A report commissioned by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and carried out by Lichfields UK examining how the Inventory of Historic Battlefields is working within the Scottish planning system has been published.
The report, which HES commissioned in 2021, focuses on battlefield policy, guidance and planning casework across Scotland and engaged stakeholders involved in the investigation and management of battlefields within the planning system.
The report concludes that while the Inventory and the policy protections which exist around it are functioning as intended, there are some changes which could improve its working. These include providing greater clarity both in terms of designation and guidance for those working with battlefields, and managing battlefield archaeological impact more effectively.
Following the publication, HES has launched a consultation to gather feedback from anyone interested in historic battlefields to inform the organisation’s next steps as it considers the recommendations.
Part of the site of the Battle of Sheriffmuir, which is in the Inventory of Historic Battlefields
Philip Robertson, Deputy Head of Designations at HES, said:
"This report provides evidence-based recommendations to inform best practice in the designation and management of Inventory battlefields, and we welcome feedback on these.
"Some of the recommendations relate directly to our responsibilities maintaining the inventory and providing advice and guidance to planning authorities, however they also extend to other stakeholders involved in the investigation and management of battlefields within the planning system.
"Once we have collated feedback, we will use this to inform our next steps in response to these recommendations."
The consultation will run for 12 weeks:
Take part in the consultation Download the full Lichfields UK reportAbout the Inventory of Historic Battlefields
HES maintains the Inventory of Historic Battlefields, which is a list of nationally important battlefields in Scotland.
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