Venue plans get go-ahead

THE controversial revamp of the Assembly Rooms is set to go ahead after being approved by Historic Scotland.

The multi-million-pound work at the George Street venue could begin within weeks after the influential organisation decided not to "call in" the plans despite an 8000-strong petition claiming the alterations would impact on the building's potential use as an Edinburgh Fringe venue.

The building will be out of use for this year's Fringe and closed completely for 18 months.

A Historic Scotland spokeswoman said: "We were aware of the concerns raised about the scheme and will continue to work closely with the council."