An updated design has been unveiled for how George Street will look under ambitious new plans from Edinburgh Council.
Members of the authority's Transport and Environment Committee met on Thursday, June 15 to discuss the final operational plan and updates to the proposed design - as part of the First New Town (GNT) project.
A key change is the introduction of trees on the main thoroughfare, to boost the city's environmental credentials and contribute to Net Zero 2030 goals. Councillors also hope the new measures will help combat rising temperatures, known as the "urban heat island effect", and support the One Million Tree City Pledge.
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Following the approval of proposals, officials say they will continue to work closely with partners to determine the appropriate position, number, and type of trees to be added.
This comes following the discussions with Edinburgh World Heritage, Historic Environment Scotland, the Cockburn Association and other stakeholders.
According to the approved plans, George Street will be transformed into a pedestrian and cycling zone where loading servicing and licensed taxis only will be allowed access to the street during evening and morning hours.
Automated bollards will be added to provide addition safety and enforce the pedestrian cycling zone restrictions. Those who have blue badges will still be able to park in disabled parking spaces on George Street and the surrounding areas.
Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: "In updating designs and operational plans for the GNT project, the project team has worked closely with the community, key stakeholders and elected members to develop proposals which will both enhance the space for all those travelling through and spending time in the area but also retain the First New Town’s unique historic value.
"I know the potential inclusion of trees on George Street will be welcomed by many, now their inclusion has been approved more work will be done to ensure the position and type of trees is sympathetic to the street’s iconic character.
"We have also listened carefully to the Edinburgh Access Panel and have agreed blue badge holders should have full access to up to 27 blue badge spaces in the George Street and First New Town area.
"This latest update marks an exciting milestone in the GNT project and it will allow us to move forward with the final stages of development before construction begins."
Minister for Active Travel, Patrick Harvie, said: "I welcome the latest approved designs for the George Street and First New Town project. With over £13 million being invested by the Scottish Government, the introduction of more trees alongside improved walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure will create a more pleasant environment for people to enjoy.
"This work, supported by Sustrans Scotland, is part of our record funding for active travel in 2023/24 and we remain committed to investing at least £320 million or 10 per cent of the transport budget for active travel by 2024/25."
The George Street and First New Town project is being supported by funding from the Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Places for Everyone programme and delivered by City of Edinburgh Council.
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