Orkney public thanked for World Heritage Site enthusiasm
(Article date: Friday, February 29, 2008)

Orkney residents have been thanked for their help and enthusiasm in developing the new world heritage site management plan.

Some 40 people attended a public meeting in the Stenness school last Thursday evening.

Presentations were made about the work that has taken place so far in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site and on developing the new management plan for 2008-13.

Those attending then formed three workshop groups to discuss key issues and put forward their own ideas.

Sabina Strachan, Historic Scotland's World Heritage Site co-ordinator, said: "I would like to thank everyone who came to the meeting. They clearly cared a great deal and were very enthusiastic about the future of the world heritage site.

"It exists not just to protect Orkney's fabulous archaeological heritage, but to provide economic, social and educational opportunities for all.

"That makes it all the more important that as many voices as possible are heard before the draft plan is finalised and put out to public consultation."

Issues raised included a desire for more direct dialogue between the partners running the WHS and the community. In response Historic Scotland now hopes to hold a further public meeting during the public consultation period.

There were also calls to ensure that all information about the site is widely available and produced in clear, straightforward language.

Historic Scotland would like to thank Harvey Johnston of Orkney College for volunteering to chair the meeting and ensuring that the evening ran smoothly.

• The draft plan will go through a formal six-week public consultation period from May to June. Once this is complete the plan, which will govern the running of the site from 2008-13, will be finalised and published.