Date: 29 April 2009 BROCKLEBANK DISCUSSIONS LEAD TO A GLIMMER OF HOPE THAT KELLIE CASTLE WILL REMAIN OPEN As part of his campaign to keep Hill of Tarvit Mansion House and Kellie Castle open to the public, Ted Brocklebank, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has held further discussions with the National Trust for Scotland and Fife Council over what can be done to save these two flagship properties. He has also explored ways in which people wanting to visit the properties can get there for little more than a local bus fare.
Commenting, Ted said;
“The discussions I have held with Kate Mavor, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland, have offered a glimmer of hope over the future of Kellie Castle. The National Trust now has greater optimism that Kellie Castle will remain open this year, which is excellent news for North East Fife. However, the outlook for Hill of Tarvit is not so promising, and without major financial assistance it is likely to be faced with closure.
“Responding to concerns I raised over the threatened closure of both North East Fife properties, Fife Council has intimated that they are exploring ways in which they can assist the National Trust for Scotland in keeping the properties open to the public. While this is commendable, it is disappointing that the Council is unlikely to be able to provide any ongoing financial support to either property in the current economic climate.
“The Council outlined several ways in which it could enhance promotion of the National Trust’s properties in Fife through; joint marketing initiatives; supporting local Trust initiatives to develop greater volunteer support and local community engagement; exploring the possibilities for joint approaches to estate management; and improving the potential for educational use. These suggestions are very welcome and I hope they will provide viable options to the National Trust.
“I urge the people of North East Fife to show their support for Kellie Castle and Hill of Tarvit by making a visit to either of the properties. The public should be aware that Fife’s ‘Go-Flexi’ transport service is available for use. It acts like a taxi service and will take potential visitors from their front doors to both of the National Trust properties for little more than a bus fare. Details can be found at www.go-flexi.org.”
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