We congratulate the Courier for publishing Frances Stevens’ letter (June 5) about The Brunton. It is the first time we have seen anything so positive.
The East Lothian Cases Panel of the Architectural Heritage Society for Scotland agrees with Ms Stevens that The Brunton should be saved.
We support a proposal that the building should be listed by Historic Environment Scotland.
As Ms Stevens points out, The Brunton is the masterwork of a distinguished firm of architects (Rowand Anderson, Kininmonth and Paul).
It is a fine statement of public benevolence by the Brunton family to the people of Musselburgh, and we understand it belongs to the Common Good Fund. It is a notably successful example of a period and style which is rare in Scotland.
Despite its size, it is a mannerly building, respecting its architectural setting and making good use of its position on a slight curve in the road.
It provides a range of public facilities, all brought together by spacious internal corridors. The idea that the provision of a new theatre will adequately replace these facilities is a fantasy.
If The Brunton were to be listed, we would like to see two items singled out for special recognition: one, Tom Whale’s gilded external relief sculpture, which makes an important contribution to the street scene; and two, the little theatre, steeply raked and uncompromising, with excellent sight lines and acoustics.
Although unfashionable at present, it is a gem of its period.
Once gone, it will never be replaced by anything half so characterful, useful or distinguished.
Ms Stevens has highlighted some of the issues which need to be costed and considered. Like needs to be compared with like and realistic estimates published.
It is not good enough to jump to conclusions on the basis of a few sensational figures. That is the way to know the cost of everything and the value of nothing.
Krystyna Campbell (secretary)
The AHSS East Lothian Cases Panel
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