MODERN broch builders will take John O’Groats back to the Iron Age by creating a replica roundhouse in the tourist town.
The Caithness Broch Project, which is working to shed light on Scotland’s ancient past, has revealed the coastal site is its number one choice for the construction of a new visitor attraction.
The team was offered five sites in the east of Caithness and will now work with the John O’Groats Mill Development Trust to turn the broch dream into a reality. The famous village was chosen for its “beautiful sweeping views across the Pentland Firth, ease of access and development potential” and proximity to the North Coast 500 route.
The resulting construction could stretch up to 40 feet, with master tradespeople specialising in traditional building techniques brought in for the build.
Meanwhile, it is hoped that local people could also pick up the skills by taking part in workshops and volunteering.
However, none of that can begin until planning permission is secured, something Kenneth McElroy, chair and co-founder of the Caithness Broch Project, admits could take around two years.
He told The National, which is the scheme’s media partner: “It is a really big step forward in this project.
“We know we have made the right choice because the site is fantastic, with beautiful views across the Pentland Firth. It is historic, it is going to be sustainable and this is really exciting for us.”
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