Since 1990, the Buildings at Risk Register has been active in Scotland in response to a concern at the growing number of listed buildings in Conservation Areas that had been left vacant and had fallen into a state of disrepair.
The Register, which is managed by Historic Environment Scotland, aims to protect these buildings, many of which are at risk of being lost forever.We take a look at 12 listed buildings which have fallen into the “at risk” category and might not have a future in the long term unless something is done to stop the rot.
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1. Tron Kirk
Brought back into use in recent years by Edinburgh World Heritage, the city’s medieval Tron Kirk has been a focal point of the High Street for centuries, but remains at risk. The 17th century kirk was added to the Buildings at Risk register in 2003. Photo: Julie Bull
2. Watchtower in New Calton Burial Ground
Having kept watch over the numerous ancient graves at New Calton Burial Ground since 1820, conservationists are hoping this B-listed landmark can be make it another 200 years. While deemed “low risk” the watch tower’s condition is poor and it was added to the register in 2012. Photo: Jane Barlow
3. Victoria Swing Bridge, Leith
Built in 1874, the Victoria Swing Bridge once provided a useful link between the docklands either side of the mouth of the Water of Leith. Now in a derelict state, the swing bridge was added to the Buildings at Risk register in 2018. Photo: Photographer: Scott Louden
4. Shrubhill former tram depot
There were plans to transform the remaining buildings of Shrubhill’s former tramways depot for residential use, but these have been on hold for the best part of a decade. The B-listed, red sandstone former depot was added to the Buildings at Risk register in 2012. Photo: BILL HENRY