Question reference: S6W-07194
- Asked by: Sharon Dowey, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 10 March 2022
-
Current status: Answered by Neil Gray on 16 March 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government how many of Historic Environment Scotland's properties are being left, as has been reported, to "gracefully die".
Answer
As reported on 21 January 2022, Historic Environment Scotland introduced new measures to manage the impact of climate change on Scotland's national heritage sites. Whilst I can confirm that inspections and analysis of some affected sites continue, let me assure you that no properties are being left without care. Historic Environment Scotland is considering all options available to best protect the 336 nationally significant properties in care, and is continuing the vital conservation and protection work which it is internationally recognised for, especially as we seek to build resilience into the heritage sector’s recovery from the pandemic.
It is important however that we recognise that climate change effects have been accelerating, and the increased rainfall and variations in temperature have continuing impacts on both Scotland's natural and built heritage. I will continue discussing future potential approaches with Historic Environment Scotland as we continue our work to make our heritage safe, and accessible to all, so we can better understand our past, to best inform our future.