Culture & Heritage

BEFS Members are clear that the existing built and historic environment, in both rural and urban settings, is fundamental to the quality and character of Scotland’s people and places. Culture and heritage are, however, frequently sidelined and undervalued in public sector decision-making and budgeting processes.

This is despite the extensive contribution that built heritage deliver across the entire policy spectrum, including the promotion of health and wellbeing, community empowerment, cultural identity and a sense of belonging. Heritage assets drive tourism, support local supply chains, and provide long-term, skilled employment. As existing buildings hold immense embodied carbon, their effective maintenance and reuse are essential for reaching climate change targets.

Demonstrating Value

In itself, investment in Scotland’s built heritage preserves the vital and internationally recognised character of Scotland’s places. It also provides rich added value potential as preventative spend that pays significant social and economic dividends.

A 2025 review found that every £1 invested via Historic Environment Scotland grants leverages an additional £5.24 into the economy. For every £1 spent on archaeology services within planning authorities, £15 is generated for the local economy. Research indicates that every £1m spent on maintaining and repairing existing buildings supports 21 full-time equivalent jobs; a rate 40% higher than new-build projects.

Key Heritage Opportunities

BEFS Members have identified several urgent areas where policy action is required to protect Scotland’s cultural heritage:

• Funding Instability: Many heritage bodies face uncertainty due to short-term funding cycles. BEFS advocates for the adoption of Fair Funding principles, including multi-year support and flexible core funding.
• The Data Gap: There is a pressing need to improve the quality of information regarding both designated and undesignated heritage assets to inform better decision-making.
• National Emergency for Places of Worship: Scotland’s places of worship are facing a crisis of divestment. These buildings are vital civic and community institutions, and additional investment is needed to support their continued use and adaptation.

For BEFS members, the built environment encompasses more than just architecture. It includes infrastructure, parks, designed landscapes, battlefields, ancient monuments, and more. BEFS advocate for a holistic approach that recognises Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in the traditions, stories, and skills connected to our buildings and places. which strengthens cultural identity and community empowerment.

Our Call to Action

The 2026 BEFS Manifesto calls on the next Scottish Government to create the conditions for a dynamic and well-resourced sector. By scaling up investment and integrating heritage into wider policy areas like Community Wealth Building and spatial planning, Scotland can ensure its rich history continues to support a sustainable and vibrant future.

To learn more about BEFS policy influencing work in culture and heritage, please contact the relevant BEFS Team Members.