Our surroundings matter. The historic environment contributes to successful regeneration because people enjoy living in old places with a story to tell. The historic environment is an asset not a liability. It attracts companies to locate, businesses to invest and tourists to visit. Market values in historic areas are higher than elsewhere. Heritage is the bedrock of our tourism industry. The historic environment is sustainable. Re-use of historic buildings minimises the exploitation of resources. There is evidence of lower maintenance costs for older houses. New development occurs in historic settings, not in isolation. High quality and imaginative new design that relates to its context will have greater aesthetic, economic and social value. We should provide, as well as preserve, significant places for future generations.