The future of ancient remains from a historic fort which are under threat from the expansion of a local quarry is still uncertain despite calls for it to be preserved.

West Dunbartonshire councillors are preparing to advise Historic Environment Scotland on whether the Sheephill Quarry’s fort remains should be preserved.

An application for a scheduled monument consent (SMC) which is used to ensure that any changes to monuments of national importance are appropriate, has been submitted to the government agency by operators of the quarry.

The local authority has also been asked to write to Historic Environment Scotland telling them if they think the SMC should be approved and why.

During a planning committee meeting this morning it was revealed that no details on the SMC have been provided to the council including whether or not the quarry operator intends to demolish the fort. 

It comes after plans to expand the quarry and increase operating hours were refused by councillors earlier this year. 

A Review of Minerals Permission (ROMP) to update the existing terms and conditions of the site, which dates back to 1949, were however agreed.

Historic Environment Scotland has now indicated that they require comments from the council by November 14 and the case will be referred to the Scottish Minister for review and final decisions. 

Beth Culshaw, chief officer of West Dunbartonshire Council, explained: “The SMC has been submitted by the quarry operator to Historic Scotland. 

“No details have been provided on the excavation works or if the fort is to be removed despite the council being advised these documents would be provided.

“There has been a lot of interest in the retention of the Sheephill Fort by community councils and individual representations who believe it should be retained.”

If Historic Environment is minded to grant the SMC, West Dunbartonshire Council would recommend that a strict written scheme of investigation on the loss of the fort is required with findings and recordings published online.

Bailie Denis Agnew said: “This kind of confusion has gone on since 1949. The bottom line is that we need clarity. We are talking about ancient monuments and there has to be a final decision made on this once and for all.

“I do understand the concerns of the contractor but we also have to look at the bigger picture.”