Robert Louis Stevenson schoolhouse to be torn down

AN old schoolhouse that features in one of the best-known novels by Scots author Robert Louis Stevenson is to be demolished.

Scottish poet and writer Robert Louis Stevenson taken in 1886. Picture: Hawker of Bournemouth

The former school at Camusnacroise, Kingairloch in Ardgour, is mentioned in Stevenson’s 1886 novel Kidnapped, and is also a feature of the Stevenson Way long-distance walking route.

Highland councillors approved a planning application from Kingairloch Estate to demolish the building and replace it with a modern home.

A number voiced concern about the proposal, but accepted their “hands are tied” because the building is not listed and they could raise no legal planning reason to object.

A total of 14 objections were raised, including from the Robert Louis Stevenson Club and others interested in the literary history attached to the property.

The building is thought to have been constructed as early as 1770 and was described by planning officials as being in a poor state.

It started life as a manse and was used more recently as a popular ceilidh meeting place.

Councillors of the South Planning Committee were told by officials that discussions took place with Historic Scotland, but the organisation did not consider it worth giving ‘listed’ status.

SEE ALSO

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• Lost Robert Louis Stevenson masterpiece discovered

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