No-one would argue it has been a tough few years for Dundee, with the protracted death of the manufacturing sector.
However, I believe there is a strong argument that the city is starting to turn the corner. The redevelopment of McManus, combined with the total transformation of the waterfront area are both positive signs for our future.
Far too often we hear the moans. Like every other city in the UK we have problems, but also many things to be very proud of. It’s not all doom and gloom. In fact, you could argue it’s a new beginning.
I agree with letter writer ‘Art Lover’ regarding McManus. I went with my friend and we thought it was looking great.
As Dundee is reinventing itself, and doing it very well, with the cultural quarter flourishing, the digital game industry, University science grants etc, I hope residents will be positive about their city for a change. — Proud Dundonian.
First criticism didn’t take long
That did not take long. I refer to the first criticism of the McManus Galleries regarding the grass outside not being particularly flat.
It takes time for grass to bed in and flatten. It is a beautiful building full of wonderful exhibits. Everyone involved deserves fulsome praise for their efforts. — Duncan Fraser.
Smart system working
Electronic card readers were launched on all National Express Dundee buses last week and we thank our drivers for supporting the new ticket system.
The first few weeks have gone smoothly, with staff and passengers finding the new system straightforward and easy to use.
We know changes can be confusing, but we believe the card readers will further improve Dundee’s bus network.
For passengers who aren’t aware, on February 15, concessionary customers started using their electronic bus pass instead of a standard bus ticket. As concessionary customers’ board and exit the vehicle, they must tap their pass against the electronic reader.
This allows Transport Scotland to accurately record the amount of people using their national entitlement card.
Posters about the smart cards are on display across the network, and drivers are handing out leaflets to all concessionary pass holders.
If you need any further help, or are unsure where to scan your card, please ask your driver.
The new ticket machines have also allowed us to issue paper tickets for Daysavers. Customers are reminded that they must retain the ticket intact throughout the day.
We will be introducing smart cards for other groups of passengers later this year, which will make travel simpler for everyone. — Lawrence Davie, Director National Express Dundee.
Sunset city
Dundee is very often a place to see amazing sunsets.
I was stopped in my tracks on Friday by an almost spine-tigling sight, as the orange fireball disappeared behind the bridges and the Carse of Gowrie.
We are very lucky to be in such a picturesque location. — Fred Braid, Dundee.
Currency should be accepted
Regarding the letter Currency Woe on problems using Scottish currency in England.
This subject of the legality of English currency crops up every now and then and is quite a contentious issue, depending on whether or not you have ever had your Scottish money refused while in England.
Scottish notes are not legal tender in England, but then neither are English notes legal tender in Scotland.
However both sets of notes are widely accepted in both countries and as a result would be deemed an acceptable form of payment by any court. — Eric Manzie.
School reunion
Dundee’s Craigie High School celebrates 40 years this year.
We are celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the opening of Craigie High School by holding a Dinner Dance at the Hilton Hotel, Dundee, on Friday August 22, 2010. Tickets are priced at £30 per head.
For further information, please telephone Mrs Joan Brown on 01382 431111 or email joan.brown@dundeecity.gov.uk.
We look forward to seeing you. — Neil MacLeod.
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