Linlithgow A Recent Incomer's Perspective
Peter Fairweather - January 2006
There is no doubt in my experience that the motto of the Royal and Ancient
Burgh of Linlithgow which says that 'St Michael is kind to strangers' is as
appropriate today as it was centuries ago when it was first adopted. The Town of
Linlithgow with its reported over one hundred societies, clubs and groups
provides a wonderful opportunity for meeting people and taking part in the
community interests. The wide range of activities in the Burgh reflects the
multi-faceted nature of the Town's long history.
Having spent much of my working life with responsibility for the care and
preservation of old buildings in an area within a 'Designed Landscape' of
National importance it was not unnatural that I should join the Linlithgow Civic
Trust where I have been made very welcome. My old home town was also a proud
Royal Burgh with Mary Queen of Scots connections, has had 'bypass' discussions
and, until recently, major car parking problems. It was also one of the first -
and best preserved - designed towns pre-dating Edinburgh New Town by about 17
years! However, Linlithgow is not a 'New Town', it was not razed to the ground
in the 18th century to be replaced by a new grand design reflecting contemporary
tastes. With its roots dating back to at least the 12th century Linlithgow
possesses a unique heritage leading us from mediaeval times to the 21st century.
As a recent incomer, however, I confess to being dismayed and surprised that
as the Town has expanded very significantly over the past 25-30 years adequate
consideration appears not to have been given to the management of the increased
traffic. Accommodating the motor car in ancient towns is no easy task for our
planners but if the problems are not to be addressed as a matter of urgency the
pride and joy of the Town - the High Street and adjacent buildings - will
suffer. The National Planning Policy on planning and the historic environment
provides a guide to the objectives.
Cars are, of course, the life blood of our modern economy and without them
visitors would have limited access notwithstanding the Town is probably unique
in having not only excellent bus and train services but it also, of course has
an 'intercity' canal connection. Motor vehicles do, however, cause pollution and
vibration damage to old buildings in particular and their presence in such large
numbers does undoubtedly spoil the fuller appreciation of the architectural
heritage of the area and restricts its further presentation to the interested
public.
Many towns and villages have successfully excluded vehicles from their
centres and at the same time increased visitor numbers to the attractions and
most importantly the small shops that bring so much character to such towns. I
believe it is incumbent on the Scottish Executive, West Lothian Council and
local interested groups to prepare new and imaginative initiatives to solve the
traffic and parking problems in the Ancient and Royal Burgh of Linlithgow so
that the residents of today can play their part in preserving their heritage for
future generations.
Have Your Say!
If you want to express your own opinions on relevant issues, whether or not
in response to Richard Toleman's article, please send them to the Secretary or
email them to newsletter@lct.org.uk.
We will include them here if we feel that they are relevant.
The opinions expressed here are those of the relevant authors and do not
represent the views of Linlithgow Civic Trust.
|
