<p>In recent years the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk"><em>National Trust</em></a>, Britain’s largest heritage organisation, has faced growing criticism for shifting its focus. Once dedicated to preserving historic houses, gardens and landscapes for their architectural, artistic and historical value, the Trust has increasingly emphasised ‘decolonisation’, ‘social justice’ campaigns and reinterpretations centred on Britain’s links to slavery and colonialism.</p><p>Critics argue that this approach reflects a loss of confidence in the Trust’s original purpose: stewarding the nation’s built heritage and presenting it on its own terms. Reports and public statements have spoken of “repurposing” historic houses, moving beyond the “outdated mansion experience,” and prioritising contemporary relevance over the buildings’ intrinsic qualities. At the same time, selective historical framing and changes to displays have raised concerns about the erosion of authentic engagement with the past.</p><p>A particularly stark example is the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.restoretrust.org.uk/restore-trust-issues/the-anti-restoration-of-clandon-park">Trust’s handling of Clandon Park</a>, a Grade I-listed Palladian house that was gutted by fire in 2015. Initially expected to be restored, the property is now the subject of approved plans to conserve it largely as a fire-damaged shell rather than reinstate its celebrated interiors. The scheme includes modern interventions such as viewing platforms and a new roof terrace, using insurance funds that many argue should have supported full restoration. The decision has been pushed through with minimal scrutiny — approved by Guildford Borough Council in March 2025 despite widespread objections — and has highlighted broader concerns about how the Trust interprets heritage significance and overrides member opinion.</p><p>This episode examines what is at stake for Britain’s country houses and the wider heritage sector. Has the National Trust abandoned its historic role as custodian of the nation’s cultural inheritance? What does genuine stewardship of heritage require today? And why does the confident transmission of history and beauty matter more than ever?</p><p>Joining Niall and Wendy are three guests with deep knowledge of the issues: <strong>Cornelia van der Poll</strong>, chair of the campaign group Restore Trust; architectural critic and lecturer <strong>Calvin Po</strong>; and educator and campaigner <strong>Dr Alka Sehgal Cuthbert</strong>, director of Don’t Divide Us.</p><p>The discussion explores the origins of the current controversies, the importance of beauty and historical imagination, parallels with earlier cultural upheavals, and practical ways forward—including the role of membership, education, traditional craft skills, and alternative models of heritage management such as Historic Houses.</p><p>Guest Biographies</p><p><strong>Cornelia van der Poll</strong> is a co-founder and current chair of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.restoretrust.org.uk/"><em>Restore Trust</em></a>, the campaign group formed in 2020 to encourage the National Trust to return to its core mission of caring for historic houses and landscapes. She is a former lecturer in ancient Greek at the University of Oxford.</p><p><strong>Calvin Po</strong>: is a designer, researcher, writer and educator based in London. He lectures at the Architectural Association School of Architecture and writes on architecture for publications including <a target="_blank" href="https://thecritic.co.uk/author/calvin-po/"><em>The Critic</em></a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://spectator.com/writer/calvin-po/"><em>The Spectator</em></a>. His perspective is informed by both his experience of the British Empire’s final outpost and a deep appreciation of Britain’s architectural heritage.</p><p><strong>Dr Alka Sehgal-Cuthbert</strong> is an educator, academic, author and director of the campaign group <a target="_blank" href="https://dontdivideus.com/"><em>Don’t Divide Us</em></a>, which advocates for a common-sense approach to race and against the politicisation of education and culture. She stood for election to the National Trust council in 2024 and is a founding supporter of Arts First. She has written and spoken widely on the importance of historical and aesthetic education.</p> <br/><br/>Get full access to Arts First at <a href="https://artsfirst.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_4">artsfirst.substack.com/subscribe</a>