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The Development of a Policy on Architecture for Scotland: Report on the Public Consultation

17.0 AGENCIES, INSTITUTES AND SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

17.1 A wide range of agencies, institutes and special interest groups with an interest in architecture responded to the framework document. Many respondents drew attention to the considerable expertise on architecture and design that exists within such organisations and it was noted that they represent a valuable national resource. It was suggested, however, that their collective contribution to architecture could be enhanced if there was greater liaison between individual bodies. It was suggested that a strategic survey and review of agencies, institutes and groups operating in the field of architecture might lead to better co-ordination of activities. Education on architecture and the built environment was cited as an example of a topic that might benefit from greater liaison and co-ordination.

17.2 Many respondents pointed to the work carried out on a voluntary basis by amenity groups such as civic and preservation trusts and community councils within communities around the country. It was suggested that this work was important both in maintaining the quality of the built environment of a particular area and in raising awareness of built heritage amongst the general public. It was noted, however, that this type of organisation usually operates on limited resources. It was suggested that better funding would allow such groups to extend their activities. It was suggested, for example, that funding might be provided for civic societies and amenity groups to operate awards schemes in their local communities; to develop a role in educating young people; and to encourage greater community participation in matters affecting local built environments.

17.3 There was considerable discussion about conservation groups and built heritage agencies, particularly with regard to their role in the development control process. Respondents from such groups and agencies argued that their primary objective was to make a positive contribution to development in their area through the representation of legitimate concerns over development proposals. Other respondents felt that many conservation and heritage groups took too protectionist a stance and were unduly conservative in their approach to new development, particularly with regard to new work in and around old buildings. These respondents suggested that such groups were adversely affecting development and were un-representative of the real needs and wishes of local communities. Other respondents suggested that conservation groups and heritage agencies should have greater regard for 20th-century architecture and should seek to promote contemporary achievements.

17.4 Several respondents commented on the role and work of the Royal Fine Art Commission for Scotland (RFACS). There were calls for a review of the RFACS’s functions, particularly in light of the establishment of the Commission on Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) in England. A number of respondents felt that RFACS’s role should be strengthened and expanded so as to furnish it with similar powers to CABE. It was suggested that RFACS should become more proactive in promoting good design and should seek to bridge the gap between architecture and planning. Other respondents wished to see RFACS develop a greater regional and local focus which would enable local authorities to seek specialist advice from the Commission on a regular basis.

17.5 Respondents commented on the contribution that a number of other organisations and agencies might make to the promotion of architecture. Several respondents welcomed the Scottish Arts Council’s commitment to develop its own policy on architecture and to provide funding for promotional projects. It was suggested that the Scottish Arts Council should, in particular, support the publication of specialist books on architecture. Many respondents noted the positive impact that The Lighthouse was having in generating interest in architecture and design. Respondents felt that it was important that the work of The Lighthouse was properly supported and sustained and that it should be made accessible throughout Scotland. Several respondents felt that more should be done to promote and monitor design quality in rural areas and in landscapes of special value. It was suggested that Scottish Natural Heritage might have a co-ordinating role in implementing policy objectives in these areas.

17.6 Several respondents suggested that, given the importance of architecture, its location within the Committee structure of the Scottish Parliament should be clearly defined. Other respondents suggested that enterprise companies and development agencies should be encouraged to do more to promote good architecture and design. It was also suggested that the Scottish Tourist Board should do more to promote Scotland’s architectural heritage and its contemporary architecture when marketing cultural tourism in Scotland.

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