Lib Dems call for bold vision for Princes Street

On Wednesday 9th September, Edinburgh Liberal Democrat Councillors will put forward proposals for a more ambitious design of Princes Street.

The proposals in front of Councillors are not nearly bold enough for a street we should all be proud of.

Commenting on the proposals, Edinburgh Liberal Democrats Planning spokesperson Councillor Hal Osler said

"In the 18th and 19th Century, the New Town was designed with a sustainable future in mind. We need to do the same now for the city's growing needs.

Residents have made their ambition clear for Edinburgh and I am very grateful to everyone who's taken the time to engage on the future of our city centre."

Ahead of Wednesday's meeting, Edinburgh Liberal Democrat Transport spokesperson Councillor Kevin Lang said

"The impact from the fire this summer, which saw major diversions for buses and a halting of the trams again, showed just how reliant Edinburgh's public transport is on Princes Street. Part of that ambition includes looking at making sure our buses going through the city centre continue to serve everyone.

In decades to come, we may regret not having a radical rethink of such an important space."

• The report recommendations from Council officers can be found at https://democracy.edinburgh.gov.uk/documents/s102849/7.3%20Princes%20Street%20and%20Waverley%20Valley%20Strategy%20-Post%20APM.pdf
• The Liberal Democrat Group amendment, supporting option 2 set out in the report, can be found at https://democracy.edinburgh.gov.uk/documents/b28517/Motions%20and%20Amendments%2009th-Sep-2026%2014.00%20Planning%20Committee.pdf?T=9