Letters: We must act now to save old buildings

Aug 7 2008

THIS week saw the demolition of yet another beautiful historic building in Bothwell, at 5 Fife Crescent. Why was this allowed?

Earlier this year, the Advertiser reported on the desperate state of this former Bishop of Motherwell's house.

It was left without a roof for 18 months and slowly crumbled in front of horrified Bothwell residents’ eyes.

It should not have been allowed to deteriorate to such a point that it was signed off for demolition. The sad fact is, however, that it's far easier and cheaper to develop an empty plot of land than it is to carefully, lovingly and respectfully restore and refurbish an existing building.

Why did South Lanarkshire planning department sanction this second demolition decision in the same year?

The same dreadful fate befell the building at 9 Old Mill Road just a few months ago.

Please Advertiser readers, make calls and write letters of disapproval to South Lanarkshire planning department.

Surely someone has to be called to question or will we see more beautiful red sandstone houses vanish to make way for 'new money' modern properties?

Bothwell resident, name and address supplied.