for a discussion of heritage and sustainability in Glasgow on June 10.

AHSS Dumfries & Galloway Group – Newark Castle Trip
When: Wednesday 14th June 2017 from 14:00.
Cost: £20 (members to provide own transport)
Meet at Newark Castle, near Maybole, Ayrshire. Afterwards there will be  tea at Glenapp Castle, near Ballantrae. Newark Castle was a tower house which has been extended considerably since it was built in the 15th/16th centuries. The most recent additions by David Cousins c.1850 and James Miller 1907-08 transformed it into the popular Baronial style. Glenapp Castle is another Baronial Castle designed by David Bryce in 1870 for its owner James Hunter. It is now open to the public as a luxury hotel and restaurant.

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. Here are the upcoming dates:
•    Crowdfunding, Wed. 24th May, Glasgow – Betty’s Room
•    In Focus: Membership & Friends + Sustainability, Wed. 31st May, Aberdeen – Aberdeen Science Centre
•    Planning to Progress, Tuesday, 6th June, Edinburgh – Arts & Business Scotland
•    In Focus: Storytelling, Tuesday 13th June, Dundee – Discovery Centre

VACANCIES

Two vacancies at the National Trust for Scotland

Building Surveyor – Ayrshire & Arran
Building Surveyor – Glasgow & West
The Surveyor is part of the Buildings Conservation & Services team, and reports to the Lead Surveyor (who in turn reports to the Head of Consultancy Services). The Lead Surveyor (in conjunction with the Head of Consultancy) decides the most effective way of servicing client group needs (driven by their plans) through the team of Surveyors. Whilst each Surveyor (and indeed the Lead Surveyor) is assigned to a client group of properties, s/he is required to be flexible as far as practicable to help even out any workload fluctuations that may occur across all the groups. It is also expected that team members with a specialist interest or technical expertise in any particular area be prepared to share this expertise across the team if this enables the most effective way of delivering response to client group needs.
Closing date for both vacancies: Monday 22 May 2017

IPO – Intern Project Officer (RTPI)
RTPI Scotland is recruiting an Intern Project Officer for a fixed term 6 month period. The successful applicant will be based in our small and friendly team in Edinburgh, and in an exciting time for planning will support our work to influence the ongoing review of the planning system. More information, including how to apply, here.
Deadline: 22/05/2017 09:30.

The AHF Needs A New Chief Executive – Could It Be You? (AHF)
We are now able to advertise details of our Chief Executive role, which will shortly be becoming vacant. The AHF believes that better places can be built through community enterprise. Historic buildings and places play an essential role in daily life, cultural identity and the economy. The historic environment can inspire creativity and enterprise, bring communities together, and make people happier about where they live. The Chief Executive will have overall responsibility for the operational management of the AHF and, with the Board, devise and implement the organisation’s strategy. The ideal candidate will bring a broad range of experience of working with a board, leading and managing a team and managing a large budget.
Deadline for applications 5th June.

Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust Seeks New Board Members
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust is at an exciting stage of its development as we respond to societal and funding challenges. Our Board of Trustees guides our future and we are looking to make new appointments that will strengthen and complement the skills and experience of our Trustee Board and help us deliver our strategic plan. Trustees should be passionate about saving and enlivening historic buildings in the spirit of heritage preservation and community empowerment.
Full details here.

We’re hiring – Design Officer (B1) (A&DS)
We are looking for an enthusiastic design professional to help us provide advice and promote the benefits of good design in the built environment. The post offers the opportunity to develop your career and gain experience working across a broad range of topics. If successful, you will be developing and supporting projects and promoting the benefits of a well-designed built environment.
The deadline for receipt of your application is noon Wednesday 7 June 2017.

BEFS NEWS

The Scottish local elections are taking place today and following BEFS support of hustings in Glasgow and Edinburgh it is evident that advocacy for the built environment will be needed. Hopefully the Advocacy Toolkit will prove a valuable resource and we will endeavour to share details of the key councillors in the coming weeks.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is holding ReimagiNation in Cumbernauld from 19-21 May, a festival weekend bringing stories out of the shadows of the New Town’s infamous architecture. It looks like an interesting programme and will be visiting East Kilbride and Irvine later this year, and Glenrothes and Livingstone in 2018.

Historic Environment Scotland and Archaeology Scotland have announced the call for papers, speakers, displays and contributions to Scotland’s Community Heritage Conference 2017. Now in its sixth year, the Conference offers the opportunity for heritage volunteers and professionals to network, share experiences and create future working partnerships.

There are a number of interesting events and CPD opportunities coming up, which are featured in our events and training sections. There are also some great job opportunities, from Policy Officer at NTS to Traditional Skills Officer at Glasgow City Heritage Trust and Director at the Cockburn Association. Check out the vacancies section for information on how to apply.

In our first blog, BEFS newest Associate Member introduces himself and his company.

War Memorials Trust share with us their work and the recognition recently received for grant giving activities, in our second blog this week.

CONSULTATIONS

Call for Evidence on Homelessness (SP 03/05/17)
The Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Communities Committee has today, Wednesday 3 May 2017, launched a call for written evidence on homelessness.

Reviewing the Edinburgh Design Guidance – your views (Edinburgh Planning 11/04/17)
The Edinburgh Design Guidance is being reviewed and we’d like your comments on the proposed changes. We are also holding two consultation workshops on the Design Guidance on Monday 15 May, in the City Chambers.  If you would like to attend, please email us the following details to spatial.policy@edinburgh.gov.uk.
Consultation on the guidance will close on 2 June 2017.

CONSULTATION RESPONSES

Consultation on Raising Planning Fees. Analysis of consultation responses (SG 25/04/17)
An independent analysis of the consultation on raising planning fees prepared by Chris Thornton, Associate Director, Craigforth.

PUBLICATIONS

IHBC’s 2017 Yearbook now out: On ‘infrastructure’, inspired by IHBC’s 2017 Annual School and introduced by HLF’s Ros Kerslake (IHBC 28/04/17)

Infrastructure Investment Plan 2015 – Progress Report for 2016 (SG 26/04/17)
This annual report outlines key achievements over the course of 2016 and looks forward to developments in 2017 and beyond.

Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2016 (SG 25/04/17)
The Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey is a data collection undertaken to establish the extent and state of vacant and derelict land in Scotland.

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASES

£8.35 million to support urban regeneration in the heart of Glasgow (SG 03/05/17)
New high quality office space and hundreds of jobs for the city centre. Housing Minister Kevin Stewart today announced investment of £8.35 million from its SPRUCE fund to support the refurbishment of vacant office space in central Glasgow.

Green home loans (SG 02/05/17)
Updated scheme cuts red tape for home-owners. Home-owners can now apply for an interest free loan of up to £32,500 to improve the energy efficiency and use of renewable technologies in their properties.

Personal Achievement in Planning (SG 04/17)
The Scottish Government is continuing the Personal Achievement in Planning Award this year. This Award is to recognise an individual planner, team, local authorities, consultants, community groups, developers, public agencies or voluntary organisation that have made an outstanding contribution to planning. All entries must be nominated by sending a completed Personal Achievement Nomination Form to saqp@gov.scot by the closing date, 19 May 2017.

Building for the future (SG 26/04/17)
£6.4 billion of infrastructure projects underway. Infrastructure projects worth almost £6.4 billion will be under construction throughout Scotland in 2017. Projects such as the Forth Valley College Falkirk Campus, NHS Orkney’s New Hospital and Healthcare Facilities and the A737 Dalry Bypass will all commence construction this year.

Decrease in derelict and urban vacant land 9SG 25/04/17)
A National Statistics Publication for Scotland. The total amount of derelict and urban vacant land in Scotland decreased by 253 hectares (two per cent) from the previous year, to 12,435 hectares in 2016.

NEWS RELEASES

2017 EU Prize for Cultural Heritage: Special Mentions (EN 01/05/17)
The Special Mentions of the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage / Europa Nostra Awards 2017 were made public today by Europa Nostra and the European Commission. This year, the Awards’ Jury granted Special Mentions to 13 heritage achievements from 11 European countries taking part in the Creative Europe programme of the European Union.

Glasgow Traditional Building Skills Demonstration (STBF 28/04/17)
The Glasgow Traditional Building Forum organised a hugely successful traditional building skills demonstration on Buchanan Street, Glasgow on 24 & 25 April 2017.

Working update on diversity in Historic Environment Sector: HEF & Heritage 2020 (IHBC 26/04/17)
Members of England’s lead link heritage grouping, the Historic Environment Forum (HEF) and the working groups of the linked initiative Heritage 2020 recently came together to discuss diversity in the historic environment sector.

MyParkScotland History, Heritage & Archaeology crowdfund campaign (MPS 26/04/17)
2017 is the year of heritage, history and archaeology. To celebrate this, we have launched our Heritage and History campaign to promote the diversity of Scotland’s parks and greenspaces highlighting projects that are working to develop park and greenspace heritage.

Community ownership and local councils (SCVO 24/04/17)
In the final of our pre-local election blogs, Linsay Chalmers talks us through community land. 540,000 acres of land are now in community ownership in Scotland and 2017 could be the busiest ever year for community buyouts, with 187 applications currently in the pipeline for the Scottish Land Fund.

The local authority dilemma: engage in local climate action now, or wait? (RTPI 19/04/17)
Local climate action is not just about ‘climate change’ – it is about planning for the future of our places and communities. It is being ready for how the environment will change and engaging with this in a way that builds the liveable and healthy places that we want to live in, now and into the future. So why isn’t local climate action common place?

Tracking Scotland’s changing landscape (SNH 12/04/17)
A new way of tracking and reporting on Scotland’s ever-changing landscapes has been launched today (Wednesday) by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). Scotland’s Landscape Monitoring Programme (LMP) is accessible on SNH’s website allowing anyone to follow how our dynamic landscapes change over the years.

Designing mental health into cities: the next frontier for urban design (DC 12/04/17)
If city-makers are to address mental health through urban design, where should they start? Layla McCay, the Director of Centre for Urban Design and Mental health, explains the reasons that city-dwellers are at greater risk of mental health problems and shows how urban design can support better mental health.

Heritage Lottery Fund statement – funding for places of worship (HLF 04/17)
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) is changing the way it funds places of worship. Time and resource-stretched congregations have been telling us that they want to access our funding more easily, so we are bringing in a more flexible and lighter-touch way of distributing much-needed funding support from the National Lottery.

MEMBERS NEWS

RTPI Scotland thinkpieces – Proposals for change (RTPI 02/05/17)
The Scottish Government consultation paper Places, People and Planning contains many ideas for making the planning system more influential and effective. Working groups of RTPI Scotland committee members have now come together to prepare a series of thinkpieces that advance some of these ideas into implementable changes that could make a major impact on how our planning system works.

Project of the Year: RICS Awards, Scotland (RICS 27/04/17)
We’re delighted to announce our Project of the Year, the £35 million refurbishment of Glasgow’s Kelvin Hall, and the other eight category winners for the RICS Awards, Scotland. Over 35 of Scotland’s most impressive and community beneficial property schemes battled it out for top honours at the prestigious 2017 RICS Awards, Scotland. BBC news reader Catriona Shearer hosted the sell-out ceremony, held at Edinburgh’s luxurious Sheraton Hotel, which attracted more than 200 local property professionals.

Should we have a statutory chief planning officer in local authorities? (RTPI 26/04/17)
We need to make sure that strategic decisions taken by local authorities and Community Planning Partnerships are not taken in isolation. The implications of new investment and new development need to be assessed and planned for.  Given this, in a thinkpiece published today by RTPI Scotland proposes that the forthcoming Planning Bill establishes a statutory Chief Planning Officer (CPO) in each local authority.

IHBC welcomes BEFS’ success in new NPF heritage measures: Critical disrepair in pre-1919 dwellings (IHBC 22/04/17)
The IHBC has welcomed the announcement by Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS) that, following active engagement with the Scottish Government and across is members, a new National Performance Framework (NPF) measure for the historic environment has been adopted, the percentage of pre-1919 dwellings classified as having disrepair to critical elements.

Guidelines for Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (IHBC 19/04/17)
The IHBC is teaming up with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) to produce a guidance document for cultural heritage impact assessment (GCHIA), and develop guidance as authoritative as the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA) has been in its sphere.

Heritage Hustings (EWH 19/04/17)
Against the historic backdrop of St. Stephen’s Stockbridge, one of the largest audiences yet seen for a local government hustings in the city debated a range of issues yesterday evening with representatives of all five parties. Subjects raised included the impact of ‘brash’ new development, the consequences of unregulated Airbnb holiday lets, the proposed ‘tourist tax’ and the growth of student accommodation in the city centre.

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-08883 Pauline McNeill: To ask the Scottish Government when it will publish the findings of its research into barriers to engagement and the role of community councils in planning. (SP 21/04/17)

S5O-00900 John Finnie: To ask the Scottish Government what value it places on locations in Scotland
holding UNESCO World Heritage Site status. (SP 20/04/17)

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-08477: Christine Grahame, Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 29/03/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what measures are in place to require an assessment of services, such as schools, public transport and medical facilities, to take place as a condition of planning consents for housing developments.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (19/04/2017)

Question S5W-08476: Christine Grahame, Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 29/03/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what measures are in place to permit the compulsory purchase of vacant commercial premises in town centres for the purpose of redeveloping them for social housing.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (18/04/2017)

Question S5W-08573: Anas Sarwar, Glasgow, Scottish Labour, Date Lodged: 03/04/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to tackle the issue of damp homes in the (a) private and (b) owner-occupied sector.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (18/04/2017)

Question S5W-08676: Maurice Golden, West Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 05/04/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what modelling it has undertaken of maximising solar energy capture in new housing developments to assess the potential (a) financial benefits to homeowners and (b) wider economic and societal benefits.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (18/04/2017)

Question S5W-08675: Maurice Golden, West Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 05/04/2017
To ask the Scottish Government what research it has carried out on the long-term value of resource efficient building in the housing sector.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (24/04/2017)

Question S5W-08674: Maurice Golden, West Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 05/04/2017
To ask the Scottish Government how many electric vehicle charging points have been included in new housing developments since its Scottish Planning Policy was published in 2014.
Answered by Kevin Stewart (18/04/2017)

DEBATES

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

John Finnie (Highlands and Islands) (Green):
To ask the Scottish Government what value it places on locations in Scotland holding UNESCO world heritage site status. (S5O-00900)

The Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs (Fiona Hyslop):
The Scottish Government attaches great value to UNESCO world heritage site status. We are in the year of history, heritage and archaeology. On world heritage day, I took part in an event that celebrated the importance of one of our six world heritage sites—the Antonine wall, at which Picts and Romans were in evidence. There was even a great Roman bake-off. Using innovative and creative ways not just to preserve and conserve our heritage sites but to make them inviting places for people to visit is very important. Read the full transcript

MOTIONS

S5M-05185 Keith Brown: Defence Basing Reforms and the Impact on Scotland—That the Parliament expresses concern about the impact on Scotland of the military base closures announced by the Ministry of Defence as part of its Estate Optimisation Strategy; supports local community opposition to closures, and calls on the UK Government to engage fully with the Scottish Government, local authorities and local communities as a matter of urgency.
Supported by: Jamie Hepburn, Paul Wheelhouse (SP 20/04/17)

*S5M-05259 Gail Ross: RIAS Awards 2017—That the Parliament congratulates all the nominees for the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) Awards 2017, which comprise of buildings and projects throughout the length and breadth of the country; notes in particular the inclusion of Fernaig Cottage in Wester Ross, which saw the restoration and adaptation of a former shepherd’s longhouse, the newly-completed Noss Primary School in Wick and the conversion of the disused Corrie Church on the shores of Loch Torridon; wishes all on the shortlist the best of  luck in the finals, and recognises what it believes is the incredible innovation and design in current Scottish architecture.
Supported by: Jenny Gilruth*, Emma Harper*, Ross Thomson*, Tavish Scott*, Gillian Martin*, Ben Macpherson*, Sandra White*, Alexander Burnett*, Graeme Dey*, Bill Kidd*, Stuart McMillan*, Richard Lyle* (SP 21/04/17)

EVENTS

For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.

Afternoon lecture by Margaret Stewart: Landscaping the Nation, Lord Mar’s Designs c1700-1730 to follow Scotland’s Garden & Landscape Heritage AGM
When:  Saturday, 6 May: AGM 12pm; Lunch 1pm – 1.45pm; Lecture 2pm; Walk 3.30pm.
Where: Alloa Tower, Alloa Park, Alloa FK10 1PP.
Dr Margaret Stewart’s talk offers a unique opportunity to hear the story behind this visionary design from the leading authority on the subject. The lecture will be followed by a guided walk to discover what still remains of the eighteenth-century landscape. The number of places at the lecture is restricted, so you are advised to book online in advance.

STP Place Branding & Communications Workshop
When: May 16, 2017 at 1:30pm – 4pm.
Where: Architecture & Design Scotland, Edinburgh.
Hear from media experts and local case studies that will leave you feeling equipped and inspired to find your town’s USP, grab the headlines, or make a cutting-edge film. Get top tips from Morrison Media Strategies, Newsquest Media Group, Enterprise Screen, Explore Largs BID, and Scotland’s Towns Partnership. Network over refreshments with town stakeholders from diverse sectors, and discuss strategies for your town. Don’t miss out – book today!

Sacred Heritage: Archaeology, Identity and Medieval Beliefs – Rhind Lectures
When: May 19 @ 6:00 pm – May 21 @ 5:00 pm.
Where: Auditorium National Museum Scotland, Edinburgh.
Medieval churches and monasteries are key features of the British landscape, contributing to local identities and sense of place. Yet the relationship between heritage and medieval religion has received relatively little critical reflection. These lectures will place research on medieval beliefs within a wider framework of sacred heritage, reflecting on issues of value, authenticity and interpretation. The lectures develop chronologically from the 12th century to the use of archaeology today, with case studies focusing on Scottish monasticism and Glastonbury Abbey.

Sustainable Futures for Traditional Buildings
When: Thursday 25th May 2017 from 9.30am.
Where: The Haining, Selkirk.
In recent years a number of ‘at risk’ buildings have become the subject of high profile ‘Heritage Rescue’ operations resulting in their successful adaptation to a range of alternative uses. For each of these ‘Success Stories’ there are many other buildings which at present face an uncertain future. The Scottish Traditional Skills Training Centre in association with Selkirk Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) has brought together 4 leading experts to look at the basic principles and critical factors which must be addressed when identifying potential sustainable futures for a range of traditional buildings. The cost of the event is £35 (Heavily subsidised by Selkirk CARS) and includes buffet lunch and tea/coffee.

Archaeological Research in Progress 2017
When: 27 May 2017.
Where: National Museums Scotland Auditorium, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF.
The Society is hosting the 2017 ARP conference, the national conference examining recent and ongoing archaeological projects across Scotland. Please book online or phone 0131 247 4133. Tickets £35 for Fellows, Archaeology Scotland members and students. £40 full price.

RIAS Spring Seminar – More Conservation Challenges
When: 31 May 2017 from 1pm – 5pm.
Where: The Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh.
The RIAS conservation spring seminar is now open for bookings. Chaired by RIAS Secretary, Neil Baxter, topics will include conservation work at the Capitol, Washington DC, and the Scottish architectural legacy in India. The technical components will include climate change adaptation for traditional buildings, interpreting thermal imaging and advice on working with lime for pointing and harling, including specification advice and guidance on the causes of failure, 3D laser scanning technique as used in the restoration of Glasgow School of Art.

Gordon Barr and Gary Painter: Glasgow’s Cinema Experiment
When: 7 June 2017, 7-9pm
Where: GCHT, 54 Bell Street, Glasgow
Scotland has some of the most architecturally diverse cinema buildings of anywhere in the world. This double-act led talk will cover the full range of Glasgow’s cinema history, from converted roller-skating rinks, via the earliest purpose built halls, the peculiarly Scottish ‘back-court’ theatres, to the finest thirties art deco super-cinemas, stopping off to highlight some of the most interesting depictions of Glasgow on screen, both as itself and pretending to be other cities along the way.

Sir Patrick Geddes Commemorative Lecture 2017 – Poverty, Places and Equality: A role for place based approaches?
When: Wednesday, 07 June 2017 at 5:45PM – 8:15PM.
Where: The Lighthouse, Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU.
Naomi Eisenstadt – Independent Advisor to the Scottish Government on Poverty and Inequalit.y
After a long career in the NGO sector, in 1999 Naomi became the first Director of the Sure Start Unit. The Unit was responsible for delivering the government’s commitment to free nursery education places for all 3-4 year olds, the national childcare strategy, and reducing the gap in outcomes between children living in disadvantaged areas and the wider child population. Naomi spent 3 years as the Director of the Social Exclusion Task Force working across government to identify and promote policies to address the needs of traditionally excluded groups. Since retiring from the Civil Service, Naomi has chaired the Camden Equalities Commission, the Milton Keynes Child Poverty Commission, published a book and several articles relevant to child development and child poverty.

The City Talks: Conservation v Evolution? Do conservation areas hold back or encourage positive development?
When: 14 June 2017, 7-9pm
Where: GCHT, 54 Bell Street, Glasgow
We all agree that the protection and enhancement of Scotland’s conservation areas are important although some of us may be concerned that this statutory requirement of local authorities is not being met in many cases. However, as pressure increases to build in urban areas, might there by a case for a loosening of some of the restrictions that planning law places on new developments in and around conservation areas? Is heritage management compatible with innovative and bold modern architecture? Are we stifling creativity and radical design by holding onto long-cherished heritage principles? These are just some of the issues our panel of experts will be discussing.

IHBC Annual School: Transport Infrastructure – the backbone of civilisation
When: Thursday 22nd – Saturday 24th June 2017. Day School – Friday 23rd June 2017.
Where: Manchester.
The 2017 IHBC Annual School examines the rich legacy of transport infrastructure, exploring both its continuing role as a future driver of change and economic growth as well as its impact upon historic places. The Annual School includes three exciting days of lectures, networking and practical learning to share skills, knowledge and understanding; tours exploring all facets of historic and new infrastructure and its impact on the historic environment around Manchester and the North; NETWORKING EVENTS; EVENING RECEPTION & IHBC ANNUAL DINNER with opportunities to pause, take stock and stimulate debate in fascinating venues.

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. Here are the upcoming dates:
•    , Wed. 10th May, Edinburgh – Arts & Business Scotland
•    , Wed. 17th May, Galashiels – Old Gala
•    , Wed. 24th May, Glasgow – Betty’s Room
•    , Wed. 31st May, Aberdeen – Aberdeen Science Centre

The Damp in Buildings Masterclass
When: 19 May 2017, 09.30 – 16.30.
Where: Charlestown Workshops, Fife
Cost: £190 + vat. If you are a BLF, IHBC, RIBA or RIAS member you are eligible for 20% discount on this seminar. Please just give us a call with your member number. We are pleased to welcome back Mike Parrett, one of the world’s leading building pathologists and co-author of the RICS’ bestselling book ‘Diagnosing Damp’, recognised as the primary reference work on dampness in buildings.

CPD: Traditional Shopfronts
When: Tuesday 30th May 2017 | 12-1pm.
Where: Glasgow City Heritage Trust, 54 Bell Street, Glasgow.
Shopfronts have a huge impact on the quality of our civic spaces and are a key component of a vibrant town centre. Dr Lindsay Lennie, historic shopfront expert, will be looking at the key elements forming a traditional shopfront, the materials and construction techniques as they relate to different periods in retail architecture. Lindsay is a chartered surveyor with a diploma in building conservation and a PhD in historic shopfronts.

VACANCIES

Policy Officer – Permanent / part-time (NTS)
This job exists to develop and communicate Trust policy in order to guide conservation and visitor management practice. In addition, the post-holder will contribute to the Trusts role as an advocate for the conservation of Scotlands heritage, and for access, learning and enjoyment of that heritage.
Closing date: Friday 12 May 2017.

Traditional Skills Officer (GCHT)
An exciting opportunity has become available to support the implementation of the Trust’s traditional skills and materials programme for the benefit of all people living in, working in and visiting Glasgow. Through events, training sessions, public engagement activities and partnerships you will deliver a programme of traditional skills training and educational activities targeting contractors, craftspeople, professionals, communities and homeowners to train and educate those responsible for the upkeep of Glasgow’s built heritage, encourage best practice, and showcase career opportunities in the heritage and construction sectors.
Deadline for applications: Friday 12th May 2017. 

CARS Project Officer
Dunoon Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) is a £1.8M heritage-led partnership project between Argyll and Bute Council, Historic Environment Scotland and LEADER. The postholder is required to project manage and fully deliver Dunoon CARS, and to do this over a 5-year period whilst ensuring that the project is delivered on time and within budget. The project focusses on Dunoon’s principal shopping street, Argyll Street and includes funding towards shopfront repairs as well as the comprehensive restoration of 4 tenements.  It is anticipated that the postholder will be experienced with working on historic environment projects.
Closes: Friday, 12th May 2017.

Fundraising Vacancy – Part time (Archaeology Scotland)
We are looking for someone to help with both Trusts Fundraising and Events Co-ordination. This is part-time post (15 hours), fixed term until June 2019. If you have the relevant experience and bags of enthusiasm please apply with a covering letter and CV to e.macqueen@archaeologyscotland.org.uk.
Closing date 12 May 2017.

Director Post (Cockburn Association)
The Cockburn Association is now looking for a Director who has the leadership skills and capability to monitor and implement its strategy. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and enthusiastic about the Cockburn Association activities and campaigns. He/She will have the capacity to lead and deliver the key activities of the Association, working with allies, strengthening the membership base, and broadening the constituency of ‘those who love Edinburgh’ through awareness and education. In doing so he/she will take account of the advice in the 2015 Strategy that the Association should focus on doing less in more depth, concentrate on activities which have the potential to make a difference and ensure that the scope of our work is realistic in terms of our time and financial resources. For more information on the role, please contact Joe Taylor on 0131 557 8686 (email admin@cockburnassociation.org.uk) or for a confidential discussion please contact the Vice-Chair of the Association, Andrew MacLeod at 0131 667 5663.
Closing date: 26th May 2017.

Director of Development and Partnership (HES)
This is a new senior post, reporting directly to the Chief Executive, with responsibility for driving forward a range of strategic developments vital to the future work of HES and the wider sector. Please note that this post will also attract a £1,500 on call allowance and 5% Directors allowance. You will identify and explore the big issues and questions for Scotland’s historic environment, both now and in the future. You will lead HES engagement with partners and stakeholders, take forward new areas of work and coordinate work strands across the organisation. You will provide leadership and foresight both for HES and the historic environment sector including, as lead Director responsible for the delivery of Our Place in Time, the historic environment strategy for Scotland. You will bring knowledge of the sector, strong policy and partnership skills, fresh thinking and a strong customer focus to HES.
Closing Date: 26 May 2017 at midday.

BEFS NEWS

The new National Performance Framework indicator measure for historic sites is now live on the Scotland Performs website. For background information on why the indicator was changed read our recommendation to the Scottish Government from 2016.

Ahead of the local government elections, we would like to draw your attention to a recently published book. The Public Affairs Guide to Scotland is an essential A-Z guide for all public, private and third sector policy and corporate organisations in Scotland.

In the last week Built Environment Forum Scotland has supported hustings in Glasgow and Edinburgh with a focus on the built environment. BEFS Director, Euan Leitch, reflects on what was learnt in our first blog.

The second of our blogs this week offers a great case study for communities taking action in their local built environment.

Finally, book now for Scottish Civic Trust’s annual lecture on Glasgow’s Merchant City on 25th April, supported by BEFS.

CONSULTATIONS

Energy efficiency and condition standards in private rented housing: A Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme Consultation (SG 07/04/17)
This consultation asks for views on proposals to improve the energy efficiency and condition standards in privately rented housing in Scotland.
Closes 30 Jun 2017.

Draft Management Plan for the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site (2017-2022) (Edinburgh City Council, HES & EWH)
The Draft Management Plan identifies issues and opportunities within the Site, and presents an action plan for implementation over a five-year period. Issues include care and maintenance of buildings and streets and awareness of World Heritage Site status.

PUBLICATIONS

Minimum Standards of Energy Efficiency in Private Rented Sector Housing: Partial Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment (SG 07/04/17)
This partial BRIA accompanies part 1 of the Scottish Government consultation on efficiency and condition standards in private rented housing. It provides an assessment of the impact of the proposed regulation on various parties and sectors within the Scottish economy. The analysis and data may also help readers in responding to the consultation.

Condition of Private Rented Housing in Scotland – Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment (partial) (SG 07/04/17)
This partial BRIA accompanies part 2 of the Scottish Government consultation on energy efficiency and condition standards in private rented housing. The data provided will help readers assess the impact of proposed changes to the repairing standard which applies to privately rented houses in Scotland.

CDAS Booklet on ‘How Community Development Happens’
The Community Development Alliance Scotland has published a new booklet called ‘How Community Development Happens: Why stronger communities matter and what it takes to develop them’.

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PRESS RELEASES

Household numbers projected to rise in Scotland’s National Parks and around its biggest cities (SG 12/04/17)
Figures published today by the National Records of Scotland (NRS) show that the number of households is projected to rise around Scotland’s biggest cities, and within its two National Parks.

VisitScotland and TripAdvisor team up to put Scotland on world stage (SG 08/04/17)
A European-first collaboration between VisitScotland and TripAdvisor will see Scotland’s world-class tourism offering promoted to almost 70 million new potential visitors, generating a potential additional spend of £150 million.

Improving Scotland’s private rented sector properties (SG 07/04/17)
Consultation on energy efficiency and condition standards. New proposals to ensure all privately rented homes in Scotland meet a minimum standard of energy efficiency have been published today for consultation.

NEWS RELEASES

Kilmarnock Traditional Building Skills Demonstration (STBF 18/04/17)
The Fife & Tayside Traditional Building Forum organised an event in Kirkcaldy town centre 13 & 14 March 2017, which featured apprentices, qualified tradespersons and college lecturers demonstrating traditional building skills including masonry, slate roofing, joinery and painting and decorating.

Culross Traditional Building Skills Event (STBF 18/04/17)
The Fife & Tayside Traditional Building Forum organised an event at the National Trust for Scotland property of Culross Palace on 20 & 21 March 2017, which featured apprentices demonstrating traditional building skills including masonry, slate roofing, joinery and plastering.

HES Unveils Plan for Year Ahead (HES 13/04/17)
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has published its Annual Operating Plan for 2017/18. The plan outlines the organisation’s priorities under five strategic themes: Lead, Understand, Protect, Value and Perform.

Specialist skills shortage could put beloved national treasures into disrepair (RICS 12/04/17)
Britain’s beloved historic buildings are at risk, due to a restoration skills crisis that threatens the future of some of our best-known national treasures, warns a RICS and YouGov survey.

UN Security Council adopts historic resolution for the protection of heritage (IHBC 12/04/17)
The United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted the historic resolution 2347 – the first ever resolution adopted by the Security Council to focus on Cultural heritage. The unanimous support to the Resolution reflects a new recognition of the importance of heritage protection for peace and security.

EU Prize for Cultural Heritage / Europa Nostra Award 2017 for Scottish project SAMPHIRE (SCT 05/04/17)
The 29 laureates from 18 countries are being recognised for their notable achievements in conservation, research, dedicated service, and education, training and awareness-raising.Among this year’s winners are two outstanding projects from the United Kingdom: the rehabilitation of  Cromford Mills: Building 17, Derbyshire; and SAMPHIRE: Maritime heritage project in western Scotland.

Culture Secretary launches new fund to promote Scottish arts, heritage and business collaboration (Arts & Business Scotland 03/04/17)
A pioneering new fund that promotes collaboration between Scottish businesses and arts and heritage organisations to deliver new arts and heritage projects has been officially launched by Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop.

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-08764 Maurice Golden: To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to (a) review and (b) regulate speculative land purchasing practices to obtain planning permission on greenbelt and agricultural land (SP 18/04/17)

S5W-08573 Anas Sarwar: To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to tackle the issue of damp homes in the (a) private and (b) owner-occupied sector. (SP 10/04/17)

S5W-08674 Maurice Golden: To ask the Scottish Government how many electric vehicle charging points have been included in new housing developments since its Scottish Planning Policy was published in 2014. (SP 10/04/17)

S5W-08675 Maurice Golden: To ask the Scottish Government what research it has carried out on the long-term value of resource efficient building in the housing sector. (SP 10/04/17)

S5W-08676 Maurice Golden: To ask the Scottish Government what modelling it has undertaken of maximising solar energy capture in new housing developments to assess the potential (a) financial benefits to homeowners and (b) wider economic and societal benefits. (SP 10/04/17)

MOTIONS

Motion S5M-05059: Maree Todd, Highlands and Islands, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 05/04/2017
Lews Castle 
That the Parliament congratulates Lews Castle in the Western Isles on it winning the Channel 4 Great British Buildings competition; understands that it has also been shortlisted for the Great British Buildings Restoration of the Year, a competition that is organised by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors; recognises the significance to the heritage of the Western Isles of restoring this important building; believes that the restoration will also have a positive impact on the area’s economy, and commends everyone involved with the restoration process.
Supported by: Bill Kidd, Joan McAlpine, Alexander Stewart, Douglas Ross, Kenneth Gibson, Donald Cameron, Sandra White, Emma Harper, Stuart McMillan, Richard Lyle, Ben Macpherson, Gillian Martin, Tom Arthur, Fulton MacGregor, David Torrance, Ivan McKee, Jackson Carlaw, Gil Paterson

Motion S5M-05043: Gordon Lindhurst, Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Date Lodged: 04/04/2017
Consultation Open on Draft Management Plan for Edinburgh World Heritage Site 
That the Parliament welcomes the opening of the public consultation on the third Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site Draft Management Plan (2017 to 2022); understands that the plan was drafted by the City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh World Heritage and Historic Environment Scotland following an initial consultation on its contents during the summer of 2016, which generated more than 1,000 responses; recognises the requirement for World Heritage Sites to produce such plans explaining how obligations under the World Heritage Site Convention are being met through the protection of its Outstanding Universal Value; understands that the draft plan focusses on the six key themes that scored lowest in the place standard and environmental quality indicators for the site; notes that further public consultation on the draft plan will run from 3 April to 5 June 2017, and encourages members of the public, as well as all interested stakeholders, to get involved.
Supported by: Peter Chapman, Alexander Stewart, Alison Harris, Liam Kerr, John Lamont, Edward Mountain, Maurice Corry, Alex Cole-Hamilton, Donald Cameron, Douglas Ross, Miles Briggs, Oliver Mundell, Jeremy Balfour, Alexander Burnett, Ross Thomson, Andy Wightman, Bill Bowman, Dean Lockhart, Liz Smith

EVENTS

For the latest information about BEFS Members’ events see our events calendar.

Scottish Civic Trust Annual Lecture 2017
When: Tue 25 April 2017 from 17:30 – 19:30.
Where: Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR.
Merchant City, one of Glasgow’s most historic areas has experienced many changes in its time, so much so that on more than one occasion it almost disappeared from the face of the earth. Its renaissance in more recent years has become part of the city’s folklore – but the story is not over yet! We will explore how we arrived at the present, and look at some of the issues for the future.
This lecture by architect and historian David Martin is part of a series of events which celebrate, in 2017, the 50th anniversary of both the inaugural meeting of the Scottish Civic Trust and the passing of the Civic Amenities Act 1967 which introduced the concept of conservation areas.

BRICK Workshop 27
When: 9th May, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Where: The Grange Court, Pinsley Road, – Leominster
Our 27th BRICK workshop will take place on 9th May 2017 in Grange Court, Pinsley Road, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8NL. The day will focus on governance, project management as it relates to the project objectives of groups involved in heritage regeneration and using and understanding your Quantity Surveyor. These relevant topics are part of the Prince’s Regeneration Trust’s efforts to help with ensuring a sustainable future for historic buildings and sites. This event will also serve as a networking opportunity for community groups and not-for-profit organisations.

Central Scotland Green Network Forum – How green infrastructure is transforming the way we live
When: 15th June 2017 from 09:00 – 16:30.
Where: John McIntyre Conference Facility, Pollock Halls, 18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh.
This year’s Forum, our seventh, provides an opportunity to explore how green infrastructure projects are transforming the way we develop and repair our cities and towns.
As well as a key note Ministerial speech, during the day delegates will learn about three exciting projects which focus on the use of green infrastructure, innovation and liveability:
•    Bosco Verticale in Milan
•    Big Lottery Living Landmarks funded Connswater Community Greenway in east Belfast
•    Copenhagen’s Gronne Cykeruter or Green Cycle Routes

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

Digital Advisors South for Digital Towns Pilot Programme
Scotland’s Towns Partnership, in partnership with the Scottish Government, is seeking to appoint two digital advisors on a contract / project basis.  The advisor / expert role is to deliver new collaborations and to provide advice around strategy, design, procurement, digital inclusion, and innovation in the context of Digital Towns. If you are interested in applying for this role, Scotland’s Towns Partnership would welcome a very short summary of your skills and expertise along with a fully inclusive day rate on the basis of between 20 – 40 days’ work. Please send your professional summary by 5pm, 28 April 2017 to Elaine Bone at: elaine@scotlandstowns.org.

Policy Adviser, Heritage Skills and Training
The Heritage Lottery Fund is recruiting for a Policy Adviser; Skills and Training to lead our strategic and policy work on heritage skills and training across the UK and manages HLF’s Skills for the Future grant programme. To be competitive in the role, you will need to demonstrate high level knowledge, skills and experience against our selection criteria.
Closing date for online applications will be Midnight Monday 1st May 2017 and interviews will be held in our London office on 8th of May 2017.

BEFS NEWS

Last week BEFS hosted its annual conference, Financing the Historic Environment, in Glasgow, in collaboration with The Prince’s Regeneration Trust and Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland. To find out more, view the insightful and colourful presentations from a wide range of speakers who contributed to the conference across the two days. Furthermore, Joaquin Basile Patron from Prince’s Regeneration Trust reflects on his impressions of the conference in our blog this week.

Responding to the consultation on the future of the Scottish Planning system, BEFS has highlighted the need for a more evidence-led approach. Read the full submission here. A number of BEFS members’ also responded to the consultation and you can read their submissions on our policy topics page on Planning.

In the run up to the local government elections in May, BEFS is supporting two hustings on the built environment. The first, Architecture and Planning – A Hustings for Glasgow’s Built Environment, is organised by New Glasgow Society and will take place on 12th April at the Lighthouse in Glasgow. The second event will take place on World Heritage Day 2017. Edinburgh World Heritage will be hosting a ‘Heritage Hustings’ in Stockbridge, Edinburgh. They offer an opportunity for the general public to question the candidates on the heritage and built environment issues you feel strongly about. Both events are free but registration via the Eventbrite pages is recommended.

For tips on how to engage with your local candidates ahead of the elections, including who to contact and how, how to make the case for the built environment and useful facts and figures, check out BEFS Advocacy Toolkit. HES’s designated assets tool, which enables you to search for designations by council ward area, may also prove useful when discussing the local impact of the historic environment with politicians.

Finally, we would like to draw your attention to both the Cockburn Association’s Civic Agenda and Scottish Civic Trust’s 6 Point Action Plan ahead of the local elections (under Publications).

CONSULTATIONS

CONSULTATION RESPONSES

• Tobacco Merchants and Shipbuilders – Michael Hannon with an introduction by John Pelan
• Glasgow’s Cinema Experiment, Gordon Barr and Gary Painte
• Debate: Conservation vs. Evolution