FOR those of us who care for the future of Scotland's built heritage, Jennifer Cunningham's article on Portencross Castle makes depressing reading (May 18). The emotional black shroud of opposition to any development at Portencross has already descended. The fences, which the residents claim to decry, are being erected against imaginary intruders.
It is right that the people of Portencross should have a say in what happens to the ancient keep. But they should do so from a position of generating light, not heat. Fiery talk of a ''rich man's castle'' or ''fences to keep the public out'' have no place in the debate. One resident says it is a bit of Scottish history which should not be lost. So how does he propose protecting it? The building in its present state is slowly dissolving.
The best way to protect the future of this building is to give it an economic worth. That means someone has to pay. There are likely candidates but they will be discouraged by the residents' initial reactions. Far batter to rationally consider the options and agree the best solution. Then, if someone pays us the compliment of wanting to spend their hard-earned cash on Portencross, they should be welcomed and helped, not abused and obstructed.
For Mr Aktsinov-Kolon to talk of public access to the castle is misleading. There has not been public access for a very long time. Nor, if truth be known, should public access be such a priority in the future. For, apart from its age and the fact that it has two kitchens, there is little to commend Portencross, either aesthetically, architecturally, or historically. However, if it was sensitively restored, it would be a magnificent addition to the village.
Instead of a crumbling, decaying, featureless lump, it would be a proud reminder of times past. With harled walls, slated roofs, and glazed windows it would be an inspiration to all visitors. By allowing Portencross to come into the hands of a caring, inclusive owner, new money will be brought into the community. Employment will be created where there is none. An eyesore will be turned into a thing of beauty and in the process, a great deal will be learned about Portencross's past.
Now that is generating light, not heat, something which the villagers should be well aware of.
James Brown,
Baltersan Cottage,
Dalchomie Farm, by Maybole.
May 18.
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