David Barton, a campaigner for the heritage and future of Sefton, is urging as many people as possible to take part in two online government inquiries. He describes these consultations as a rare opportunity to influence future legislation, particularly regarding how the 'built environment'—historic shops and homes—works alongside the 'natural environment'.
HM Treasury and the Economics of Climate and Nature
This inquiry examines how the government's spending rules and economic priorities, such as GDP, account for environmental sustainability. MPs are investigating whether the economic value of forests and oceans is being measured properly alongside traditional finances. Barton believes this is the perfect platform to advocate for the 'restoration and reconstruction' of carbon-rich older buildings. By providing feedback, the public can push for support packages that help property owners choose restoration over demolition, ensuring buildings like Crosby Park House remain a feasible reality. The deadline is 5:00pm on 21 May 2026. The inquiry can be accessed at https://committees.parliament.uk/work/9753/.
The Tourism Inquiry
This inquiry explores the resilience and growth of the UK's tourism sector. It examines how the government can reach its goal of 50 million overseas visitors by 2030 while managing challenges like rising energy costs, wages, and potential tourist levies. Barton highlights the 'co-dependency' between beautiful natural landscapes and historic architecture as a unique selling point that drives the local economy. The deadline is 11:59pm on 18 May 2026. The inquiry can be accessed at https://committees.parliament.uk/work/9732/.
Barton stated: "Both of these consultations are particularly relevant to the national situation facing the UK and indeed Ireland. I am therefore encouraging as many people as possible to provide submissions, especially contractors, property owners and traders, as there is a direct correlation between the economy, environment and ecosystem." He added: "Any one person may have a completely different take from their own life experiences to date, however with rising academic studies being undertaken it is becoming abundantly clear now that the environment can become a strong economic impetus for growth if properly utilised and valued."
"Should this lead to eventual improvement in supply chains, restoration, reconstruction and new construction comprising carbon rich energy efficient components then this will prove a worthwhile outcome for everyone ranging from central government to the wider community for generations to come," he said. "Where a mutually supportive route can be provided for property owners that deters financially against demolition and in fact authentic reconstruction of lost buildings as they were, this will be a gamechanger for the nation and Ireland."
