Managing Change in the Historic Environment

Managing Change guidance notes support good decision making in the historic environment. The guidance notes set out the key things to think about when changes are proposed. This can include:

• guidance on how to consider impacts on cultural significance
• relevant national policy considerations
• sources of more detailed information and technical guidance

What is Managing Change guidance for?

Managing Change guidance can help you to understand how a proposed change will impact the historic environment. They can be relevant for many different types of change:

• changes to historic buildings, like replacing windows, building extensions or adapting existing buildings to new uses
• works that affect other heritage assets, including scheduled monuments and historic battlefields
• new developments that can affect the wider historic landscape, such as large-scale housing developments or wind farms

When should I use this guidance?

Managing Change guidance can inform decision making about changes. This will often be a formal process, like planning permission, listed building consent, or marine licensing. It can help you to assess the impact of a proposed change. The guidance might also help you to alter proposals to reduce adverse impacts. It can also be relevant for developing plans and strategies, and for decisions around funding.

What status does it have?

Managing Change guidance can have weight in any decision where the Historic Environment Policy for Scotland (HEPS) is relevant. This can include decisions on land management, funding, plans and policies.

In the Scottish planning system, the Managing Change series forms part of national guidance on managing change in the historic environment. The National Planning Framework (NPF4) refers decision makers to this guidance, and it is a material consideration for relevant decisions.

We are working to make sure our Managing Change guidance aligns with current policy and national priorities – including responding to the climate and nature crises. 

Where else can I get information and guidance?

We publish other guidance which you might find useful. This includes technical advice and the Scotland’s Archaeology Strategy Short Guides. You’ll also find lots of case studies in our publications section, which show how some of the principles in our guidance can apply in real life situations.