2 Historic Value
Key to the sustainable reuse of an historic building is understanding where the historical value lies, for example:
- the building fabric and finishes (both original or later alterations);
- the contribution that the building makes to the streetscape
- its historical significance
- its rarity value; or
- an example of a particular servicing system, such as gas lighting or water power.
Historic Scotland compiles lists of buildings with a particular architectural or historical interest."Permission must be sought before altering any building on the list, to ensure that its historical value is maintained".
This does not mean fossilising a building: insisting on strict conservation may mean that the building cannot viably be used and falls into ruin. However, the best viable use may not necessarily be the most profitable use: the aim should be to find a new economic use that is viable over the long term with minimum impact upon the special architectural and historic interest of the building or area.
NPPG18, paragraph 22
>> 
2.2 History and Description
Planners and Policy-makers
- Seek agreement with relevant parties that the Conservation Plan, together with the policy context and regulations, provides a comprehensive framework within which any design proposals can be judged.
- > Section 1: Policy Context
- Consider how planning decisions regarding the development of the building may contribute to other policy requirements.
- Determine whether there is potential funding for retaining such a building.
- > Section 6: Financing