THE Scottish capital has called time on a cafe culture test and is to reopen one of its busiest thoroughfares to traffic.
George Street in the New Town will return to its former layout this weekend with the addition of a new cycle lane following a year-long trial to improve the area for shoppers and cyclists.
Edinburgh City Council said initial designs for the George Street trial aimed to reduce traffic and "improve the quality of the pedestrian experience and encouraging a cafe culture".
The plans were drawn up following consultation with businesses and residents.
In September 2014 the street was changed to make way for a two-way cycle lane and a one-way system for general traffic and buses.
Now, both sides of the street will be reopened to traffic on a block-by-block basis, along with the implementation of a new cycle lane.
Lesley Hinds, Edinburgh transport convener, said: “The George Street trial has been a real experiment for the city, and has allowed us to truly listen and respond to the public throughout.
“Our sole intention has been to improve the space for all users of this key thoroughfare, and to this end we have seen lots of interesting additions, from new cycle lanes to attractive planters sourced from our own Inch Park Nursery.
“Now we are focusing on the future of the street, and a long term solution that will benefit everyone. I look forward to seeing the outcome of our design team’s research.”
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