The second Annual Operating Plan for Historic Environment Scotland HES) has been published, with headline aims listed by HES Chief Executive Alex Paterson to include ‘Digital… Tourism… rural areas… properties… aiming to set high standards for conservation… role in the planning system and expert advice, training and guidance.’
HES writes:
Alex Paterson, Chief Executive said: ‘This Annual Operating Plan is a fundamental document that will drive and steer our activity over 2017/18.’The plan explains how we will invest our budget and resources and work with a wide range of partners and stakeholders to realise the value of the country’s historic environment. It also outlines a range of our key commitments for the period, including the opening of the The Engine Shed, Scotland’s first, dedicated building conservation centre in Stirling and our moves to increase access to heritage across the country. Through our own activities and our work with our partners and stakeholders we ensure that the historic environment thrives and delivers economic and social benefits for the people of Scotland. We operate in a complex and changing environment which is subject to the uncertainties of the current economic, political and constitutional climate. We aim to build a strong and confident organisation with innovation and customer needs at its heart.’
‘Digital transformation will change the ways in which we deliver our services, enabling more people than ever before to enjoy the benefits of the historic environment. Tourism is a key sector in rural areas. As many properties in our care are in rural areas, these bring benefits to rural communities, by promoting the area. The coming years will see us make significant investments in the properties in our care and associated collections; aiming to set high standards for conservation; welcoming visitors from around Scotland and the world and enabling access to our services for all. We will step up our work with communities and local services across Scotland, improving places and wellbeing through our grants programmes, Community Empowerment support, role in the planning system and expert advice, training and guidance.’
Download the summary of our Annual Operating Plan 2017-18
