Conserving Historic Gardens: Fid-Bau Portal

Conserving Historic Gardens

Sales, John

This paper defines a garden as a contrived ecological system comprising a range of plants interacting with one another, with other living organisms, and with the site and climate; all within a semi-permanent structure of land form and buildings. Conservation is a continuous process that involves assessing the full significance of what exists, and arranging for the more important features, qualities and processes to be retained in the long term. The meaning of ‘significance’ in the context of historic gardens is discussed, based on survey, research and analysis leading to a full knowledge of the site. Arising from a statement of significance, principles of conservation can be formulated in relation to present circumstances, changed use and the need for adaptation and development. The structure and content of a full conservation plan are described in order to provide long-term guidance on the upkeep, development and renewal of the garden as a whole, and of each identifiable part, based on historic precedent, perceived ideal, constraints and opportunities.