Land activist puts case to government

A LAND reform campaigner has submitted evidence to Holyrood calling for it not to allow ownership of the Princes Mall shopping centre to pass from the city council to Rangers tycoon Sir David Murray.

The Evening News revealed last month that, under the Scottish Government's proposed land reforms, ownership of the former Waverley Market would have to pass to Sir David's Premier Property Group - with compensation likely to be only 2.60. Under the Long Leases (Scotland) Bill, the change of ownership would be required because PPG's lease has more than 175 years to run.

In his submission, Andy Wightman, who argues that the site is common good land - a claim being investigated by the council - said: "If the (justice] committee accepts that common good property should be exempted then some way needs to be found of ensuring that no property can be converted where the status is unclear."