The use of GRO in Edinburgh in doubt.

[Forfarian]

I'm not sure who thinks that Sighthill Industrial Estate is easy to get to, unless you happen to live close to the Calder Road and are happy to walk in all weathers. There are buses past one end of it, and trams past the other, but no public transport that passes close to Thomas Thomson House. Also, there is already a shortage of parking in the industrial estate, and trying to get out of it in the rush hour is a nightmare.

Who says that GRH isn't fit for purpose? It is superbly fit for use by the public. It's a magnificent and impressive setting for the search rooms, conveniently sited for locals and visitors to access by bus, tram or train.

The genealogical aids on the internet are just the very tip of the iceberg. There are literally tons of documents available in the National Records over and above the BMDs on the Scotland's People web site.

[Forfarian]

I can fully understand the reason why the guidance we were given was in place over thirty years ago.

Don't misunderstand me, I am not blaming you or anyone else. Attitudes change, and things 30+ years ago were different. I am merely pointing out that with hindsight (which is, as we all know, a wonderful thing) the guidance would not now be the same as it was then.

We just have to try not to make similar mistakes again.

[apanderson]

One thing's for sure - we can put forward our own personal points of view till the cows come home but whatever happens, we'll all just have to like it or lump it. 

[Forfarian]

One thing's for sure - we can put forward our own personal points of view till the cows come home but whatever happens, we'll all just have to like it or lump it. 

Sadly, yes. But if enough of us write to our MSPs, and enough people from outside Scotland write to La Sturgeon, it just might help.

I have written to my MSP, and signed the change.org petition, even though I know it will result in further bombardment with requests to sign petitions about matters not relevant to me.

[Ruskie]

Thank you for the link to the petition Tom. I will sign.

I understand that there are valid concerns on many levels regarding this. I am particularly concerned about the fabric of the building and it's (future) intended purpose.

I understand that it is a listed building and as such there are restrictions on what can and can't be done, but turning this into a hotel, which is presumably the most likely scenario, must, by the nature of hotel layout and facilities required, substantially alter the interior.

 

[terianne]

If the GRO are moving from register House - it is a joke to suggest Sighthill - if it moves there has to be very intregated transport links, especially when a high proportion of users are older - it has to stay central

[Forfarian]

it is a joke to suggest Sighthill

If only it were a joke. It's a potential disaster.

[Albanwraig]

Thank you for the link to the petition Tom. I have signed.
I have also sent it to others who may be interested.

Who is/are the ultimate decision maker?

The Scottish Government? Edinburgh Council? Edinburgh Planning Committee? UK Government? Or some other entity?

Thanks

Helenor Jones

ps o/t The spell check really does not like my name!

[Albanwraig]

Thank you for the link to the petition Tom. I have signed.
I have also sent it to others who may be interested.

Who is/are the ultimate decision maker? The Scottish Government? Edinburgh Council? Edinburgh Planning Committee? UK Government? Or some other entity?

Thanks

Helenor Jones