Calls to save Broughty Ferry castle as future of 500-year-old attraction looms

A Dundee councillor is ramping up calls to save Broughty Ferry Castle as a decision on the future of the 500-year-old attraction looms.

In 2024, its operator Leisure and Culture Dundee (LACD) proposed to shut the historical attraction in a bid to save around £80,000 per year.

However, a decision was subsequently taken by councillors to postpone a final decision on the closure.

They then agreed to extend the lease with Historic Environment Scotland for a further 12 months when they met in February last year.

But a final decision on the future is yet to be made.

Now, Broughty Ferry representative Craig Duncan is calling for Dundee City Council to commit to funding the facility for at least three years.

This, he says, would give LACD and the new Friends of Broughty Castle group “a firm foundation to continue to build footfall” and expand activities.”

“There has been and remains a very real threat to the continuance of the museum at Broughty Castle,” he said.

“I think this year’s budget is the time for the City Council to properly commit to the castle and museum to give it a long-term and viable future.

“It makes zero sense to continue this ridiculous uncertainty facing this vital attraction, which draws in visitors and residents alike to support employment in the currently vibrant Broughty Ferry business area. “

He added: “There are many individuals and organisations who wish to support and develop this remarkable castle and its museum, but the shroud of uncertainty is unhelpful and impacts long-term planning.

“Therefore, adequate and sufficient support needs to be made for the next few years.

“This would allow for the excellent work the Friends of Broughty Castle and Leisure and Culture Dundee is built upon to ensure the castle and museum can continue to grow visitor numbers and give it a sustainable future.”

Council leader Mark Flynn made assurances that talks around the future of the castle have taken place and will be discussed further at the council’s upcoming budget-setting meeting.

In a statement, council leader Mark Flynn said: “As a result of the support provided by the SNP administration in last year’s budget, the castle has remained open right through the peak summer months, and further support will be provided with external lighting being put in place in the next few weeks.

“During this whole process, my colleague, Councillor Cordell and I have proactively attended various meetings with interested community groups in the Ferry, as well as LACD and HES.

“These discussions have been very constructive, and I am keenly aware of the aspirations of the community groups in particular, as we work towards setting this year’s budget.

“We will also await any proposals by other political groups, should they choose to present a budget.”