Over 4,000 years of history to be inspected in Shetland

These tactile inspections, which involve checking masonry by hand, form part of a nationwide programme by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) to assess the effects of climate change, in combination with other factors, on historic sites with high-level masonry over 1.5 metres. While this is not an issue unique to Scotland, HES is believed to be amongst the first heritage organisations to adopt this approach and have been sharing programme findings with sector peers. 

Stuart McFarlane, Team Leader for High-Level Masonry Inspections at HES, said: 

“The high-level masonry team are looking forward to getting out on-site in Shetland to inspect the stonework at these historically important places. These inspections are vital to help review the condition of the masonry, which can become susceptible to changes in our climate, as well as inclement weather – something we see a lot of in Shetland.” 

"Surveying the stone by hand, in combination with modern technology, can help us to further understand and look after these monuments for generations to come."

Pre-inspection work has already taken place, which included assessments of access methods, ecology and ground archaeology. These assessments ensure the inspections can be carried out safely for both the teams and the monuments themselves.  

Results from the surveys will help to inform any necessary remedial repairs as well as future conservation work at sites across Scotland.   

Due to the different characteristics of the sites, the team will employ a range of access methods to carry out the inspections, such as ladders, rope access and Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs). Inspections will take place throughout the summer and into the autumn to help utilise more settled weather conditions. Additional access restrictions are not anticipated at the sites, but some localised restrictions may be temporarily put in place to allow the team a safe space to work. 

• Clickimin Broch

• Fort Charlotte

• Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

• Mousa Broch

• Muness Castle

• Scalloway Castle 

Scalloway Castle remains closed to visitors while essential conservation works take place.  

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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