Edinburgh's history unveiled

An innovative film showing the growth of the City of Edinburgh has been produced by Registers of Scotland, following the success of a similar project about Glasgow

A ground-breaking film showing the growth of Edinburgh has been opened officially in the Museum of Edinburgh by Fergus Ewing MSP, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism.

Foundation Edinburgh – the Story of a City was created by Registers of Scotland (RoS) as its own unique contribution to Year of Creative Scotland 2012. It was created in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and has been very well received.

Welcoming this attraction as a permanent fixture in Edinburgh, Fergus Ewing said: “This Government launched Year of Creative Scotland 2012 to shine a spotlight on, celebrate and promote Scotland’s cultural and creative strengths and to position Scotland as one of the world’s most creative nations to audiences at home and across the world. A year-long programme of activity will celebrate our artistic and cultural heritage.

“Foundation captures Edinburgh’s magnificent history and bright future. It is a valuable educational resource, as well as enhancing the Museum of Edinburgh as a cultural visitor attraction.”

Viewed from above, the story of Edinburgh literally unfolds beneath your feet as the beautiful animation and commentary tell the story of how one of the UK’s most important cities has evolved and reinvented itself.

Special attraction

Councillor Richard Lewis, Culture and Leisure Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh is one of the world’s most historic cities and I’m delighted that we’re now able to bring this to life in a truly unique animated exhibition for both our residents and visitors.

“The newly revamped Museum of Edinburgh is the perfect home for Foundation Edinburgh and our thanks must go to Registers of Scotland, who have created a spectacular and must-see attraction for this city.”

Sheenagh Adams, Keeper of Registers of Scotland, said: “Foundation Edinburgh is the second in our series marking the development and growth of Scotland’s major cities. The films show how land usage developed and the importance of having a secure system for assuring ownership. RoS has a key role to play in providing information about Scotland’s people and places.”  

Customer Service Centre move

Registers of Scotland’s Erskine House operation has moved to Meadowbank House.

This includes Edinburgh Customer Services, Legal Services and Chancery and Judicial Registers.

This move allows Registers of Scotland to realise its corporate target of rationalising the government estate and providing better facilities for customers.

Consultation on Crofting Register

Registers of Scotland has undertaken a six-week consultation on the application forms and guidance to be used for the forthcoming Crofting Register.

Its aim was to seek feedback from crofters as to the usability of the forms. The consultation ends on 17 August 2012 and responses will be considered before the final version of the application forms are concluded. It is intended that the Crofting Register will go live before the end of the year.