Condition

3
Steatite outcrop and possible working debris:
884
SMR 485
Shetland

Description

Several small outcrops and a sheer vertical mass of steatite form part of the coast edge. The vertical face is marked with both modern graffiti and tool marks which may be of earlier date. Grass-covered heaps of stone debris are strewn towards the base of the cliff and may derive from quarrying. There is little evidence of the 'extensive' workings described by RCAHMS and OS surveyors, and it may be that the area has been damaged by erosion. 30/08/15 Found site as described by RCAHMS and OS with extensive workings stretching approximately 30 metres at mid level of cliffs and for 30 metres to the sea edge. Scores of bowl and box shapes have been cut in addition to other odd shapes, tool marks and graffiti. Large debris field runs from the left side toward the sea as well where large accumulations mix with blocks which have fallen away though difficult to discern what is natural erosion. Greatest threats are continued graffiti and erosive forces due largely to land collapse rather than sea action.

Location

437764.00
1194461.00
27700
60.6317139
-1.3116013

Submitted photographs

Image Date Caption User
Isle of Fethaland detail of workings 30/08/2015 Isle of Fethaland detail of workings SteveJ
Isle of Fethaland detail of workings
Isle of Fethaland detail of workings 30/08/2015 Isle of Fethaland detail of workings SteveJ
Isle of Fethaland detail of workings
Isle of Fethaland 30/08/2015 Isle of Fethaland SteveJ
Isle of Fethaland
Isle of Fethaland 30/08/2015 Isle of Fethaland SteveJ
Isle of Fethaland

Submitted updates

Update id Date User
2208 30/08/2015 SteveJ
Tidal state Mid
Site located? Yes
Proximity to coast edge Coast edge
Threats visitor erosion; structural damage/decay; other
Other threats Site is gradually eroding and falling apart in large measure due to the nature of the steatite deposit.
Visibility above ground Highly visible (substantial remains)
Visibility in section Clearly visible in section
Access accessible on foot (no footpath)
Local knowledge is well visited
Description Several small outcrops and a sheer vertical mass of steatite form part of the coast edge. The vertical face is marked with both modern graffiti and tool marks which may be of earlier date. Grass-covered heaps of stone debris are strewn towards the base of the cliff and may derive from quarrying. There is little evidence of the 'extensive' workings described by RCAHMS and OS surveyors, and it may be that the area has been damaged by erosion. 30/08/15 Found site as described by RCAHMS and OS with extensive workings stretching approximately 30 metres at mid level of cliffs and for 30 metres to the sea edge. Scores of bowl and box shapes have been cut in addition to other odd shapes, tool marks and graffiti. Large debris field runs from the left side toward the sea as well where large accumulations mix with blocks which have fallen away though difficult to discern what is natural erosion. Greatest threats are continued graffiti and erosive forces due largely to land collapse rather than sea action.
No action required because threats are related to section collapse and graffiti, not coastal erosion. Remove from priorities. Consider putting up sign to prevent graffiti.

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