‘Productive’ meeting on heritage and archaeology plans

A meeting between Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and local organisations has been described as productive by its chief executive, Alex Paterson.

The meeting was held to discuss long-term plans and opportunities for Orkney’s history, heritage and archaeology sector and included representatives from Orkney Islands Council, HIE, VisitScotland, Orkney College UHI, Scottish Natural Heritage, Orkney Tourism Group and Liam McArthur MSP.

The meeting followed the agreement with the OIC that HES will lease the former West Mainland Day Centre as a base for visitors to Maeshowe.

According to HES, the two-year lease will allow it to look at options for sustainable, long-term access to the Neolithic site in conjunction with wider opportunities for Orkney’s heritage tourism offering.

Mr Paterson said: “I’m pleased to have been able to welcome partners from across Orkney today to what proved to be some very productive discussions on opportunities for protecting and promoting the history, heritage and archaeology of the islands.

“We also had a good session with local tourism operators yesterday, and it’s clear there is a lot of passion here not just for the places in the care of HES, but for the whole World Heritage site.

“It’s encouraging to hear from partners who are keen to work with us to ensure the best possible visitor experience, whilst also protecting the island’s heritage for the future.”