Valuing the Welsh Historic Environment Study

A major new report has been launched (Sept 2010) which shows the historic environment makes a significant contribution to the Welsh economy. It is estimated to support 30,000 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs, to contribute approximately £840 million to Wales' gross value added (GVA) and to contribute some £1.8 billion in respect of output.

The report also uses case studies from across Wales to illustrate the rich diversity of the historic environment and the considerable contribution the sector makes to the economy and the lives and well being of people and communities in Wales.

The research by, ECOTEC Research and Consulting Ltd, shows that, in addition to the direct economic benefits provided by important historic assets, there are significant indirect impacts in supporting wider economic, social and environment priorities, for example as a catalyst to investment and improving skills that enable more people to get work. Much of the share of the economic impacts relates to tourism expenditure attributable to the historic environment as many visitors are attracted to Wales because of its wealth of heritage attractions.

The report concludes that the Welsh historic environment is a valuable asset which must be actively cared for and promoted. It also stresses that once these assets have been lost or forgotten they can rarely be recovered

The need for comprehensive research to evaluate the economic and social significance of the Welsh historic environment was identified by the Minister’s advisory Historic Environment Group of key stakeholder organisations. It asked the Valuing our Environment Partnership led by the National Trust to commission research. The other partners are the Countryside Council for Wales; Welsh Assembly Government – Cadw, Department for the Economy & Transport and Visit Wales; the National Park Authorities for the Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire Coast & Snowdonia and the Heritage Lottery Fund.