Plans drawn up to promote city's nightlife

PLANS are being drawn up to promote nightlife at city centre hotels, bars and restaurants.

The "evening economy" is estimated to employ around 12,000 people and accounts for almost 15 per cent of the total workforce.

Now, the company set up to run the Business Improvement District in the city centre, Essential Edinburgh, is drawing up plans to help the sector grow by offering greater help and support.

Among the ideas being considered include enhancing the signage and environment of Rose Street, working with businesses backing onto Rose Street on more cost-effective refuse collection, and creating events and promotions designed to drive evening footfall in quieter times, such as offers to city centre employees.

Interim chief executive of Essential Edinburgh, Liz McAreavey, said: "The evening economy is vital to the city centre. Hotels, bars and restaurants are a big part of what draws people to Edinburgh."