STRONG opposition to scrapping the existing two-tier system of local

government, unless the change is in the context of a Scottish

parliament, has been voiced by the Cockburn Association, the

Edinburgh-based conservation and planning group.

Citing arguments for the preservation of the status quo in terms of

planning, transport, culture, and the environment, the organisation

says: ''The present two-tier structure was introduced with good reason.

We believe it has merit, and we strongly recommend that it should not be

changed at the present time.

''We accept that it is not perfect but, if something is working

reasonably well, it should be left alone. However, if it were proposed

to introduce some form of all-Scotland authority, then we would agree

that this might take on some functions of the present regional councils

and that district-based, single-tier authorities might be introduced.''

The association, in a letter to the Scottish Secretary, insists the

question of a Scots parliament must be resolved before or as part of any

decision to introduce single-tier councils.

With particular interest in planning and transport, the association

argues that the present system of regions and districts ''is only just

getting into its stride (after 15 years)'' and says the alternative

would isolate cities from the hinterland. ''It cannot be stressed too

strongly that land use, planning, and transport must be managed

together,'' the letter adds.

If there is to be a move to single-tier authorities, the association

argues that these would have to be grouped together on a regional basis

in any case, with the establishment of joint boards for strategic

planning and transport issues.