Edinburgh locals fume after council paves over historic new town cobbles

Running off the north end of Princes’ Street, the historic Frederick Street is being upgraded with new granite setts and Yorkstone slabs, two forms of cobbles, after defects were discovered on the carriageway.

However, these renovations have necessitated a temporary tarmac roadway to be placed on top of the existing cobbles so that the road may continue to be used whilst works are ongoing.

The Scotman reported that the paving is not part of the George Street and First New Town project, and instead a normal road maintenance operation.

The aforementioned plan would see much of the traffic removed from George Street to accomodate widened pavements for pedestrians, with car lanes reduced to two, as well as spaces for parking and taxis.

Constructed in 1795, Frederick Street is one of the most historic thoroughfares in the New Town, with the decision to tarmac the road inevitably upsetting residents who have slammed the council.

Speaking to the Edinburgh Live, one resident stated the asphalted surface ‘looks awful’. They go on to say that the city’s council have paved over “hundred of years old cobbles”, with another speaking on X saying: “Imagine covering up centuries old cobbles with asphalt! An appalling decision which [Edinburgh City Council] should be held accountable for”

Most Read

Good lord, Bonnie Blue opened up about what Beavo was like in bed and I’m traumatised

It’s finally here: Watch the full video of Bonnie Blue’s 1,000 guys in 12 hours challenge

Jessica Alba’s unsolved 1996 kidnapping resurfaces as she was found tied up and blindfolded

Speaking to The Scotsman, Council transport and environment convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, said: “Following an inspection of the carriageway, which revealed defects, we’ve put in a temporary running surface over the top of the existing setts. This is to ensure the carriageway is safe for all road users.