UAH identifies systemic problems.

UAH has issued a full response to the Department for Communities' consultation on the development of a Historic Environment Policy for Northern Ireland.

The Society supports the establishment of a long-term, strategic policy recognising the importance of the historic environment to Northern Ireland's cultural identity, economy, communities and environment.

UAH particularly welcomes the accompanying Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), which provides a substantial and, in places, concerning assessment of the present condition of Northern Ireland's historic environment and the effectiveness of existing arrangements for its protection.

The evidence demonstrates that the deterioration of historic buildings and monuments is not simply a consequence of isolated failures by individual owners. It reflects wider systemic problems involving inadequate investment, inconsistent enforcement, shortages of specialist expertise and insufficient coordination between public authorities.

UAH considers that these findings require a more ambitious response than the proposed aims presently articulate.

READ THE FULL RESPONSE

Published: 12th November, 2026