A project which will see Edinburgh's George Street and New Town areas redesigned has secured a major funding boost.

The GNT public realm design project was awarded £20 million by Sustrans Scotland and Transport Scotland's Places for Everyone programme.

The scheme aims to create a vibrant street environment that is safe for all users, significantly enhancing its use for pedestrians while prioritising active travel and accessibility. Plans include improved public realm, increased pedestrian areas and segregated cycle lanes.

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It also forms part of a long-term programme to transform Edinburgh's city centre by improving public spaces and prioritising movement on foot, by bike and by public transport. When complete, the scheme will connect the Meadows to the George Street route.

Edinburgh City Council's Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Lesley Macinnes, said: "We're absolutely delighted to be receiving this significant package of funding through Places for Everyone. This will be truly pivotal to the delivery of the George Street and New Town public realm design project.

"As one of the early projects to be delivered as part of the City Centre Transformation project, this ambitious scheme will reinvigorate one of the city's most historic thoroughfares, prioritising active travel and creating liveable, thriving and people-friendly public spaces for generations to come."

The council will also host further engagement sessions with stakeholders as part of the ongoing design process.

(CM/JG)