Green Calls for Strategic Review of Castle Operations
Sutherland MSP David Green is urging Historic Environment Scotland (HES) to conduct a strategic review of the community benefits associated with Urquhart Castle. Speaking at the Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee meeting this week, Green highlighted the importance of integrating the site more closely with local communities and expanding the range of events held there.
Green’s call for a review focuses on how the site’s operation, investment, and commercial activity are structured. He argued that these elements should be evaluated to maximize local economic, cultural, and community benefits derived from the historic landmark. The MSP emphasized that the current framework requires scrutiny to ensure that the wealth generated by the fortress translates into tangible gains for the surrounding area.
Visitor Numbers and Revenue Estimates
Urquhart Castle, a medieval fortress located on the shores of Loch Ness near Drumnadrochit, is reported to be Scotland’s third most popular tourist attraction. According to Northern Times, the site attracts more than 500,000 visitors annually.
Local estimates cited in reports place the annual revenue generated by the castle at £6 million. Despite these figures indicating significant popularity and economic activity, Green maintained that a formal review is necessary to ensure those benefits are adequately distributed to the surrounding community. The disparity between the high volume of tourism and the perceived lack of local return has been a central point of contention in recent discussions regarding the management of Scotland’s heritage sites.
HES Response and Support from Colleagues
In response to Green’s proposals, Historic Environment Scotland CEO Stephen Uphill stated that Urquhart Castle is a key asset for the organization. Uphill noted that this assessment applies to all sites managed by HES and emphasized the need to understand how to maximize returns on such assets. The leadership of the heritage body acknowledged the strategic value of the Loch Ness site while outlining their broader approach to asset management.
A spokesperson for HES described Urquhart Castle as a nationally important heritage attraction and a significant asset. The spokesperson committed to considering Green’s points during ongoing planning processes for the site, indicating that the organization is engaged in dialogue regarding future operational strategies.
Green’s call for a fresh look at the castle’s management received support from fellow MSP Andrew Baxter. Baxter echoed the demand to examine how the castle is run and where its investments are directed, aiming to identify further opportunities for local events, jobs, and businesses in the region. The bipartisan nature of the request underscores a growing consensus among local representatives that the economic model surrounding Urquhart Castle requires adjustment to better serve the Sutherland community.