Uncertain Future Funding Threatens UK's Heritage Sites

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 15th Jan 2007

Commenting on today's Valuing our heritage report from a coalition of heritage organisations arguing the case for future investment in the historic environment, Liberal Democrat Arts and Heritage Spokesperson, Paul Holmes MP said:

"This is a critical time for the UK's heritage. The Heritage White Paper is due to be published this spring setting out long-needed plans for reform.

However, the forthcoming Comprehensive Spending Review is expected to further cut funding. There is a great danger that the UK's heritage will be permanently damaged by the lack of money for maintenance.

Tessa Jowell must fight for proper funding to prevent the destruction of such a critically important national asset.

Our heritage is an essential part of the UK's attraction to tourists. As the UK hopes to build a successful legacy for the 2012 Olympic Games, a strong heritage sector is fundamental.

Visitors expect to see our World Heritage Sites in a world class state, not suffering from decades of under-investment and a backlog of essential maintenance."