Dunblane residents have hit out at “unsightly” metal fencing which has been cordoning off graves in the grounds of the town’s historic Cathedral for two years.
In 2020 Heras fencing was put around gravestones considered unstable by Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the body responsible for the Grade-A listed building’s upkeep.
However, residents say no work has been done to secure them since. They feel the fencing is an “eyesore” which spoils the visitor experience of tourists and those taking part in ceremonies at the Medieval church.
St Mary’s Court resident David Mercer told the Observer: “For the last two years the graveyard has been cluttered with unsightly fencing following the discovery of some 150 gravestones (over half the total) that have been deemed to be unstable.
“However, it is my understanding that not a single gravestone has been rendered safe, primarily due to the absence of dialogue with the burial plot owners.
“These issues are the responsibility of Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and I have been verbally assured that action is being taken to remedy these issues in a timely manner. But the passage of time and the virtual absence of progress suggests otherwise.”
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Some well meaning local residents have secured bunting to the fences to try and improve the look.
Mr Mercer said the condition of the Cathedral’s clock which has worked “sporadically” over the last few years was another concern.
Dunblane Community Council member Andy Mitchell, who lives nearby the Cathedral, this week said the fencing issue has been raised several times at meetings.
He added: “The Cathedral is a wonderful tourist attraction for Dunblane, but the graveyard looks a mess at the moment.
“The Cathedral is also used for weddings - and I don’t imagine couples will want to see Heras fencing in their photographs.
“We want this important building to look attractive. This issue has been dragging on for far too long.”
Dunblane Cathedral predominantly dates from the mid 13th century. Substantial restoration of the Gothic building took place between 1889 and 1893.
A Historic Environment Scotland spokesperson said this week: “The gravestones are part of ongoing safety compliance work and the area has been barriered off for public safety as sensitively as possible.
“We have also taken steps where possible to contact family members prior to undertaking any works on the headstones as well as obtaining suitable permissions and this can take some time.
“There are however, works planned later in the year, including reducing some areas of fencing which should alleviate the visual impact on the site. However, at present, the health and safety of those visiting the site is our core priority.
“In relation to the Cathedral clock, we are actively looking into options at the moment, however, there is an issue with obsolete parts which we are trying to resolve, and hope to be able to update on this as soon as we can.”
