Historic mint to become green haven and tourist attraction

IT WAS the home of Scotland's Royal Mint from 1574 to 1709, but remains hidden from view to the thousands of tourists who walk down Edinburgh's Royal Mile every day.

Now a 60,0000 project is to transform a run-down close between the Netherbow and the Cowgate into a new historical attraction and beauty spot.

Work is already under way in Coinyie House Close – where the Royal Mint was relocated following a 16th century siege at Edinburgh Castle – to create a new public garden similar to the one which would have been enjoyed by locals 300 years ago.

The previously overgrown area will soon boast plots for existing residents to grow vegetables.

Interpretation panels and works of art will celebrate the home of the Royal Mint, which was last used in 1709, two years after the Act of Union, but was not demolished until 1877.

Before the 15th century, coins were made in towns across Scotland, but this changed with the formation of the Royal Mint at Holyrood Palace in 1481. It relocated to Edinburgh Castle for greater safety in 1559 before the great siege of 1574 when the mint house was destroyed.

The new Coinyie House was then built off the Netherbow, at South Gray's Close, and operated throughout the reign of six monarchs. It was closed for several years in the 17th century after officials were accused of malpractice.

Edinburgh World Heritage and the city council have agreed to jointly fund the 60,000 project and promote the new attraction, due for completion by summer.

Adam Wilkinson, director of Edinburgh World Heritage, said: "As the location for the mint, this close was once at the centre of Scottish government, and it deserves to be commemorated.

"Historically the Old Town contained quite a lot of green space, hidden from view in courtyards. We hope that this project will provide a model of good practice that can be repeated in other closes."