Pressure has intensified on defence chiefs not to axe Fort George.
The Press and Journal today launches a paper petition to save the garrison, running in tandem with an e-petition which has already gathered more than 1,100 signatures.
From today, a cut-out-and-send-in form will be in your Press and Journal so you can show your support for our campaign.
The P&J launched the campaign after revealing that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) was reviewing the base’s future.
The MoD intends to cut its overall estate by a third to save £1billion. Its hit-list is expected to be published soon.
Fight for Fort George: Sign the petition
The 250-year-old fort near Inverness has been the battalion home to the Black Watch for nine years.
Many north politicians, business leaders and ex-service personnel have backed the crusade to save it.
Actor Hugh Grant, whose grandfather commanded the garrison after World War II, has signed up, saying he is “horrified” that the fort could go.
The Hollywood star launched a successful public appeal five years ago to raise £3million to redevelop the Highlanders’ Museum within the barracks.
Other VIPs yesterday lined up to maintain the fight.
Local SNP MP Drew Hendry, who tabled a parliamentary motion demanding the barracks’ retention, said: “People here are understandably worried about the impact closing Fort George would have.
“I have already written to the Secretary of State for Defence asking that he come here to see first-hand the impact a closure would have. I’m stepping up the campaign by getting out and about delivering petitions and asking people to sign up to save Fort George.”
North Labour MSP Rhoda Grant said: “The barracks is absolutely iconic. It’s an historic building put to practical use, which is something I’m keen to protect.”
Liberal Democrat city councillor Carolyn Caddick, a retired major with the Adjutant General’s Corps, said: “It’s vital the local community communicate how important the military presence is and do everything they can to retain it.”
Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson said: “Hats off to the P&J for this campaign and revealing the fact that Fort George is cheaper to run than other Army bases. This is no time to be taking jobs away from Highland. There would be a considerable economic impact.
“It’s also about our armed forces and the considerable loyalty and sacrifice Highlanders have made to protect the peace.”
The barracks is a magnet for 55,000 visitors annually.
