Architecture and Design Scotland will undergo the first review of its policy and financial management since being established as the nation's design champion for the built environment in April 2005.

Linda Fabiani, Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture, today announced this review which will contribute to the refinement of Architecture and Design Scotland's responsibilities within the reshaped built environment sector: a commitment the First Minister made in January as part of a programme of simplification of public services.

The first stage of the review will include en examination of the functions of Architecture and Design Scotland and how these are currently delivered at a strategic, operational and local level.

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There will be a review of the resources invested; the external changes that have occurred since its creation; the outcomes and benefits being achieved by Architecture and Design Scotland; and, in particular, how the body engages with national, regional and local delivery partners, including local government

An examination of the effectiveness of Architecture and Design Scotland will involve assessment of its impact with key decision makers and the public, drawing on stakeholder, customer and staff views on the strengths and weaknesses of the current structural and delivery arrangements; and determining whether changes in structure and behaviour are required

Engagement with all Architecture and Design Scotland's key stakeholders will be central to this review.

Architecture and Design Scotland was established in April 2005 as Scotland's national champion for good architecture, design and planning in the built environment. The principal aim of the body is to inspire better quality in design and architecture so that Scotland's built environment contributes in a positive way to our quality of life, our economic growth and our built heritage.

Architecture and Design Scotland has a wide proactive role in advocating the benefits of good design in the built environment to a range of organisations at national, regional and local level. It operates as a Company Limited by Guarantee funded directly by the Scottish Government.

(GK/JM)