How we are engaging with the local community
Stakeholder engagement
We held two drop-in sessions for residents and businesses - 30 September and 1 October, 3pm to 6.30pm, 17 The Loan, Queensferry, Scotland, EH30 9SD.
With the design of the scheme confirmed, the purpose of these sessions was to focus on traffic management and logistical arrangements for residents and businesses directly impacted by the upcoming construction works.
A further session will be arranged in December to give an update on progress and a look ahead to future phases of works. Further infomration will be available in due course.
Support for businesses
We are committed to working with businesses to minimise disruption as far as we can. Clear signage will be in place to direct both pedestrians and vehicles, and "Open for Business" signs will be prominently displayed to reassure residents and visitors that the High Street remains accessible, albeit with some restrictions. We have also introduced a voucher sheme to encourage footfall and spend in businesses on the High Street.
As well as the engagement already taking place with business and community representatives, there are also a number of wider business support opportunities that may be of particular benefit during the works.
- Business Champion Network – a forum to maintain open communication between the Council and businesses through quarterly Teams meetings. This provides an opportunity to discuss challenges, share updates and build stronger local networks.
- Business Gateway – free, tailored business advice and support, including webinars, tutorials, guides and access to market research. Advisors are available to link businesses into free specialist expertise.
- Forever Edinburgh – tourism businesses can benefit from a free listing on the Forever Edinburgh website, promotion of offers and events and opportunities to sign up for the business newsletter and LinkedIn page. Unlocking opportunities to reach millions of prospective leisure visitors and residents through the Forever Edinburgh online platforms.
Read more information about this support that is available to businesses.
The final project plan has developed through detailed conversations with various stakeholders including local residents, businesses, schools, councillors and the Community Council.
Data Protection
Any information shared with the project team will be used to inform the development of this project and may be shared with contracted organisations if deemed necessary, appropriate and compliant with GDPR legislation.
Consultation on design
We considered various design options, including alternative surfacing proposals, to balance the historical character of the area with cost and time efficiencies.
Conservation area and street finish
Recent feedback has been around the street finish, in particular setted streets. To clarify this, at its meeting on 9 March 2018, the Council’s Transport and Environment Committee approved the “Finalised Strategy for Setted Streets”.
As part of the principles that were approved within this report, it states that setted streets that fall within the World Heritage Site and/or are in a conservation area will be protected.
Queensferry High Street is within the Queensferry conservation area and the setts must be renewed.
