A SECTION of Port Glasgow’s historic Newark Castle has been closed over fears of falling debris.

The 15th century building could also need a new roof after decay was found in some steel beams supporting the concrete structure.

Bosses from Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which is responsible for the castle, say they have closed off a ‘small area’ inside the property as a ‘precautionary measure’.

Investigations are ongoing into the condition of the roof of the iconic Port castle, which was built in 1478.

A spokesperson for HES said: “There is a small area inside the tower house portion of Newark Castle which is currently closed, this is due to the potential of small pieces of falling debris.

“However, there is still access to the roof of the castle and it is still possible to see in to the section that is closed.”

The Tele was told that after an in-depth survey of the concrete slab roof some decay was detected in the embedded steel beams.

This led to the inside area being closed as a precautionary measure. HES chiefs are currently in the process of looking at options to replace the roof but nothing has been confirmed so far.

A source told the Telegraph that the castle – or parts of it – might have to be closed for up to two years to allow for urgent repairs.

HES did not comment specifically on this when asked by the Tele.

Officials stressed that it is not unusual for the condition of such an historic monument to deteriorate due to a variety of factors including its age, exposure to a variety of weather conditions, pollution and wear and tear due to it being an attraction open to visitors.

Climate change is also a major concern for conservationists with sites across Scotland now subject to warmer and wetter conditions.

The site where the castle stands was acquired by marriage in 1402 by a branch of the powerful Maxwell dynasty and they remained its lords until 1694. The castle itself dates back to 1478 but was remodelled several times over the following century by successive members of the family.

It is described as ‘among the best secular buildings’ to survive from the Renaissance period.

Three years ago Inverclyde councillors agreed to spend £28,000 on a new LED lighting system to show off the castle but officials ditched the plans citing ‘archaeological issues’.