Waverley Mall changed owners last year and now they have lodged plans showing what they will do to improve it. Waverley Mall is now in the hands of asset manager Moorgarth who say they will make this the natural place to meet in Edinburgh.
They want to develop the roof to become a market-style piazza and will create a new entrance on Princes Street and Waverley Bridge to allow full disabled access. They also want to improve circulation at the top of Waverley Steps which is always so congested, and they will double the width of the pavement leading towards the Scott Monument.
Moorgarth already have permission to widen the entrances at Waverley Steps and there will be some internal work carried out to revive the shopping mall.
Tim Vaughan, CEO Moorgarth Group explains, these proposals are all about maximising the potential of this unique site, for the benefit of both Edinburgh’s residents and visitors:
“Following our acquisition of Waverley Mall, the intention has always been to explore and fully understand the role it plays within the fabric of Edinburgh. This has brought about a vision that looks to return areas of the mall back to the original market concept, whilst looking to create something of real quality and vibrancy within the heart of the city.
“Along with the improved roof space, the new entrance and the widening of the pavement on Princes Street are all about establishing a greater sense of arrival into Edinburgh that utilises its unique and very important location. Retail is continuing to change and through innovative design we can create a truly destinational scheme offering facilities that Edinburgh currently doesn’t have. It is imperative that we enable the current offer to change and evolve to meet today’s customer demands for both residents, businesses and visitors to Edinburgh.”
The new roof terrace will have shops, restaurant and leisure units on the south, east and west elevations. The north will be open to Princes Street with a piazza style area. The developers say it is important that this area can be closed at night to stop any rowdy behaviour. There will be a walkway along the southern elevation with its great views to the Old Town.
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