Artistic plans for city steps

A TURNER Prize-winning artist is set to "beautify" one of Edinburgh's least attractive stairwells, connecting Waverley Station to the Old Town.

Martin Creed, a Scottish contemporary artist, has revealed details of his "mystery project" for the Scotsman Steps.

He intends to re-pave them using different types of marble from around the world.

The steps are currently in use 24 hours a day, but his plan could involve closing them at night to preserve their new look.

Creed, 41, from Glasgow, won the 2001 Turner Prize, worth 20,000, for his work, The Lights Going On And Off.

His plan for the steps is being developed with the city council and Edinburgh World Heritage.