The City of Edinburgh Council is championing a restoration of the Scotsman steps which will see the famous stairwell receive a new lease of life. With the help of Edinburgh World Heritage Conservation Funding, an architect could soon be brought in to assess the state of the stairs and recommend a way forward.

The Scotsman steps were originally built around 1899 in a French style with an enclosed octagonal spiral stair, decorative wrought iron grilles and glazed tiles in the interior. Over a number of years attempts have been made to secure the stairs to prevent misuse and vandalism. Unfortunately gates that were previously installed were vandalised to such an extent that they had to be removed.

Councillor Robert Aldridge, Environment Leader said, "The Scotsman steps are a part of a part of Edinburgh's rich architectural history. A successful solution is long overdue and we need to work closely with partners to achieve one. I look forward to seeing the architect's plans.

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"David McDonald, Project Manager with Edinburgh World Heritage said: "I think it's fair to say that a lot of people avoid using the Scotsman Steps because of the perceived safety, lighting, and litter problems. Improvements will be just as much about finding solutions for the management of the space as the physical restoration of the steps. If they were in better condition then more people would use them, which in turn would add a self-policing element to the space.

"The Scotsman Steps are a great shortcut for locals and also shape many visitors first impressions of the city. Their current condition lets the city down, and it would be great to see them restored."

Once an assesment has been carried out a management plan will be drawn up to address operational issues with stakeholders such as the Council, EWH and the Scotsman Hotel. The scope of the agreement would include reinstatement of appropriate gates, opening hours, cleaning, maintenance, policing and control of anti-social behaviour. A further public safety and management report addressing these issues will be submitted to a future Committee.

This partnership working will build on success of previous joint projects such as the conservation of the Playfair Steps, which similarly balanced the need for safe pedestrian access with the preservation of this historic asset.

(GK/JM)