OPINION: Dingwall’s Macdonald Monument ‘could become a valuable local attraction again’
The Hector Macdonald Monument is a huge asset to Dingwall, not just as a memorial to Sir Hector, but as a fantastic viewpoint which most towns would be envious of.
It is shameful that it has lain locked up for so many years, so I was pleased to read your report (RSJ, December 27) on further efforts to finally have it re-opened to the public.
As a child in the '80s I remember being able to borrow the key from County Buildings - amazing how opinions on public safety have shifted over the years, when back then a group of primary school bairns could have the freedom of the Monument with no questions asked.
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I have been to many places over the years with much more questionable public safety than the Macdonald Monument - which already has all the basics. Whatever is deemed to be lacking surely isn't insurmountable - and in this regard I believe the political will is more of an obstacle than the financial challenges.
With some freshening up, interpretation boards on the history and the views, and a means of encouraging visitors to park at the bottom where possible, the Monument could become a valuable local attraction again.
Craig Mackay
Troon (originally Dingwall)
We need to learn lessons from the past
The prospect of the iconic Macdonald Monument in Dingwall being reopened has prompted a lot of discussion:
The GlenWyvis GoodWill Fund awarded a grant to DCDC To train volunteer Guides for the Monument but problems with Highland Council and their attitude ment that project fell through.
Highland Council needs to get this sorted.
I am aware of the challenges and would not want to glorify MacDonald's or our part in the UK's Imperial past but this is an important story that needs to be told warts and all.
We all need to learn lessons from the past.
Jock Ramsay
Glen Wyvis Distillery
Letters to the editor and online comment are compiled weekly in the print edition of the Ross-shire Journal. You can write to us at the address on that page or email hector.mackenzie@hnmedia.co.uk
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