Revamp proposed for George Street, Edinburgh

A DRAMATIC reconfiguring of Edinburgh’s George Street – to turn it from traffic-dominated and car parking into a ‘relaxed’ boulevard – has been unveiled.

Detailed artist’s impressions and a 3D fly-through (here) illustrate how the street and surrounding area might look.

Says a city council announcement (here): “Significantly widened pavements, landscaped spaces for play and relaxation and a cycling thoroughfare, where motor traffic is largely removed, will create a people-friendly setting.

“By retaining symmetry and removing street clutter alongside ‘urban greening’ through shrubs and hedging, the designs both protect the area’s heritage and enhance the environment.”

It continues: “Improvements are being delivered as part of a co-ordinated package of projects under Edinburgh City Centre Transformation.

“This includes the forthcoming Meadows to George Street and City Centre West to East Link schemes, which will transform walking, wheeling and cycling routes and connections across the city centre.

“These schemes also support the City Mobility Plan, a ten-year strategy to overhaul transport and mobility in the capital to deliver a sustainable, net zero carbon and inclusive future.”

It goes on: “The concept design for George Street has been progressed by a design team led by Tetra Tech with LDA Landscape Design. It follows several years of development and engagement to refine design objectives with the public and stakeholders, including community councils and heritage, business, walking, cycling and accessibility groups.

“In February and March, further engagement will take place with key groups, while the public will be able to see the design for themselves and tell us how they might enjoy a revitalised George Street.

“Feedback gathered during these months will inform a final iteration of the design proposal before being brought to Transport and Environment Committee in April.

“The required statutory processes under which the scheme will be constructed would begin this summer.”

If the plans are approved, it is expected that construction work will begin in two years’ time, with completion targeted for 2025. It is expected to cost £32m.