Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has commenced high-level masonry inspections at Dunfermline Abbey and Palace to assess the impact of climate change on the historic fabric.

The inspections involve specialist teams utilising a range of techniques, including abseiling and a 73-metre Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) to reach the highest points of the Abbey spire.

Grant Black, High Level Masonry Programme Manager at HES, stated that the inspections are part of a nationwide programme to evaluate the effects of climate change on historic structures with high-level masonry.

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Grant Black, High Level Masonry Programme Manager at HES, said: "The inspections at Dunfermline Abbey are part of an ongoing programme looking at the impact of climate change on historic structures, in combination with other factors. The spire on the Abbey stands at roughly 40 metres high, making it the tallest site we’ve inspected so-far, which means we need to employ a number of different methods at the site to carry out the inspection programme. These tactile inspections, which also involve checking masonry by hand, are helping us to examine the Abbey in different ways and will help to manage the site for future generations."

To facilitate the works, a minor road closure will be in place on St Catherine's Wynd until 17 January.

Dunfermline Abbey, dating back to the 11th century, will remain open to visitors during the inspection period, with occasional safety cordons in place.