The proposed development, which included a horse-racing track, parking for more than 200 cars, fencing, and associated buildings, was set to be constructed on one of the few remaining undeveloped parts of the battlefield where Robert the Bruce led the Scots to victory over Edward II’s English army in June 1314. The site, according to experts, is close to where the Scottish king famously killed English knight Henry de Bohun in a dramatic early encounter during the battle.

Originally approved by Stirling Council in July 2024, the plan sparked significant public and institutional outcry. The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) voiced “shock and disappointment” at the local authority’s decision, arguing that the visual and historical integrity of the battlefield would be seriously compromised.

The Scottish Government formally “called in” the decision for review in August 2024, responding to widespread opposition led by NTS and backed by notable historians, including battlefield archaeologist Dr Tony Pollard of Glasgow University. Dr Pollard emphasised the historical sensitivity of the area, noting it could include key scenes from the first day of the battle.

In their ruling, ministers stated that the proposed development would “introduce new development and urbanisation in one of the few remaining undeveloped parts of the battlefield,” and would result in “a significant adverse effect on the character of the battlefield, its setting and sense of place.” They concluded that the benefits of the project did not outweigh the damage it would cause to a nationally significant heritage site and its associated listed buildings.

The government also rejected a separate application for a golf driving range in the same area, similarly ruling that it would fail to protect the cultural significance and landscape characteristics of the battlefield.

Diarmid Hearns, acting director of conservation and policy at the National Trust for Scotland, welcomed the decision, saying: “This is very welcome news for the Trust and all who care about Scotland’s heritage and history. Ministers’ conclusions closely accord with our stated views that this development was simply in the wrong place and would have badly impacted upon the setting of the battlefield.”

He added: “We hope that this decision brings this matter to an end and that the developer withdraws to a new site elsewhere that will not impinge on places of historical importance.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson confirmed the outcome: “Scottish Ministers have refused planning permission for a golf driving range and trotting track within the Bannockburn battlefield.”