Scottish Civic Forum take lobbying direct to Holyrood

The Scottish Civic Forum, moved into their striking new offices at The Tun, Jackson’s Entry, Holyrood, this week. As a group lobbying for more open political culture on behalf of the people of Scotland, the business and community organisations, the SCF recognised the importance of being at the heart of Holyrood - and The Tun met this need.

Whiteburn, developers of The Tun, having had limited interest from retailers since completing the shop units within the former brewery building, obtained a change of use consent to offices and have created an intriguing multi-level modern, contemporary environment, which was then tailored to suit the needs of the SCF. With neighbours such as the Commission for Racial Equality, BBC Scotland and Scottish Enterprise located so near at hand; ease of communication and prominent public access should be uppermost.

John Shepherd, Director of Whiteburn commented, “Within days of McGregors (our letting agents) pinning up the “offices to let” board, the Scottish Civic Forum showed interest. SCF make a great fit with the other occupiers – I think we’ve achieved a unique synergy here!”

Donald Reid, SCF’s Director added “With the new Parliament building emerging from its scaffolding, it is important that the people of Scotland feel the Parliament belongs to them rather than to political elites. The Civic Forum is here to ensure that happens and to work with the Parliament to promote genuine involvement. We hope our offices will become a base next to the Parliament for community groups visiting to talk to MSPs or committees. We hope, in short, to be a ‘democracy shop’ for the people and our new premises fit that purpose well.”

With only the roof top restaurant space remaining, this almost concludes the letting of what has become one of the most distinctive re-development projects in Edinburgh.

Whiteburn, committed to the regeneration of Holyrood and the Old Town, are currently re-developing the next door Clocktower building with the cavernous ground and first floor pre-let to the national restaurant operator Pizza Express.