Our conservation principles

A conservator working on an 18th-century torchere — Conserving an 18th-century torchere from Saltram, Devon

The ruined engine house and chimney stack from an abandoned tin mine at Trewavas Cliff, Cornwall — We make sure the special qualities of the places we look after are protected

A close up of a butterfly in the garden of Monk's House, East Sussex — We carefully manage the landscapes we care for, so that wildlife can thrive

Conservation work taking place on the scaffolding-clad roof at Hanbury Hall, Worcestershire — Our conservation work ranges from repairing roofs to surveying butterflies

Conservation is defined as the careful management of change.

It's about revealing and sharing the significance of places and ensuring that their special qualities are protected, enhanced, understood and enjoyed by present and future generations.

We base our conservation work around six main conservation principles. These are:

Integration

Integrating the conservation of natural and cultural heritage

Change

Working with change, adapting and mitigating

Access and engagement

Benefiting society and gaining support

Skills and partnership

Developing skills and experience with others

Accountability

Recording decisions and sharing knowledge

Significance

Understanding values and spirit of place