Heritage Link has responded to the draft legislative programme. Many of our members are affected by legislative developments across a number of sectors, notwithstanding the historic environment, and a number have statutory duties in relation to planning and consent applications. Consequently, it is hugely disappointing to see that the draft legislative programme for 2009/10 once again omits the Heritage Protection Bill.
Heritage Link notes the continuing need for Government focus on exceptional global circumstances. However, the cultural and heritage sector contributes around £1.01bn GVA to the UK economy each year and is crucial to ensuring the nation’s prosperity – a key focus of Building Britain’s Future. With indicators suggesting an easing of the financial crisis it is perhaps then time to put important “delayed” issues, such as the Heritage Protection Bill, back on the agenda.
The draft Bill, widely supported by the sector, contains a broad range of reforms that would add clarity, efficiency and certainty to the way in which the historic environment is used, managed and protected. Although some reforms can be taken forward without the Bill, key provisions will be lost – leaving gaps in protection.