A full design for the £35 million George Street and First New Town project in Edinburgh has been approved by the capital’s council.
The news marks completion of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) stage 4 technical design, with the progression to this stage leading to a revised overall cost estimate representing a saving of over £4.3 million on previous estimates.
Set to feature natural stone material throughout, the revamp will also see dwell zones with incorporated raised planters and seatings; eight trees along with low-level planting within a sustainable urban drainage system; and full suite of hostile vehicle measures at all junctions and utility diversions.
Under the current timeline, construction is due to begin in autumn 2027 and take approximately two years with a further one-year defect period, the City of Edinburgh Council said.
The appropriate road orders will now be implemented before moving on to final budget confirmation and ultimately to RIBA Stage 4B (tender) and securing of statutory consents. Final approval will then be sought to proceed to RIBA Stage 5 (construction).
City of Edinburgh Council transport and environment convener, councillor Stephen Jenkinson, said, “I’m really pleased that we’ve taken the decision today to move forward with the George Street and First New Town project. The project is rooted in making the area safer, more sustainable and accessible for all.
“This is a unique opportunity to bring one of Edinburgh’s most important streets into the modern world whilst still maintaining its unique history and features. The wider potential improvements are vast, from benefits to local residents and businesses to enhancing Edinburgh as a visitor destination, and beyond – we’re on our way to delivering a bold new vision for George Street and our city centre.
“Whilst we’re committed to this important project, we’re also committed to making broader improvements across the city for the benefit of all our residents.”
