Historic Scotland is to play a major role in the advancement of Gaelic after its plan to promote the language across the country was officially approved.

The agency's five-year Gaelic Language Plan has been accepted by Bord na Gaidhlig, the government body responsible for supporting Gaelic in Scotland.

The Plan will support the use and learning of Gaelic within Historic Scotland, and promote the language through the agency's interaction with other organisations, stakeholders and customers across the country, and where relevant, around the world.

Practical steps will include incorporating the language into its daily operations – including bilingual services, such as Gaelic signage at some properties, the production of bilingual publications, and the appointment of a Gaelic Language and Policy Officer to take the plan forward, all of which are already in place.

Existing Interpretation at selected Historic Scotland sites, such as Carnasserie, Dunadd, Iona Abbey and Inverlochy Castle, will be replaced with signage incorporating Gaelic, complementing those sites already offering the service.

Some sites offer Gaelic guide books and audio guides, and these will be expanded to other attractions.

Staff are to be offered Gaelic learning opportunities, and the language will increasingly be used within the organisation for everyday activities.

Historic Scotland's acting chief executive, Ian Walford, said: "Gaelic is a fundamental part of Scottish culture, and we at Historic Scotland are keen to support its promotion and recognition, not only as an important part of our country's heritage, but also as a living language."