Shortage of stonemasons 'posing threat to Scotland’s heritage'

Scotland is home to some of the world’s most iconic and impressive architecture – much of it built with traditional stonemasonry.

But experts are warning that a shortage of specialist trades could put the country’s historic buildings at risk.

Stonemasons in particular have raised concerns, telling STV News that a lack of apprentices and training opportunities is making it harder than ever to recruit new workers into the trade

“Even from when I started 16 years ago, we are finding there are less and less qualifying every year,” said Scott Reid, director of Stratum Masonry.

“Edinburgh College has closed recently to apprenticeships, which places issue on Glasgow. So, we are finding there are not enough masons to cover the heritage buildings we have.”

Stonemason shortage could put Scotland's architecture at risk, experts warn — Stonemason shortage could put Scotland’s architecture at risk, experts warn STV News

Attracting new blood is also proving hard and with stonemasonry, a skill often passed down from generation to generation, apprenticeships are key.

Those in the industry say there have been a decreasing number of apprenticeships available in recent years.

The job is also demanding and training takes time, while new building and modern techniques are often viewed as easier to learn.

“It’s very physical and a hard sell. It’s a manual labour job and a difficult industry,” Scott admitted.

“But what we are finding is you get job satisfaction, you get to work on some incredible landmarks, and you get to say you are part of the building’s history.”

Alexander Greek Thomson works are among buildings at risk of falling into disrepair STV News

Glasgow has some of the most historic buildings in Scotland.

Recently there have been warnings some could face demolition if they’re not restored – with skills like stonemasonry key to that work.

The lack of skilled workers can lead to a decrease in the preservation and maintenance of these buildings’ historical value.

“It’s vital we have these traditional skills,” says Melanie Hay, a conservational architect and director at Hamilton Hay VanJonker.

“19% of our building stock are traditional buildings and of that over 75% are in need of repair. In some cases and parts of the country, it’s as high as 90%.

“We need people like stonemasons, lead workers, roofers, traditional carpenters to bring the fabric of these buildings up to good repair.”