Edinburgh council confirm city centre road closures ahead of busy festival season
The influx of visitors will see streets pedestrianised to help the city cope with the crowds
City centre road closures have been confirmed ahead of the beginning of the busy festival season.
Temporary changes will be introduced into some of Edinburgh’s busiest hotspots during the summer months, allowing for more pedestrians to take advantage of the city centre.
As well as the temporary pedestrianisation of multiple streets, the long-awaited full reopening of North Bridge will also be welcomed by residents and visitors as like.
The bridge is expected to reopen by the end of July.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “We’re ready to welcome the world back to the Capital, and as always, we’re making sure that these higher visitor numbers are managed properly.
“These temporary changes to our city centre streets have proven very successful for many years and I’m sure that this summer will be no different.
“The planned full reopening of the North Bridge in time for the festivals will also be a great boost for people getting around the city.
“Our residents and businesses have my thanks for their understanding and patience as we prepare to showcase and enjoy our city’s unparalleled cultural offering once again.”
The main road closures will take place in Edinburgh's Old Town, as well as on part of George Street in the New Town.
Most roads, including High Street, Parliament Square, Cockburn Street and St Giles’ Street, will be closed to vehicles from July 27 until September 7.
The Cowgate, between the junctions with Candlemaker Row and Blackfriars Street, will be closed to vehicles except bicycles during this same period from 3pm until 5am every day.
Closures on Blair Street, George Street, and the junction of Candlemaker Row and George IV Bridge will begin a little earlier on July 19.
Johnston Terrace at the top of the Royal Mile will also notably be closed to vehicles during events such as the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August and preceding concerts from the likes of Deacon Blue, Callum Beattie, and Snow Patrol.
Full details of the road closures can be found on the City of Edinburgh website.