Edinburgh's Christmas market could be moved next year
Councillors agreed to consider relocating the event which has soared in size.
Last updated 13th Nov 2019
Edinburgh's Christmas market could be moved out of Princes Street Gardens as concern grows about event's increasing size.
Councillors have agreed to investigate changing the location in 2020.
The market, which is run by Underbelly, will open on Saturday (16th Nov) – but has been subject to a backlash by some councillors and residents on social media, as no planning permission was in place.
The council launched an internal investigation into whether the correct processes were followed in handing over a two-year contract extension.
Edinburgh City Council’s culture and communities committee considered a motion by Green Cllr Alex Staniforth to 'look at options' for relocating this year's event to hard-standing location in central Edinburgh.
But councillors instead agreed a Conservative amendment, which will require officials to draw up options for next year's market.
Underbelly’s directors Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam were grilled by councillors after giving a presentation on last year's event – which attracted 900,000 unique visitors.
Mr Bartlam moved to reassure councillors that the company is 'acutely aware' of this year’s controversy and will reflect on the issues 'in detail'.
He told councillors that his company’s flagship Hogmanay events have produced a loss of £322,000 over the last two years – but was unable to say how much surplus the Christmas market brings in.
Mr Wood added: "I wish the process to how Edinburgh’s Christmas operates successfully in these gardens had started years ago – rather than essentially starting in March this year.
"I think it's a great regret that has happened.”
The company expects to receive a building warrant for scaffolding structure by the end of the week.
The council will ask the public for the first time about how the city celebrates Christmas and Hogmanay in a full winter festivals consultation
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