Historic Scotland inspectors are to visit the Holyrood Ward in Edinburgh to identify the city’s important buildings and to review existing listings.

The team will visit locations in this ward looking for buildings that merit listing while giving a fresh appraisal to properties already on the list. This will ensure that area has the appropriate statutory protection.

Head of Listing Dr Deborah Mays, said:
“This is a key city centre area with a long and distinguished history. Part of it falls within the World Heritage Site and there is a wealth of outstanding buildings dating from the medieval period onwards.

“The present resurvey will include the eastern part of the Royal Mile and the area encompasses many of the city’s important commercial, civic and university buildings and a significant residential component.

“The resurvey will not include the area covered by the Caltongate masterplan as Historic Scotland will not normally list a building where there are live planning issues.“

Buildings are listed at one of three categories – A, B and C(s) – reflecting their level of importance. Once listed alterations that will affect the character of the structure require listed building consent before work can begin.

When the team have identified buildings of interest they will contact the local authority and, where possible, the owner.

A building must have special architectural or historic interest to be considered for listing and Historic Scotland would welcome information from members of the public.

For more information on the resurvey contact the lists officer on 0131 668 8705 / 8701.

Following consultation with City of Edinburgh Council, Historic Scotland will then make a recommendation to Scottish Ministers to include a building on the list if it meets the criteria.