A north-east castle that inspired the famous novel Dracula has secured listed building status after a 10 year battle to protect it for future generations.
Slains Castle near Cruden Bay is now a B-listed property after Historic Environment Scotland (HES) awarded the cliff-top structure the accolade.
The award recognises its special architectural interest from its origins in the 16th century and its remodelling in the 19th century, as well as its famous links with Bram Stoker.
Yesterday the Port Erroll Heritage Group welcomed the move stating that it would make it “difficult” for developers to build near the site.
A business consortium was given the go ahead to transform the ruined fortress into holiday apartments several years ago but the approval has since expired.
Mike Shepherd, the heritage group’s spokesman, said locals in nearby Cruden Bay will be “delighted” with the announcement.
He said: “There was a lot of concern about the plan for turning it into holiday homes and it seemed inappropriate.
“This listing makes it more difficult for plans like that to take hold in the future.
“The people of Cruden Bay will be absolutely delighted that Slains Castle has been listed.”
The HES website stated that listed building status is granted for properties to make sure that any changes made are “appropriate and sympathetic to their character”.
The owner will now need to apply for consent before carrying out any development work or alterations.
Retired civil servant Joe Allan, who spent childhood holidays near the castle, has been campaigning for the move for listed building status for the past decade.
The 83-year-old from East Kilbride said: “I think it is excellent news.
“It affords it protection because it sits high above the cliffs on the North Sea and is fully exposed to the elements.
“Now I would like to see it brought into the care of the nation as a historic monument as it is a marvellous structure.
“I don’t give up easily as I’ve been working on this since 2008.”
Elizabeth McCrone, head of designations for Historic Environment Scotland said the new status would protect the building.
She said: “New Slains Castle is a fantastic addition to Scotland’s diverse range of listed buildings.
“This impressive ruin has four centuries of history to tell us about and it is remarkable, not only for its architecture, but also for its literary associations.
“Today, it continues to dominate the landscape and command views over the North Sea – making it a unique landmark in the area.
“Listing will help to ensure that its interest is recognised for future generations.”
