March 5 2014

The Scottish Government has confirmed that a merger of Historic Scotland with the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) is to go ahead.

Both heritage bodies will be combined into a single entity known as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) as part of a strategy to better manage built heritage.

This dovetails with the launch of a new ten-year strategy document, Our Place in Time, which outlines a vision to ‘unlock the true potential’ of historic places.

Culture secretary Fiona Hyslop commented: “Combining the skills, expertise and professional experience of Historic Scotland and RCAHMS, HES will take a lead in protecting Scotland's rich historic heritage to ensure it can be enjoyed now and the future.”

Sir Kenneth Calman, chairman of the National Trust for Scotland, added: “Conserving our historic buildings and landscapes is a challenge for all of Scotland and the strategy is a good opportunity to pool our knowledge, identify priorities and collaborate more effectively.  National Trust for Scotland looks forward to working with others in the sector to deliver our shared ambitions.”

If the Bill successfully passes through parliament HES would be inaugurated and a board appointed in April 2015 ahead of a formal handover of powers in October

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