Funding famine for Assembly Rooms

Edinburgh council bosses have voiced their disappointment after plans to refurbish the city’s historic Assembly Rooms failed to secure lottery funding.

Though financial support has been pledged by the council, local businesses and Historic Scotland, planners had hoped that the Heritage Lottery Fund would donate £2.7 million.

The lottery fund annually allocates up to £180 million on “innovative projects with a lasting impact on people and places” across the UK.

Despite the setback, the controversial £12 million proposals which would have seen the Grade A-listed George Street venue closed for 18 months after the end of this year’s Fringe, are likely to be scaled down rather than scrapped entirely.

Councillor and culture leader Deidre Brock said the Assembly Rooms’ desperate need for investment meant that refurbishment would go ahead.

“We need to press on with improvements to this iconic building. When we have assessed what can be achieved with the funds we have, a plan will be developed.”

The original renovation proposals involved opening new shops and a fine-dining restaurant on the site, giving the 18th century building a number of new revenue streams.

The plans have been criticised for diverting funds away from other projects in the city, such as repair work to the Kings Theatre. But council and tourism representatives have stressed the importance of the Assembly Rooms to Edinburgh’s cultural and economic wellbeing.

Gordon Dewar, Chairman of the Edinburgh Tourism Action Group, continues to support the plans.

Mr Dewar said: “The Assembly Rooms is a crucial component of Edinburgh’s reputation as an events city so it is vital that all options are explored to retain this remarkable venue in its finest form.”