A Scottish Site of Special Scientific Interest of global significance in the history of geology, has received a boost from UK oil and gas company Siccar Point Energy.

Named after Siccar Point in the Scottish Borders, the oil and gas operator has formed a partnership with Edinburgh Geological Society to back its efforts to improve the visitor experience around the remote site.

Siccar Point Energy has provided funding for helpful information signage and 20,000 leaflets to increase awareness about the unique and important features of the site. The company is also exploring further opportunities to enhance the site with the Edinburgh Geological Society.

Siccar Point is famous as the site where, in 1788, Edinburgh based natural scientist James Hutton found the decisive evidence he sought for his Theory of the Earth – the never-ending cycles of creation and destruction that shape our landscape today. This theory overturned the last vestiges of the Biblical account of a world shaped by the receding waters of a universal flood. Controversial in its day, Hutton’s work is now a foundation stone in the science of geology.

The Edinburgh Geological Society is working with heritage organisations and universities on plans to mark the 300th anniversary of James Hutton’s birth in 2026, and to celebrate Hutton’s legacy in subjects including agriculture, meteorology and geology.

Doug Fleming, Chief Financial Officer of Siccar Point Energy said: “As an oil and gas company geology is at the heart of what we do. Hutton is an inspiring example of a scientist who followed the evidence and defied the conventional wisdom of the day. It’s a great example for a young company and a fascinating piece of Scottish history to preserve and to continue learning from.”

Bob Gatliff of Edinburgh Geological Society added: “The support from Siccar Point Energy will make a tremendous difference to our plans to preserve and promote the area. Our long-term ambition is to do more to support the education and tourism potential at Siccar Point and this is a great first step in that direction.”