Bid to 'transform' Edinburgh's George Street progresses - with date set for work to begin
Plans to make major changes to Edinburgh's George Street have moved to their next stage, with officers keen to begin work by 2024.
Last updated 28th Oct 2022
Major plans to transform Edinburgh's George Street have reached their next stage - with a date for work to begin now set out.
Proposals and final designs will go before Councillors next week.
It's being suggested that the iconic street will essentially be pedestrianised, with hundreds of parking spaces removed - although blue badge designated areas will remain - whilst only essential vehicles will be allowed access, many only during allotted time slots.
Visions also set-out widened pavements and ‘European style’ cycle lanes.
Work would start in 2024 on the multi-million pound project.
Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said:
"This is a major milestone for a flagship project to transform Edinburgh’s city centre, where people will be put first and the economy will be supported. We will transform George Street from a place which is dominated by cars to one which is dominated by people.
"The latest proposals build on years of public and business engagement, all of which has improved the design. As part of this stage of development the project team has carried out a significant package of in-depth assessments to address GNT’s impact on residents, businesses, public safety and the economy, amongst other factors, and to ensure final designs take varied needs into account.
"Once complete, GNT will deliver a world-class city centre worthy of a European capital, highlighting Edinburgh’s stunning architecture and creating a safe space for people to spend time in.
"By supporting sustainable travel by foot and bike, as well as retaining public transport links, it’s also key to the Council’s plans to reduce travel by car and achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2020."