context
Background
A catastrophic earthquake (magnitude 6.4) damaged 53 cultural heritage sites in northwestern Albania in November 2019.
A comprehensive five-year programme (2021-26) of rehabilitation, conservation and capacity-building for the Albanian cultural heritage sector was funded by the European Union. This programme — the €40m EU4Culture project — was implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in close partnership with the Albanian Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation (MEKI).
Scope
Heritage Innovation was part of a team led by Abkons to deliver the preparation and review of cultural heritage management plans, business plans and disaster risk management plans on behalf of UNOPS during 2022-24.
We worked closely with local and international specialists to develop these plans for range of iconic museums and cultural heritage sites across Albania. The project also involved consultation with local partners and stakeholders.
OUTCOMES
Cultural heritage management plans
Planning for heritage sites and conservation projects requires specialist expertise. We have over 30 years experience of the UK planning system, and a comprehensive understanding of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in England and Planning Policy Wales (PPW). We also have extensive networks of expertise in historic building conservation, historic landscape conservation, and archaeology. We can help you navigate the complexities of heritage and planning legislation to ensure that your project is compliant at all stages.
Cultural heritage business plans
A heritage statement (or heritage impact assessment) summarises the history of a site, and describes its significance - including its setting. It can assess the potential impact of a proposed development and may also include a strategy to mitigate any adverse effects. We have a thorough understanding of relevant local, national and international planning policy, and extensive experience of preparing heritage impact assessments. We can quickly and expertly assess your site to support your project ambitions.
Disaster risk management plans
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) include an Environmental Statement (ES) with an archaeology and cultural heritage chapter. This usually comprises a desk-based assessment, drawing on a variety of heritage and environmental information. We are experienced in preparing proportionate ES heritage chapters, often in close co-operation with specialist partners. We have a comprehensive understanding of UK national and regional planning policy and practice, and can help towards pragmatic outcomes for your heritage issues.
Consultation
With over three decades' international experience we can draw on wide networks of expertise to ensure that your project is able to manage any heritage challenges in a timely and efficient way. We specialise in work involving historic buildings, archaeology and landscape survey - and have an exemplary track record of managing projects on time and to budget. We are always happy to start out with some friendly advice and go from there - please get in touch!
Training and capacity building
With over three decades' international experience we can draw on wide networks of expertise to ensure that your project is able to manage any heritage challenges in a timely and efficient way. We specialise in work involving historic buildings, archaeology and landscape survey - and have an exemplary track record of managing projects on time and to budget. We are always happy to start out with some friendly advice and go from there - please get in touch!
project partners
similar projects
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Why you can trust us
Experience and expertise
- Over thirty years' cultural heritage management experience
- International project delivery for diverse heritage sites, landscapes and organisations
- Comprehensive understanding of heritage legislation and best practice
- Specialists in urban archaeology, industrial buildings and landscapes, ethics and governance
- Extensive networks of partners to create the perfect team for your project
- Delivering creative and ethical leadership in cultural heritage
Certified and accredited
- Accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists
- Certified and licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority