One of the ways that the Club can place pressure on government is to write to ministers. Last month we wrote to Kevin Stewart MSP, minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning.

Writing to ministers almost always creates a response and leads to the ministry officially stating it’s position. In our letter we asked for their present policy on heritage and planning.

The answer (opposite) is from one of the civil servants within the ministry, and while it can be seen as frustrating it does open a dialogue with Holyrood. The Club will be answering in firm tones about the need for reforms in Scotland.