The National Trust is calling on the government to invest more in the historic environment following research that shows how highly the British public value their local history. The research, carried out with consultancy Public First, was UK-wide with an in-depth focus on Coventry. The resulting report, “There’s a Lot of History Here” – Local History, Local Heritage and Local Pride in Coventry and Across the UK, is part of the trust’s 10-year strategy, which includes a pledge to tackle unequal access to nature and culture.

The National Trust (NT) noted that the research shows that, despite concerns about communities becoming disconnected, people have pride in their local heritage and in the buildings, streets and landscapes around them which tell stories about their past, and provide continuity and connection.

But the NT argues that many of the UK’s heritage assets are under threat due to financial pressures, staffing challenges and funding cuts. Despite some efforts to support local heritage, the level of funding remains insufficient.

The report makes recommendations for policymakers, heritage organisations and local authorities. These include giving more weight to heritage in planning, regeneration and local economic growth, and the need for a Safe Harbour Scheme to protect heritage assets at risk and address skills shortages in maintaining and restoring them.