The Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT) has published its new three-year strategy, 'Our Future at Fifty', marking a major shift for the charity as it evolves into a truly national organisation. The strategy sets a roadmap for the charity to lead more high-stakes restoration projects across Scotland in the lead-up to its 50th anniversary in 2028.

Since its inception, SHBT has invested over £50 million into Scotland's built heritage, saving more than 30 at-risk buildings. The new strategy focuses on three core pillars designed to address modern challenges such as energy efficiency and the shortage of traditional masonry and joinery skills.

Three Pillars of the Strategy:

1. A National Charity: Expanding reach across Scotland via "place-based" partnerships, working closely with local authorities to identify and rescue derelict structures in both urban and rural settings.

2. Addressing Sector Challenges: Moving into an outward-facing role to combat the traditional building skills crisis and improve the climate resilience of historic properties.

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3. Entrepreneurial Stewardship: Diversifying income through heritage consultancy services, property management, and a revitalised events programme to ensure the long-term financial health of restored sites.

A cornerstone of the strategy is the Traditional Building Skills model, pioneered in Eyemouth. This scheme provides pre-apprenticeship training by involving local people directly in the restoration of derelict rural buildings.

The program was recently recognised by a cross-party motion in the Scottish Parliament for its dual impact: reviving historic architecture while creating a new generation of skilled tradespeople. A new 20-week training course is set to begin in January 2026, where trainees will gain hands-on experience at the Category A-listed Gunsgreen House.

The strategy arrives at a time of significant growth for the Trust:

• Highland Expansion: In November 2025, the Highland Historic Buildings Trust (HHBT) officially joined SHBT, strengthening the charity's presence in the north and islands.

• Modernist Landmarks: SHBT is currently collaborating with the National Trust for Scotland on a £2.5–£3 million project to restore the Bernat Klein Studio in Selkirk. The 1972 Peter Womersley masterpiece, which was secured at auction in July 2025, will be reimagined as a hub for creative arts.

Dr Samuel Gallacher, Director of SHBT, noted: "Our specialist skills and approach to save historic buildings from Kintyre to Caithness, from Eyemouth to Angus, are more in demand than ever. Guided by our new strategy, we are enthusiastic about empowering communities to take on more restoration projects."