The Scottish Government has awarded a £650,000 grant towards refurbishing the historic Queen's Hall in Edinburgh.

Announcing the funding during a visit to the hall today, 09 March, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the money will ensure the 194-year-old building can continue to host the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and other performances over the next few years.

The scheme includes renovating the masonry. windows, doors and the roof. In 2017-18 the Scottish Government will provide £390,000 over two years with Historic Environment Scotland contributing £260,000.

Ms Hyslop said: "I am delighted to announce the £650,000 grant for building improvements to the Queen's Hall, a much-loved part of Edinburgh's performance history. It is a firm favourite with performers and audiences throughout the year including Edinburgh's International, Fringe and Jazz and Blues festivals.

-- Advertisement --

"We have increased capital funding for Historic Environment Scotland's work to preserve, promote and protect our historic buildings, and enabled them to maintain their commitment to provide £14.5 million for external projects such as Historic Environment Repair Grants. We have also maintained funding for our five National Performing Companies and are continuing to invest in cultural infrastructure projects.

"As we celebrate the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, the funding will ensure the historic building is in a good state of repair and can continue to host the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and other performances over the next few years."

Nigel Griffiths, Chair of the Queen's Hall, added: "We are delighted with this Scottish Government and Historic Environment Scotland vote of confidence in the future of the Queen's Hall. We look forward to completing these important heritage works, which pave the way to an even brighter future and the celebration in 2019 of the 40th anniversary of the Queen's Hall as a world class concert hall."

(LM/CD)