New post as Chair of leading urban conservation and planning body

I am pleased to confirm that I will become Chair of the Cockburn Association in June, when the present Chair, Lord Brodie, steps down.

The Cockburn Association is one of the oldest urban conservation and planning organisations in the world. It was formed in 1875 and has a distinguished history in campaigning to conserve and enhance the city of Edinburgh.

I am honoured to have been appointed its next Chair. I will assume the post after the Annual General Meeting in June. I am well aware that this is an important time to take on this role. There are a number of major developments proposed in the city that are very controversial, because they fail to respect the urban context. At the same time there are sites that have lain vacant for years, despite a long-term lack of affordable housing in the city.

The Assocaition adopted a strategy in 2015 that prioritises planning, campaigning and education. I look forward to working with the Council of the Cockburn Association, its many member organisations and new partners to deliver this strategy.