EDINBURGH’S former Royal High School has been put on the open market by the capital’s council.
The 19th century building acted as a school up until 1968, when it was refurbished to accommodate a devolved legislature for Scotland – however, the country did not gain devolution until 1998 and it was then decided that the Scottish Parliament would be built.
The council purchased the building from the Scottish Office in 1994 for £1.75 million. Since then, various plans have been put forward to use it as a hotel or music academy. However, these did not materialise.
It was agreed in January that the historic building on Calton Hill would be put on the market. The local authority said that any proposals need to ensure a sustainable long-term future for the Royal High School, be of the highest architectural quality and take into account conclusions drawn by Scottish ministers following a public inquiry.
Councillor Rob Munn, convener of the City of Edinburgh Council’s finance and resources committee, said,”This an important step forward for the future of this iconic site and means we can identify the best value option for the city and our residents in the future. We know there are a number of interested parties and having it back on the market allows them to submit any development proposals.”
Councillor Joan Griffiths, vice convener of the City of Edinburgh Council’s finance and resources committee, added, “There was unanimous agreement earlier in the year to remarket the old Royal High School and I look forward to seeing the options presented to us at a future committee which could occupy this very important building, so prominent in our world heritage site.”
