The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) has welcomed the publication by the Scottish Government (SG) of its proposals for an independent Scotland.
Chair of the IHBC Mike Brown said: ‘The IHBC welcomes the publication of this ‘blueprint’ for the independence viewpoint and looks forward to also receiving similarly detailed papers from those parties in favour of retaining Scotland within the Union.’
‘The IHBC is, of course, a UK-wide professional body and charity, as our most recent issue of our members’ journal Context, themed on ‘Nationhood’ clearly demonstrated. So we will of course maintain a neutral stance on the politics of this engrossing debate, save to say that we will encourage all stakeholders to recognise the unique qualities of Scotland’s built and cultural heritage. So whatever the results of the referendum, we will seek to secure from politicians of all persuasions the best possible investment, legislative and regulatory framework, infrastructure and political support for the remarkable national resource that is our heritage’.
IHBC Scotland Branch Chair Stuart Eydmann said: ‘The publication of the document is a milestone on the path to the referendum vote in September 2014 and, from the Scottish Government’s point of view, addresses a large number of issues that will require to be addressed in the event of a Yes vote.’
‘It also includes a range of manifesto type commitments and aspirations. It is heartening to see heritage included, including a commitment to maintaining lottery funding; the development of a new national heritage body and a desire to revisit VAT in relation to repair and maintenance.’
‘It will be interesting to see if the ‘No’ campaign responds with some form of ‘Devo Max’ and, if it does, whether there are any additional or alternative offers or references with heritage implications.’
Relevant sections for IHBC interests include: Chapter 8 Environment, Rural Scotland, Energy and Resources; Chapter 9 – Culture, Communications and Digital and Chapter 10 – Building a modern democracy.
Download the document at: LINK
BBC News: LINK
Scottish Government Publications: LINK
