LUC has delivered a groundbreaking report into the historic environment of York, North Yorkshire and East Riding. The report, titled ‘Celebrating Our Distinctive Heritage’, was published this week by York & North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The report identifies opportunities that the historic environment can play in delivering the social and economic objectives of the LEP. In doing so, it builds a better understanding of the area’s historic assets.

The report examines six main areas of potential growth. These are: market towns, coastal towns, lowland agricultural landscapes, the uplands of the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales, and the city of York.

Steven Orr, Director of Historic Environment at LUC, said:

“Taking forward this piece of work has been a great experience. While Covid-19 threw up a range of challenges, we were fortunate in being in a position to understand and respond to the entirely new drivers and opportunities that emerged in the space of a few months. What really made our research come alive was the input of local stakeholders, which allowed the team to sharpen our recommendations and understand what works – and what doesn’t – in the area.”

“We look forward to seeing how the actions suggested in the report are refined and taken forward across the region. Hopefully, it’s a model that other regions will consider in making the most of their heritage.”

LUC was commissioned jointly by Historic England and the York and North Yorkshire LEP.

Key regional partners have formed a Heritage and Culture Strategy Group to take forward the report’s recommendations. This group will guide strategy, target investment and drive delivery.

You can view the full report and executive summary here.

Learn more about our Historic Environment services.