LONDON, ENGLAND.- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Accredited in Building Conservation (AABC) yesterday signed an agreement for the joint development of a register of architects experienced in building conservation. The aim of the collaboration is to improve professional standards and competence in the specialised field of historic building conservation and repair, and to provide an enhanced service to heritage bodies and clients.
 
Building conservation sits within the wider context of building repair and maintenance – this sector of the construction industry is valued at £28 billion per annum across the UK. The scope of the business, and recent changes by heritage bodies to their conditions for conservation grants, have provided the impetus for this collaboration. The AABC has considerable experience of assessing and accrediting architects in the conservation sector. The RIBA promotes excellence in architecture and architects in the wider context, and represents the profession nationally – thus being able to help promote and deliver the aims and benefits of the joint register more widely.
 
The register, entitled The RIBA Register of Architects Accredited in Building Conservation (AABC), is a list of UK registered architects who have been assessed and accredited as having the required specialist knowledge and experience of historic building conservation and repair. Both English Heritage and Historic Scotland have imposed conditions on grant aided work, making it a requirement that works of repair and conservation are expedited under the direction of a registered architect accredited in building conservation. The only accredited conservation register for architects in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, recognised by the relevant historic building bodies, is the RIBA Register of Architects Accredited in Building Conservation (AABC).
 
Speaking about the partnership and the register, George Ferguson, RIBA President said: “This is an important move that marks the RIBA’s renewed involvement in the historic building sector. I am determined that we put ourselves at the centre of this process, in order to contribute fully and ensure that through good architecture we help protect and enhance our historic buildings and areas.”
 
Robert Chitham, Chairman of the AABC added: “Partnership with the RIBA is a great step forward. Whilst the Register has become firmly established over the past three years, it is fitting that our own professional institute should take a direct part in its development; the credentials of the Register will be greatly enhanced for both architects and the users of our services.”
 
The register is open to all UK registered architects who have been accredited by the AABC. The register is for individual architects, not practices. All architects registered on The RIBA Register of Architects Accredited in Building Conservation (AABC) will have been appraised and assessed as to their individual knowledge and experience in conservation work.