Applications affecting the historic environment

The historic environment of the Scottish Borders is rich and varied. These historic places make a valuable contribution to our economy and wellbeing. We have nearly 3,000 Listed Buildings and 43 Conservation Areas as well as other forms of heritage designation.

The designation of historic sites at both a local and national level is how they are acknowledged and protected. These designations come in a variety of forms, including:

• Listed Buildings: these are buildings recognised at a national level for their special architectural and historic interest. They are designated by Historic Environment Scotland and can be Category A, B or C listed, with A being the highest level of designation. Visit Historic Environment Scotland's What is listing? webpages for more information on Listed Buildings.
• Conservation Areas: these are areas of special historic character and appearance, with designation aiming to preserve and enhance their character through decision making. These are designated by us as Local Planning Authority. Visit Historic Environment Scotland's Living in a Conservation Area webpage for more information on Conservation Areas.
• Scheduled Monuments: these are monuments of national importance that the Scottish Government has given legal protection to. Historic Environment Scotland maintains the list of monuments and determines applications for Scheduled Monument Consent. Visit Historic Environment Scotland's What is scheduling webpage to find out more.
• World Heritage Sites: this is a site of cultural and/or natural significance considered to be of ‘Outstanding Universal Value’ by the World Heritage Committee. Visit Historic Environment Scotland's What is a World Heritage site webpage for more details.
• Gardens and Designed Landscapes included in the national inventory: these are historic landscapes designated for their importance in the national context. The Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and can be found on their website.

You can find information about different types of heritage assets in your area by visiting the Pastmap website.