March 20 2007

Plans for a £50 million redevelopment of Edinburgh’s Old Town have been submitted for approval by city planners.

If approved, the area – close to the Scottish Parliament – would see ageing buildings demolished to make way for more than 300 homes and the construction of new offices, student accommodation, shops, bars and academic facilities.

However, Historic Scotland has voiced concerns for the potentially negative impact the scheme could have on the area, and hopes that later plans will better reflect “the character and appearance of the Old Town.”

The council is expected to approve the scheme at a planning meeting this week, but the final decision will be made by the Scottish Executive.

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