§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps Historic Scotland has taken to remove the temporary windows installed in Scalloway Castle in 1993; and if he will make a statement. [31069]
§ Mr. Macdonald[holding answer 2 March 1998]Historic Scotland installed temporary windows in Scalloway Castle in a trial to establish their efficiency in reducing erosion caused by the scouring action of the wind on the masonry of the window openings. This experiment has been a success and Historic Scotland is now considering alternative designs for permanent window treatments, having regard to the general principle that they must be reversible and not damage the monument. The Agency will liaise with Shetland Islands Council on the design of permanent window treatment.