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.
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