National Trust for Scotland Urges Rejection of Trotting Track Proposal at Bannockburn
Scottish ministers have stepped in to review controversial plans for a development on part of the historic Bannockburn battlefield, after Stirling Council approved the proposal last month. The decision now rests with the Scottish Government, who have formally “called in” the local council’s approval for a trotting track that would be used for harness racing.
The National Trust for Scotland, a conservation charity, has strongly objected to the development, urging ministers to reject what they describe as a “damaging and unsuitable” project. The charity claims that the proposed track, which includes parking for 200 cars, would “desecrate one of Scotland’s most significant heritage sites.”
The Battle of Bannockburn, fought in 1314, was a key victory for Robert the Bruce and the Scots over King Edward II’s English army. The Trust points out that the proposed trotting track would be built near the location where Bruce’s army fought against the English vanguard on the first day of the battle.
Stuart Brooks, Director of Conservation and Policy at the National Trust for Scotland, expressed relief at the Government’s intervention, saying, “We hope that Scottish ministers will take heed of the strength of feeling here and ensure that this development is refused.”
The charity and local community members argue that the development would significantly alter the experience of visiting the battlefield, both for current and future generations, and strongly believe it should not proceed.
