Project Objectives

A ‘Battlefield Trail’ that combines a guided tour of the landscape with a versatile and accessible source of relevant information that inspires the visitor, commemorates the sacrifice of the fallen and protects the site for the benefit of future generations.

Critical Success Factors

The following Critical Success factors have been identified

• The ongoing costs for site maintenance must be self funding. 
• The development of the site must comply with current Public Access, Health & Safety and Planning regulations.
• The site must be recognised and respected by the local community.

Project Scope

The site of the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge should not become as high a profile as that of Culloden, Bannockburn or Pinkie and should not be compared with such. The scale and importance of the engagement is, in comparison to these seminal conflicts, a lesser event. However it is a reasonable aim of the project for the site to be considered as the ‘best of its class’ as defined by the Scottish Battlefields Gazetteer 2005 published by the Battlefield Trust.

The development of this site must be considered as part of the wider development of the Burgh’s cultural and historic heritage. The project team recognise the great benefits that can be realised in combining this development with the overall plan for the town’s future development.

The bridge at Linlithgow has been associated with many other military engagements. Its strategic location means that any army passing along the High Street at Linlithgow must secure the bridge less its capture by the enemy would seriously impedes its process. Such was the case during Cromwell’s campaign of 1650 and the Jacobite Rising in 1745. However, this project will not include the commemoration of these or any other military activity within its scope.

Outline of Project Deliverables
 
The following high level deliverables have been identified:

A website – This will be the primary source of information about the trail and the battle. It will have the history of the battle, links to a number of trail guides suitable for different audiences, links to other local history and battlefield sites and a list of further reading and references. It will also provide a point of reference for the project stakeholders throughout the projects duration. The site will facilitate easy updating, completely secure and retain the potential for future expansion. Funding will be required to ensure its upkeep and future development.

Up to 6 ‘Trail Pamphlets’ downloadable on request from the website and available for retail. These will include a Battlefield Trust Guide for the Military Historians, a Children’s Guide, a Teacher’s Guide and a Tourist’s Guide (multi lingual).

Up to five plinths and display panels associated with the pamphlets but capable of being read and understood in isolation. These must be vandal and weather proof.

Up to five viewing sites housing the display panels and plinths providing a suitable environment to view the battlefield and associated features.

A monument for the fallen on both sides with suitable environment for reflection, commemoration and contemplation.

Suitable signage to ensure the trail can be safely navigated.

Suitable peripheral signage to indicate the location of the trail and promoting the facilities. This may include signage viewable from the railway.

Access to toilet facilities and vehicle parking.

Artwork that commemorates the battle, enhances the understanding of the site and reflects the impact the battle has on local culture and heritage.

A formal declaration of ownership by the authority responsible for the ongoing upkeep of the site, facilities and structure.

Exclusions

The facilities will be provided free of charge. There will be no requirement for control of access or policing of the site.

Constraints

Currently the quarry site, owned by RMC Aggregates, is still classified as an open site and access by the public is strictly forbidden on Health & Safety Grounds. However local residents often use the land for recreational use.

The battlefield is bisected by the Avon Heritage Trail. This provides ready access to the site and will form a major part of the walk. Any development of the site must conform and be agreed with Trail’s coordinators.