LOCAL residents, businesses and the wider public have been invited to give their feedback on plans for the iconic Ross Bandstand in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens.
An online consultation launched on 6 November sets out the council’s proposals for future events, both there and in the wider West Princes Street Gardens.
It is keen to see what people would like to see in terms of usage and development.
It comes after the publication of the drafted Princes Street and Waverley Valley Strategy, which aims to improve accessibility, protect green spaces and “improve connectivity” between the Old and New Towns.
A consultation on the strategy is due to be launched later this month, which includes improvements to the bandstand and access to the gardens, and will run until 20 December, with the results expected in the new year.
The original bandstand was built in 1877, and alongside the surrounding gardens, has played host to a variety of events, including the MTV Awards and the Homeless World Cup.
Some of the city’s most iconic events return every year, such as the Edinburgh Festival fireworks display, Winter Festival events and the Summer Sessions concert series.
With the maximum number of major events using the bandstand set at four, the council is looking to expand this with three more major events within West Princes Street Gardens.
According to the consultation, this includes: “Introduction of a two-day major event in May to be advertised and procured with a maximum contract length of three years.
“Introduction of a Summer Festivals stage to include opportunities for all festivals, creating a low-impact animation for up to eight weeks in total (within the curtilage of the Ross Bandstand and surrounding hard standing).
“These low-impact activities would be programmed to also allow the current major summer festivals events to take place (if requested by one of the festivals) and which could also include up to three days of “major events”.
“Continue with an annual two-day major event in September to be advertised and procured with a maximum of three years.”
The public’s view has also been sought on organising more community-focused “low-impact” events, which could include religious celebrations, choirs and school performances.
These would last for up to five days and could benefit from a new Public Spaces event charging model.
This would encourage the organisation of community or charity events by offering free or 50% reduced rental costs, depending on whether the event has any commercial aspects.
Speaking upon the launch of the consultation, Edinburgh City Council Leader Cammy Day said: “Located in the heart of the city, nestled between the Old and New Towns beneath Edinburgh Castle, West Princes Gardens and the Ross Bandstand are cherished historic sites which have been enjoyed by residents and visitors for generations.
“We are keen to make sure this continues.
“We understand that, as an important green space in the city, there are many perspectives to consider, especially concerning the variety of events that could be hosted in the Gardens.
“That’s why it’s essential for us to gather input from as many people as possible.
“We know that many will want to share their views and join us in agreeing a strategy for the years ahead.”
