Scottish government publishes review recommendations on the future of architecture policy delivery

The Scottish Government has today published a summary of its 2024 review into the delivery of architecture policy in Scotland.

The review was commissioned to ensure that Scotland’s approach to architecture and the built environment remains relevant, effective, and aligned with national priorities. Shared with Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) in September 2024, the findings recognise the important role the organisation has played in supporting place-based approaches and delivering design advice across Scotland.

The report also includes recommendations, which set out a remit for us to refocus our work on architecture and design, positioning the organisation as a centre for excellence that supports sector-wide development through collaboration, insight, and innovation. This reshaped focus will allow us to promote the value of good design in addressing the challenges facing Scotland’s places today – from climate change, housing and health, to learning and digital transformation.

The publication of these recommendations marks the start of a new chapter for Architecture and Design Scotland. The recommendations provide an opportunity to refine our purpose, strengthen and expand our position within the sector, and ensure we are providing expertise, leadership and support where it is most needed. 

In the past months, the work to shape our future has already begun, with staff working closely with the Scottish Government and key partners to develop a delivery plan that implements these recommendations and reflects this new direction. As the process develops, Architecture and Design Scotland's commitment to high-quality design will remain at the heart of the organisation.

Jim MacDonald, Chief Executive of Architecture and Design Scotland, said:

“We welcome the findings of this review, and the confidence placed in us to help shape the next phase of architecture policy delivery in Scotland. We’re energised by the opportunity to refocus our work, deepen our expertise, and collaborate across the sector to help Scotland’s built environment respond to increasing pressure from climate, economic, and demographic change. 

As we transition into our new role as a centre for excellence, we remain committed to championing design as a powerful force for delivering sustainable, inclusive and thriving communities.”

Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture said:

“This report signals the Scottish Government’s continuing support for architecture and design, and I believe, an exciting new direction for Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS). 

I am confident that with A&DS focussing more directly on supporting and developing the architecture sector, we can better deliver the economic, cultural, and social benefits of good architecture and design. The report also highlights the importance of collaboration and partnerships across Scotland’s creative workforce to grow our collective capacity and increase impact across Scotland and beyond.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Chair, Board, and staff at Architecture and Design Scotland for their positive and collaborative approach throughout the review process. I also want to thank the members of Scotland’s architecture and design community, and all those who participated in the review to help shape this important work.”

Tamsie Thomson, CEO of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) said:

"The RIAS warmly welcomes the review's recognition of the architectural sector, as an economically important part of Scotland's creative industries, both in terms of employment and Gross Value Added (GVA). There is much to build on. The RIAS looks forward to working with a refocused A&DS, and other partners, to ensure policies in areas such as planning and procurement align to unlock the sectors full potential."

Architecture and Design Scotland will lead a period of planning and engagement to define how the recommendations will be implemented, ensuring that our work remains responsive to the needs of partners across the public, private, and third sectors.

We will continue to keep partners and stakeholders updated as we shape our future work in response to the review. 

Read the Review of Architecture and Design Scotland Summary Report here.

Read the Review of Architecture and Design Scotland Background Report here.