(Image credit: Historic Environment Scotland)
VIEWS are being sought on a tool that seeks to identify and secure a sustainable future for buildings at risk in Scotland.
The Buildings at Risk Register (BARR) is maintained by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and provides information on buildings at risk, which includes those that are vacant, suffering neglect, or threatened with demolition.
Established in 1990 in response to the growing concern over vacant listed buildings and those in conservation areas that had fallen into disrepair, nearly 2,200 buildings are currently on the register – including churches, pubs, castles, and stately homes.
Philip Robertson, of HES, said, “The Buildings at Risk Register is intended for use by anyone with an interest in bringing buildings back into use. That includes property developers, heritage organisations, investors, architects, and individuals with an interest in renovating, re-purposing, or saving these buildings. We want to further understand who uses the register and how they use it.
“Reuse and regeneration of buildings at risk is a sustainable approach and it helps to contribute to successful placemaking and economic regeneration throughout Scotland. We’re keen to hear from community groups and others who are working to refurbish buildings at risk and to put them to good use. We want to hear how useful the register is for this purpose.
“Anyone who cares about how our countryside, towns and cities look, and how they prosper, should take part in our survey. It is important we learn about the use of the register as this will help us to understand how best to encourage the repair and reuse of heritage buildings at risk across Scotland.”
Research agency, Harlow Consulting, is leading on the ‘extensive’ survey to help HES to understand the impact the Buildings at Risk Register is having. The firm will also make evidence-based recommendations from the study that will inform long-term decisions about this resource by HES, and how best to bring buildings at risk back into use.
Jennifer Brennan, director at Harlow Consulting, added, “As well as estate agents, architects, heritage groups, developers, housing associations and local authorities, we want to hear from all voices, including those of the general public. We know that many people really care about heritage buildings in their communities, and in their neighbourhoods that are vacant or falling into disrepair.
“Together, we can make a significant impact and save more buildings at risk. Participants will have the opportunity to contribute their expertise and opinions.”
To take part in the survey, click here.
