HHA: from strength to strength

After four years, Richard Compton will step down as president of the Historic Houses Association (HHA) to be succeeded by current deputy James Birch of Doddington Hall in Lincolnshire. Mr Compton’s tenure has seen a barrage of tax measures chip away at the ability of private owners to keep historic properties in a state of repair. Nevertheless, at the organisation’s AGM this month, he pointed out that HHA members generate £1 billion each year for the national economy and are responsible for some 70,000 jobs. ‘The HHA is a means of representing the views of independent owners of the country’s most significant houses to those in positions of power,’ says Mr Compton. ‘Whether in Westminster, Holyrood, Cardiff or Belfast, it’s vital that the HHA’S voice is heard. We must mobilise our strength through continuing to work with our partners, such as Historic England and the Heritage Lottery Fund.’