Propose a site for inclusion in the Inventory or for review or removal

Anyone can suggest a garden or designed landscape to be included in the Inventory. A proposal can be made by email or post and the proposal form can be found at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/listinganddesignedlandscapesproposalform.pdf. A garden or designed landscape already in the Inventory may also be reviewed or considered for removal.

Basic information is required for considering the case. This should include a brief description of the garden or designed landscape, up-to-date photographs and any historical information about the site. Details on any planned change to the garden or designed landscape would also be helpful.


Once we receive a proposal, research is then carried out. This usually includes a site visit and a detailed photographic record. The aim of the research is to assess the proposal against the Inventory criteria which include: value as a work of art, historic value, horticultural value, architectural value, scenic value, nature conservation value and archaeological value. Full information on our selection criteria, which includes condition and integrity, can be found on pages 81-82 of the Scottish Historic Environment Policy document at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/shep.

When undertaking research into a garden or designed landscape, a wide range of sources may be considered and, depending on the proposal, this stage can take a number of weeks to complete. If we find that the site does not meet the criteria for the Inventory, we will write to the relevant parties at this stage.


Following research, we consider the merit of the garden or designed landscape and reach an interim decision on the proposal. If we find that it may be of national interest we prepare a draft Inventory description and boundary map. The local authority is then consulted along with the owners, where possible. In some cases, where specialist knowledge is required, we may seek the view of an independent third party. If we find that an existing Inventory garden or designed landscape no longer meets the criteria we will also consult with the local authority and owners. We will also consult on proposed changes to the designation boundary. Consultation usually takes around one month, although for more complex sites this stage can take longer.


Following consultation we meet to discuss the responses and make a final recommendation whether or not to include the garden or designed landscape in the Inventory.

If it is to be included, the site is added to the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland. The Inventory is available to search online through our website at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/gardens.


Our booklet The Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland – A Guide for Owners, Occupiers and Managers provides more information on the Inventory and is available on our website at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/heritage/gardens/gardensguidance.htm.

We are happy to provide further guidance on all aspects of the Inventory process and you can contact the Listing and Designed Landscapes Team by writing to us at Historic Scotland, Longmore House, Edinburgh EH9 1SH, by email at hs.gardens@scotland.gsi.gov.uk or by telephone 0131 668 8705/8701.

Summary of the Inventory process [pdf, 197kb]