Developer behind plans to develop Edinburgh arts venue goes back to the drawing board
Proposals have ‘evolved’ following strong public outcry
The developer behind controversial plans to demolish up to 80 per cent of an Edinburgh arts venue has delayed their second consultation as they return to the drawing board.
Property developer AMA says its proposals to transform parts of Summerhall into purpose-built student flats and a hotel have “evolved” following local feedback.
The second consultation, part of the pre-application stage before a formal planning application is submitted, was provisionally scheduled for November 11 but will now be held on December 13 and 14.
A spokesperson said: “We recognise the strength of feeling around Summerhall and understand just how important it is to Edinburgh’s creative community.
“It was always intended that the proposals would evolve following the first consultation, with the second consultation providing an opportunity to share how the plans have developed and the changes made in response to the feedback we have received so far.”
A petition demanding that developers halt plans to “decimate” the venue has received over 13,000 signatures, an indication of the strength of concern for the arts complex.
AMA’s first in-person consultation last month opened two hours early to allow everybody to attend.
Lorna Slater, a SNP MSP, was highly critical of the plans at the time and says she is “glad” about the delay.
She said: “Summerhall gives artists and small creative organisations the vital space needed to make work, take risks and reach audiences that makes our vibrant cultural sector across the city, and beyond, what it is.
"Any plans for its future need to show how they’ll protect affordable space for the people who make Summerhall what it is, and securing a bright future for generations of artists that are losing too many spaces, such as the proposed closure of St Margaret's House in Meadowbank.
"The real test for the consultation in December will be what’s actually changed in the plans, and how people speaking up for Summerhall have been listened to.”
The developer initially presented four different mixed-used proposals for the former vet school with various configurations of commercial units, serviced apartments, student accommodation and a hotel.
In each, the front section of the complex which over 100 tenants including artists and small businesses currently call the building home would remain as a “reimagined” arts centre.
Councillors on the city’s development management sub-committee were briefed on the plans last week, with Green councillor Alex Staniforth raising concerns over “the loss of cultural, community and business floor space”.
Announcing the delay, AMA’s spokesperson added: “We want to create a future that builds on everything that makes Summerhall such a special place and allows the arts to continue to thrive here for generations to come.
“The views of those who know and love Summerhall are an important part of shaping its future, and we remain committed to listening and taking these into account as the plans progress towards a final planning application next year.”
Sam Gough, who leads the arts charity that leases the site, said it was “looking forward” to seeing how feedback had shaped the revised plans, after previously questioning their viability.
The chief executive added: “Now that the dates are confirmed for the next stage of the consultation we would encourage all those who care about the future of Summerhall to get involved and have their voices heard.”
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