GLASGOW is widely acclaimed as an outstanding example of a Victorian city, with George Square the jewel in the crown.
Those in power in 21st century Glasgow should think very carefully before taking measures that could degrade this legacy .
George Square must be considered as a whole. It is a unique assemblage of three components; City Chambers, the statues and the spatial setting. These components are interdependent; tinker with one and the others are affected. Substantial removal of the statuary would change the character of the square as a whole. The visual effect of the splendid facade of City Chambers would be diminished by altering its setting, akin to a picture which has been ripped out of its frame.
Leaving aside your leader writer's remark about "Edinburgh's Sir Walter Scott", a considered study will show that, with few exceptions, the statues each have a link with Glasgow.
The most significant figures are not necessarily the best known. James Oswald, whose elegant statue by Marochetti graces the north-eastern corner of the square, is not exactly a household name but, as the first MP for Glasgow to be elected by a system introduced by the Great Reform Act of 1832, he is a figure of great historical importance. Admittedly the franchise for his election was still very restricted and there was no secret ballot, but his election was the first step in a process of reform which culminated in the enfranchisement of all adults regardless of gender or income.
Some other statues are of persons who, not untypically, are more highly regarded abroad than in their native land. Sir John Moore, for example, is venerated in Corunna for his heroic death in defence of that city. Although Corunna has its own statue of Moore, a delegation came from that city to pay homage to the statue of its hero in George Square and its members were photographed standing proudly standing beside it.
George Square is a focal centre of interest for visitors, especially those from overseas. They can be seen, cameras at the ready, closely examining the statues and the pictorial mouldings around many of them. I have no doubt that they appreciate that they are looking at a historic site which is unique to Glasgow and which cannot be seen in any other city in Britain.On the other hand, venue sites are commonplace throughout the world and would be of no interest to tourists.
Glasgow has a well-deserved reputation as a city which respects and conserves its historic heritage. I find it difficult to comprehend that this reputation may be thrown away and its historic legacy degraded in order to advance a proposal which would further commercial activity. There have been at least two proposals to remove George Squares statues, one as recently as 2000. On each occasion the proposal has, after careful consideration, been abandoned. I sincerely hope this will be the fate of the present plan.
Leslie Clark,
3 Breadie Drive, Milngavie.
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