Council worker Margaret Edwards
The Historic Buildings Council (HBC) is currently constituted under Section 198 of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 and operates under the Department for Communities.
The council is made up of around 15 members who possess a wide range of expertise and experience in architecture, architectural history, planning, industrial heritage, building conservation and structural engineering throughout Northern Ireland.
Its role is to advise the Department on the listing and delisting of buildings, listed building consent, and to keep under review, and from time to time report to the Department on, the general state of preservation of listed buildings.
The HBC also offers advice to other government departments through DfC, such as the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the Department for Infrastructure, and to local Councils on the designation of Conservation Areas.
Ms Edwards was appointed to the Historic Buildings Council by Minister for Communities, Carál Ní Chuilín MLA, and will serve a three-year term.
Ms Edwards said she was excited about the period ahead as a member of the HBC.
“When the opportunity came up to apply for the Historic Buildings Council, it seemed like a really good fit for me.
“I have over 20 years of experience working for Derry City and Strabane District Council, and I felt that that experience would allow me to make substantial and valuable contributions to the HBC.
“I also believe it’s important to have representation and a voice from our Council area within the group.
“As part of my role in Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Regeneration Section I have delivered numerous projects where heritage is a key driver for regeneration and prosperity, and those themes are paramount in the work of the HBC.
“I’m looking forward to working alongside the other members and sharing our expertise and experience.”
For more on the Historic Buildings Council, visit https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/articles/historic-buildings-council
