What would Scottish independence mean for architects?

2014-09-17T13:57:00-04:00

For Scottish architects, a decision to go it alone could create longer-term opportunities for Scotland to enshrine its own architectural education and regulation system based on the protection of function. It could also boost the development of a strong, distinctively Scottish architectural culture […] Independence could well dissuade practices and architects from relocating south.

The Architects' Journal is polling architects for their opinion ahead of tomorrow's vote on Scottish independence. So far, two-thirds of Scottish architects voted pro-independence. Specifically: "Those working in small practices showed a clear preference for independence, but those at medium to large practices were divided by an almost even split between the yes and no camps."

For the most part, the issues behind Scottish independence pertain to more general economic, social, and political considerations, but these would certainly affect the architecture profession. Some have voiced concerns of a brain drain of talented young architects to London. Additionally, the current confusion of what monetary system an independent Scotland would adopt could have severe repercussions for the field, potentially stagnating new projects.

The most recent polls suggest a slight lead for the pro-union camp, but it remains quite close.

Do you have an opinion on tomorrow's referrendum?

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What would Scottish independence mean for architects?