The rejuvenation of Nicolson Square on Edinburgh's Southside is complete.

The square's refurbishment was led by the city council's Services for Communities department and formed the final element in an investment of £1.5m in Edinburgh's Old Town and Southside including new paving and street lighting to South Bridge and Nicolson Street since 2005.

As well as new trees, planting, paths and seating, the Square's makeover included a spruce-up for a celebrated monument, the Brassfounders column, which won gold medal when it was exhibited as a showpiece at the International Exhibition of Industry, Science and Art on the Meadows in 1886.

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Speaking at an event to commemorate the regeneration, Cllr Paul Edie, Housing Convener, said: "It's wonderful to see Nicolson Square so transformed. The regeneration has clearly found favour with members of the public too, with ever greater numbers flocking to the area to enjoy what is now one of Edinburgh's best small parks."

Nicolson Square sits on the southern boundary of the World Heritage Site. Adam Wilkinson, Director of Edinburgh World Heritage, said: "The upgrade to the paving and railings around Nicolson Square greatly enhances this important gateway to the World Heritage Site. It will be great to see the gardens used and enjoyed more by the public. EWH is also keen to build on the Council's work by working with local property owners to improve the buildings that surround the square."

The Southside Community Council welcomed the transformation of the Square. A spokesperson said: "Refurbishment of the coping stones and railings was well overdue. The enhanced internal layout, with new paths, and new planting of a variety of species will improve the visual amenity of the Square all year round, and these welcome features will encourage greater use by the public."

(GK/JM)