News / Heritage sites urged to review security ahead of busy summer season
HERITAGE sites in Scotland have been urged to take steps to prevent being a victim of crime ahead of a busy summer tourism season.
Shetland News reported in April that four instances of vandalism had occurred at historic sites in Shetland over the past two years.
A freedom of information request to Historic Environment Scotland (HES) found that three of the four incidents took place at the Clickimin Broch, with the other at Lerwick’s Fort Charlotte.
In April 2023 large stones from the Clickimin Broch were used to break the bottom two steps of stairs, while in May that year more extensive damage was discovered.
On that occasion two bannisters, three spindles and three treads to the stairs were damaged, and stones from the broch had been pulled out.
Meanwhile in January 2025 damage was noted to one of the external walls at the broch, with stones removed and rubbish placed in a hole.
And also in January, damage was discovered in an area of Fort Charlotte that was fenced off for public safety.
Specialist heritage insurer Ecclesiastical has urged Scottish heritage sites to protect themselves ahead of a busy tourist season, warning that some sites have had to be closed due to the damage.
Ecclesiastical Insurance customer segment director Laura Carter said: “In recent years we’ve seen thefts from heritage properties increase – causing damage to items and places of real historical significance.
“There are a number of measures heritage organisations can take to better secure property and assets, which would ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection.”
The company has encouraged heritage owners to move portable valuable items away from doors and windows, and from the building perimeter.
It also said the location of electronic security measures, such as CCTV systems or alarms, should not be advertised online to prevent planned attacks.
And it said to watch for visitors acting suspiciously, and to ensure the perimeter of the building is secure.
