Group ‘deeply concerned’ over battlefield plan
Dear Editor,
The 750th anniversary of King Robert the Bruce’s birth highlights Stirling’s deep historical significance and our responsibility to protect it.
Our residents’ group in Whins of Milton and Chartershall is deeply concerned about a proposed building development on the Bannockburn battlefields.
This site is where King Robert famously defeated Sir Henry De Bohun in 1314, rallying his schiltrons, leading to Scotland’s national victory and security as a nation.
We are aghast that Stirling Council would even consider a commercial development on this historic battlefield, especially after previously rejecting a cemetery nearby and as recently as this year a golfing range, partially the grounds of historical importance.
The proposed development threatens: disruption of historical integrity; environmental degradation; increased traffic noise and pollution; negative impact on tourism; cultural vandalism; lost educational and archaeological opportunities.
While we understand the needs of the trotting community and golfers who lost their facilities to new housing developments, we urge Stirling Council “tae think again” and consider alternative sites with better access and less historical significance.
Bannockburn Battlefield is a vital recreational space for the community, has the eyes of the world’s visiting tourists upon it, and must be preserved.
We fear that any development here could lead to further construction on this significant site, diminishing its greenfield status.
There has been little regard for residents’ views, although a public hearing by the planning committee has finally been scheduled for July 30.
To raise awareness, a petition has been created at www.change.org/save battlefieldofbannockburn
Protecting Scotland’s historical sites is crucial for cultural preservation, economic benefits, national identity, and environmental safeguarding.
It is essential to prioritise these sites’ preservation for the benefit of current and future generations.
On behalf of FK7 Residents’ Group
I hope that people take notice of Gill Christie’s excellent letter, in last week’s Stirling Observer, about tree planting in Stirling.
This is an important activity, for both the environment and individuals’ mental health. It is one in which I hope more people will participate and I am looking forward to the scheme being extended to other areas.
A plea however for those whose mobility is reduced. Can more benches be included? It is frustrating to have these facilities close to where one lives but impossible to use because there is no where to sit, rest, and appreciate what is about you, after having made the effort to get there, before tackling the return walk home. Benches are not a luxury but a positive statement saying that these important places are inclusive and all are welcome. Secondly, can wildflower beds, indeed any flower beds, be included within all these places as they extend the biodiversity and add colour and interest, which I am sure would be appreciated? Walter Attwood Whins of Milton