HIGH art can sometimes refer to an elevation of 338ft.

That will be the case when the redevelopment of the City Observatory complex on Edinburgh's Calton Hill is complete.

The observatory was designed by William Henry Playfair in 1818, but is in need of major conservation, is in a state of disrepair and is officially a building "at risk". The Collective Gallery, which is already based in the complex, yesterday revealed the extent of its ambitious plans for the redevelopment of the historic site.

Working with Edinburgh City Council, Collective aims to conserve and reinstate the original 19th century designs, while building a new gallery which play an integral part in the creation of a hub of art, science, history and leisure.

Calton Hill is one of Scotland's most noted landmarks but, despite being included in the capital's Unesco World Heritage Site, is often neglected by tourists and locals alike.

This £3.5m plan will do much to put it back on the map, and can only help to cement Scotland's burgeoning reputation on the contemporary arts scene.

Where once one looked to the heavens, stars of a different firmament will soon be on display.