Tailored review of Historic England

Written by Jonathan Thompson. First published on 9 May 2019, and most recently revised on 30 Mar 2022.

Public bodies are reviewed roughly five-yearly, in line with Cabinet Office requirements. These reviews aim to "...provide robust challenge to... the continuing need for the organisation and, where appropriate, make recommendations for improvement". This CLA response to the 2019 Tailored Review of Historic England praises many aspects of HE's work. But it also raises a number of serious concerns, especially that the current heritage protection system is failing after years of cuts to the planning system, and that HE urgently needs to implement reforms to ensure that the system will work and be financially-sustainable in future. It suggests a number of recommendations for the Review.

Key contact:

Jonathan Thompson Senior Heritage Adviser, London