'Orkney Gateway' World Heritage Site consultation reminder - and new online survey

Local people are being reminded to take a closer look at proposals for the future management of the world-renowned Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site (WHS) - and give their feedback via an online survey option newly added to the consultation website.

The survey and background details about the ‘Orkney Gateway’ programme proposals can be found at www.orkney.gov.uk/orkneygateway

The Orkney Gateway programme is aimed at providing a better and more sustainable experience of the WHS for all. A major part of the programme is to foster a sense of ownership and connection to the landscape and monuments which includes world-famous Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe chambered tomb.

Proposals include measures such as improved signage, technology to monitor visitor numbers in real time and ‘apps’ to suggest alternative attractions, ‘active travel’ routes, e-bike chargers and welcome facilities, alongside coach permits and charging at some car parks to help generate income towards upkeep of the WHS.

It is being funded by a joint investment of up to £6.5 million from the Scottish Government and UK Government (SG £5.5 million/UKG £1 million), as part of the Islands Growth Deal – a ten-year investment programme jointly funded by the UK and Scottish governments, the three Island Councils (OIC, Shetland and Western Isles) and their partners from the public, academic and business sectors.

Feedback from the public will be used to develop a final ‘Outline Business Case’ for the ‘Islands Deal’ funding announced earlier this year by the UK and Scottish Governments.

There are two in-person consultation events planned for early October:

• Tuesday 5 October at Maeshowe Visitor Centre, Stenness from 17.00 – 21.00
• Wednesday 6 October at St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall from 13.00 – 17.00

Comments can be emailed to worldheritage@orkney.gov.uk or in writing to: Orkney World Heritage Site Gateway Consultation, Development and Infrastructure, Orkney Islands Council, Council Offices, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1NY.

The closing date for feedback is 15 October 2021 at 5pm which will enable partners to revise and submit the final Outline Business Case for the Orkney Gateway Programme to the UK and Scottish Governments before Christmas 2021.