A project to transform Coates and Atholl Crescents in Edinburgh's West End has commenced, the local authority has confirmed.

The work, which started today (14 April), is expected to last up to seven weeks.

Under the project, new turf will be laid in the gardens of both Crescents, while the existing footways will be replaced with a natural stone paving product. Remedial works will also be carried out to the existing stone wall, and extensive landscaping works will be undertaken and will involve the planting of a number of trees, turfing works and soft planting areas to the rear of the wall.

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Edinburgh Council has said the footway will be constructed using high quality sandstone paving materials, and will enhance the look and feel of the area.

Local residents, businesses and commuters will then have an opportunity to shape the longer term landscaping of the Crescents, when a planning-led consultation is held later this year. This process will allow consultees to directly influence how the area will look, considering the potential location and selection of more new trees and other planting for the green spaces.

Commenting on the project, Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport and Environment Convener, said: "We agree with local businesses and residents that the area around the West End-Princes Street tram stop is badly in need of a good spruce-up.

"Now that we're almost ready to launch tram passenger services, it's great that we've been able to kick off the first phase of this important project, putting in high quality stone footways and laying brand new turf and planting in the gardens."

(JP/IT)