Planning

Conservation Area Enhancement

Linlithgow Civic Trust Policy (From LCT Newsletter 2004-3)

In May, we wrote to the Chief Executive of West Lothian Council, pointing out our view that the town centre does not compare favourably with other similar historic towns in Scotland in terms of street/pavement surfaces, street furniture including street lighting columns, condition of buildings, extent of floral decoration, signage, parking arrangements, etc.

In order to improve the town, set the scene for floral enhancement, and extend the work carried out to the Cross and the Kirkgate a number of years ago, we asked the Council to consider the possibility of promoting a townscape improvement scheme for the centre of the ancient Royal Burgh, either Historic Scotland or Lottery funded. The very impressive upgrading of the old town centre in Queensferry was a 'Town Scheme' funded by Historic Scotland and major improvements for Dunbar, Leith, Montrose, the Trongate area of Glasgow, West Wemyss and nearby Bo'ness are receiving, or have received, funds from the Lottery. The Heritage Lottery Fund could pay 50% or more of the total cost of eligible schemes, up to a maximum of £2,000,000.

In reply, the Council stated that it was unable to commit to such a project at present, but through the current appraisal of the Linlithgow conservation areas being carried out in consultation with the Civic Trust, there was the possibility of large-scale improvements to the town centre in the longer term. This means that, initially, Burgh Beautiful will have to work on enhancing the present environment, and we shall strive for longer-term improvements.

 

Ronald P A Smith BSc MRTPI, LCT Chairman and Planning Officer