Plans unveiled for the future of Orkney’s ancient sites

A dedicated orientation centre, walking and cycling routes, extensive parking and toilets could finally arrive at Orkney’s most famous archaeological sites, as part of a £10 million funding bid.

Next week the community will get its first look at the proposals for the Orkney World Heritage Site programme — a joint effort by Orkney Islands Council (OIC) and Historic Environment Scotland.

In this week’s edition of The Orcadian, online now and in shops this afternoon, we take a look at the plans, which could involve a 122-acre plot of land in Stenness bought by OIC earlier this year.

Elsewhere in the newspaper, we reveal that more money has been provided for the efforts to eradicated stoats, after the invasive species spread to Rousay.

More inside:

• Donna and Gregor do Orkney proud at awards.
• Emotions run high in inclusive education row.
• ‘Fuel stockpiling’ as new isles cable delayed.
• Ruby Rendall to bring family home for Christmas gig.
• Highland dancers fling their all into theatre show.
• Holiday lets threaten to ‘throttle’ Stromness.
• Sailing school has Orkney in its sights.
• Beef scheme leaving small producers behind?
• Energy switching advice offered as winter looms.
• Plans lodged to refurbish Kirkwall ‘eyesore.’
• Beach racers rev up for £5k prize.