The Observer

Built from Caithness stone, stainless steel, oak and sycamore, it was intended as a soaring symbol of democracy against the backdrop of Holyrood Park and Salisbury Crags. But less than a year after the Scottish Parliament building opened its doors, the public have delivered their verdict: knock it down. The £431 million flagship at the foot of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, already mired in controversy after running 10 times over budget and opening three years late, has suffered the final indignity of joining a list of eyesores including Gateshead Car Park, Northampton Bus Station and Rugby Cement Works.