The historic environment of the Cairngorms National Park is coming under the spotlight.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) has commissioned an audit of the Park’s archaeology and heritage, which is being carried out by AOC Archaeology Group over the summer.
Andrew Harper, the CNPA’s Head of Economic and Social Development said: “The archaeology and heritage of the Park is very special indeed and contributes significantly to the special qualities of the Park. We want a comprehensive picture of what we have here so that we can ensure its protection for future generations. We also want to be able to identify and to make the most of the economic and social opportunities that the Park’s heritage has to offer.”
The information gathered as part of the audit will help with the development of the emerging National Park Plan, which sets out the long term vision – 25 years – for the Park as a whole as well as the key priorities for the first five years of the Plan, from 2007 to 2012.
Following initial liaison meetings with local heritage groups and other interested individuals, the AOC Archaeology Group is now embarking on a wider consultation, speaking to heritage professionals and to local communities to find out what aspects of the historic environment are important to them. Focus group meetings will also be held to look at future heritage projects in the Park.
Lynne Fouracre of AOC Archaeology Group explained: “We are really pleased to be carrying out this audit of the Park’s archaeology and historic environment for the CNPA and aim to deliver a comprehensive picture of the current state of the historic environment of the Cairngorms National Park. The wide ranging audit will look at the Park’s built heritage, its vernacular architecture, oral history and archaeology as well as its cultural and historical landscapes. We want to identify what makes the cultural heritage of the Cairngorms distinct and what can be done to enhance this for the benefit of local communities and visitors.”
If you are interested in the historic environment of the National Park and would like to contribute to this project, or for more information, please contact Lynne Fouracre at AOC Archaeology Group on tel: 0131 440 3593 or email: [email protected].
Alternatively complete the online questionnaire at www.aocarchaeology.com