BUTE HOUSE is one of a handful of high-profile sites in Edinburgh being branded an eyesore due to the condition of the pavement.

Nicola Sturgeon’s official residence was criticised during Prime Minister Theresa May’s visit to Scotland earlier this month.

The footpaths show visible signs of ageing and neglect, with some safety experts calling for improvement work to be carried out.

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Marion Williams, of the Cockburn Association, said: “It’s not just parts of Charlotte Square that are horrendous. There are many other parts of Edinburgh, including the Royal Mile, that should be dealt with. 

“The council will tell you they don’t have the money, but we need to to find funding from somewhere.

“We are encouraging people to look up and admire the buildings, but they need to watch where they put their feet.”

A spokesman for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents added: “Proper pavement maintenance and prompt repairs may prevent people being injured and save the health service a huge amount of money.”

The City of Edinburgh Council defended its record with money already set aside for future improvements.

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Councillor Lesley Hinds, transport convener, said: “We’re working very hard to make Edinburgh’s roads and pavements as safe, well-maintained and accessible as possible for all residents and visitors, and each year we invest many millions of pounds. 

“The council will be investing a total of £2.32m in capital footway works for 2016/17, improving the network.”