01/04/2008 07:48:00
Edinburgh's Old Town is to be revamped in a £40 million scheme that will transform the area that was ravaged by fire in 2002.
Whiteburn - the developers who became the official owners of the site in 2006 - have released images detailing how the area would be transformed, with new links that will create thoroughfares to main city centre roads, like the Cowgate and South Bridge.
The scheme, which has been named SoCo, is being designed by Edinburgh-based architect Allan Murray - whose plans include a series of new steps and courtyards as well as opportunities for the creation of shops, cafes and restaurants.
According to the Scotsman, Whiteburn are believed to be close to striking a deal with a hotel operator for the Edinburgh site and planning applications for the projects are expected to be submitted in the next few months.
The developers have been in discussion with groups such as Historic Scotland and the Edinburgh World Heritage Trust concerning their proposals and have ruled out the creation of a new public building, such as a gallery or cinema, as well as plans for public housing previously suggested by the city council.
John Shepherd, chief executive of Whiteburn, told the Scotsman:
"SoCo will become a destination for people to stay, work and relax within a vastly improved environment, providing jobs and hopefully kick-starting the regeneration of the South Bridge/Cowgate area."
The Old Town fire in December 2002 raged for 52 hours before it was brought under control by 150 fire engines from across central Scotland. The blaze destroyed several buildings and caused millions of pounds worth of damage in an area that was home to a wide variety of shops, offices, homes and pubs and clubs.