Conservation Principles guidance

The ‘Conservation Principles’ guidance sets out a best practice conservation framework for all aspects of decision making affecting our historic environment.

Part 1 ‘Conservation Principles’ Guidance for the sustainable management of the historic environment in Northern Ireland’ sets out the six key guiding conservation principles and  explains how significance is central to conservation, how to assess it, and use it as a tool to manage change. The Conservation Principles Guidance was subject of a public consultation 13 August – 08 October 2021 and a synopsis of responses is provided.

Part 2 ‘Applying the Conservation Principles’ Guidance for the sustainable management of the historic environment in Northern Ireland’ sets out the different types of changes impacting a heritage asset. It explains how the conservation principles can guide decision making for each change, to achieve best conservation outcomes.