The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Charity faces call to reopen ancient broch
Western Isles representatives are calling on Historic Environment Scotland (HES) to prioritise the reopening of a broch as the patience of local residents “is finally running out”.
Dun Carloway Broch on the Isle of Lewis has been closed to the public since 2019 over safety concerns.
The broch, a tower believed to have been built in the 1st century AD, was sealed off after a visitor had a fall on the site.
Essential restoration work is required before the attraction can reopen.
Almost three years on, the “patience” of local residents is wearing thin.
Island representatives are now calling on the agency to make good on its promises to help boost tourism in the region.
MSP Donald Cameron has written to chief executive Alex Paterson demanding answers surrounding the reasons behind the delays.
In his correspondence, he says the closure has forced tour coaches to stop visiting the site, leading to a downturn in trade for local businesses.
He said: “After nearly three years, the patience of the local community is finally running out.
“Dun Carloway is an essential part of the tourist offering here and we cannot afford to let this go on, and certainly not into the visitor season.
“We accept that the Covid restrictions have caused delays but that hasn’t prevented building work taking place elsewhere.
“I am asking HES to provide me with a date by which the work will be completed so hospitality and tourism providers can make their own plans.”
The “tourist magnet” was closed by HES following a review of the masonry.
Investigations found potential structural issues and some loose high level masonry, forcing HES to restrict public access.
Councillor, Ranald Fraser said they are simply not prepared to wait for the agency “to get their act together”. He said: “It is hugely disappointing we are still waiting for HES to complete the works.
“Our burgeoning tourism sector is dependent on landmark attractions such as the broch at Dun Carloway being fully open and accessible.
“We ‘Siarrachs’ are very proud of this unique attraction and, combined with the nearby Callanish standing stones, provides a truly memorable experience for visitors.
“We are simply not prepared to wait any longer for HES to get their act together.”
A spokeswoman for HES said: “The interior of Dun Carloway broch remains closed due to conservation works, however, visitors can still access the grounds to explore the exterior of the ancient structure.
“We carried out an initial phase of conservation works in October and November last year. We are reviewing the programme of conservation works across our estate and hope to provide an update soon.”