Roz McCall asked the Scottish Government what action it is taking to accelerate the reopening of sites currently closed due to inspections by Historic Environment.
In 2022, Elcho Castle closed due to Historic Environment Scotland inspections with still no known re-opening date. Elcho Castle is a fantastically preserved tower house dating back to the 1500s, it is a favourite spot for family day trips.
Ms McCall feels strongly that the Scottish Government should take action to ensure a rapid reopening of Elcho Castle in time for the summer.
Every year, the historic environment sector is responsible for contributing over £3 billion to Scotland’s economy and Elcho castle has a major part to play in that, especially in Perth.
In addition to Elcho Castle, visitor attractions such as Aberdour Castle, Culross Abbey and Dunfermline Palace remain closed to the public. All of this because of high level Historic Environment Scotland inspections. This is of detriment not only to locals who wish to visit these beautiful attractions, but also to the local economy which relies on the footfall and income generated by these attractions.
Roz McCall MSP said:
“Elcho Castle has been enjoyed by families from across Scotland and indeed the world, for generations.”
“The re-opening of Elcho Castle is absolutely vital for the local economy, the tourism generated by Elcho Castle brings major footfall to the local area, and it is crucial that the Scottish Government takes action to accelerate the reopening in time for this summer.”
“After a very difficult few years for the economy, the fact that so many fantastic attractions across Mid-Scotland and Fife remain closed is an outrage.”
“It is clear that this government does not care about the impact that these closures have on the tourism sector.”
“I am calling on the Scottish Government to take urgent action to ensure that these attractions are open in time for the summer.”
“The last few years have been difficult for local businesses, we must support them in anyway possible, and the reopening of Elcho Castle would play a huge part in that.”
