Campaign to halt Inverleith Park sell-off

The Friends of Inverleith Park group has sent an open letter to the city council pointing out that the community is strongly against the depot area being sold to build homes.

And they said they would consider taking the matter to court if the plans went ahead.

Campaigners believe a housing development would damage the open aspect of the park and ruin its views over the Old Town skyline.

Save Inverleith Park said the land could be put to much better public use.

Nigel Bagshaw, who sits on the board of Stockbridge and Inverleith Community Council, sent the letter to the council's Economic Development Committee on behalf of campaigners following a public meeting between residents.

He said: "We recently conducted a public meeting to get a feel, in a wider sense, of what the community thought was appropriate use of this corner of the park, and how strongly they felt about it being sold off.

"This is the question that the council didn't bother to ask us.

"We feel very strongly that this site should be retained for public use. The site has always been within the boundaries of the park. Once it is sold to a private developer, this public land is lost forever."

Mr Bagshaw also admitted that the Friends of Inverleith Park were unhappy they had not directly been made aware of the council's plans, and questioned whether the land can legally be sold.

He said: "We believe that Inverleith Park is part of Edinburgh's Common Good Land, and we have asked for clarification from Edinburgh council chief executive Tom Aitchison. We plan to pursue this matter through the courts if necessary.

"Inverleith Park is recognised as one of Edinburgh's premier parks, part of a 'green corridor' in the middle of the city. We plan to fight any planning application.

"However, we would prefer to work with the council to come up with a more imaginative and resourceful community-led solution."

Save Inverleith Park campaigner Pam Barnes, from Stockbridge, added: "I think it is very short-sighted. The land belongs to the city and it should be used by the people. They used to hold workshops, and there were sheds and nice benches in the depot."

MP Mark Lazarowicz said he was fully backing the campaign. He told the Evening News: "The park is enjoyed by thousands of people each week. Although this development is not in the main park, It takes away a facility that is enjoyed by many people. Campaigners are asking for the council to work closely with them and have a sensible discussion."

A spokesman for the city council said: We can confirm that we have received the letter. As with all potential surplus buildings or land, the council is obliged to look at redevelopment potential, and to consider how to obtain best value for the city. That notwithstanding, we will obviously listen closely to any local suggestions."