The future of English Heritage: a brief explanation.

Too busy to follow the detail of the Government’s decimation of English Heritage? Want to take part in the public consultation on what happens next? Here’s a quick summary of the stage that has been reached so far (it’s to be split into two smaller elements, one on a financial shoestring and the other with a begging bowl) based on the words of those most closely involved:

Maria Miller, Culture Secretary said: “The new funding underlines the Government’s commitment to the heritage sector and will further protect the statutory functions of Historic England in these difficult economic times”
Translated as: “They’re on their own”!

Sir Laurie Magnus, Chairman of English Heritage said: “I am delighted that ….” and “I am also delighted that ….” and “I would like to thank the Secretary of State for taking these proposals forward”
Translated as: “We and much of what we do have been severely downgraded. Thanks!”

Simon Thurley, English Heritage Chief Executive, added: “I welcome the Government’s proposed New Model for English Heritage. It offers an opportunity for English Heritage to move forward with confidence”
Translated as: “Looking good!“

and Ed Vaizey, Minister for Culture has said:
The consultation outlines how Historic England will look to get the heritage protection system to work better [i.e. quicker!] for owners, developers and infrastructure providers, [i.e. for developers?], reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape [i.e. weaken the safeguards?] and support growth [i.e. make it easier to build in sensitive locations] without reducing protection for heritage” [i.e. it’s magic!]