New Lanark World Heritage Site
Why New Lanark is protected and how it is cared for
New Lanark is a special historic place, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2001. It is a carefully restored 18th‑century cotton mill village located near Lanark, beside the Falls of Clyde. People from around the world visit New Lanark to learn about its history, its community, and its global importance.
This page explains why New Lanark is protected, who looks after it, and how it is managed for the future.
Why New Lanark matters
New Lanark was founded in 1785 by David Dale and later managed by Robert Owen, a pioneer of social reform. The village became internationally known for its innovative approach to workers’ welfare, education and housing. These ideas helped shape social and industrial reform across the world.
Because of its global importance, New Lanark has special protection to make sure it is carefully managed and passed on to future generations.
Who looks after the site
New Lanark Conservation Trust was formed in 1974 and is an independent registered charity. The Trust is responsible for restoring, caring for and developing the village, working with partners to balance conservation, tourism and community needs.
Draft Management Plan (2025–2030)
New Lanark World Heritage Trust, with support from the council and Historic Environment Scotland, has prepared a new five‑year Management Plan.
This plan sets out how the site will be protected, managed and monitored between 2025 and 2030. It:
- identifies key challenges and priorities
- includes feedback from local communities and stakeholders
- sets out actions to protect the site’s historic and environmental value
The New Lanark World Heritage Site Management Plan is currently being reviewed, including the conservation area appraisal. A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has also been carried out to make sure environmental and sustainability issues are fully considered.
If you want more information about the New Lanark World Heritage Site or the Management Plan, you can contact the team directly. Email Heritage@newlanark.org.