Councillors are expected to agree a list of works to restore historic monuments later this week.
On Thursday Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure committee will discuss plans to create a database of local landmarks throughout the region, including the work needed to safeguard them.
It follows on from months of work to poll councillors about what should be protected by the authority.
The completed list includes scheduled monuments, listed buildings and non-designated heritage assets.
In Banff and Buchan, this accounts for 18 graveyards, 37 buildings and 44 monuments.
Stephen Archer, the council’s director of infrastructure services, is now urging councillors to sign off on the database and calling for them to approve a list of prioritised work to prevent assets from crumbling into disrepair.
In his report, he said: “Given the vulnerability of all heritage assets it is considered that the prioritised list will be subject to ongoing review, particularly given the added risks of unforeseen damage, such as from floods or fires.
“Currently, if an asset has health and safety concerns the minimum works are done to ensure public safety.
“If elements of the structure are dismantled they are to be re-instated where feasible thus preserving the built heritage portfolio of Aberdeenshire.
“However given the potential number of structures in this category, this approach may need to be reviewed in the future.”
Work to be pushed through before the end of this financial year includes the cleaning and repointing of New Pitsligo’s war memorial, replacement works to Banff’s Biggar Fountain, and the stabilisation of Macduff’s town cross.
Funding for the projects will be sought through the council’s historic assets management budget and match funding from external sources such as Heritage Lottery Fund or Historic Environment Scotland.
The restoration of Banff’s B-listed Biggar Fountain has already been estimated at £10,000.
Damage to the fountain includes vandalism and the use of “inappropriate materials” in previous repair works.
