From Feasibility to Delivery

Working with elementscotland on behalf of the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, I undertook feasibility work exploring how traditional skills training could be developed and delivered in Eyemouth.

The project brought together partners, employers, community organisations and potential learners to understand both the opportunities and challenges surrounding traditional skills development locally. Through stakeholder engagement, research and practical planning, the work examined how heritage skills training could contribute to local employability, regeneration and long-term community resilience.

The feasibility study identified strong demand for accessible, practical learning opportunities linked to real projects and local heritage. It also highlighted the impact that could be achieved by adopting an approach that connects training, heritage conservation and community benefit.

Importantly and most rewardingly, the work did not stop at the report stage. The findings helped secure support for a pilot programme, which has since moved into delivery through the Building Traditional Skills Eyemouth initiative. The project is now providing hands-on opportunities for participants to develop practical skills while contributing to the conservation and future of Eyemouth's historic built environment.

This project reflects the type of work I enjoy most: listening to communities, bringing people and partners together, developing evidence-based recommendations, and helping turn ideas into practical action.

You can read the Feasibility Report here.