A research report published by the National Heritage Training Group (NHTG) has highlighted a shortage of professionals with the skills needed to specify and advise on the conservation, repair and maintenance of traditional buildings, and a lack of suitably knowledgeable younger recruits to take on this role in the future.
Traditional buildings are a vibrant part of the built environment. Understanding and caring for this important part of our national inheritance requires building professionals with knowledge and experience of traditional building methods and materials. They also need a sound knowledge of the different approaches to and techniques of conservation, repair and maintenance.
It is a matter of concern that this research report highlights extensive gaps in knowledge and skills among many of those who carry out this type of work, and a lack of suitably knowledgeable younger recruits to replace experienced professionals when they retire.
The National Heritage Training Group commissioned Pye Tait to carry out the research, using questionnaires and interviews with a variety of building professionals, estate managers, training providers and representatives of professional bodies.
The report's action plan calls for the Sector Skills Councils, professional bodies, heritage agencies and conservation bodies, educationalists and training providers to work together to strengthen the traditional building and conservation components within mainstream professional courses, and educate clients about the value and importance of using traditional building methods and materials on their pre-1919 buildings.
