By Andrew Jarret

THE CAMPAIGN to secure World Heritage Site status for Arbroath Abbey has been dealt a huge blow following reports that the UK is preparing to stop nominating sites to the United Nations’ list of the world’s most important historic sites.

A report in The Sunday Times stated that not only did the UN believe that the UK had its “fair share” of sites, it also wished to concentrate on the developing world and promote the preservation of habitats such as deserts and jungles.

Westminster is also reported to be concerned at the cost of applying for and retaining the status, claimed to be £400,000 to apply for, and £150,000 per year to retain.

Abbey campaign chairman Councillor Jim Millar said, “If this is true, then it is an appalling decision.

“Campaign members past and present have worked extremely hard to raise funds, collect signatures and let the public know what the campaign is all about, and the benefits its success would bring to Arbroath.

“I would hate to see all this effort go to waste in the face of what seems to me to be something of a cost-cutting exercise, while others have suggested that the decision may well be as a result of criticism from the UN regarding the treatment of existing UK sites such as Edinburgh and London.”

Campaigners for the 12th century abbey believe it should get World Heritage status because of its links with the Declaration of Arbroath.

Mr Millar added, “It seems only three more sites are to be put forward, and they have already been selected. Personally, I would suggest some of the sites that have already gained the status do not compare favourably with the compelling arguments we have put forward for including Arbroath Abbey.

“The Declaration of Arbroath is studied across the world, and its powerful message of emerging democracy has resonated throughout history for almost seven centuries. It is utterly galling that the final nominations have been made and we are set to lose out to an aqueduct.”

Campaign treasurer Harry Ritchie was also damning of the report. He said, “It has taken a substantial effort to get the campaign this far. We have raised a considerable amount of money, which was used to buy a stand to take to events as well as promotional leaflets.

“Every member has voluntarily given up their time to work on this, and I would absolutely hate to see all of this effort go to waste.”

North East MSP Alex Johnstone has written to the Scottish Government Culture Secretary Linda Fabiani, to ask her to seek clarification on the matter.

The committee is also approaching MP Mike Weir to see if he can assist from a Westminster perspective, as the UK Government has the final say on nominations to the UN.