In 1849 Henry Cockburn asked: what will Edinburgh look like in 1949 or in 2049? He inspired Britain’s first amenity society – the Cockburn Association – the city’s civic watchdog, which, since 1875, has campaigned to protect and enhance for future generations the unique features that make Edinburgh ‘Edinburgh’. Campaigning for Edinburgh tells that story: one of active stewardship, showing how citizen involvement can, and should, be key to the planning, development and management of places. The book also looks forward, imagining what the city might be like in 2049.

Like Cockburn himself, the Association has been passionate about trees and green spaces for the people, conservation of historic buildings, Edinburgh’s unique vistas and dramatic skylines. Generations of volunteers have given their time and talents to resist a splurge of intrusive advertising, elevated motorways, the destruction of the Old Town and today’s overtourism. 

Change is constant, bringing many challenges: trams (old and new), mass car ownership, use of concrete, financial and environmental crises. Campaigning for Edinburgh tells why, how and by whom the Cockburn Association has grappled with these, and what needs to be done between now and 2049 to pass on the wonders of this city, a World Heritage Site, to our children, grandchildren and visitors.

'A compelling account of the Cockburn Association's efforts to preserve Edinburgh's distinct character . . . A very insightful read'

'an outstanding book that should be considered essential reading by anyone with any interest at all in Edinburgh's past, present and future'

'a fascinating overview of urbanism and the development of the city since the building of the New Town'

Richard Rodger is Emeritus Professor of Economic and Social History at the University of Edinburgh, Honorary Visiting Professor at the University of Leicester and a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. He has been a Cockburn Council Member and Trustee since 2010.

Cliff Hague, OBE, is Emeritus Professor of Planning and Spatial Development at Heriot-Watt University and a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. He was Chair of the Cockburn Association 2016–23.

DJ Johnston-Smith, PhD, is Director of Scotland’s Churches Trust and was Assistant Director of the Cockburn Association 2020–22.

Terry Levinthal has been the Director of the Cockburn Association since 2017 and was its Secretary 1992–99.