National Trust Closures "Devastating Blow" for Area

11.00.00am GMT Tue 10th Mar 2009

North East Fife's MSP and MP Iain Smith and Sir Menzies Campbell are seeking an urgent meeting with the Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland to discuss the recent news that the Hill of Tarvit site is to be closed and Kellie Castle is to be entirely run by volunteers with a view to close.

Commenting Iain Smith said:

"This is devastating news for tourism and the local economy in North East Fife. Both of these sites play a significant role in tourism locally and the effects will undoubtedly be felt for a long to come.

"This is another example of how the recession is hitting us here and we must make every effort to support our local businesses to help weather the economic storm.

"In this year of the Homecoming it is very important that the attractions here in North East Fife remains intact."

Sir Menzies said:

"It has been well known for some time that the National Trust needed restructuring. But properties like Hill of Tarvit and Kellie Castle make a vital contribution to the local economy quite apart from their cultural and historical significance.

"I shall be writing to the National Trust asking for an explanation in relation to these two properties and making the case for their retention."

ENDS