Edinburgh locals have been left fuming as they noticed that Princes Street Gardens is already partially closed for Hogmanay preparations after being unable to walk through the park due to it being closed off.
The locals hit out after going for a stroll in the city centre beauty spot when they noticed barriers cornering off the main park through the East Princes Street Gardens on December 19.
On New Year's Eve in just two weeks' time, the gardens in front of the castle will be home to a variety of celebrations including the Concert In The Gardens and the nearby Street Party.
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The capital is world famous for its lavish Hogmanay festivities which take place straight after Christmas and see the city bring in tourists from across the world but some locals aren't a fan of the huge celebrations due to the impact on residents.
Speaking to Edinburgh Live, Darren said: "Building a stage for New Year' apparently so I cannot walk through a public park.
"The walkways are closed apart from the top walk, and all fenced off.
"It is a garden and park first, and yes, it is a bandstand for Hogmanay, but shutting significant areas almost two weeks prior pushes 365 Council tax-paying residents out for money."
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Hogmanay is a time of the year when Edinburgh really comes to life.
As well as the iconic street party on Princes Street, there are associated events like the beautiful Torchlight Procession down the Royal Mile, an old Viking tradition.
A City of Edinburgh Council spokesperson said: “An area of Princes Street Gardens was temporarily closed due to a large build-up of ice on paths which constituted a potential safety hazard. The area has now been reopened to the public.”
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