Lorna Slater brings debate on building a greener and car-free Holyrood Park
Ms Slater has called for a car-free Holyrood, alongside improvements for disabled access, and for greater investment and support for historic monuments, nature, and activities in the park.
Speaking ahead of the debate, Ms Slater said:
“Holyrood Park is one of the most loved sites of Edinburgh. It is known and celebrated around the world. Yet so much of its beauty has been left to fade, with historic buildings falling into disrepair, paths heavily eroded and the Radical Road closed off and nature and wildlife in decline.
“Far too many car and van drivers treat the park like a rat run which brings noise and pollution to what should be a peaceful and safe space for people. We must turn things around if we are to make the Park into the showcase of urban nature that I know it can be.
“Historic Environment Scotland has set out a high level vision for the Park, but I worry that it is a plan to create more plans, rather than something that is going to make the changes that we need to see.
“I hope that MSPs from all parties will join my debate and that we can have a positive discussion about how we can build a greener and more sustainable future for a 21st century Holyrood Park.”
The debate follows a full capacity public meeting hosted by Ms Slater in Central Edinburgh on Monday, with 150 local residents joining her to discuss how one of Scotland’s most iconic sites can be made even more special.
Ms Slater added:
“It was great to have so many people at the meeting and to be able to hear so many passionate views about the park.
“I hope that by bringing together our ideas, skills and experiences we can push Historic Environment Scotland and the Scottish Government to start fixing the problems in the park.”