Call for 'urgent' repairs at historic Caithness coastal buildings

A Caithness councillor has highlighted the need for "urgent" repairs at two historic buildings on the east coast of the county.

Matthew Reiss is worried that the remaining parts of Forse Castle could be at risk, with a "massive crack" visible in its west-facing wall, and he has also warned that Achastle-shore herring station is in a "dangerous and dilapidated state".

Councillor Reiss, who represents Thurso and Northwest Caithness on Highland Council, has brought his concerns to the attention of the public body Historic Environment Scotland (HES), backed up by a series of new photographs.

It follows a walk he did at the weekend on part of the John O'Groats Trail, southwards from Lybster. Councillor Reiss is one of the trail's trustees.

He told HES: "I was concerned to see the dangerous and dilapidated state of the buildings at Achastle-shore herring station. I note that HES designated the site in 2016 and that it is regarded as being of considerable 'national' importance as a well-preserved herring station, typical of this part of Caithness.

"The article refers to ramps leading into the sea but these appear to have been washed away. The main building is in urgent need of repairs.

"Similarly I was dismayed to find that Forse Castle, which dates from the 12th century, is in a perilous condition, with the east gable having fallen. The entire building is leaning with a massive crack visible. This is unsafe.

"Equally it is clear, even to an amateur like myself, that extremely urgent work is needed before this iconic building is lost forever.

"I am writing partly as a Caithness councillor and also as a trustee of the John O’Groats Trail which passes both sites to ask when HES will be able to carry out these urgent repairs. I presume that a schedule of planned works and/or inspections exists and would be interested to receive more details."

Councillor Reiss also referred to the Castle of Old Wick, further up the coast. Access restrictions have been in place at the cliff-top ruin since early 2022, and HES said recently that these will remain until after a stonework inspection scheduled for the autumn.

"This castle has been fenced off by HES for a lengthy period and I am hoping plans for its repair are advanced," Councillor Reiss told HES.

"These three structures are examples of the hidden historical and cultural gems found across Caithness. Tourism plays an increasingly pivotal role in our economy and it is essential our unique culture is preserved, for the benefit of all.

"I am hopeful that you will be able to reassure all those in Caithness who so value our extraordinary history."

A spokesperson for HES said: "Achastle-shore herring station and Forse Castle are not properties in the care of Historic Environment Scotland. They are sites that are scheduled monuments, the majority of which are in private or local authority ownership.

"Designating a site ensures that its importance is taken into account in future decisions about its management. More information about scheduled monuments can be found on the HES website.

"In relation to Castle of Old Wick, this is a property in our care and is a part of our ongoing high-level masonry inspections. The pre-inspection work at Castle of Old Wick has been completed and we are anticipating the inspection to take place later this year.

"Essential access restrictions at Castle of Old Wick will remain in place until the inspection is complete and the results are analysed, but we will post any updates on access to our website and social media channels."

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