Wales’ story is often told through our landscapes, townscapes and in the countless historic buildings and ancient monuments that are all around us. According to major new research published today [Friday 9th October], these historic places, known as the ‘historic environment’, support nearly 18,000 jobs and contribute more than £738million to the nation’s economy every year.
The study, carried out independently by AMION for Cadw (the Welsh Government’s service which cares for some of the country’s beloved historic places) examined the economic, social and wider value generated by historic sites, museums, parks, landscapes and heritage organisations across Wales.
It estimated that not only does the historic environment support jobs for tens of thousands and contributes almost three quarters of £1billion to the Welsh economy every year, but there are more than 13 million visits made annually to historic sites and accredited museums.
Beyond the economic impacts, the study found that the sector generates more than £107million of social value each year through volunteering, visits, education and community engagement.
Across Wales, volunteers contribute more than 902,000 hours to heritage annually, generating an estimated £9.8million in wellbeing value.
The research also explored the value people place on heritage even when they do not visit sites themselves, finding that many expressed pride simply from knowing historic places continue to thrive.
The study highlights a wider shift across the sector towards inclusion and accessibility, exemplified by Cadw's £1 ticket initiative for people receiving Universal Credit, which has allowed significant numbers of first-time visitors.
The Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport, Heledd Fychan, said:
This research confirms what many of us have long believed; that our historic environment is not a luxury or an afterthought, but a vital part of what makes Wales strong, distinctive and connected. This evidence reinforces that heritage and culture alike should be treated as part of Wales' national infrastructure, alongside other essential networks.
The report also notes that these benefits depend on continued investment and participation, with climate pressures, skills shortages and maintenance challenges all posing risks to the historic environment.
Dr Kate Roberts, Chief Executive of Cadw, said:
This study gives us a clear and compelling picture of the true scale of heritage's contribution to Wales. Caring for our heritage is not just about preserving castles and monuments, it is about the jobs they support, the volunteers who give their time, and the pride that communities take in their local history.
This autumn, the Welsh Government is calling for evidence to help shape its new Culture and Sport Strategy for Wales which will set out a 10-year vision for culture, heritage, the arts, creative industries, sport and physical activity.
Every person, community or organisation is being urged to share their views on the current state of culture and sport, to shape a shared national vision and identify the practical actions needed to realise Wales' ambition of becoming a cultural and sporting powerhouse.
To submit your views, head to gov.wales and search for ‘A vision for culture and sport in Wales’.