Residents left furious after illegally parked caravans return to historic site

Oliver Partridge
Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:12:14 +0000

Residents have been left furious after an unauthorised encampment containing multiple caravans returned to a protected archaeological site.

The ancient location in Newbridge, Huly Hill, contains a stone circle and burial cairn believed to date back approximately 4,500 years to around 2500 BC.

Locals from Newbridge and Ratho Station said that despite the site's protected designation, it has become a repeated target for illegal camps.

The Newbridge and Ratho Station Community Association is now demanding swift action to remove the current encampment and properly secure the perimeter of the prehistoric ceremonial ground.

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One resident said: "The community went to great lengths to secure this site because we knew the risks.

"To see that effort undermined is heartbreaking for everyone who cares about our local history, and remembers how much environmental damage the last travelling community caused."

An unauthorised encampment at the site last year resulted in an extensive clean-up operation, with volunteers removing rubbish, abandoned fridges and human waste from the area.

In response, the local community association obtained donated concrete barriers from a nearby company to block access to most of the site.

Residents claim they had previously warned City of Edinburgh Council that a wooden fence on the southern boundary remained a weak point.

They believe the latest incursion occurred via Old Liston Road, with fencing damaged to allow vehicles onto the protected land.

Police Scotland and the council have been accused of responding too slowly, while other locals report feeling intimidated when trying to visit the site.

Concerns about potential environmental damage remain high among residents who fear the area could once again be left strewn with significant waste.

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Archaeological investigations at Huly Hill in 1830 revealed the remarkable extent of the ancient site located just eight minutes from Edinburgh Airport.

Excavators discovered a burial mound spanning 30 metres in width, which contained cremated human remains alongside a weapon.

Three standing stones were also uncovered, each reaching heights of approximately two metres.

Archaeologists believe these stones formed part of a prehistoric ceremonial complex used by communities living in the area some four and a half millennia ago.

Tim Pogson, convener of housing, homelessness and fair work at City of Edinburgh Council, said: "I completely understand and share concerns that residents have raised.

"Officers will be visiting the site today to assess the situation and determine what immediate steps can be taken."

He added that much of the land is owned by the Scottish Government, and the council would continue working with partners towards longer-term solutions.