News Release

Government announces decision to abolish HEACS

On 30 January 2008, First Minister Alex Salmond announced in Parliament the Government's decision to abolish the Historic Environment Advisory Council for Scotland, together with a number of other public bodies, as part of the Government's efforts to simplify the public sector landscape.

The supporting information to the First Minister's statement says: 'This decision has been taken in line with the Government's approach to reducing the number of Advisory Bodies established to advise Scottish Ministers. Historic Scotland is responsible for advising Ministers on the historic environment and will ensure expert advice is provided.'

The Council met with Linda Fabiani MSP, Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture, and John Graham, Historic Scotland's Chief Executive, on 5 February to discuss the implications of the decision. The Minister expressed her appreciation of the value of the work done by HEACS and the commitment shown by members of HEACS. The Minister also stressed the importance she attaches to completion of the Council's current work programme, which would take until June 2009.

The four topics currently under consideration by HEACS are:

• Infrastructure - mapping the infrastructure of the historic environment as it relates to the voluntary sector, professional associations and private sector organisations, and to recommend what actions may be needed to fill gaps and optimise coverage;
• Economic Impact - identifying the economic impact of the historic environment in Scotland;
• Ecclesiastical Heritage - advising how best to secure the long-term conservation of Scotland's rich and diverse ecclesiastical heritage in a time of demographic change; and
• Young Adults - identifying what strategies could be developed for attracting young adults to get engaged in protecting, conserving, understanding and enjoying the historic environment.

The Infrastructure report is due for completion in spring 2008 and the economic impact report in autumn 2008. The other two reports are due for completion in 2009.

Council next meets on 14 March in Duns, when it will discuss how best to proceed and reassess the Council's programme and priorities in the light of the Government's decision. A further statement will follow the 14 March meeting.