Built to last

The spectacular building on Calton Hill was purpose-built as a school, and could and should have housed the Scottish Parliament; the last thing it is suited for is a hotel (your report, 3 February).

If Edinburgh is so desperately in need of an "arts hotel", surely the best plan to maximise the profitability of such an establishment is to demolish the totally unsatisfactory Royal High School building and begin again with modern hotel construction techniques, providing more, if pokier, rooms with the best view in Europe.

Edinburgh city council seems alarmed that the building may deteriorate from lack of use. I am surprised it hasn't thought of creating an upmarket Edinburgh Central Casino (with adjacent classrooms converted to house gambling machinery). That would certainly preserve this important building as a possible alternative to the Holyrood creation, which seems much more likely to fall down (remember, it was erected on a site riddled with old brewing wells) than Thomas Hamilton's soundly constructed edifice.

ANDREW HOOD

Eglinton Crescent

Edinburgh

While it is good news to hear that a positive use has been found for the Royal High School, it is to be hoped that any modifications do not destroy the unique character of the building or prevent its return to its envisaged role.

While the building stood firm for 140 years despite the best efforts of more than700 pupils each year, the new Scottish Parliament building is already showing signs of following the equally badly designed tower blocks of the post-war period into decay. It is unlikely to last as long, since the choice of materials and construction were never suited to the Scottish environment or to ease of maintenance.

The site, ironically part of which was once the Royal High playing fields, was chosen by Labour unionists terrified of a rise in nationalism. As the building deteriorates, it might be beyond economic repair, while the Royal High is still standing.

With the use of the aptly named St Andrew's House and the vast space upon Calton Hill, the Royal High might find it is needed to be the centre of Scottish Government.

BRUCE D SKIVINGTON

Pairc a Ghlib

Strath,

Wester Ross