NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Use 17 September 2008 CALL FOR NEW BANNOCKBURN HERITAGE CENTRE A new Bannockburn Heritage Centre - fit to reflect the importance of the battle – must be built and opened in time for the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn in 2014: that is the call from MSP Murdo Fraser in the Scottish Parliament today. During Ministers’ Question Time, Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser asked the Culture Minister Mike Russell MSP to outline what discussions the Scottish Government has had with the National Trust for Scotland regarding the future of the Bannockburn Heritage Centre. In response, the Culture Minister stated: “It is broadly recognised by the National Trust for Scotland and by others that the visitor facilities at Bannockburn are in need of significant improvement. “The year 2014 will be the 700th anniversary of the battle. I have asked my officials at Historic Scotland to work in partnership with the National Trust to develop appropriate proposals for improving visitor facilities in time for the anniversary and to explore how more synergy between Bannockburn and Stirling Castle, which is in the care of Historic Scotland on behalf of Scottish Ministers, can be achieved. Discussions between the two organisations about the nature and scope of such a project have commenced but are at a very early stage.” In the Chamber, Murdo said in reply: “The Minister accepts that the Bannockburn centre requires upgrading, particularly when it is compared with the excellent centre that has been created at Culloden. Given that it will be the 700th anniversary of the battle in five years’ time, now would be an appropriate time to consider launching a public appeal for funds. “Will the Scottish Government work with the NTS to establish whether an upgrade of the Bannockburn centre can be brought about so that we can all celebrate and commemorate the 700th anniversary?” Commenting afterwards, Murdo Fraser said: “The Battle of Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce led a significant Scottish victory against the English on the 24th June 1314 during the Wars of Scottish Independence, is of national importance to Scotland. In five years’ time, we will mark the 700th anniversary of this battle and I want to see a new and ambitious Heritage Centre that is fit to retell the story and events of that era. “I commend the work and dedication of the National Trust for Scotland who protect and promote Bannockburn. It is time for the Scottish Government to spearhead a five-year drive to fund-raise and build a new and interactive visitor centre at Bannockburn. “The fate of the nation was decided at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 during the Wars of Independence and it is only right that we protect the site as a memorial to the men that fought and died here. It is important that we have a Heritage Centre that is fit to reflect the importance of Bannockburn.” ENDS   back to top of page