SPP Consultative draft

The Scottish government are inviting comments on Scottish Planning Policy, which affects everything to do with the planning process in Scotland, including Cultural Heritage. The draft policy documents and where to send comments to can be found here. 

Article for EWHT Journal

I was recently asked to write an article for the Edinburgh World Heritage Trust's first ever journal. It turned out to be a  nice little publication and one that is great for reading over a coffee -  if you can get your hands on a copy. Go to www.ewht.org for further details. 

Repairs to the Robert Burns Monument

I was fortunate enough to be invited to the Burns Monument while repairs were being carried out to the structure. In having the opportunity to climb up the scaffolding and view the structure up close, it was fantastic to be able to see the detail of Thomas Hamilton's designs for this structure.

Detail of the cupola roof covered in imitation laurel leaves, which is taken from Stuart and Revett's Choragic Monument of Lysicrates - This can also be found on the Alloway Burns Monument.

Detail of the sejant, winged lions (not griffins, as they are described in Edinburgh's Buildings of Scotland guide) which support the finial. According to Joe Rock, in his publication on Thomas Hamilton's work, these are based on Charles H. Tatham's "Etchings of Ancient Ornamental Architecture", dating to 1806.

Detail of a lion water spout, situated at the wallhead guttering

Detail of the scrolled copings.

Many thanks to the City of Edinburgh Council and Ediburgh World Heritage Trust for allowing me to carry out this fascinating visit.