EDINBURGH.- Edinburgh World Heritage has announced a major initiative to transform twelve Old Town Closes, with a demonstration lighting event to be launched today in Bakehouse Close.

The initiative will see a series of bespoke improvements to the selected closes, including new artwork, lighting and interpretation, to encourage greater use by the public. Local communities will play a crucial role in the project, researching the history of the closes to provide ideas and design inspiration for their presentation. The EWH project aims to change perceptions, transforming closes that currently feel under-used, unloved or unsafe. The project will reveal the closes’ atmospheric charm, share their rich history and reclaim them as useful pedestrian links across the city.

The demonstration event is being run in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University, with the aim of showcasing a range of alternative lighting approaches, demonstrating how artistic and architectural lighting can have a dramatic effect in Old Town closes. The views of residents, businesses and the wider public will be gathered, and hopefully the demonstration event will inspire people to become involved with the project.

The Old Town’s network of closes and wynds are a key element of the city’s World Heritage status, and date back to the medieval beginnings of the city. Today there are still 74 closes, forming an integral part of the fabric of the Old Town, and home to residents, businesses and many city institutions.

Adam Wilkinson, Director of Edinburgh World Heritage said: “Historically the closes were the secondary routes through the medieval city, however they have long been underused and in some cases neglected spaces. We hope that with the help of residents, students, artists, local businesses and the City of Edinburgh’s street lighting and neighbourhood teams we will be able to create something of beauty and enchantment in the closes. We hope to encourage people to explore these neglected historical spaces, improving the quality of the spaces for the residents, and supporting businesses by encouraging footfall”.

Councillor Ian Perry, Planning Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The improvements to the closes are a key part of the Royal Mile Action Plan. However, many visitors may be unaware that these unique aspects of the city’s history are there to be explored. This project is a great way to showcase the closes using new lighting techniques. Council planners and lighting staff have been working with Edinburgh World Heritage and we are pleased to continue our support for this impressive project.”

The main funding for the project will come from Edinburgh World Heritage. Grants, sponsorship from local businesses and public donations, as well as contributions from the City of Edinburgh Council and other partners, will match the EWH budget of £190,000 to complete the project. EWH will be working in partnership with Edinburgh Napier University and the Edinburgh Old Town Development Trust in delivering the project.