EXCLUSIVE: A whistleblower said staff at Historic Environment Scotland were left “demoralised” while board members “walk around like they own our castles”.Edinburgh Castle is one of hundreds of historic properties managed by HES(Image: Getty Images)

Bosses at Historic Environment Scotland face a Government probe following allegations of a “toxic” working environment.

The public body cares for hundreds of ancient monuments across the country and received almost £70 million in funding from taxpayers last year.

But a whistleblower has now claimed board members at Historic Environment Scotland (HES) “walk around like they own our castles” while ignoring staff complaints.

The Record understands at least two senior figures are under investigation over governance issues while the body’s chief executive, Katerina Brown, is on sick leave.

The Scottish Government today confirmed it was “aware of issues” at HES and said it was “working closely with the organisation to resolve these”.

An insider told the Record: “The working environment and culture at HES are toxic. Some of those at the top walk around like they own our castles and historic places.

“These are Scotland’s national treasures and we all deserve better. It has been going on for years and we all deserve better. It’s demoralising for the majority of staff who want change.

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“There have been complaints and concerns raised but nothing changes. Leaders talk about people a lot but we don’t seem to matter.”

It comes as a job advert looking for a new HES chairperson was this week posted by the Scottish Government. The ad states: “We are responsible for protecting and promoting some of the nation’s fabulous heritage assets, like Edinburgh Castle.

“We also look after some of Scotland’s outstanding collections and archives. But at Historic Environment Scotland, we do so much more – as a regulator, as a grant provider, as a research organisation and as an expert heritage adviser across a wide range of subjects.”

It was previously reported that Edinburgh Castle closed its doors to tourists for three days in January this year as part of an attempt by senior leadership to restore their relationship with staff at the world-famous site.

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union had raised concerns over evacuation procedures, fire alarm reviews, training for staff on crowd control, risk assessments, and the need for more public benches at the castle.

A source at the castle previously said: “Serious concerns were raised about safety and nothing happened.

“They eventually decided to close the castle for three days in January 2025, which cost hundreds of thousands, so things could be worked out. Instead, we were talked at, patronised, and given massages – staff are still furious at this waste of money.”

A spokesman for the Scottish Government said: “We are aware of issues that have been raised regarding the leadership and governance of Historic Environment Scotland.

“We are working closely with the organisation to resolve these and avoid disruption to its operational activity.”

A spokeswoman for HES said: “We are proud of the dedication and professionalism of our staff, who are central to our success.

“Staff wellbeing remains a top priority, and we are committed to maintaining a positive and respectful working environment and have robust procedures in place to ensure any concerns are addressed appropriately.

“We are aware that issues have been raised and while we cannot comment on individual personnel matters, we can confirm that we are working closely with the Scottish Government to ensure continued strong governance and leadership across the organisation.

“HES remains a resilient and high-performing organisation, and we are confident in our ability to continue safeguarding Scotland’s iconic heritage sites for future generations.”

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