The Castle of St John is more than just a historical landmark; it is the heart of our community and a beacon for our town's rich history. Each season, tourists flock to see this majestic site, contributing to our local economy and helping sustain the vibrancy of our town. The castle's presence energizes local businesses and keeps our historical narratives alive and accessible.

The Dumfries and Galloway Council is yet again considering the closure of this invaluable seasonal tourist site. This action not only threatens the cultural fabric of Stranraer but could severely impact our local economy, dependent as it is on the influx of visitors who come to explore historical sites like the Castle of St John. The castle not only provides a direct source of income but amplifies the value of surrounding local businesses—every visitor who comes for the castle often stays for the hospitality of Stranraer, dining in our restaurants and purchasing from our shops.

Moreover, closing the Castle of St John would deprive future generations of a key educational resource. Schools often take field trips to the castle, allowing children to learn firsthand about the history that shaped their environment. Losing this resource would be a profound disservice to our children and their educational journey.

Research from Historic Environment Scotland shows that historical attractions are vital to preserving cultural heritage and promoting tourism. The Castle of St John is no exception; its closure could lead to a decline in Stranraer's tourism making it an unappealing choice for future investments. This could spark a detrimental cycle of economic downturn that would be difficult to recover from.

We urge the Dumfries and Galloway Council to reconsider the potential closure and explore alternative measures that safeguard this historical site while balancing budget constraints. Solutions such as community management, partnerships with tourism boards, or diversification of funding sources could be explored to keep the Castle of St John open and thriving.

The Castle of St John is not just a tourist attraction; it is a symbol of our community's resilience and strength. Sign this petition to show your support and urge the council to keep this treasure open for generations to come. Let's stand together to preserve the Castle of St John and, with it, Stranraer's historical and economic future.