Well now you can add your voice to the debate. The council is taking the next 6 weeks to tell you about their plans to upgrade and improve the city centre, and you have the opportunity to tell them what you think either by using an online survey or at two drop in events at the Assembly Rooms later this month.
The last administration commissioned Gehl Architects who produced some interesting proposals for improvements such as introducing more on street cafes on Princes Street, and making more space for pedestrians in the heart of Edinburgh. Part of the plan is to stop buses using the eastbound side of the street and diverting buses onto George Street. Another key part of he proposal is to make George Street the primary cycle route which will take cyclists away from trams when they are introduced next year. The matter was debated at the Transport Committee on 19 March and following the consultation will be considered again when the committee meets in June.
The Council has developed a proposal for improving the City Centre, particularly in the area around Princes Street and George Street which aims to make the area a better place in which to live, work, visit, invest and study.
The council explains that the City Centre is a key location in Edinburgh for retail, entertainment, finance, business and tourism, while also being home to an increasing number of residents. There is recognition that this area could perform better in order to fulfil its potential as a world class destination.
The delivery of the tram project, which is due to start running passenger services by summer 2014, provides an opportunity to improve this iconic area of the city.
The proposed scheme has been shaped by a working group chaired by Planning Convener Councillor Ian Perry.
Councillor Perry said:- “I think many people recognise that for all its architectural beauty and wealth of enticing shops and amenities, the City Centre is still not yet achieving its full potential. With this public consultation, we’ve got the chance here to really do something for the city centre and we’re determined to find a solution which works best for everyone. I would urge everyone with a stake in Edinburgh’s future prosperity to have their say.”
The Council is keen to hear residents’ views on the proposal and how they would like to see the space used.
The consultation process will also shed light on how the proposals might impact on different users and stakeholders.
The findings of the consultation will be the subject of a future report and any changes will then be trialled to test how they work.
The online survey can be accessed: at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6G7MWW9 and will run for a period of six weeks, until Thursday 9 May 2013.
Two public drop-in events are also being held:
* Friday 19 April, Assembly Rooms George Street, 12-6pm
* Saturday 20 April, Assembly Rooms, George Street , 10 -2pm
Comments can also be sent via e-mail to:
citycentre.vision@edinburgh.gov.uk
Further information about the consultation can be found at http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/citycentrevision
The report considered in March is below:-
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