Introduction

The Conference’ focus on law, policy and practice in contemporary England reflects an increasing concern across the heritage, museum, arts and planning sectors that evidence-based policy is under threat. Engaging with Policy, the inspiration for this edition of the journal, is one of many attempts to promote knowledge exchange among a range of representative heritage organisations. The objective, through the agency of individual and group action is to improve the implementation of policy, inform the evidence base of policy formulation, and review its interpretation and to look ahead towards the sort of research which is needed to address the long-term future of our sector. Interpretation of policy in any administration is a key subject area with important implications for the implementation of conservation policy at local, regional and national levels. The protection offered by English law and the conservation policy instruments which underpin the framework of practice provide the focus for the papers which follow.