Increased security after incidents of heritage crime
Dundonald Castle, the 14th century stronghold which was the residence of descendants of Robert the Bruce, has suffered a spate of recent incidents of anti-social behaviour and damage.
The Castle, which is in the care of HES and operated by the Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO, has been subject to a series of break-ins in recent months, which have resulted in damage to security equipment and fires being set within the site. Dundonald Castle is legally protected as a Scheduled Monument, and damage to the site is classed as a heritage crime.
In response to these incidents HES has deployed increased security measures on site, with hoardings and anti-climb paint added to the scaffolding currently on site, as well as the installation of additional CCTV cameras.
Heritage crime can cause irreparable damage to historic sites potentially robbing us of our history. These incidents also divert resources away from vital conservation work to our sites and monuments.
Robin Johnston, Head of South Region at HES, said:
“Incidents such as this, where individuals have put both themselves and our precious heritage at risk, are unacceptable.
Heritage crime can cause irreparable damage to historic sites, potentially robbing us of our history. These incidents also divert resources away from vital conservation work to our sites and monuments.
“The historic environment belongs to all of us, and we work closely with local communities to raise awareness of the impacts of heritage crime and how we can work together to tackle it. We would urge any members of the public who witness types of incidents such as this in the future that they get in touch with Police Scotland on 101; or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.”
About Historic Environment Scotland (HES)
We're the lead body for Scotland’s historic environment, a charity dedicated to the advancement of heritage, culture, education and environmental protection. We are at the forefront of researching and understanding the historic environment and addressing the impacts of climate change on its future. Across Scotland, we investigate and record architectural and archaeological sites and landscapes and care for more than 300 properties of national importance. HES is also working with sector partners to deliver Scotland's strategy for the historic environment, Our Past, Our Future.
Historic Scotland, trove.scot, The National Collection of Aerial Photography (NCAP), The Engine Shed, Stirling Castle, Edinburgh Castle and Stòr are sub-brands of HES.
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For further information, please contact:
Historic Environment Scotland Communications Office
07721 959 962
communications@hes.scot
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