A public consultation has opened on a proposed Historic Environment Policy for Northern Ireland, the first of its kind for the region. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons launched the consultation, which will run from 14 August 2026 until 23 October 2026.

The draft policy sets out a strategic framework for how Northern Ireland's historic environment will be protected, accessed, and used over the next ten years. It has been developed in partnership with stakeholders.

Minister Lyons said the policy presents an opportunity to recognise the positive contribution the historic environment makes to communities and wellbeing. He noted that public assets such as listed buildings, monuments, parks, and shipwrecks are found in urban, rural, coastal, natural, and underwater locations across Northern Ireland.

He added that there is a need to improve the way this resource is managed. The consultation was developed as part of the Department for Communities' Heritage, Culture and Creativity Programme, which Minister Lyons established in 2024.

Feedback is invited on the draft vision, the proposed policy aims, and emerging issues including skills, outreach, and the role of the historic environment in supporting Executive priorities. The consultation closes on 23 October 2026.