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t h e b u i l d i n g c o n s e r v a t i o n d i r e c t o r y 2 0 1 2
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Foreword
M
illions of people in this country actively support and
hold a deep affection for our heritage, and investment in the
historic environment has been shown to offer returns that are
equal to, or higher than, other public sector investment. Yet, somehow, this
powerful combination of passion and economic clout has not translated into
political recognition.
2011 was a particularly tough year for the heritage sector, with cuts across
the board, ever-increasing pressure to deliver more for less and a major shift
in focus from the centre to local level. Far from this maelstrom diluting morale
though, heritage professionals and volunteers up and down the country have so
far risen to these challenges with the resilience, passion and commitment that
characterises the sector.
One of the key tasks facing us all is how best to adapt to the localism
agenda. Devastating cuts to local conservation services are a real concern and,
as The Heritage Alliance has articulated to government on many occasions,
volunteers cannot be expected to plug the gap in expert advice left in local
areas. However, the ‘Big Society’ does present opportunities, and we must look
at how the sector can pull together to make the most of these.
Many organisations represented by members of The Heritage Alliance –
the umbrella body for 90 of England’s non-government heritage bodies and the
largest coalition of heritage interests in this country – have been blazing a trail
in local, grassroots partnership-working for years. Their specialist knowledge
and expertise, much of which is contributed on a voluntary basis for public
benefit, offers a valuable resource for local authorities to make more of in this new climate. Some of the new models that started in
the voluntary heritage sector, such as heritage-led regeneration and asset transfer, are now mainstream, and the next few years will be
a seedbed for future models. The expertise and passion of the hundreds of people listed in this directory will be vital to the success of
these new approaches.
The next few years will be uncharted territory for all of us who love our heritage but by working together we can strengthen
communities, keep costs low and ensure that future generations are able to use and enjoy what has so inspired us.
Loyd Grossman OBE FSA
Chairman
Historic environment conservation students from the Ironbridge Institute
get to grips with metal conservation (Photo: Ironbridge Institute)