We are not in support of Unique Assembly’s plans to extend the running of their Big Wheel in Princes Street Gardens.

Princes Street Gardens is a globally valued and unique public greenspace in the centre of our World Heritage Site with the highest historic, cultural and social significance. A balance must be struck between commercialising this space and maintaining its traditional use as public gardens, and we believe that extending the running of the Big Wheel is a step too far.

Princes Street Gardens were designed as a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city centre, to be enjoyed for free by residents and tourists alike, particularly during the summer months. Edinburgh already offers an abundance of easily accessible panoramic viewpoints such as Calton Hill, the Mound, and many of the buildings on Princes Street. The Big Wheel interrupts the historic skyline for which Edinburgh is internationally renowned. 

We look forward to working in partnership with City of Edinburgh Council to protect and maintain the Outstanding Universal Value of Princes Street, in the Waverley Valley and beyond.

Notes to editors

Outstanding Universal Value

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognises World Heritage Sites as places of outstanding cultural, historical or scientific value. For each site, the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) is described in terms of the attributes which make it exceptional from a global perspective.

Edinburgh World Heritage

Edinburgh World Heritage is an independent charity registered in Scotland No. SC195077. Scottish Charity No. SC037183.

Acheson House, 5 Bakehouse Close, 146 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DD

ewh.org.uk/about-us/

Contact jen.macneill@ewht.org.uk for further information.