Historic England produces an annual report on Heritage. Their latest publication "HERITAGE COUNTS 2017 Heritage and Society" is a very interesting read.
The following quote is a sampler...
"Heritage:
1. Heritage plays an important part in our well-being and quality of life – 93% of residents say that local heritage has an impact on their quality of life.
2. Heritage supports social cohesion and inclusion – People can develop much stronger, long-lasting connections with their communities through heritage conservation work.
3. Heritage improves places – 80% of people think local heritage makes their area a better place to live.
4. People value heritage – 73% of UK adults agree that the UK government has a moral obligation to protect our heritage."
Source : HERITAGE COUNTS 2017 Heritage and Society
You can download the report at the following link: https://historicengland.org.uk/research/heritage-counts/2017-conservation-areas/heritage-and-society/