Cramond is fine

I had to check the date to be sure it was not 1 April when I read the proposal for an “Angel of the Forth” on Cramond Island and all the other “improvements” Eddie Tait is proposing for the promenade at Silverknowes (your report, 10 July). Trying to be charitable, I thought he was perhaps suffering from the heat in suggesting that Cramond-silverknowes promenade could be our Bondi Beach.

The bus route referred to has been an extension of the 29 route, not a new one. Its success will depend on no vehicles parking on the roundabout, as drivers have been doing for some time now. In the past, two buses ran along by the caravan park to Silverknowes. If they were reinstated, even for the summer months, that could bring more visitors.

The Cramond/silverknowes foreshore has always been a peaceful and enjoyable place to walk, in all seasons. People visit because of the peace and tranquillity. Ornithologists enjoy spotting the varied birdlife along the shore and river.

Historians visit the site of the Roman camp and bathhouse, the workers’ cottages and mill remains of Cramond village and, on Cramond Island, the remains of the Forth defences from both world wars. Walkers enjoy the views of Fife and the Berwick Law. They can even walk to the Forth Bridges via a coastal path on the Dalmeny Estate. It has something for everyone.

So you see, Mr Tait, people do have a “real reason” to visit Cramond. They do come in their thousands (you said you had 100,000 customers to your cafe). They come because of what we have, not because of what you think we need.

Please do not spoil this lit- tle gem in the crown of northwest Edinburgh.

BARBARA WILSON

Davidson’s Mains, Edinburgh