IHBC’s ‘Making Heritage Work’ leaflet outlines the work of the Institute

The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) is the UK’s professional institute representing those people employed in the conservation of our historic buildings and places. IHBC members advise on the conservation, care and management of historic places, promote their appreciation and enhancement, and support the educational, cultural and social benefits that our heritage can bring to everyone. The IHBC recognises that the Heritage Gateway can provide an invaluable route to raising awareness and improving understanding of our historic places.

Our members know that conserving historic places does not mean stopping change, but managing it. Conserving the special places we value means ensuring that they are looked after, and not damaged unnecessarily or wantonly. Conservation is also about making sure that our heritage is enjoyed and appreciated, both today AND for the future. The IHBC, through our services and our members, will bring our professional expertise in conservation to help shape the development of the Heritage Gateway.

To conserve our historic places properly and effectively we must include and inform everyone, as all can reap their many benefits. These include first the owners of historic properties, who have a huge financial, personal and social responsibility to them. They also include the people who simply enjoy looking at attractive places as they pass them by, as well as the business communities that gain from their popularity. Professionals charged with the care of these places also have key roles to play, including using hem to teach and to educate. But no less important to the future life of our heritage are the children who can enjoy them today, as they will grow up and enjoy them in the future, and care for them in their turn.

If we are to enjoy, manage, conserve and benefit from our historic places effectively, we must know about them and understand them. We must be able to get reliable, current and relevant information on the places we value. Balanced by suitable investment in local historic environment services, Heritage Gateway can provide a unique access to this essential information.

Dr. Seán O’Reilly

Director, The Institute of Historic Building Conservation

25 April 2006