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Motion · S6M-19930 · 25 Nov 2025

Supporting Traditional Building Skills to Save Eyemouth’s Historic Buildings

Lodged by Rachael Hamilton (Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party) Standard Motion 24 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament notes the introduction of a new pilot training scheme in Eyemouth aimed at addressing what it sees as Scotland’s growing crisis in traditional building skills; recognises reports that the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT) has warned that a nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople in areas such as masonry, joinery, plastering and roofing has left hundreds of historic municipal buildings in a state of disrepair; acknowledges that in Eyemouth alone, a dozen buildings dating back to the mid-18th century require urgent maintenance; welcomes the launch in January 2025 of a 20-week introductory course that will train up to 14 people in traditional skills through practical work, including repointing and window-sill repairs, at the category A-listed Gunsgreen House; notes SHBT’s intention to extend the programme with additional training phases and to create clear pathways into employment for participants; understands that the course is open to anyone aged over 16, from school leavers to those retraining, with taster sessions already under way in the town; praises the work of local practitioners such as stonemason Jo Crossland and trainer Kevin McClure, who are helping to equip a new generation with essential skills, and calls on the Scottish Government to ensure long-term support for traditional building skills training, recognising its importance in safeguarding Scotland’s built heritage, strengthening local economies and preventing further deterioration of historic properties in communities such as Eyemouth.

Supporters (24)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.