The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site
Annual Monitoring Report
2006/07
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site Steering Group has overseen the preparation of this report. Edinburgh World Heritage (EWH) would like to take this opportunity to thank our partner agencies – Historic Scotland (HS), City of Edinburgh Council (CEC), Scottish Enterprise Edinburgh and Lothian (SEEL) and the Edinburgh City Centre Management Company (ECCMC) for their continuing engagement in the process CONTENTS
PAGE:
INTRODUCTION 6
1 CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION 7
2 CONDITION OF THE SITE 13
3 DEVELOPMENT PRESSURE 27
4 ECONOMIC PROFILE 37
5 AWARENESS AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT 48
6 RESOURCES AND MANAGEMENT 56
7 CONCLUSIONS 57
8 INDICATOR SUMMARY 59
APPENDICES
I CASE-STUDY – SCOTTISH STORYTELLING CENTRE 64
II CASE STUDY – WELL COURT 67
III CONSERVATION AREA MAP
IV DEVELOPMENT MAP TABLES AND FIGURES
Table: Page:
1 Conservation Area Character Appraisals 13
2 Changes in the Number of Listed Entries 14
3 Location of Listed Entries 15
4 Scheduled Monuments in the WHS & their Condition 16
5 Buildings at Risk Register 18
6 Conservation Funding Awarded by EWH 19
7 Inventory of Gardens & Designed Landscapes 23
8 Total Number of Planning Applications in the WHS 28
9 Breakdown of Determined Planning Applications in the WHS 2000/01-2006/07 30
10 Planning Applications Approved for Major New Developments in the WHS 32
11 EWH Comments on Planning Proposals 2006/07 34
12 Residential Population 38
13 Residential Property Value 39
14 Residential Property Value Trends 40
15 WHS Employment Structure 42
16 Annual Spread of Tourist Trips 44
17 Number of Visitors & their Expenditure 45
18 Events held in the WHS 46
Figure:
1 Total Number of Planning Applications in the WHS 27
2 Annual Spread of Tourist Trips 44
3 What Residents Value about the WHS 52
4 What Visitors Value about the WHS 53
ABBREVIATIONS
CEC City of Edinburgh Council
EWH Edinburgh World Heritage
HS Historic Scotland
ICOMOS International Council on Monuments and Sites
SPG Supplementary Planning Guidance
UNESCO The United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization
WHS World Heritage Site
OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
INTRODUCTION
One of the responsibilities of inscription upon the UNESCO World Heritage List is monitoring each site’s state of conservation. The effective management of the site is dependent upon “a cycle of planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and feedback,” as outlined in paragraph 111 of UNESCO’s Operational Guidelines1. This Monitoring Report has been prepared by EWH on behalf of the World Heritage Site Steering Group.
EWH’s key role lies in support of the care, management and promotion of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site – effectively to work with partner agencies to ensure that the “outstanding universal values” of the World Heritage Site are maintained for future generations. More specifically, the Management Plan specifies five roles for EWH, paraphrased below:
• to champion, represent and monitor the site;
• to co-ordinate actions for conserving, enhancing and adapting the site;
• to provide associated financial assistance;
• to promote associated, exemplary standards of conservation; and
• to promote public understanding and enjoyment of the site.
This annual Monitoring Report studies changes and trends based on key statistics that are gathered about the World Heritage Site. There is a core group of Indicators that are being used by all the UK’s World Heritage Sites as the basis for annual monitoring and a summary table at the back of this report lists individual indicators and summarises trends. These indicators have also guided the layout and content of the main Monitoring Report. Ultimately these annual reports will be used to inform the review of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site Management Plan.
Jane Jackson
Acting Director EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE
1 UNESCO Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention 2005.
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1 CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION
1.1 The Management Plan:
Management Plans are considered by UNESCO to be an effective means of managing World Heritage Sites and of balancing preservation with the needs of change. The first Management Plan for the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh WHS was published in July 2005 by Edinburgh World Heritage (EWH) and its partner agencies; Historic Scotland (HS), City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) and Scottish Enterprise Edinburgh and Lothian (SEEL), to guide future conservation and management within the Site. It aims to manage an area 3.5 by 1.75km in extent2 and containing more than 4,500 buildings.
There is an accompanying Annual Action Programme outlining the key activities to be undertaken by all partner organisations responsible for implementing the Plan. The Management Plan itself will be reviewed quinquennially, to ensure that the issues and policies it contains are still appropriate for the WHS. The next publication is due in 2010. The WHS Annual Monitoring Reports will be used to inform this review.
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh WHS Management Plan is available to view online at www.ewht.org.uk
1.2 Statutory Protection:
The UK statutory planning system is currently considered by UNESCO to offer sufficient protection for World Heritage Sites. With devolution, planning practice in the UK is becoming increasingly varied. The implications of these differences need to be monitored to ensure continued consistency in the protection of the Edinburgh WHS and other UK Sites.
The 2006 Scottish Planning Act is, “the central part of the most fundamental and comprehensive reform of our planning system in sixty years.”3 It introduces measures for greater efficiency and improved public participation in the planning process. Developing a more accessible
2Colvin and Moggridge Landscape Architects 2005. City of Edinburgh High Buildings Policy Review. (Draft) 3 Scottish Executive 2007. A Brief Guide to the 2006 Scottish Planning Act.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 7 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE planning system, with new statutory requirements for pre-application consultations, and evaluating the effectiveness of this engagement, will further empower the communities in the Edinburgh WHS to protect their heritage. Consultation on these changes will take place over the next two years and they are scheduled to be in place by the end of 2008.
Scottish Historic Environment Policy (SHEP) 1 “provides a framework for the day-to-day work of the organisations that have a role and interest in managing the historic environment… [It] sets out a vision for the future; it also brings together a great deal of existing policy in a single publication.”4 During 2006 views were gathered from stakeholders within the historic environment sector on the content of the draft policy. The policy was launched in March 2007. A future SHEP on WHSs is planned.
National Planning Policy Guidance 18 Planning and the Historic Environment (NPPG18) states that although WHS status provides no additional statutory protection (beyond the legislation that protects scheduled ancient monuments, listed buildings and conservation areas); “the impact of proposed development upon a World Heritage Site will be a material consideration in determining planning applications.”
The Edinburgh WHS is given protection through the following statutory policies and documents:
Scheduled Monuments – Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979
Scheduled monuments are of national importance. Once scheduled by HS, prior written consent of the Scottish Ministers is required for a range of works affecting the monument. HS carry out condition surveys on scheduled monuments on a five-year cycle. There are eight scheduled monuments in the Edinburgh WHS5.
Listed Buildings – Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997
Scottish Ministers are legally required to compile a list of buildings that are of special architectural or historic interest. The term ‘building’ is defined
4 Historic Scotland, 2007. SHEP 1 5 Historic Scotland: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 8 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE broadly and one entry on the list may include several addresses. Permission must be sought for development or alterations that would affect the historic or architectural character of the building, including the interior. Listed buildings are grouped into three categories that reflect their degree of interest. The WHS contains the following number of entries on the list:
A-Listed = 656 B-Listed = 864 C (s)-Listed = 156
Total Listed = 1676
Due to differences in the criteria used by HS and CEC to define ‘a building,’ it is not possible to establish the total percentage of buildings listed. However EWH estimate around 75% of buildings in the WHS are listed.
Listed buildings can only be demolished under ‘exceptional circumstances,’ where a strong case is made after consideration of the factors outlined in Historic Scotland’s Memorandum of Guidance on Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas. The Memorandum indicates that unlisted buildings within a conservation area should be afforded this same protection.
Conservation Areas – Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997
A conservation area is “an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.” Conservation areas are afforded stricter planning control to protect their character. The WHS is covered by a patchwork of seven conservation areas, each with a distinctive character. These designated areas are discussed in greater depth in the next chapter.
Development Plans
“A local plan sets out detailed policies and specific proposals for the development and use of land that should guide day-to-day planning
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 9 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE decisions.”6 The Central Edinburgh Local Plan, adopted 29 May 1997, includes the area of the WHS7. CEC is currently progressing work on the Edinburgh City Local Plan, which will replace all the existing urban area plans in Edinburgh. The Plan contains several policies designed to maintain the unique character of the city and to protect its outstanding heritage and promote appropriate design. It is, however, the view of EWH that a specific policy explicitly protecting the WHS should be included.
The WHS is located in the area covered by the Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan 2015, which was approved on 17 June 20048 by Scottish Ministers.
This is available to view online at www.elsp.gov.uk
Supplementary Planning Guidance
There is no specific Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) for the City of Edinburgh based on the Management Plan. The following guidance, although not exhaustive, is applicable for development affecting the WHS. These documents have been approved by CEC and provide specific policies additional to the development plan.
The World Heritage Site Conservation Manifesto: Approved in January 1999 as a chapter in the Development Management Handbook, its objective is “to assist in preserving the historic fabric of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site and to ensure that changes complement and enhance its special character9.”
The Edinburgh Standards for Streets: Approved as SPG in November 2006 for the whole of the Edinburgh area, the guidance aims to help achieve quality and coherence in the public realm.
The Edinburgh Standards for Urban Design: Approved as citywide SPG in August 2003.
The Edinburgh Standards for Sustainable Building: Approved as SPG in October 2006 for implementation from 1May 2007.
6 Scottish Executive 2002. SPP1The Planning System 7 The City of Edinburgh Council: www.edinburgh.gov.uk 8 The City of Edinburgh Council: www.edinburgh.gov.uk 9 City of Edinburgh Council 1999. Development Quality Handbook.
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A range of additional non-statutory SPG exists on such matters as window replacement, shopfront alterations and the setting of listed buildings.
1.3 Conservation Plans:
Conservation plans are acknowledged as a good practice approach to understanding a building or structure prior to developing proposals for management or change10. They are generally a requirement for applications to the Heritage Lottery Fund. EWH requires a conservation plan or statement to accompany every application to its Conservation Funding Programme. The number of buildings with a conservation plan is a national indicator (see Indicator Summary). However, the complexity of the Edinburgh WHS and its number of buildings means it is not currently possible to compile statistics across the whole Site.
1.4 Risk Assessment and Emergency Plan:
Additional threats to the WHS buildings arise from disasters, both natural and man-made. The WHS does not have its own Risk Assessment or Emergency Plan, but is covered by CEC’s ‘Emergency Plan for Major Incidents.’
Conclusions: Conservation and Protection
• UNESCO recognises that the current planning system provides sufficient protection for UK WHSs; through scheduled monument, listed building and conservation area designations. WHS Status is a key material consideration in the determination of planning applications. The Local Plan and SPG offer further guidance on local heritage and urban design issues.
In England and Wales the Heritage Protection Review is looking at the possibility of formal designation of WHSs and new guidance as part of a review in legislation. It is possible to increase statutory protection of the Edinburgh WHS by introducing a specific policy in the Local Plan, but it is the view of HS and CEC that conservation of the WHS is adequately embedded throughout the Plan. EWH should
10 Historic Scotland 2007. Para 3.5c SHEP 1.
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continue to promote good practice through influencing planning policy that impacts upon the values of the WHS.
• There is not a national record of buildings with a conservation plan and no recent figures for the number of buildings in the WHS that have, or are within, a conservation plan. This information could be of value to the management of the WHS. HS, CEC and EWH could consider ways of reviewing the number of buildings with a conservation plan.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
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2 CONDITION OF THE SITE
2.1 Buildings and Historic Fabric:
Conservation Area Character Appraisals
Following the CEC Planning Committee’s approval for an extension to the northwest area of the Dean Village Conservation Area in February 2007, nearly all of the WHS falls within conservation area protection (the exception is a small section to the south of the Palace of Holyroodhouse). Appendix III provides a map of the conservation areas in the WHS.
National Planning Policy Guideline (NPPG) 18, Planning and the Historic Environment 1999, requires planning authorities to prepare character appraisals for their conservation areas. These have been completed by CEC for all seven conservation areas within the WHS.
Table 1: Conservation Area Character Appraisals11
Conservation Area Date of Appraisal Coltbridge and Wester Coates 03-11-05 Dean Village 05-02-04 Marchmont and Meadows 18-05-06 Conservation Area New Town 16-06-05 Old Town -02-05 South Side 08-08-02 West End 09-03-06
Historic Buildings
Edinburgh’s buildings are an essential component of the WHS. This includes not only those of great historic value, but also smaller scale old industrial and domestic buildings (which may not be listed) as well as a significant number of outstanding contemporary buildings that enhance the WHS and its setting. Appendix I provides a case study of The Scottish Storytelling Centre, by Malcolm Fraser Architects, which is a new building sympathetically linked to the Category A-listed John Knox House on the Royal Mile. It provides a good example of a contemporary building which
11 The City of Edinburgh Council 2007.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
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Lesser buildings can also contribute to the visual and social context for the understanding of the WHS and its sense of place. Inappropriate development can pose a threat to the integrity and authenticity of the WHS and EWH works with CEC to encourage developers to take full account of the character and importance of the WHS in planning new developments.
The total number of listed entities has remained constant at 1676. Changes within the categories result from a new listing; 1-7 (inclusive) in Tron Square and the demolition of C(s) listed 3 Hawthornbank Lane.
HS record all applications referred to them and the decisions made. This includes the demolition of listed buildings and conservation area consents for the demolition of non-listed buildings in conservation areas. With the extension of the Dean Village Conservation Area, virtually completing the cover of the WHS by conservation area designations, future Monitoring Reports will be able to more accurately record the loss of all buildings within the WHS.
Table 2: Changes in the Number of Listed Entries12
2005/06 2006/07 Change A-listed 656 656 0 B-listed 863 864 +1 C(s)-listed 157 156 -1 Total listed 1,676 1,676 0
12 Historic Scotland 2007
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
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Table 3: Location of Listed Entries13
"A" listed "B" listed "C(s)" listed Total
Old Town 114 280 71 464
New Town 518 509 62 1089
Dean 5 23 1 29
Wester Coates 1 0 0 1
West End 12 19 18 49
Meadows 2 8 0 10
Southside 4 25 4 33
Total 656 864 156 1676
Scheduled Monuments and Archaeological Findings
Edinburgh’s WHS contains a number of nationally important scheduled monuments and well-preserved archaeological deposits. The WHS Management Plan provides greater detail on the archaeological value of the Site. There are eight scheduled monuments located in the WHS, all within the Old Town conservation area. HS undertakes a condition survey of each scheduled monument quinquennially. All scheduled monuments within the WHS are due a condition survey.
In 2006/07 there were a number of ongoing excavations within the Site. Generally these have taken place following the granting of planning permission for redevelopment subject to an archaeological appraisal and condition. During public realm/streetscape works on the Royal Mile, the remains of Edinburgh’s medieval tollbooth were unearthed with the aid of radar surveys. Although historians knew of its approximate location they were unable until now to pinpoint its exact location. EWH is part funding brass setts that will mark the location of this important building on the re- laid road14. This is an archaeological approach used to highlight key buildings that have been lost in the past.
13Historic Scotland (Amended from WHS Annual Report 2004/05-2005/06) 14 Aura Sabadus 15/09/06. Edinburgh Evening News
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
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Table 4: Scheduled Monuments in the WHS and their Condition15
SAM Index Scheduled Condition Survey Classification Grid Ref Number Monument Date Condition 90127 Edinburgh Abbey Secular NT268739 n/a Strand 90130 Edinburgh Castle Secular NT249734 n/a 90132 Edinburgh, Palace of Secular NT269739 n/a Holyroodhouse Edinburgh Town Wall, 2901 Flodden Wall and Secular NT253732 23-02-99 2 Telfer Wall, Heriot Place Edinburgh Town Wall, 3013 Flodden Wall, Secular NT261733 23-02-99 2 Drummond Street to Pleasance Edinburgh Town Wall, 3012 Johnston Terrace to Secular NT252733 23-02-99 4
Grassmarket 10805 Holyrood Abbey and Secular NT269739 n/a Palace Gardens. 10801 Queen Mary’s Bath Secular NT267739 n/a and Privy Garden
KEY - Condition 1 Optimal 2 Generally satisfactory but with minor localised problems 3 Generally satisfactory but with significant localised problems 4 Generally unsatisfactory with major localised problems 5 Extensive problems
Building Losses and Buildings at Risk
Buildings within the WHS can be at risk from development, dereliction and disrepair. The Scottish Civic Trust keeps the Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland to monitor historically important buildings that are vacant and have fallen into disrepair. Table 5 shows there are five buildings on the Register that fall inside the WHS boundary. In addition, there were two further buildings on the Register that have been demolished prior to 2006/07 and were therefore not included in the table. The same buildings have remained on the Register since the 2004/05-2005/06 Monitoring Report. Negotiations to find owners willing to restore buildings at risk often fall through because current owners are not prepared to accept a sale
15 Historic Scotland 2007.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 16 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE price which reflects the cost of required repairs and restoration works. 2 Forrest Road is currently being restored and Infirmary Street Baths converted and reoccupied, however it is the Scottish Civic Trust’s policy that neither will be removed from the Register until fully restored and occupied.
Funding has not been available to update the Buildings at Risk Register for several years. During 2006/07 HS were in talks with the Scottish Civic Trust to attain a more comprehensive Buildings at Risk Register. They are now providing the Trust with funding to achieve this. Since the period of this report (2006/07), CEC has also sought to update the Buildings at Risk Register and has recommended that the Council adopts a pro-active approach in identifying solutions for the long-term buildings at risk16.
EWH’s own work on buildings at risk in previous years involved coordinating a Monitoring of Buildings Working Group; with members from CEC (Property Management and Planning), EWH and the Scottish Civic Trust, and indicated in excess of twenty buildings deemed ‘high priority.’ EWH has enlisted a volunteer to update the organisation’s record of buildings at risk within the WHS which will ensure a more comprehensive account of the state of conservation of the WHS building stock by the end of 2008.
Statutory Repair Notices
Responsibility for maintenance of property lies with the building owners, but CEC can serve statutory repair notices where, in its opinion, a defect or defects may endanger public safety. The ageing building stock can present a risk to the public in particular in the form of falling masonry. EWH offers repayable repair grants to help owners of properties that have been issued with these notices. The number of statutory repair notices issued by CEC is not currently monitored at WHS level.
16 The City of Edinburgh Council 2008
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 17 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Table 5: Buildings at Risk Register17
Conservation Present Planning History pre March Building Name Address Listing Date of Build Risk Area Condition 2007 Outline discussions about 2 North Grays Bishop Sydserfs restoration and reuse Close (Rear of 125 Old Town B Late C16th Ruinous High House between CEC and Alba High Street) Trust. Alteration to shop front Blackfriars Street (1992), Internal alterations United 17-21 Blackfriars (1994). Building owned by Old Town C(S) 1871 Poor High Presbyterian Street Italian Consul who have Church (Former) been reluctant to repair or sell. Blood Application granted to Transfusion 2 Forrest Road Old Town Unlisted Late C18th Fair Minimal convert to hotel (2007). Centre (Former) Application granted for Infirmary Street conversion into workshop 10 Infirmary Street Old Town B 1885-1887 Poor High Baths for Dovecot Studios and residential use(Nov 2006). Planning permission granted (1995) for Portsburgh 5 Vennel, Off conversion into gallery but Chapel Grassmarket, Old Town B 1828 Fair Low never implemented due to (Former) Edinburgh funding issues. Sold to private property developer.
17 Scottish Civic Trust 2006. Buildings at Risk Register
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Conservation Funding Programme
EWH manages a Conservation Funding Programme to ensure the continued protection and enhancement of structures in the WHS. In 2006/07 two types of funding were available; project funding which conserves and enhances the Site for public, community or charitable purposes and repayable grants for conservation work to residential and commercial historic buildings. Funds are prioritised according to need as set out on the EWH website. Projects are also targeted to ensure maximum benefits for the WHS.
Table 6: Conservation Funding Awarded by EWH18
Year 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 Amount £ million 1.07 1.18 1,493,070
2.2 Public Realm and Streetscape:
In the WHS, the type and quality of paving and road materials is essential in preserving and enhancing the historic fabric and grain of the city. The CEC Planning Committee approved the Edinburgh Standards for Streets as SPG in November 2006. The document is a review of the earlier Streetscape Manual (1998) and links conservation and urban design values with good practices in transport management. The in-depth guidance defines the character of Edinburgh’s streets, outlines aspirations and gives examples of best practice, to provide a mechanism by which historic materials will be maintained and high quality design consistently achieved across the city. EWH and CEC have jointly commissioned a report on historic paving materials to inform the implementation of the principals set out in the Edinburgh Standards for Streets.
Under the Capital Streets initiative funds from SEEL and CEC have been directed at key public realm improvement projects in the city centre. These are designed to increase footfall, improve the pedestrian experience, enhance the value of the spaces, and improve access. A Client Design Group which includes representatives of EWH, ECCMC and HS has been involved in the commissioning, design and implementation process; meeting regularly with the appointed consultants throughout the
18 Edinburgh World Heritage. Monitoring report 2004/05-2005/06 and Annual review 2006/07
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Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 19 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE development of the projects. Two of these projects were the subject of detailed planning applications during 2006/07. The enhancement projects for St Andrew Square and the Grassmarket were approved by the Planning Committee and are due to be completed during 2008/09.
Public Realm Improvements in 2006/07
During 2006/07, a 300m stretch of the Royal Mile passing St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh City Chambers and the Sheriff Court was reconstructed in a £1.5million project. The aim was to avoid emergency repairs in the future by ensuring the setts were laid on a substantial base to avoid traffic damage. EWH, HS and CEC supported the plan which maintained the existing character through retention and reuse of thousands of granite setts laid in the traditional Edinburgh style, while using new technology to provide a more durable sub-surface.19
2.3 WHS Setting:
Setting and Views
Edinburgh has a world famous skyline; the profile of the Old Town punctured with unoccupied structures of spires, towers and monuments that give spectacular views to, from and through the WHS. Economic growth and a desire for increased densities, combined with the current international fashion for tall buildings, has resulted in proposals for taller buildings, which have the potential to impact on the city’s sky-space and put mounting pressure on the preservation of the city’s skyline. The complex impacts of development on this unique asset need to be fully understood in order to assess where development can be accommodated and where protection is needed.
ICOMOS recommends that agencies responsible for UK WHSs undertake a landscape survey every six years using fixed point photographic survey of strategic views and key landscape features. These reports should identify the following:
• Landscape character • Intrusive features • New developments
19 ScotAsh. Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
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• Any loss of key views or features. • Analysis against a checklist of values and local and regional landscape characterisation • Recommendations for the short and long term.
CEC, EWH, SEEL and HS commissioned a review of the 1968 High Buildings Policy, from Colvin and Moggridge Landscape Architects. The associated key views that came out of the work were the subject of public consultation between 13 February and 13 April 2007. The public were asked to add their own favourite views as part of an exhibition which toured the city. It presented five essential features and forty key views to which a further three were added as a result of consultation responses.
The study proposed the development of a methodology, which will allow the impact of proposed taller buildings on the city’s skyline to be measured. This will assist the planning authority in making more informed judgements on future planning applications.
Buffer Zone
Development outside the WHS boundary could have a significant impact on the Site, for example if new tall buildings interrupt views to and from the WHS. Contiguous conservation areas across the WHS act as a partial buffer zone around the Site. Nevertheless, there are adjoining areas where there is no conservation area protection (see Appendix III for map). These are:
• South of Holyrood Road • South of the West End Conservation Area • South of Haymarket Terrace • North of the Dean Village Conservation Area
The WHS Action Programme has recommended setting up a working group to examine the need for further protection outside the WHS boundary. This would involve consideration of a number of options, such as a policy to protect the setting of the WHS. Any major changes to the boundary itself would have to be recommended through the state party to be considered by UNESCO.
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2.4 Condition of the Natural Environment:
Parks, Gardens and Graveyards
The maintenance of the green environment of the city and understanding its contribution to the historic character of the WHS is a key part of the WHS Management Plan. There are three entries on the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes that fall within the WHS boundary, shown in Table 7. Gardens and designed landscapes listed on the inventory do not enjoy the same legal protection as listed buildings and scheduled monuments; however they do receive recognition and some protection through the planning system.
These places and spaces are recognised as nationally important, but there are other green spaces that individually and collectively enhance and contribute to the unique character of the WHS. There is not currently (March 2007) a system in place to monitor the state of conservation of these open spaces. CEC have commissioned a study, the first of its kind, to look at historic landscapes across the city. This falls outside the time period covered by this report, but will be discussed in future Monitoring Reports.
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Table 7: Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes20
Name and Description Values (Inclusion Date) Work of Nature Historical Horticultural Architectural Scenic Archaeological Art Conservation Dean Cemetery (2001) An important example of a mid 19th Century cemetery. Existing planting demonstrates the O O S O S H S picturesque theories of landscape design applied to 19th century burial. Palace of Holyroodhouse (1987) Holyrood Palace and Park make a major contribution to the Edinburgh scenery and have rich historical associations with the L O L O O O Augustinian Abbey since the 12th century and as a Royal residence since the 16th century. The Park is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The New Town Gardens (2001) The internationally recognised New Town Gardens comprise a series of 18th and 19th century town gardens, squares and walks. Although broadly contemporary with other O O S O O H H developments in city planning, Edinburgh New Town has the most extensive system of public and private open space, designed to take full advantage of the topography and Edinburgh townscape.
O = Outstanding H = High S = Some L = Little
20 Historic Scotland: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
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Valley of the Water of Leith
The Water of Leith offers an oasis of green calm within walking distance of the city centre. Threats to the valley arise from flooding, inappropriate development destroying the important natural habitat and development which does not respect the traditional village scale of the Dean Village. However, flood prevention proposals are being put in place and the habitat of key species is protected through actions in the Biodiversity Action Plan. The Dean Village Conservation Area Character Appraisal is complete and Article 4 Directions exist to provide additional controls.
The Development Pressure Map in appendix IV, shows several developments underway adjacent to the Water of Leith and EWH are aware of a number of objections to these schemes. The Water of Leith Flood Prevention Scheme was confirmed by the Scottish Executive in March 2007. EWH was consulted on the scheme to mitigate any adverse effects on the character of the valley and the WHS. EWH should work with partners, such as the Water of Leith Conservation Trust to identify a suitable method of monitoring.
In 2004 EWH commissioned aerial photography of the site, an exercise that could be periodically repeated to measure change over time. On the ground, fixed-point photography would offer a more affordable method of measuring changes; as would using an online mapping tool like ‘Google Earth,’ although this would rely on the timescale ‘Google’ use to update their resource.
Conclusions: Condition of the Site
• The level of conservation and protection of the WHS is good. In autumn 2006 the ICOMOS International Advisory Committee met in Edinburgh. The experts were impressed with the extent and quality of repairs and buildings in good condition. The percentage of the WHS covered by conservation area protection has increased during 2006/07 and is now virtually complete. Not only does this enhance the statutory protection of the WHS, but it allows for more accurate monitoring of statistics such as building demolitions, because HS only record demolitions for unlisted buildings when located in conservation areas.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 24 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
• During the 2006/07 period, significant steps were made towards the enhancement of the public realm in the WHS through the publication of SPG and joint working between WHS partners for example in the ongoing Capital Streets projects. This partnership working should be continued to ensure a holistic vision for public realm in the WHS.
• Certain developments outside the WHS have the potential to impact upon the values of the Site. There are areas adjacent to the WHS that do not have conservation area protection and therefore do not provide a complete buffer zone. EWH and partner agencies should consider whether a buffer zone is appropriate, using information from the recent skyline study. This could provide greater protection for the WHS’s unique setting. In the 2004/05-2005/06 Monitoring Report, the same action was identified and is a priority in the Management Plan Action Programme. This has not been taken forward during the period of this report as the final outcome of the skyline, key views and policy consultation was not known.
• Edinburgh has a tradition of pioneering architecture and urban planning which is the basis for its designation as a WHS. Modern architecture, which respects the surrounding heritage, has a role in enhancing the WHS, but only when its quality reflects the status of the Site.
• Accurate and specific data is needed to make a more informed assessment of the condition of the WHS. Some of the information currently used is not available at a sufficiently detailed level to make that assessment. EWH does not currently have the resources to carry out significant primary research and is therefore reliant on secondary data. Condition surveys of scheduled monuments in the WHS are overdue and the various different assessments of buildings at risk require a more co-ordinated approach. The number and cost of statutory repair notices have not been recorded since 2003/04 and building losses have not been recorded since 2002/03. There is also a need for objective statistics against which to measure the condition of the public realm, green spaces and the valley of the Water of Leith. However as indicated, several organisations are taking action to provide a more accurate account of condition. It is therefore hoped that the next Monitoring Report will contain more detailed information of buildings at risk, building losses and statutory
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 25 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
repair notices. Procedures for identifying and sharing data between HS, CEC, EWH and other relevant agencies should be reviewed. Representatives could meet to share their organisation’s available data, to compile objective, accurate and current data and to identify gaps in the monitoring of the state of conservation. This could be facilitated through a WHS Steering Group meeting.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 26 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
3 DEVELOPMENT PRESSURE
The number of planning applications (including listed building and conservation area consents) received by CEC for development in the WHS has increased since 2005/06 to 874; illustrating the significant level of development activity within the WHS. Only once since 2000 (in 2002/03) has it been greater. Figure 1 and Table 8 show a steady increase in the number of applications since 2002/03.
Figure 1: Total Number of Planning Applications in the WHS
1200
1000 s
n 800 o i t Mixed a c i
l Refused and Enforced p
p 600 Refused A f
o Granted . o 400 N
200
0 2000/01 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 Year
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
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Table 8: Total Number of Planning Applications in the WHS21
Decision 2000/012001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 Granted 641 724 878 644 674 654 722 Refused 64 89 75 78 90 110 115 Refused and 26 18 14 14 23 23 19 Enforced Mixed 0 0 0 0 0 0 18 Total 731 831 967 736 787 787 874
Table 9 on page 30 shows that since 2003/04 the number of applications for each category has steadily risen but has not exceeded 2002/03 levels, with the exception of 4b (minor business and industry) and 5b (all other minor development). The percentage of granted applications has steadily fallen over this period. However, when ‘mixed’ decision applications (where some aspects of the application are granted and others refused) are taken into account refusal rates have actually fallen since the previous year. This could indicate a better quality of applications and improved pre-application discussion.
Table 10 identifies the major developments within the WHS over the period of 2006/07. In total there were fourteen major planning applications within the WHS compared to nine the previous year and six the year before that. All but one of the applications for 2006/07 were approved. Applications for major developments peaked in 2002/03 with 23 applications of which 22 were approved.
EWH is not a statutory consultee, but CEC may choose to consult EWH on major developments that have the potential to impact on the WHS. For the past two years EWH has focused on commenting on and influencing ‘major’ development proposals and planning applications. The Scottish Executive classifies ‘major’ developments as developments that propose either a minimum of ten dwellings or a minimum of 1000m² of gross floorspace or, alternatively, cover an area equal to or greater than one hectare. These are identified under categories 3a, 4a and 5a in Table 9.
EWH’s comments are made in relation to significant impacts on the WHS and CEC may choose to take these into account when determining applications. A summary of comments made by EWH on development
21 City of Edinburgh Council 2008.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 28 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE proposals in the 2006/07 period are detailed in Table 11 along with the decision made by CEC. This table shows that the key issues that could affect the distinctive character of the WHS are the scale, height and massing of proposed developments and the loss of historic fabric. EWH has raised these issues in the organisation’s comments on planning applications during 2006/07.
Appendix IV, Development Pressure Map, provides an illustration of large scale development proposed and underway for 2006/07. This map can be reproduced annually to give a visual illustration of areas undergoing development.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 29 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Table 9: Breakdown of Determined Planning Applications in the WHS 2000/01-2006/07
2002 - 2003 2003 - 2004 2004 - 2005 2005 - 2006 2006-07
Cat. Refused Refused Refused Refused Refused Granted and Refused Granted and Refused Granted and Refused Granted and Refused Granted and Refused Mixed Enforced Enforced Enforced Enforced Enforced
98 2 7 63 5 62 1 7 77 1 15 70 4 1 1 91.5% 1.8% 6.5% 92.6% 7.4% 88.6% 1.4% 10.0% 82.8% 1.1% 16.1% 93.3% 5.3% 1.3% 10 7 3 1 4 4 3a 100.0% 70.0% 30.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 46 7 35 3 41 5 38 3 45 6 3b 86.7% 13.2% 92.1% 7.9% 89.1% 10.9% 92.7% 7.3% 88.2% 11.8% 8 1 3 5 5 1 4a 88.8% 11.1% 100.0% 100.0% 83.3% 16.7% 115 12 81 1 14 84 2 18 102 3 30 125 2 31 2 4b 90.5% 9.4% 84.4% 1.0% 14.6% 80.8% 1.9% 17.3% 75.6% 2.2% 22.2% 78.1% 1.3% 19.4% 1.3% 25 2 10 9 1 9 1 14 1 4c 92.5% 7.4% 100.0% 90.0% 10.0% 90.0% 10.0% 93.3% 6.7% 4 3 3 2 4 5a 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 47 3 60 10 93 4 11 48 5 55 1 4 1 5b 94.0% 6.0% 85.7% 14.3% 86.1% 3.7% 10.2% 90.6% 9.4% 90.2% 1.6% 6.6% 1.6% 389 7 26 296 7 23 290 7 33 292 11 41 303 9 45 12 6 92.1% 1.6% 6.1% 90.8% 2.1% 7.1% 87.9% 2.1% 10.0% 84.9% 3.2% 11.9% 82.1% 2.4% 12.2% 3.3% 110 5 15 80 6 20 86 9 15 82 8 15 94 7 22 2 7 84.6% 3.8% 11.5% 75.5% 5.6% 18.9% 78.2% 8.2% 13.6% 78.1% 7.6% 14.3% 75.2% 5.6% 17.6% 1.6% 26 2 6 3 1 9 92.8% 7.1% 100.0% 75.0% 25.0%
SUB 878 14 75 644 14 78 674 23 90 654 23 110 722 19 115 18 TOTAL 90.8% 1.4% 7.7% 87.5% 1.9% 10.6% 85.6% 2.9% 11.4% 83.1% 2.9% 14.0% 82.6% 2.2% 13.2% 2.1% ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
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Key: Cat 1: Householder developments Cat 4b - Business & industry: minor (below 1000m²) Cat 6 - Listed building & conservation area consent Cat 3a - Dwellings: major (10+) Cat 4c - Telecom Cat 7 - Advertising Cat 3b - Dwellings: minor (below 10) Cat 5a - All other development: major (1000m²+) Cat 9 - Other consents & certificates Cat 4a - Business & industry: major (1000m²+) Cat 5b - All other development: minor (below 1000m²)
Cat. - Category
Source: City of Edinburgh Council 2008
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Table 10: Planning Applications Approved for Major New Developments in the WHS 2006/0722
Decision Address Description 7-9 Rothesay Place GRA Change of use and conversion of hotel to residential use. Edinburgh EH3 7SL Alter and change of use from restaurant, offices and store/car parking area to form 4 - 6 Picardy Place GRA hotel , bar and restaurant operating with a hotel license and nightclub venue operating Edinburgh EH1 3JT with an entertainment license with ancillary accommodation throughout plus external. 22 - 23 Abercromby Place GRA Change of use from college to flats and external alterations. Edinburgh EH3 6QE Brodie's Close ( 302-304 Lawnmarket/59-63 Mixed use development with hotel, bars, restaurant, retail, bank, leisure facilities and GRA George IV Bridge) associated ancillary offices, services and parking - as amended. Edinburgh
32 Calton Road Erection of mixed development comprising ground floor commercial space with GRA Edinburgh EH8 8DP associated car parking (2 spaces) and student residential accommodation. Sunbury Street Change of use and erection of replacement new build extension to form 15 residential GRA (Sunbury House) apartments including extension and reconfiguration of underground car parking area Edinburgh EH4 3BU and creation of landscaped courtyard (as amended). 12 Jackson's Entry (Site Adjacent To Gentle's GRA Proposed new office development over ground plus four storeys. Entry,Holyrood Road) Edinburgh EH8 8PJ St Andrew Square Gardens St Andrew Square Gardens incorporating a water feature, lighting and cafe/pavilion for use of the general GRA Edinburgh public.
22 City of Edinburgh Council 2008
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15 - 25 George Street ( Land To The Rear Of GRA George Hotel) New hotel bedrooms, leisure area and support facilities as an extension to George Hotel. Edinburgh EH2 2PA
129 - 133 Rose Street Lane Modification of ' Condition 1 ' attached to planning permission 01/00754/FUL to extend GRA South period of consents for another 5 years. Edinburgh EH2 4BB 44 Chambers Street Redevelopment of existing museum building including new entrances, stairs, lifts and GRA Edinburgh EH1 1JB internal reorganisation. 32A Broughton Street Alter, extend and change of use to form public house, restaurant and mixed REF Edinburgh EH1 3SB entertainment venue. 10 Infirmary Street Conversion of existing buildings into artists workspaces and exhibition and including new GRA (Infirmary Street Baths) storeys for residential and commercial (as amended). Edinburgh EH1 1NP Sunbury Street Proposed application for material variation-repositioning of buildings approved under (Belford Lodge) GRA planning permission reference number 01/01561/ful variation of ground and first floor Edinburgh balconies to building "A" and addition of utility room and extended dinning room.
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Table 11: EWH Comments on Planning Proposals 2006/0723
Date Potential impact on Application Address Reference Description CEC Decision OUVs Validated Substantial revisions Caltongate Scale; gap in recommended, Draft Canongate; demolition including greater 15/05 /2006 Masterplan N/A of listed buildings; account to be taken of (not a planning urban form and the WHS Management application) architecture. Plan. EWH recognised that Demolition of existing building revised plans reduced 102 West Port and erection of office Height and mass of the the negative impact 26/06/2006 (West Port 06/02664/FUL development with associated proposed on the WHS and were House) car parking and highways replacement. granted. improvements. Conversion of existing former church into archaeological exhibition area with cafe/ An inappropriate Tron Kirk, High 06/02923/LBC Referred to Scottish 13/07/2006 restaurant/ function facilities, intrusion into an Street Ministers. conversion of existing public wc important building. to provide kitchen facilities for cafe/ restaurant (as amended). Mixed use development incorporating canteen, kitchen, 84-92 06/03422/CON workshop, community hall, Loss of existing urban 05/09/2006 Candlemaker Granted. 06/03442/FUL offices and residential units (16 fabric; scale; design. Row no.) (as amended to 13 residential units).
23 EWH internal files and City of Edinburgh Council 2008
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Redevelopment of existing site (including the selective Height; massing; demolition of buildings) to form a elevational language; A revised application, 3-8 St Andrew 06/03441/LBC 11/09/2006 mixed use development of lack of historic context not objected to by Square 06/03441/FUL office and retail uses and and WHS impact EWH was granted. residential development (as assessment. amended to reduce scale). Amendments to original Masterplan which addressed some of EWH’s concerns, Caltongate including; a spatial structure Loss of historic Masterplan which more accurately reflects buildings; breach in the Oct 2006 N/A Approved SPG. (not a planning the local historic character, Canongate; height application) better connectivity, restriction of and mass. vehicular access, clearer townscape objectives e.g. on roofscapes. Public realm works comprising Support with further The 03/11/2006 06/04133/FUL streetscape enhancement for enhancement Granted. Grassmarket general public use. suggestions. An amended design, Site adjacent including changes to 11/01/2007 to 30 Leith 07/00035/FUL Erect office building. Scale; lack of subtlety. the dormer features Street was granted.
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Conclusions: Development Pressure
• There is a noticeable increase in the pace of change; the number of planning applications in the WHS is at its highest level for four years and the number of major applications has more than doubled in two years. This suggests that the WHS will face major physical changes over the coming years as planning approvals are implemented.
• There is a sieve of statutory policy and guidance used by CEC, the Local Planning Authority, to ensure new development is of the highest quality and demonstrates an understanding of the context in which it is located. In commenting on major applications, EWH has expressed concerns about the trend towards increased building heights, scale and massing, and the loss of historic fabric. All partners have a role to play in monitoring applications with regard to these factors, to ensure that development meets the needs of a vibrant capital city while also respecting the historic context. Partner organisations are working together to promote an understanding of the values and special character of the WHS. In addition, CEC is introducing policies, for example on skyline protection, which will inform the management of change and the evolution of new design.
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4 ECONOMIC PROFILE
Edinburgh has the strongest UK city economy outside London24. The continuing vibrancy of the city and its role as a major economic, institutional and cultural centre is essential to the character and wellbeing of the WHS. This section looks at the continuing investment in Edinburgh’s economy, which maintains the life of the city.
4.1 Residential Population:
Edinburgh continually tops the tables for quality of life in national polls and in 2006 was named European City of the Year. EWH invests in enhancing the WHS through its grants and projects, thereby contributing to the high quality of life in Edinburgh that makes it a desirable place to live. The 2001 population census data shows a 17.5% rise in the total WHS residential population. Dean, First New Town and Old Town South all saw an increase greater than 50%. Applications for change of use and estate agents’ boards in the New Town indicate the reversal back to historic residential use is ongoing in the WHS. New residential development in Dean could impact on the village scale and character of this environmentally sensitive area, as developers respond to increasing demand for housing in this location. There is a significant decrease in population in South Side and smaller decreases in Grassmarket, Gayfield and Calton.
The population of the WHS is calculated every decade using census data. The last available figures are from the 2001 census. The accuracy of these figures is limited by sampling restrictions and may also be affected by suspected under reporting in the 1991 census due to poll tax issues.
Unlike many other historic cities, Edinburgh has always maintained a strong residential population in its historic core. Recent figures show this population has remained buoyant: a characteristic which contributes to the vitality of the WHS.
24Edinburgh Inspiring Capital: www.edinburgh-inspiringcapital.com
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Table 12: Residential Population
Area 1991 Census2001 Census % Change Calton 560 540 -3.6 Canongate 1140 1240 8.8 Dean 700 1080 54.3 First New Town 540 840 55.6 Gayfield 1160 1110 -4.3 Grassmarket 670 660 -1.5 Moray Estate 710 770 8.5 Northern New Town 5060 5820 15.0 Old Town High Street 1590 1900 19.5 Old Town South 1200 1880 56.7 Raeburn & Dean 1530 1550 1.3 Southside 470 330 -29.8 West End 850 1140 34.1 Western New Town 2570 3180 23.7 Total For WHS 18,750 22,040 17.5
4.2 Residential Property Value:
The house prices in Edinburgh are significantly higher than Scotland’s average. Affordability of housing stock within Edinburgh’s WHS is a significant challenge. High residential property values can price low income groups out of the area, resulting in a skewed population profile within the WHS. Potentially this can have social repercussions and, as has been seen in cities like London, lead to a shortage of key workers.
Average residential property value has been calculated using postcode areas that have the majority of their area falling inside the WHS; however some of the postcode areas also include locations outside the WHS boundary.
The tables show a significant gap in residential property values between the Old and New Towns. House prices in EH2, the area covering the first New Town, have increased to three times the Scottish average. In comparison during 2006/07 there was a slight fall in prices in EH1, the centre of the Old Town. This can perhaps be largely attributed to the nature and size of New Town property.
The estimated residential property value in the WHS is continually higher than in both Edinburgh and Scotland. However, Table 14 shows that the
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Table 13: Residential Property Value25
Residential Property Value 2006 Postcode 2006 2006 (jul- (oct- 2007 Year (apr-jun) sep) dec) (jan-mar) Mean EH1 £201,394 £172,907 £178,561 £198,004 £187,717 EH2 £221,779 £290,250 £350,000 £385,525 £311,889 EH3 £245,702 £262,832 £268,834 £258,320 £258,922 EH4 £244,252 £276,653 £260,035 £260,035 £260,244 EH5 £145,686 £137,491 £145,573 £154,411 £145,790 EH6 £167,909 £166,284 £157,322 £158,739 £162,564 EH7 £145,558 £153,879 £148,626 £149,533 £149,399 EH8 £159,109 £156,472 £174,929 £167,033 £164,386 EH12 £199,790 £217,831 £212,012 £218,416 £212,012 WHS Mean £192,353 £203,844 £210,655 £216,668 £205,880 Edinburgh Mean £167,634 £174,521 £175,666 £167,033 £171,214 Scotland Mean £113,745 £126,202 £126,461 £127,080 £123,372
25 www.upmystreet.com
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Table 14: Residential Property Value Trends26
Residential Property Value Postcode % 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 Change EH1 £131,279 £123,622 £159,140 £175,714 £187,717 30.1 EH2 £155,471 £229,917 £260,969 £246,866 £311,889 50.2 EH3 £139,687 £187,498 £222,136 £223,313 £258,922 46.1 EH4 £129,149 £147,392 £185,981 £191,611 £260,244 50.4 EH5 £82,665 £104,603 £128,417 £149,534 £145,790 43.3 EH6 £92,654 £126,282 £141,689 £144,790 £162,564 43.0 EH7 £81,789 £114,429 £125,385 £137,121 £149,399 45.3 EH8 £90,843 £123,067 £139,992 £142,078 £164,386 44.7 EH12 £114,361 £157,441 £176,719 £201,030 £212,012 46.1 WHS Mean £113,100£146,028 £171,159 £179,117 £205,880 45.1
Edinburgh Mean £98,205 £129,885£145,828 £155,249 £171,214 42.6 Scotland Mean £60,975 £82,020 £94,515 £108,347£123,372 50.6
It is difficult to determine from these figures whether property prices are greater due to WHS status or the city centre location. However, whether or not residents make a conscious decision to buy a house within the WHS, the proportion of high quality buildings in the Site make it a desirable place to live and this is recognised in the prices buyers are willing to pay.
4.3 Office Uses:27
The business community is important to the vitality of the city and the continued use of buildings within the WHS. Investment in period buildings, ensures a continued sustainable use for the historic building stock. Around eighty percent of transactions in the office rental market are within the small size band between 186-464sq m, reflecting the size of office accommodation available in historic buildings.
During 2006/07, total office take up in Edinburgh was twenty-five percent below Edinburgh’s ten-year average. In addition the supply of office accommodation has increased and there is significant vacant office
26 www.upmystreet.com 27 Ryden 2007. 60th Scottish Property Review.
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4.4 Retail Uses:29
Trends in retail development over the last decade show a large increase in the out-of-town retail parks and growing concerns over their impact on town and city centres. Retail rental values in central Edinburgh remained constant during 2006/07 at £220 per square foot. In comparison retail rental values in Glasgow increased over the same period from £235 - £255 per square foot. The scale and plan of the historic buildings in Edinburgh’s retail core do not generally offer the large uninterrupted floor spaces demanded by many retail operators. Furthermore many of the twentieth century buildings within this core have seen low investment over a protracted period of time and little recent investment in the majority of the public realm to enhance the overall shopping ‘experience.’
Steps are being taken to address the retail and public realm issues within the city centre; these will fall within the period of the next Monitoring Report. It is hoped proposals for the redevelopment of the St James Centre will compliment evolving proposals for Princes Street and provide the larger floor areas demanded by retailers.
4.5 Employment:
Employment is a good measure of the economic standing of the population. Much of the historic fabric of the WHS is privately owned and its survival is dependent on those in ownership having sufficient income to support the cost of maintenance and repair. Unemployment rates in Edinburgh are consistently below the national average. The figures used in Table 15 below are taken from the Old Dean, Holyrood, New Town and Tollcross wards as the nearest approximation to the WHS area. It is interesting to note that although there is an increase in service sector employment and the decrease in construction employment, the balance of employment types has changed little over the time period.
28 Ryden 2007. 60th Scottish Property Review. 29 Ryden 2007. 60th Scottish Property Review.
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Table 15: WHS Employment Structure30
1998 2006 Number % Number % Agriculture & fishing 0 0.0% 0 0.0% Energy & water 200 0.3% 100 0.1% Manufacturing 1,300 1.9% 1,500 1.8% Construction 1,700 2.4% 900 1.1% Distribution, hotels & restaurants 14,900 21.4% 20,400 24.5% Transport & communications 1,600 2.3% 1,900 2.3% Banking, finance & insurance 35,100 50.4% 38,700 46.4% Public administration, education & health 11,500 16.5% 15,100 18.1% Other services 3,100 4.5% 4,800 5.8% Total 69,600 99.7% 83,400 100.0%
4.6 Institutions:
The many national and international institutions, company headquarters and large organisations located within the WHS reflect the complexity of the economic and social activities in the city centre. Most institutions occupy large individual historic buildings and structures and it is important that these uses remain within the WHS, maintaining these buildings in daily use.
Halifax, Bank of Scotland (HBOS) has chosen to retain its headquarters in central Edinburgh. Its continuing presence in the WHS is particularly significant given the role of the financial sector in the economic base of Edinburgh and Scotland. In 2006 HBOS moved into their renovated premises at a prominent location on the Mound. The restored building will be the corporate headquarters for the bank and host many colleagues from across the Group at senior management meetings and other business appointments. In addition the bank also established The Museum on the Mound; one of only three banking museums in the UK and open free of charge all year round.
The City of Edinburgh Council moved some of its operations to new premises at Waverley Court; a new-build office on East Market Street to the east of Waverley Station. The building is leased to the Council for twenty years and will be the Council’s main administrative centre. Former CEC office buildings in Cockburn Street, Advocate’s and Warriston Closes
30 Annual Business Inquiry
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4.7 Visitors and Tourism:
Tourism is a key economic sector for the city, representing 9.7% of all employment in Edinburgh31. Tourism brings investment in facilities, amenities and events, from which the residential community can also benefit. The historic town, its buildings and architecture are the qualities which most impress visitors to the city32. Whether visitors are aware of the WHS status or not, the value of the WHS is inseparable from these qualities most loved by tourists. Furthermore, as Table 17 on page 45 shows, Edinburgh’s tourism represents more than a quarter of the total tourism expenditure in Scotland, thereby making the care and promotion of the WHS a national economic interest.
While tourism brings significant benefits to the city, it can also create challenges for the residents, particularly in the Old Town during the festivals when visitor numbers are high and can cause disturbance and disruption to local communities. There is an increasing interest in ‘sustainable’ or ‘green’ tourism nationally and it is expected this will be a growing trend within the city over the coming years. One aspect of sustainable tourism is the annual spread in tourist volumes. It is more sustainable for tourist visits to be spread evenly across the year, rather than have a peak, when the strain on the local infrastructure (and residents) could have a detrimental impact on the WHS, and slumps, which can badly affect small businesses.
Figure 2 shows a clear peak in overseas tourists visiting Edinburgh in the summer and a slump during the winter months. The number of trips of UK residents to Edinburgh also peaks in the summer but is less pronounced and more evenly spread throughout the year. Scotland shows a similar pattern of visit spread for foreign and UK visitors.
31Visit Scotland 2007. Tourism in the City of Edinburgh 2005 32 Edinburgh World Heritage 2007. WHS Annual Monitoring Report 2004/05 and 2005/06.
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Table 16: Annual Spread of Tourist Trips33
Overseas Tourist Trips UK Tourist Trips (%) Time Period (%) Edinburgh Scotland EdinburghScotland Jan-Mar 22 20 10 11 Apr-June 28 28 25 26 July-Sept 29 31 50 46 Oct-Dec 21 21 15 17
Figure 2: Annual Spread of Tourist Trips
Time of Trip
60 UK Tourist Trips (%) Edinburgh 50 UK Tourist Trips (%) Scotland Ov erseas Tourist Trips 40 (%) Edinburgh Ov erseas Tourist Trips (%) Scotland 30 % T r i p 20 s
10
0 January-March April-June July-September October-December Time Period
33 Visit Scotland 2007. Tourism in City of Edinburgh 2005
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Table 17: Number of Visitors and their Expenditure34
2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004 2005 Edin. Scot. Edin. Scot. Edin. Scot. Edin. Scot. Edin. Scot. UK Trips 2.82m 19.0m 3.1m 17.5m 3.53m 18.5m 3.18m 17.5m 2.5m 14.9m UK Expenditure £221m £3,847m £669m £3,456m £754m £3,683 £730m £3,596m £676m £3,006m Overseas Trips 0.91m 1.7m 0.85m 1.6m 0.85m 1.6m 0.8m 1.6m 1.1m 2.4m Overseas Expenditure £691m £3,100m £247m £688m £269m £811m £255m £889m £393m £1,208m Total Tourism Trips 3.73m 20.7m 3.95m 19.1m 4.38m 20.1m 3.96m 19.1m 3.6m 17.3m Total Tourism Expenditure £647m £3,847m £916m £4,144m £1,023m £4,494m £985m £4,485m £1,069m £4,214m
Due to changes in the ONS International Passenger Survey and the United Kingdom Tourism Survey (UKTS), statistics for 2005 are not comparable with previous years.
34 Visit Scotland. Tourism in City of Edinburgh 2005. www.visitscotland.org
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4.8 Festivals and Markets:
The number of special events and activities within the WHS gives an indication of the Site’s vitality. The festivals bring large economic advantage to the city and to Scotland. A CEC study in 2004/05 found that the city’s festivals generate nearly £170 million. During the period of this Monitoring Report the weekly farmers’ market went from strength to strength and has been voted the UK’s leading farmers’ market.
Table 18: Events Held in the WHS
5-16 April 2006 Edinburgh International Science Festival 23-29 May 2006 Children’s International Theatre Festival 12-28 August 2006 Edinburgh International Book Festival 13 August - 3 September 2006 Edinburgh International Festival 6-28 August 2006 Edinburgh Festival Fringe 28 July - 6 August 2006 Starbucks Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival 27 July - 3 September 2006 Edinburgh Arts Festival 14-27 August 2006 Edinburgh International Film Festival 2-3 September 2006 Edinburgh Mela 4-26 August 2006 Edinburgh Military Tattoo December Edinburgh’s Capital Christmas 30 December 2006 - January 2007 Hogmanay
Conclusions: Economic Profile
• In 2006/07 Edinburgh continued to have a strong economy, demonstrating that economic success and heritage can be mutually supportive, and that a historic city can successfully accommodate business and commerce. In addition, the festivals, markets and institutions continue to contribute to the vibrancy and status of the Site. While the figures are not comparable with previous years, tourism within the city appears to remain strong, although there is a noticeable drop in non-UK tourist trips during the winter months.
• There continues to be a thriving residential population within the WHS; maintaining the original intended use of the Old and New Towns. However there are pockets of decreasing population in
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Grassmarket, Calton, Gayfield and Southside which may relate to anomalies in recording the student population and should be further investigated to determine possible causes. With residential property values remaining buoyant, the availability of affordable housing is necessary to maintain a balanced community. The gap between residential property values in the Old and New Towns is increasing. EWH could liaise with CEC to monitor and analyse patterns of population and house price change to target activity in priority areas.
• Whilst figures appear to show Edinburgh’s declining competitiveness in the office and retail markets, it is important to consider the significant upcoming proposals and projects both within the WHS and in Edinburgh as a whole. A city-wide perspective should be taken in planning where demand for larger office development can be successfully accommodated, to avoid development pressure within the WHS, whilst maintaining its high quality but smaller office market more appropriate for older buildings.
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5 AWARENESS AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
5.1 Social Inclusion:
EWH does not have a formal social-inclusion agenda, but maintains an open-door policy.
5.2 Promoting Awareness and Understanding of the WHS:
As a key part of implementing the policies of the Management Plan, the World Heritage Site Promotions Group met for the first time in March 2007. The group is drawn from a variety of organisations with an interest in promotion of the city’s heritage, including the CEC, Visit Scotland, and HS. Key issues for the group are to develop an interpretation strategy, to ensure a co-ordinated approach in presenting the Site to visitors and residents; improving their understanding of the WHS and its protection and to encourage the wider use of the World Heritage Emblem.
5.3 Community Involvement:
EWH actively seeks to engage the community in WHS activities. Below is a list of such initiatives during 2006/07:
World Heritage Day, 18 April 2006
For the first time, World Heritage Day was celebrated in Edinburgh with a programme of events and activities organised by Edinburgh World Heritage in partnership with a number of different organisations. Feedback from both visitors and organisers was very positive, and a total of 800 people participated in the various talks and guided tours. The bells of St Mary’s Episcopalian Cathedral, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, and Fettes College all rang at 6.00pm in celebration of the day.
Visitors were able to explore the World Heritage Site in the company of expert local guides, with tours of the Dean Village, Greyfriars Kirkyard and the monuments of Princes Street Gardens. Donald Smith of the Scottish Storytelling Centre revealed the tales surrounding Calton Hill, and Anna Burkey from Edinburgh City of Literature talked about the literary heritage of the Old Town. There was also an opportunity to see some hidden gems from the archives of the Edinburgh Room and the National Galleries of Scotland.
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Parks and Gardens Open Day, 6 May 2006
EWH worked in partnership with the Cockburn Association to offer the opportunity to explore some of the private and hidden green spaces in the city and take a look behind the scenes at Princes Street Gardens and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Inspiring Cities Conference, 31 May-2 June 2006
In May 2006 EWH hosted the Organisation of World Heritage Cities (OWHC) regional conference, with the theme of new design in World Heritage cities. Delegates came from the World Heritage cities of Bamberg, Karlskrona, Visby, Berne, Bergen, Bath, Liverpool and Beemster, along with representatives from other historic cities such as Philadelphia, Kracow and Dublin.
The first day focused on Edinburgh with a keynote address by HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay. On the second day delegates heard from other World Heritage experts. Professor Manfred Wehdorn spoke about Vienna’s experience and the recent Memorandum on Contemporary Architecture in World Heritage Sites. The final day of the conference focussed on a case study of the redevelopment of the Cowgate fire site, from the time of the fire, through archaeological survey to the planning brief and recent plans for a new building on the site.
Architecture Week, 17 June 2006
EWH joined forces with Architecture and Design Scotland for Architecture Week, an annual event celebrating the work of architects and the built environment. At his new Scottish Storytelling Centre, Malcolm Fraser talked on the subject of new design in Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site, explaining the historical context and his own approach to contemporary architecture. Visitors also had the opportunity to see behind the scenes, explore the gardens and climb the new bell tower. To accompany the talk, EWH produced a trail of contemporary architecture in the Old Town, highlighting the different approaches of architects and town planners from Patrick Geddes to Enric Miralles.
Edinburgh International Book Festival, 23 August 2006
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In August 2006, EWH participated in the Fringe and Book Festivals for the first time. For the Book Festival EWH promoted a special event - ‘Place and Meaning’ - with a panel including Simon Schama, Professor Charles McKean, and chaired by Magnus Linklater. The inspiring and lively debate raised many questions about the true meaning of heritage, and the many different values we attach to our historic environment.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe, 8, 9, 11 August 2006
As part of the Fringe programme Mrs Grant, society hostess ‘par excellence’, invited the public to her town house at 5 Charlotte Square for some essential advice on Georgian manners. The twice daily performances, which included music and dancing, encouraged audience participation, with ladies learning the ‘language of the fan’ and gentlemen mastering the latest necktie fashions for 1810. A series of New Town trails were also produced, highlighting the homes and lives of its Georgian inhabitants.
Doors Open Day, 30 September 2006
EWH partnered this event with the organisers; The Cockburn Association. EWH welcomed over 1600 visitors into 5 Charlotte Square. Activities included guided tours of Charlotte Square. Children were able to dress up as a Georgian lady or gentleman and there were a variety of maps, photographs and artefacts to illustrate the architecture and social history of the New Town. In addition a World Heritage Site family trail was produced which guided visitors between selected venues in the Site.
Thanks to EWH volunteers, other venues in the Old Town were also opened to the public. Riddles Court was opened for the day and many visitors took the opportunity to take in the fine decorated ceilings dating from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. At the Scottish Storytelling Centre visitors were able to climb to the top of the bell tower and admire the City Bell dating back to 1621.
Scottish Storytelling Festival, 28 October & 4 November 2006
Following from previous success EWH organised several events as part of the Scottish Storytelling Festival. Deacon Brodie’s Old Town Tour and Lord Cockburn’s New Town Tour invited people to explore the World Heritage Site in the company of a storyteller in character. Deacon Brodie led visitors
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One Book One City, Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, February 2007
EWH was a partner in the city wide reading campaign managed by Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, focusing on the Robert Louis Stevenson book ‘Kidnapped’. The event saw 10,000 free copies of the book distributed across the city in February 2007, along with a programme of workshops and lectures. EWH provided a ‘Stevenson Trail’ which formed part of the main advertising leaflet. This highlighted the many connections between the author and the World Heritage Site, such as his childhood home in Heriot Row and his memorial in St Giles Cathedral. Further joint projects linking the city’s built and literary heritage, such as a series of podcasts, are planned.
5.4 Awareness and Interpretation of WHS Values:
Between March 23 and April 1 2007, Napier University students carried out street surveys to find out what the key values of the WHS are for visitors and residents in Edinburgh. 56% of the residents and 41% visitors surveyed knew Edinburgh had a WHS. However, 97% of all those surveys believed that the Site did deserve its WHS status. Most often, those who were aware of the WHS had found out through the media.
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Figure 3: What Residents Value about the WHS
20 Hills and Valleys 18 18 17 Contrasting Character: 16 Old and New Town 16 15 Townscape 14 Historic Buildings & Interiors
e 12 g a
t 10 Statues, Monuments, n 10 Parks, Gardens & e 9 9 Graveyards c r
e Historic Capital of
P 8 Scotland
6 Intellectual Tradition, Education & Law 4 4 Edinburgh - Festival City 2 2 Other
0 Value
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Figure 4: What Visitors Value about the WHS
30 Hills and Valleys
Contrasting Character: 25 24 Old and New Town
Townscape
20 18 Historic Buildings & Interiors e g
a St at ues, Monuments, t
n 15 Parks, Gardens & e 13 Graveyards c r 12
e Historic Capit al of
P 11 Scotland 10 8 8 Intellectual Tradition, Educat ion & Law
Edinburgh - Festival Cit y 5 4
2 Other
0 Value
Media Coverage 2006/07
Media coverage is a key part of the Communications Strategy, to establish a broader profile for the World Heritage Site. A particular success was the coverage of the OWHC Conference in May 2006. The front cover of The Scotsman carried a picture of HRH Prince Charles, The Duke of Rothesay addressing the delegates, and STV’s Scotland Today also covered his speech. The grant to Well Court was covered by the Evening News, and EWH Director Zoe Clark was interviewed by BBC Radio Scotland and Radio Forth. In March 2007 The Scotsman also carried a feature on the Conservation Funding Programme, focusing on a grant to repair Bells Mills in the Dean Village.
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Website
The average number of hits on the EWH website in 2006/07 was 25,239 per month, peaking in April 2006 at 32,378 coinciding with World Heritage Day.
WHS Emblem
The WHS emblem is now used by Visit Scotland on their Edinburgh publications and website. During this period, Iryna Kravets, through a scholarship from UNESCO, undertook research into the use of the World Heritage emblem; comparing Edinburgh with her native Ukraine. Her report identified further opportunities for displaying the WH emblem.
5.5 Educational Resources and Activities:
EWH produced educational resources for many of the events listed under 5.3. In addition, EWH joined forces with the Scottish Poetry Library, Historic Scotland, the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland, and the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland to promote the schools poetry competition ‘Poet in the Past’. The competition closed at the end of March 2006, and the entries were judged by a panel representing all the sponsors at a meeting on 26 April. The standard of work was extremely high, and the winners were selected because it was felt they exhibited a real interaction with the historic environment as well as displaying an excellent poetic style. The short listed entries formed an exhibition at the EWH office at 5 Charlotte Square in June. Linked with the exhibition, poetry workshops for schools were held in collaboration with the National Trust for Scotland.
5.6 Fieldwork, Surveys and Publications:
There was no research strategy in place for the WHS during 2006/07. However, EWH and partner organisations commissioned work for example a Historic Stone Paving Study. This work was commissioned by EWH and CEC to record and analyse the surviving historic stone paving in the First New Town and to establish stone types and principles that could be used to prioritise new matching stone paving in the future. The results will also form an appendix to ‘Standards for Streets.’ In addition, EWH provides the opportunity for students and volunteers to undertake research.
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Conclusions: Awareness and Community Involvement
• The efforts in raising awareness of the WHS, its values and EWH’s work to protect them have continued to increase. Although surveys showed awareness of the WHS to be low, actions are being taken to improve knowledge and understanding. There is now a large and varied programme of public events throughout the year, backed up by an expanded EWH website. The activities of EWH have been reported positively in Scottish media including newspapers, television and radio. EWH should also continue to work to raise awareness of the WHS among all visitors and users. As recommended in the previous Monitoring Report, the use of the WHS logo is being monitored and is now being used by Visit Scotland. EWH should continue to engage with the community in a variety of ways. The proposed CEC City Centre Neighbourhood Partnership meetings may offer a new forum for community involvement in the WHS.
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6 RESOURCES AND MANAGEMENT
6.1 Edinburgh World Heritage:
During 2006/07 Edinburgh World Heritage had a team of eight full-time staff, including a WHS co-ordinator, conservation architect, communications manager, business and administrative staff. In addition there was a planning placement student and a number of volunteers.
Between October 2006 and April 2007, EWH was delighted to welcome Iryna Kravets, the first student to benefit from a UNESCO scholarship programme for World Heritage Managers. Iryna came to Edinburgh, as part of her Master of Arts in World Heritage Studies at Brandenburg Technical University, to make a comparative study of heritage management practices here with her native Ukraine. While working with EWH she became especially interested in the way the WHS is presented to visitors, and how the key historic values can be interpreted for the public.
There were two new additions to the board in the period 2006/07. Charles McKean, professor of Scottish Architectural History at Dundee University replaced Dr Harold Mills as Chairman. Deirdre Nicholls, the then treasurer and secretary of the West End Traders Association joined as a trustee.
6.2 World Heritage Site Steering Group:
A WHS Steering Group is a requirement of the Management Plan. There was not a formal meeting of the WHS Steering Group during 2006/07. Representatives of the partner agencies met to establish the priorities for the implementation of the Management Plan, with each agency taking responsibility for their part in what is emerging as a co-ordinated Action Programme.
Conclusions: Resources and Management
• Management of the WHS is resourced through the key partner agencies as part of their ongoing responsibilities for the maintenance of the Site. An ad hoc World Heritage Partners Group met to develop the Action Programme. A more formal WHS Steering Group could make more effective use of staff and financial resources to promote greater partnership working.
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7 CONCLUSIONS
The indicators used in this report suggest that the state of conservation of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site during 2006/07 was generally good. However, as highlighted in the text, aspects of monitoring and data collection need reviewing to compile a more accurate and up to date account of the state of conservation in future years.
Edinburgh remains a strong economic performer, although it is often negatively compared to Glasgow particularly in its quality of retail offer. Since the period of this report there have been increases in office floorspace and proposals for retail developments, which indicate growth in these sectors. In addition, the WHS population grew by 17.5% between 1991 and 2001, increasing demand for residential accommodation in the Site. These factors, and national patterns of increased development, may be responsible for the rise in the number of planning applications in the WHS.
The pace of change, the number of major planning applications and the size of development sites are increasing and along with trends in increased height, scale and massing, and the loss of historic fabric should be monitored to measure their impact upon the OUVs of the WHS. It is important that physical changes are managed to protect the authenticity and integrity of the WHS. The wider spatial perspective in city planning should encompass WH issues; identifying suitable sites for larger office developments, taller buildings and integrated transport links can assist in relieving congestion and development pressure in the WHS, whilst maintaining a historic and vibrant city. Partnership working is essential to achieving co-ordinated enhancement and protection of the WHS and has been successful in the design and implementation of the Capital Street projects.
Ongoing work by CEC to develop a skyline policy and to extend the Dean Village Conservation Area will address some of these concerns. Consideration could also be given to the creation of a buffer zone around the Site, and the inclusion of a specific policy relating to the protection of the Site in the Edinburgh City Local Plan (as indicated by the generic ICOMOS indicators for UK WHS). The introduction of SPG that refers to the WHS Management Plan, with detailed guidance for development
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Further care for the WHS can also be achieved through engendering a sense of custodianship in people living, working and visiting the Site. Through partnership working, EWH has delivered a varied programme of community events and periodically monitors the level of awareness of the WHS. There is scope to increase awareness and understanding of the WHS and work is being undertaken by the partners to achieve this.
Tourism remains a key player in Edinburgh’s economy, with the WHS accommodating the majority of the city’s visits from tourists. Edinburgh’s heritage and global reputation for architecture and historic townscape is vital in attracting both national and international tourists to the city. To sustain this buoyant tourist economy, the impacts of tourism should be effectively managed. Tourist expenditure in Edinburgh represents over a quarter of total tourist expenditure in Scotland, thereby making the conservation of the WHS of national economic importance.
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8 INDICATOR SUMMARY
TREND, IDEAL PAGE INDICATOR METHOD OF MEASUREMENT 2006-07 COMPARISONS & SOURCE STATUS ANALYSIS 1 CONSERVATION & PROTECTION Existence of a WHS Is there a Management Plan in 7 Yes Yes Constant EWH Management Plan place? Area WHS covers & any Maintain or Approximately 4.5 7 Size of the WHS Constant EWH changes to the WHS boundary increase sq km Existence of a WHS Policy protecting the Site against World Heritage policy in 9 inappropriate development in Yes No Constant CEC Local Plan the Local Plan or Local Development Framework? Existence of planning guidance for development affecting the WHS or its setting. This can be Planning guidance for 10 SPG based on the WHS Yes see main text Increase CEC development effecting WHS Management Plan, guidance for owners, tall buildings policy etc (2003/04 Number of buildings within a Maintain or 11 Conservation measures Unavailable 4,587 Monitoring conservation plan increase Report) Yes – covered by Risk assessment & Is there a risk assessment & CEC ‘Emergency 11 Yes Constant CEC emergency plan emergency plan in place? Plan for Major Incidents.’
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2 CONDITION OF THE WHS ENVIRONMENT Extension to Dean Area of WHS covered by Maintain or 13 Conservation areas Village Increase CEC conservation area protection increase Conservation Area Total number of entries on the Maintain or 13 Listed buildings 1,676 see main text Constant HS list increase Number of monuments within Maintain or 8 Constant HS the WHS and state of condition. increase % scheduled monuments with a Increase 37.5% Constant HS 15 Scheduled monuments condition survey % scheduled monuments classified at high or immediate Decrease 12.5% Constant HS risk Edinburgh 15 Archaeological findings Any archaeological findings? Yes see main text Evening News Decrease or stabilise Number of buildings at risk in Number of buildings on the Scottish Civic 16 number of 5 Constant the WHS Buildings at Risk Register Trust features at risk Is there a conservation funding 19 Conservation funding Yes Yes Constant EWH programme in place? Value in £ of conservation Conservation funding 19 grants allocated within the WHS Increase £1,493,070 Increase EWH awarded by EWH by EWH Increase – The Edinburgh Existence of public Is there public 19 Yes Yes Standards for CEC realm/streetscape guidance realm/streetscape guidance? Streets approved SPG in 2006.
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Identified in skyline study put Are key views identified? Yes Yes to public CEC 20 Condition of the WHS setting consultation Feb- April 2007 Is there a policy in the local plan Policy will result Yes No CEC to protect them? from consultation Existence of a buffer zone? This can be a formal WHS buffer No formal buffer 21 Existence of a buffer zone zone or other designations Yes zone – see main Constant CEC protecting the surroundings of text the WHS 2004/05-2005/06 Is there an environmental policy Environmental Policy Yes Yes Constant Monitoring in the WHS? Report Maintain or increase Condition of parks, gardens Inventory of Gardens & 22 number of 3 Constant HS & graveyards Designed Landscapes designated landscapes Is there a flood prevention 24 Flood prevention scheme Yes Yes Constant CEC scheme? 3 DEVELOPMENT PRESSURE & CHANGE Number of determined 27 planning applications in the By category & decision 874 Increase CEC WHS List of major physical Details of planning proposals, 34 changes within the WHS & their potential impact on the See main text CEC & EWH record of any losses WHS & decision
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4 ECONOMIC VALUE Increase from 38 Residential population 2001 Census data 22,040 2001 Census 18,750 since 1991 Average house price of Average house 39 Residential property value Increase 11.2% Upmystreet.com postcodes in WHS price £205,880 Average rent for prime offices in 40 Office rental value £290 per sq m Constant Ryden Edinburgh Average retail rents in central 41 Retail rental value £220 per sq ft Constant Ryden Edinburgh 2006/07 Levels of employment are Employment figures for increasing within 41 Employment N/A Capital Review Edinburgh the city centre based on CEC 2002 information Not comparable Total number of visitors to Maintain or 43 Number of visitors to the WHS 3.6m with previous Visit Scotland Edinburgh (2005) increase years Difference Number of between low and visitors Not comparable Distribution of visitors over peak: UK tourist 44 Number of visitors by season consistent with previous Visit Scotland time trips 7% over the years Overseas tourist year. trips 40% Not comparable Total expenditure by tourists to Maintain or 45 Visitor spend £1,069m with previous Visit Scotland Edinburgh increase years 5 AWARENESS & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT No agenda but Is there a social inclusion 48 Social inclusion Yes EWH maintain an Constant EWH agenda in place? open door policy
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List of measures to involve the 48 Community involvement Increase See main text EWH local community % Residents & visitors who know 56% of Residents 51 Increase Unavailable Napier University Edinburgh has a UNESCO WHS 41% of Visitors Increase 53 Media Coverage positive See main text EWH coverage Awareness 25,239 average 54 Number of hits on website Increase EWH per month Is the WHS emblem used consistently & accurately on 54 Yes Yes Increase in its use EWH interpretation & promotional material? Description of the educational Increase in Educational resources & resources & activities available, 54 resources & See main text EWH activities specifying age group & links activities with curriculum. Annual reviews of fieldwork, Fieldwork, surveys & research projects, surveys & 54 Increase EWH publications publications highlighting any new information about the WHS Existence of a research 54 Research strategy Yes No Constant EWH strategy? 6 RESOURCES & MANAGEMENT Existence of a Steering 56 Is there a WHS Steering Group? Yes No Constant EWH Group Is there a dedicated WHS co- Existence of a WHS co- 56 ordinator or WHS team in Yes Yes Constant EWH ordinator place? Count of staff members 56 Number of Staff including part-time (as a half) 8 Constant EWH and excluding volunteers.
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APPENDIX I
The Scottish Storytelling Centre:
43-45 High Street
Malcolm Fraser Architects
EWH is not a design review body and therefore the purpose of this case- study is not to give a seal of approval to the design. Instead it is useful to examine what in particular has made the development successful and how this can be realised in future projects within the WHS.
Context: The site fronts onto the Royal Mile, the famous historic thoroughfare at the heart of the Old Town in the WHS. There were two existing buildings on site; the 1970s Netherbow Arts Centre and the 15th century John Knox House. It was also the site of the medieval Netherbow Gateway; a historic principal route into the Old Town.
The Project: The Scottish Storytelling Centre is the world’s first purpose built centre for storytelling and comprises a 99-seat theatre, café, education room and exhibition space. The project spanned five years and cost £3.5million. It was completed in May 2006 with its official opening on 1st June 2006. Funding was provided by the Scottish Arts Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Church of Scotland, the CEC, EWH and Scottish Enterprise.
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 64 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
The Netherbow Arts Centre was comprehensively redeveloped, with sensitive insertions made into the 15th century John Knox House. Edinburgh World Heritage awarded the project a grant of over £16,000 towards the removal, storage and rehanging of the 1621 City Bell; the removal, storage and refixing of a carved stone plaque; and for repairs to rubble walling.
Process: The processes involved in delivering development are equally as important as and inseparable from the finished built result. Knowledge and insight from local people and potential users of the development can considerably enhance a design and make it more successful in suiting their needs.
The design process was heritage led, being informed by the history of the site, in particular the medieval Netherbow Gateway. The importance of this passage is recognised in the architecture which creates a sense of travelling through the site. Importantly the architects developed their brief with the storytellers, discussing with them the qualities they wanted to see in their building. The quality and sensitivity of the design meant that planning and listed building consent took only six weeks to grant.
“With a site fantastically-rich in history- at the former main gateway into Edinburgh and including, in John Knox House, the Old Town’s most iconic historic building – and a Brief calling for a centre for an intensely-rich, important but neglected artform, our effort, as architects, has been to resolve the rich mix in as simple and direct a way as possible, weaving light, volume,
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 65 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE transition and connection to our context into a place for storytelling to flourish.” Malcolm Fraser, Architect
Strengths:
• Early and meaningful discussion with the community about the brief and plans for the site. • Good contemporary design that takes account of and understands its surroundings. • High quality design and materials • Interprets the intangible heritage of the site and the traditions of storytelling. • Muted palette of contextual materials. • Inclusion of modern materials where appropriate. • Respects the scale and proportion of the existing historic fabric. • No denial of the fusion of the old and new. • Internal space is flexible to allow change of uses, sustaining the occupancy of the building over time.
Awards:
• Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Award 2007 • Edinburgh Architectural Association (EAA) Building of the year award • Roses design award: Bronze 2006 • Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) Andrew Doolan Award: Finalist
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 66 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
APPENDIX II
Well Court:
Dean Village
An Edinburgh World Heritage Conservation Funding Scheme
Key Facts: Category A-listed 1883-1886 Architect Sydney Mitchell 55 Proprietors “A picturesque, beautifully composed £1.1 million grant jumble of crow-stepped gables and To be completed October 2008 turrets.” Architectural Historian
Background: The £1.1 million conservation grant for Well Court is one of the highest conservation grants awarded by EWH. Well Court is a hidden architectural gem within the Dean Village Conservation Area of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The category A-listed building is benefiting from a series of comprehensive repairs that will be carried out over 18 months and will secure the long term future of this landmark building.
The Property: Well Court is a series of small flats around a courtyard, with distinctive red sandstone dressings. It was commissioned in the 1880s by Sir John Findlay and designed by architect Sydney Mitchell. The project incorporates 1-52 Well Court, Woodbarn Hall and the Clock Tower. It was originally intended as accommodation for workers; the hall was built as a social centre where residents were expected to attend church services on Sundays.
The Challenge: Several statutory notices had been served on the buildings by the CEC for various works on areas structurally unsound. The project could not go ahead without the co-operation of all the proprietors, but they were unable to organise these urgent works themselves. The large number of 55 property owners called for organised co-ordination which was facilitated by EWH, who:
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Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 67 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
“acted as an enabler to bring the owners together to develop the programme, [and] ensured that an appropriately qualified architect and contractors have been employed and have acted as a champion for the quality of the restoration work. As a result, the city are getting a building of which it can be proud; a fine example of the quality of architecture which has made our city world famous and a Mecca for tourists from around the world.” Ian D Bell, Secretary to the Well Court Restoration Committee.
The New Conservation Funding Programme was launched whilst the application for Well Court was being considered. Public meetings were held as significant negotiations between parties were needed to find a solution acceptable to all.
Many restoration projects encounter problems locating matching materials for stonework as the original quarries are often long closed. Fortunately a match for the distinctive red sandstone dressings has been found at Corsehill quarry in Dumfriesshire. The quarry was reopened in 1980 by Bob Heath to repair the Scottish National Portrait Galley. Matching second hand stone has been sourced for repair works to the main stonework.
The small properties at Well Court, typically in the first time buyer market, mean that there is not a strong economic case for residents to contribute high capital to the project.
Previously work has been carried out in a piecemeal manner with inappropriate cement repairs and concrete covering the courtyard. There was an urgent need for coordinated, high quality repairs to halt the deterioration of the building and enhance the WHS.
The Grant: The grant process for Well Court was complex, falling as it did during changes to the Conservation Funding Programme. The change towards repayable grants meant that EWH could no longer award non-repayable grants to private works. Edinburgh World Heritage is directly funding work to the public spaces such as the central courtyard with a contribution of £508,000. The restoration of the main building will be paid for partly by a 70% repayable grant of £646,800 from EWH and partly by the residents themselves. EWH repayable grants are interest free and are to be repaid
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 68 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE on sale or transfer of the property. The grant will be funded over three financial years; 2006/07, 2007/08 and 2008/09.
The Conservation Works: “The philosophy is for minimal repairs, based on need and carried out on a like-for-like basis. However where original features are missing they will be replaced, such as window astragals, window paint and cast iron railings. The general hard landscaping is to be upgraded from concrete to sandstone paving and setts – the intention of the architect Sydney Mitchell.” Bob Heath, Architect
The Well Court project is being directed by Bob Heath, a conservation accredited architect with a wealth of experience in restoring Edinburgh’s historic buildings.
Repair work will include the clock tower and weathercock which add distinctive character to the local townscape. The chimneys will be rebuilt and the roof retiled with handmade Rosemary roof tiles produced as replications of the original tiles by a Doncaster firm. Walls will be re-pointed using traditional lime mortar and defective sandstone replaces.
Original paintwork still evident on the stair windows will be analysed to identify the correct colour scheme for the building. New setts will be laid in the communal courtyard, as was originally intended by the architect. Deterrents will be inserted to avoid future damage by pigeons.
The scheme requires owners to enter into a legal agreement to ensure that the building is properly maintained in future.
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Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 69 OLD AND NEW TOWNS OF EDINBURGH WORLD HERITAGE SITE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Edinburgh World Heritage would like to acknowledge the work of the World Heritage Site Steering Group in preparing this report:
City of Edinburgh Council:
Jenni Brown, Services for Communities Barbara Cummins, City Development Department Mike Gallagher, Edinburgh City Centre Management Company Will Garrett, City Development Department
Edinburgh World Heritage:
David Hicks, Communications Manager Jane Jackson, Deputy Director, WHS Coordinator, Acting Director 2007-08 Kerrie Smith, Assistant Planner, Placement Student
Historic Scotland:
Laura Bailie, International Policy Manager Andrew Martindale, Principal Inspector, South-east Team Susan Williamson, Head of Policy
Scottish Enterprise, Edinburgh and Lothians:
Bettina Sizeland, Development Solutions / Edinburgh City Centre
ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2006/07
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 70 5 Charlotte Square Edinburgh EH2 4DR Tel: 0131 220 7720 Fax: 0131 220 7730 [email protected] www.ewht.org.uk
Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in Scotland No. 195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183 INDICATOR SUMMARY
TREND, IDEAL PAGE INDICATOR METHOD OF MEASUREMENT 2006-07 COMPARISONS & SOURCE STATUS ANALYSIS 1 CONSERVATION & PROTECTION Existence of a WHS Is there a Management Plan in 7 Yes Yes Constant EWH Management Plan place? Area WHS covers & any Maintain or Approximately 4.5 7 Size of the WHS Constant EWH changes to the WHS boundary increase sq km Existence of a WHS Policy protecting the Site against World Heritage policy in 9 inappropriate development in Yes No Constant CEC Local Plan the Local Plan or Local Development Framework? Existence of planning guidance for development affecting the WHS or its setting. This can be Planning guidance for 10 SPG based on the WHS Yes see main text Increase CEC development effecting WHS Management Plan, guidance for owners, tall buildings policy etc (2003/04 Number of buildings within a Maintain or 11 Conservation measures Unavailable 4,587 Monitoring conservation plan increase Report) Yes – covered by Risk assessment & Is there a risk assessment & CEC ‘Emergency 11 Yes Constant CEC emergency plan emergency plan in place? Plan for Major Incidents.’ 2 CONDITION OF THE WHS ENVIRONMENT Extension to Dean Area of WHS covered by Maintain or 13 Conservation areas Village Increase CEC conservation area protection increase Conservation Area Total number of entries on the Maintain or 13 Listed buildings 1,676 see main text Constant HS list increase Number of monuments within Maintain or 8 Constant HS the WHS and state of condition. increase % scheduled monuments with a Increase 37.5% Constant HS 15 Scheduled monuments condition survey % scheduled monuments classified at high or immediate Decrease 12.5% Constant HS risk Edinburgh 15 Archaeological findings Any archaeological findings? Yes see main text Evening News Decrease or stabilise Number of buildings at risk in Number of buildings on the Scottish Civic 16 number of 5 Constant the WHS Buildings at Risk Register Trust features at risk Is there a conservation funding 19 Conservation funding Yes Yes Constant EWH programme in place? Value in £ of conservation Conservation funding 19 grants allocated within the WHS Increase £1,493,070 Increase EWH awarded by EWH by EWH Increase – The Edinburgh Existence of public Is there public 19 Yes Yes Standards for CEC realm/streetscape guidance realm/streetscape guidance? Streets approved SPG in 2006. Identified in skyline study put Are key views identified? Yes Yes to public CEC 20 Condition of the WHS setting consultation Feb- April 2007 Is there a policy in the local plan Policy will result Yes No CEC to protect them? from consultation Existence of a buffer zone? This can be a formal WHS buffer No formal buffer 21 Existence of a buffer zone zone or other designations Yes zone – see main Constant CEC protecting the surroundings of text the WHS 2004/05-2005/06 Is there an environmental policy Environmental Policy Yes Yes Constant Monitoring in the WHS? Report Maintain or increase Condition of parks, gardens Inventory of Gardens & 22 number of 3 Constant HS & graveyards Designed Landscapes designated landscapes Is there a flood prevention 24 Flood prevention scheme Yes Yes Constant CEC scheme? 3 DEVELOPMENT PRESSURE & CHANGE Number of determined 27 planning applications in the By category & decision 874 Increase CEC WHS List of major physical Details of planning proposals, 34 changes within the WHS & their potential impact on the See main text CEC & EWH record of any losses WHS & decision 4 ECONOMIC VALUE Increase from 38 Residential population 2001 Census data 22,040 2001 Census 18,750 since 1991 Average house price of Average house 39 Residential property value Increase 11.2% Upmystreet.com postcodes in WHS price £205,880 Average rent for prime offices in 40 Office rental value £290 per sq m Constant Ryden Edinburgh Average retail rents in central 41 Retail rental value £220 per sq ft Constant Ryden Edinburgh 2006/07 Levels of employment are Employment figures for increasing within 41 Employment N/A Capital Review Edinburgh the city centre based on CEC 2002 information Not comparable Total number of visitors to Maintain or 43 Number of visitors to the WHS 3.6m with previous Visit Scotland Edinburgh (2005) increase years Difference Number of between low and visitors Not comparable Distribution of visitors over peak: UK tourist 44 Number of visitors by season consistent with previous Visit Scotland time trips 7% over the years Overseas tourist year. trips 40% Not comparable Total expenditure by tourists to Maintain or 45 Visitor spend £1,069m with previous Visit Scotland Edinburgh increase years 5 AWARENESS & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT No agenda but Is there a social inclusion 48 Social inclusion Yes EWH maintain an Constant EWH agenda in place? open door policy List of measures to involve the 48 Community involvement Increase See main text EWH local community % Residents & visitors who know 56% of Residents 51 Increase Unavailable Napier University Edinburgh has a UNESCO WHS 41% of Visitors Increase 53 Media Coverage positive See main text EWH coverage Awareness 25,239 average 54 Number of hits on website Increase EWH per month Is the WHS emblem used consistently & accurately on 54 Yes Yes Increase in its use EWH interpretation & promotional material? Description of the educational Increase in Educational resources & resources & activities available, 54 resources & See main text EWH activities specifying age group & links activities with curriculum. Annual reviews of fieldwork, Fieldwork, surveys & research projects, surveys & 54 Increase EWH publications publications highlighting any new information about the WHS Existence of a research 54 Research strategy Yes No Constant EWH strategy? 6 RESOURCES & MANAGEMENT Existence of a Steering 56 Is there a WHS Steering Group? Yes No Constant EWH Group Is there a dedicated WHS co- Existence of a WHS co- 56 ordinator or WHS team in Yes Yes Constant EWH ordinator place? Count of staff members 56 Number of Staff including part-time (as a half) 8 Constant EWH and excluding volunteers.