Council has duty to city buildings

SIR, – So Westburn House is just like a rotten tooth that needs to be pulled (Press and Journal, January 5). Most people, of course, brush their teeth every day and visit the dentist annually for a check-up, descale and polish.

It would appear the council has not heard of preventative annual maintenance, something of which most house owners are very much aware. Why has this been allowed to happen ?

Civic pride obviously does not extend to ensuring that the legacy of one of Aberdeen’s most famous architects is passed on.

The Category A listing of the building has not done much to ensure its continued existence. While the council may not have a legal duty to maintain the fabric of the building, it has a huge moral responsibility to do so on behalf of the citizens of the city.

Over the years many fine buildings in Aberdeen have gone forever.

The council is doing its usual Pontius Pilate washing of hands in the hope the building will collapse and free them of any further responsibility.

It is time the council made good use of some of the income from the Marischal Square development to maintain this part of the historic face of Aberdeen for the future.

Archibald Simpson must be groaning in his grave.

Michael Stephen, The Cottage, South Leylodge, Kintore