Plans submitted to expand Edinburgh’s Christmas festival
Expansion plans for this year’s Winter festival in Edinburgh include new attractions and a return of the ice rink
Organisers, Underbelly, have made planning applications to revamp Edinburgh’s winter festival this year.
For the first time, West Princes Street Gardens and George Street will host stalls and attractions as part of an overhaul of plans aimed at spreading out crowds.
Underbelly has received criticism in the past about overcrowding at the famous market.
Among the attractions will be new family areas around the Ross Fountain and a Santa’s Grotto.
Producers have also asked permission to bring back the ice rink but in a new location between Charlotte Square and Castle Street.
Economic recovery
Underbelly bosses say they are working closely with the City of Edinburgh Council who hope the event will bring a boost to the city centre.
It’s anticipated that any increase in domestic tourism will bring higher footfall to businesses trying to recover after the pandemic.
Safety first
Despite the promise of an additional 15 stalls in the west end of the city centre, 2021’s festival will see around 80 in total, far less than the 138 that were there in 2019.
We're told it's in a bid to create a fun and safe environment amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic with fewer stands spread over a larger area.
This is the fourth year Underbelly have produced the event and received criticism for putting up scaffolding without permission in 2019.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “The Underbelly team has been working tirelessly to create a bespoke Edinburgh’s Christmas programme that not only provides unforgettable memories and experiences, but also makes visitors feel safe and at ease at all times.
“It’s been a very challenging couple of years for everyone but our proposed plans for Christmas are designed not only to support economic recovery in the city centre, driving footfall to both the East and the West end of the City, but to also bring some much needed cheer and happiness to both residents and visitors.”