The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland (AHSS) has been accused of “abdicating its responsibility” after officials revealed they will not object to the proposed demolition of Perth City Hall.
Taxpayers have stumped up tens of thousands of pounds to maintain the vacant building since a private firm was given permission to create an upmarket shopping centre on the site in 2005.
The plans were mired in controversy and, despite numerous promises and false dawns, the company behind the ambitious proposal was finally removed from the project last summer. Nevertheless, the council’s subsequent determination to demolish the Grade-B listed Edwardian landmark has been described as “short-sighted in the extreme.”
Local businessman Vivian Linacre — a member of the AHSS — said he is disgusted that the group decided not to object to the proposals, and has tendered his resignation.
“The AHSS has forsaken its duties,” he said. “The city hall is an immensely important B-listed building in the Beaux Arts classical style.
“It is just over 100 years old, and in excellent condition despite the council’s wilful neglect.”
He said it was ironic that the council decided to celebrate the burgh’s 800th anniversary and “demonstrate its credentials for the coveted city status by knocking down the city hall.”
Mr Linacre said he was shocked and saddened by the AHSS’s position on the building.Disappointed”I naively hoped the society might have bestirred itself to form an official view on such an important issue,” he said. “I am disappointed by its silence, and do hope it is not a broken reed.
“The decision to demolish was scandalous and has national implications,” Mr Linacre continued. “The AHSS’s abdication of responsibility — in denial of its very raison d’etre — adds to the disgrace.”
Mr Linacre, a founding member of the British Council for Shopping Centres, said he tendered his resignation from the AHSS with great sadness, but felt he had little option.
The society’s decision not to object to the demolition of Perth City Hall was confirmed by its director, Laura Gutierrez.
“I have spoken to the convener of the AHSS’s Perth and Kinross cases panel, Bill Beaton, who has informed me that the panel has decided not to object to the demolition of the hall,” she said. “The AHSS will not be making any further comment on this issue.”