Doors open

The Queen came to the Scottish Parliament to mark the start of the fourth session since it was formed. I was at work during all the various celebrations, but did, for the first time, see a set of doors open at the front of the building.
When it was designed, I believe the idea was that all of these double doors, which stretch right along the front, could be flung open in a symbolic act to allow the people and parliamentarians to mix freely, to let the breeze of democracy waft, to let...., you get the idea.

9/11 changed all that. In came more concrete and out went the idealism. Now there's a single entrance with searches and metal detectors. As the area had been completely locked down for the Queen's visit and a string of events were scheduled at the parliament building, one set of doors opened from the cafe. There was, though, still a barrier and checkpoint, so only those who had been invited could enjoy a taste of what might have been.