Green light for Botanic Gardens transformation
The famous glasshouses at Edinburgh's Botanic Gardens are set to be transformed after a £70m project was approved by councillors.
Bosses says the project will safeguard Scotland’s priceless national plant collections and future proof its status as a world-leading centre for plant science, education, horticulture and conservation.
The Biomes project will enhance the visitor experience but also better research into plant disease and habitat loss.
Two 'Grade A' listed Victorian Palm Houses and 1960’s public and research glasshouses require substantial restoration and refurbishment.
Without urgent action, they would become unsafe and unsound by 2025, putting at risk the priceless Living Collection of more than 34,000 plants.
The most visible change will be a stunning new glasshouse linking to the Front Range houses.
The work will take place in stages over the next seven years
Regius Keeper Simon Milne MBE said: "The planning decision enables us to move forward with what is the most significant project in the Garden’s history.
"The need for our pioneering work has never been greater"