Temporary closure of Smoo Cave near Durness

The Highland Council has appointed Rope Access Scotland Ltd to undertake rock stability works in the vicinity of Smoo Cave near Durness in Sutherland. The work, which commences on Monday September 30th and is expected to take two weeks to complete, includes light rock scaling, netting and bolting and will be overseen by geotechnical experts from consultants URS Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited.

For the duration of the works both the cave and paths down to the cave will be closed for public access. The eastern path to the headland and the bridge over the waterfall will be kept open except for short periods when work is taking place immediately adjoining or underneath. For their own safety, visitors are requested to follow all instructions provided on site.

The cave and its immediate environs are in the ownership of Highland Council and managed by the Planning and Development Service for the purpose of countryside recreation. Visitor numbers to the site are in excess of 43,000 per annum.

Vice Chairman of the Council’s Planning, Environment and Development Committee Councillor George Farlow said: “The works proposed are essential for the site to be maintained in a safe condition so we can continue public access to the cave so I am glad to see a date for the job has been set. The Council’s ownership and management of Smoo Cave directly supports our objective to delivery a quality tourism product in this remote and fragile area. Smoo Cave is a key site in terms of both archaeology and geology and has a unique contribution to make within the North West Sutherland Geopark. The provision of quality countryside recreation also supports the Council’s commitment to strong, healthy communities.“