The Lerwick waterfront, much of which has been revitalised and conserved in a project that began more than thirty years ago, is on a short-list of ten favourite places in Scotland.
The competition has been launched by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) in Scotland as part of the RTPI's centenary celebrations. The aim is to identify the top ten places that have been built, enhanced or protected by planners and the planning system within Scotland since 1914. 55 places were nominated.
Cath Ranson, President of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “We'd like everyone to vote for their favourite place from this impressive and diverse shortlist. We hope that in doing so, people talk to their friends and relatives about what they value most about each of the places, and that the discussion provokes debate about the positive and persuasive role planners have in creating great places.”
The Lerwick waterfront has evolved over centuries and the historic centre of the town is an Outstanding Conservation Area. During the 1980s, the Council's Planning Department began to formulate proposals for regenerating a run-down area just north of the town centre. It took many years to overcome difficulties over land ownership and road access but the area has now been transformed.
The redevelopment incorporates the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives, the new Mareel arts centre and a business park offering a range of office accommodation. Pedestrian access to the waterfront has been improved and the historic Hay's Dock, dating from 1830, has been restored. The regeneration of the area has already won Scotland's top planning award.
Voting for Scotland's Best Places is now open and you can see the entries and cast your vote. The winning places will be announced in June.