19/05/2008 04:36:00
One of Scotland's finest landmarks, the Wallace Monument, is set to see its facilities improve as new building work gets underway.
The Wallace Monument, which is located near Stirling and attracts over 125, 000 visitors each year, will have a new visitor centre, restaurant and ticket office when the work is completed.
The 220ft historical landmark was unveiled in 1869 in commemoration of William Wallace, the 13th century Scottish hero. It sits at the apex of Abbey Craig, a hill in Stirlingshire, and the current developments at the site will also feature a new viewing area for visitors.
Financial backing for the construction comes from Stirling District Tourism and Scottish Enterprise, while the Clackmannanshire and Stirling Environmental Trust will provide additional support.
According to the BBC, Ken Thomson from Stirling District Tourism said: "The expectations of visitors are continually increasing and it has been some time since there was work done to improve car parking and restaurant facilities at the site.
"It also makes sure the first impression people have when arriving at the monument is really good."
The work is expected to be complete early in 2009, in preparation for the main tourist season.
Earlier this month, VisitScotland released its figures for the top free and paid visitor attractions in Scotland in 2007.
While the Wallace Monument narrowly missed out on a place in the list of the top 20 paid attractions, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park near Stirling and Stirling Castle came in fifth and sixth place respectively.