Exploring co-production in community heritage research: Reflections from the Bennachie Landscapes Project

Co-production of community heritage research is in the ascendant. aims to break down barriers between ‘experts’ and ‘public’ co-create knowledge about past. Few projects have sought critically evaluate complexities co-producing research, particularly long-term ones, composed multiple activities, which draw on differently situated groups. This paper presents a reflective analysis by university-based participants long-standing project focusing ruins locally celebrated crofting Northeast Scotland. The use archaeological archival techniques, creation an exhibition, kitchen garden, promenade drama, app, publications, provide both opportunities challenges for co-production. meaning co-production was shaped nature resulting significantly varied levels participation; its embedding, therefore, requires managing expectations. Effective relationships co-creating are outgrowth building trust, take time, patience, commitment.