Several historic properties in Ayrshire are to be inspected to assess the condition and the impact of climate change on them.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the public body responsible for 336 historic buildings and sites, is rolling-out the new programme in response to concerns over the deterioration of high-level masonry caused by several combined factors, including the materials used during construction, age, physical location and climate change.

Inspections and sample surveys conducted by HES last year uncovered a range of decay on high-level building fabric, creating a risk of falling masonry and potential injury.

The surveys will provide a detailed and accurate picture of properties’ condition and will inform a subsequent programme of repairs, conservation work, adaptation measures, and interventions.

Dr David Mitchell, director of conservation at HES, said: “Our changing climate since the 1960’s has accelerated the natural process of decay and the nature and location of some properties makes them particularly susceptible.

“Our response to this situation requires us to evolve our approach and what we are finding will increasingly become an issue for many building owners across Scotland.

"We have developed an approach to allow us to prioritise sites based on health and safety first and foremost, as well as the benefits that properties generate for local communities.”

The sites being assessed in Ayrshire and Arran include Lochranza Castle, Dundonald Castle, Loch Doon Castle, Crossraguel Abbey, and Maybole Collegiate Church.

While work is taking place, HES say that some sites will only be partially open to the public where it is safe to do so. Dundonald, Lochranza, and Loch Doon castles, Maybole Collegiate Church, and Crossraguel Abbey are all currently closed.