FAQs

What is a Building Preservation Trust?

A Building Preservation Trust (BPT) is a charity formed by people who share the common aim of saving and preserving one or more historic buildings. Most BPTs achieve their aims by acting as "developers of last resort": acquiring historic buildings that are in an advanced state of dereliction and do not provide an attractive proposition to commercial developers, carrying out essential repairs and improvements, and disposing of the buildings on the open market. BPTs can be national, regional or local. Some are established to save one individual building. Many develop relationships with the local community. All are eligible to join the Association of Preservation Trusts, as well as developing relationships with funding organisations such as The Architectural Heritage Fund, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland and Local Authorities.

How can I save a building in my area?

If you and other like-minded people want to work together to save a local building, you can set up a BPT. The best starting points are the Association of Preservation Trusts and Architectural Heritage Fund (see Trust Partners). Both have a broad range of information on their websites as well as publications which can help you get started on the process of saving a building.

What happens when ACT makes a profit?

ACT is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Any "profit" or surplus made by the Trust is put back into the company and used for its charitable activities. No Member or Trustee can gain financially from the Trust.

What does ACT charge for consultancy services?

Charges for consultancy work depend on a number of factors, including the type of organisation that requests ACT's services. Each project is different and requires a tailored approach. Depending on the amount of work involved ACT either charges by the hour or day, or can be commissioned in one lump sum. To discuss a potential project and find out more about ACT's fee basis, please call us on 0131 656 0700.

Are there any restrictions on the buildings you can restore?

ACT can only deal with historic buildings in the United Kingdom. All buildings and monuments must be of historic or architectural interest, as deemed appropriate by the Trustees. Although ACT does not restrict its activities to specific types of building, specialist Building Preservation Trusts exist within the UK for castles, churches etc.

Can I become involved with the work of ACT?

There are no vacant Trustee or staff positions at present. If you would like to register as a friend of the Trust and be kept up to date with the latest developments on projects, or to make a donation to the Trust or a particular project, call us on 0131 656 0700 or e-mail us at alba@conservationtrust.co.uk.