The Scotsman

Time for a good, hard look at what we want centre of Edinburgh to represent

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Congratula­tions to the Cockburn Associatio­n for urging the City of Edinburgh council (your report, 18 May) to put the question of whether Princes Street Gardens should be for the peaceful, and free, enjoyment of visitors and citizens or whether an economical­ly unviable entertainm­ent venue should be revved up to pay its way, giving control of the whole gardens to a commercial operator.

It is encouragin­g to read of the council’s agreement to a full public consultati­on, as the question posed by the Cockburn Associatio­n is surely central to much recent and forthcomin­g Edinburgh developmen­t: we Edinburgh citizens are unaware of the conflict between what we (and visitors) like about Edinburgh and the commercial planning option, until we experience the results of the latter.

Venice, Amsterdam and Stockholm have their waterways, London and Paris their rivers; Edinburgh has its dramatic volcanic topography, which brings the country into the city.

In the past builders have enhanced this feature to provide defence (Castle and Old Town), civic expansion (New Town) and display (Calton Hill). Edinburgh’s distinctiv­e attraction of rus in urbe at the city’s historic heart and beyond make it a delight for both residents and visitors.

This is surely the best time of year for people to visit the garden, and be amazed anew by this world-class city centre oasis, with its dramatic backdrop, beautiful plantings, mature greenery, and ability to absorb and soothe large numbers of Edinburgh residents, workers and visitors. And to think hard about the options set out by the Cockburn Associatio­n.

JANE GRIFFITHS Middleby Street, Edinburgh

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