A new survey has been launched by Fife Council and Fife Historic Buildings Trust to gather vital information on the current availability of traditional building skills throughout Fife. The initiative aims to understand how best to support both the contemporary construction industry and the crucial built heritage sectors within the region.

Responses are welcomed from all individuals and businesses with an interest in these sectors, including contractors, craftspeople, building professionals, and property owners and managers. While primarily targeted at those based or working in Fife, contributions offering a national perspective are also considered important.

The survey can be accessed via the following link. The closing date for submissions is Monday, 30 June 2025.

The gathered data will directly feed into a comprehensive Traditional Skills Audit for Fife. Crucially, it will also inform the development of traditional skills training activities to be delivered through the Buckhaven Heritage project. This ambitious initiative aims to explore local heritage and support the future regeneration of the town. Fife Council and Fife Historic Buildings Trust are collaborating with the local community on the Buckhaven Heritage project, thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the Community Recovery Fund, and Fife Council. Adams Napier Partnership is supporting the Traditional Skills Audit process.

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Councillor Colin Davidson, Levenmouth Area Convenor, highlighted the importance of the audit: "Fife has over 6,000 listed buildings and structures that are recognised for their architectural or historic significance. And many more buildings across Fife were built before 1919, using traditional material and methods. This means that there is a real need for a skilled construction workforce with a sound understanding of traditional building skills and the particular requirements of historic buildings. The Traditional Skills Audit will help to identify the strengths and challenges within the industry, and I encourage as many individuals and businesses as possible to take part in the survey.”

Gail Williamson, Grants Operations Manager at HES, underscored the broader significance of traditional skills: "Traditional building skills are fundamental to safeguarding Scotland’s historic environment. By investing in expertise and supporting skills training, we can ensure heritage buildings continue to stand the test of time, all while reducing the environmental impact of construction through retrofit and reuse. The insights from this audit will support HES grant-funded projects like Buckhaven Heritage, helping to shape projects that enhance the historic built environment while equipping the local community with valuable skills and hands-on training opportunities."