The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Hospital’s decay laid bare in new images
Derelict Strathmartine site a magnet for vandals amid hopes of redevelopment
New photos showing the level of decay at the derelict Strathmartine Hospital have emerged.
The images, showing dilapidated rooms and hallways, as well as parts of the roof missing, were taken by conservationist Karen McAulay.
Ms McAulay, who has been campaigning to save the hospital, said the site was a hazard as it is still being visited by trespassers despite its “dangerous condition”.
The site is currently owned by investment firm Heathfield Ltd, who are hoping to sell it.
A spokesperson from Angus Council said: “Angus Council remains in dialogue with the owners regarding possible redevelopment of the site.
“However, the planning application that Angus Council resolved to approve in December 2014 was called-in for determination by Scottish ministers.
“Ministers have indicated an intention to grant the planning permission, but the legal agreement which is required to secure necessary developer contributions has not been concluded.
“Therefore, Scottish ministers have not issued the planning permission.
“The site is regularly visited by our building standards officers.
We remain in dialogue with Angus Council to try and achieve a solution for the site. ROBERT EVANS
“We visit to ensure the owner is taking reasonable steps to ensure that all buildings considered a danger are boarded up and not readily entered by unauthorised visitors to the site.
“Any work sought by us is readily carried out by the owners of the site who have the ultimate responsibility to ensure the site is safe.”
The former hospital and orphanage for children with disabilities closed in 2003 and has since been plagued by fires and vandalism.
Robert Evans, a partner in Muir, Smith and Evans, a developer marketing the site, said: “We have spoken to a number of house-builders and development specialists in housing to try to get interest.
“It’s too much for the current site owners to take on.
“The site is still regularly checked, made secure and maintained.
“Parts of the buildings damaged by fire last year have been cleared and openings bricked and boarded up.
“There is still a perimeter fence and regular security visits and patrols, but we are aware of illegal entry being gained and damage that has been caused.
“We remain in dialogue with Angus Council to try and achieve a solution for the site.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning to anyone considering entering the derelict hospital.
Colin Grieve, local senior officer for Dundee, Angus, Perth and Kinross, said: “For younger people, these structures can appear to be an area for adventurous play, however the danger of harm is very real.”