Mavisbank House Saved: New Access Road Approved

It's April 29th.

This is Edinburgh News Today, your AI-powered local news.

Mid-Lothian counselors just greenlit a new access road through a woodland valley to kick

off repairs on Mavis Bank House, a Category A, E-listed German, Lonehead.

The vote went 12-6 in favor, with the landmark trust now clear to save this early 18th century

mansion from ruin.

They argue preserving the historic site outweighs the temporary hit to the landscape.

Still by famed Scottish architect William Adam as a summer spot for John Clerk of Pennequick,

a key Scottish enlightenment figure and active union.

Signatory, it's hailed as Scotland's first palladium house, that design vibe, later shaped

Edinburgh's new town.

In the 19th century, it pioneered compassionate mental health care under Dr. John Batty-Took,

using gardens and exercise.

At the planning meeting, some counselors pushed back hard, calling the road devastating to

the beautiful valley and suggesting alternatives like a compulsory purchase on the old driveway.

But others highlighted upsides, no ancient trees lost, plus 90 new heavy standard trees

like scots, pine and oak, hedgerows, wildflowers, and restored historic views.

The original driveways in private hands and thoughts with owners fell through, so this

routes the only practical play.

Consular Russell Emory, backed restoration but wanted another path, still the majority

saw it as a net win for heritage.

With approvals locked in, the landmark trust rolls up sleeve soon, breathing new life

into Mavis Bank and its enlightenment legacy for generations.

Ahead.