Learn more about one of Edinburgh’s most unique and fascinating projects in our Q&A with David Eliis, the Managing Director of The Quaich Project. The aim of this project is to o help shape the future of public green spaces in Scotland for generations to come, with West Princes Street Gardens being a prime example.
I’m David Ellis, Managing Director at The Quaich Project. I’ve worked with our chairman, Norman Springford on the creation and growth of The Ross Development Trust since April 2015. Raised in Edinburgh, I feel a connection to this project and the way it will shape the future of public green spaces in Scotland for generations to come. My hope is that this project will open new possibilities, as well as old, for community enjoyment of the Gardens.
The Quaich project really is a unique and fascinating project between the Ross Development and the City of Edinburgh council which will have a very positive impact on West Princes Street Gardens, how did the project come about?
The project is the brainchild of Norman Springford, local entrepreneur, who had recently retired and wanted to give something back to the city. Growing up in Edinburgh as well, Norman has distinct memories of West Princes Street Gardens and knows the potential that this space has for bringing the community together. His aim in creating this project was to give back to the city, knowing that this space could do with improvement. Norman has gifted a significant sum of money as a catalyst for other investments to make the space the best it can be.
What is currently wrong with the existing bandstand?
The Ross Bandstand has played a vital role as a space for the community. It is a multipurpose stage that flourished from 1935 to the 1970’s, providing infrastructure for outdoor dancing, children’s shows, and cultural events. Unfortunately, in its current state, the bandstand can no longer host such activities and as a result we have seen a decrease in community engagement in the Gardens as a result.
Tell us more about the shortlisted designs and how and why you selected the final design.
Seven designs teams were shortlisted from 125 entries. The shortlisted design teams were picked based on experience, reputation, location, style of architecture, and strength of team. In the hope that a variety of different options would be provided. To select a winning design, each submission was subject to a technical review, covering many different aspects of the design, including engineering, cost, public safety, heritage value, planning requirements, restrictions, accessibility, and feasibility. Each design team presented their designs to our jury and answered their questions, this and technical support allowed the jury to make their decision. Each design was then given a rating based on these individual aspects and was presented to our jury panel, who made the final decision. At the same time, our design options were published in The Edinburgh Evening News, with a pole for best design picked by the public, luckily the winning design matched our final choice!
What were some of the challenges and considerations in designing the new pavilion?
There were numerous issues regarding designing the new pavilion, we needed to consider the location and the complexities involved. This is a public garden situated underneath Scotland’s most iconic landmark, bordering Edinburgh’s busiest street, and connecting the two main railway lines from the East to West of Scotland. This is also a World Heritage site as well as common good land, essentially belonging to the residents of the city – therefore everyone in Edinburgh has the ability and right to comment on what happens here. All these items need to be taken into consideration and were reflected in the winning design competition.
Tell us about the different areas of the new pavilion and how they will help bring the community together.
The new pavilion will offer a flexible indoor space that can used for activities all year round without impacting the rest of the gardens. The space will also function as an outdoor theatre, as it does now, so events and activities can be performed to the rest of the gardens. Our hope is that this space is used by community groups and individuals from the city throughout the year and feel the impact of this community asset that hasn’t been available for generations.
What are the timelines for the project and when will the new pavilion be completed and open to the public?
We are currently working towards our planning application being submitted, we hope to submit this around March next year. And we would expect a decision on that application by the end of 2020.
The costs are quite significant to make this project come alive, tell us about how much you need to fundraise and how you are going about securing the funding
The goal is £25 million to complete the development, this considers various areas of improvement around West Princes Street Gardens – including and out with the Ross Bandstand. Our first completed project was the successful restoration of the Ross Fountain in July 2018, which alone cost £2 million to complete. We are considering restoring and developing further areas like the children’s play park, the shelters on the upper path, and providing some much-needed toilet facilities.
We have brought a fundraising team on board to achieve our target. We are securing fundraising through essentially three means, approaching individual charitable donors, securing corporate sponsorship, and receiving funds through granting bodies. We are working hard to create connections with highly charitable individuals who would like to see this space be brought back to life.
How can people get involved in the project too?
We would love for people to get involved simply by engaging with our project. Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter, and email us with your feedback. We will be hosting a number of free activities to increase awareness of the project and highlight the massive potential for this community space. We are currently working on our planning consultation and would hope that those interested in the project would come along and share their comments on the design.
Top tip for a first time visitor to Edinburgh.
My top tip for a first-time visitor to Edinburgh is to explore the city without an end destination in mind. There are tons of museums, shops, cafes, not to mention amazing architecture, to wander in and out of. It’s a city that is best seen at a leisurely pace and with an openness to adventure.
Where is your own Hidden Edinburgh and why.
My own hidden Edinburgh is a small spot along the Water of Leith walkway called St. Bernard’s Well. It’s a quiet spot in the very centre of the city, allowing you a unique vantage point to view Edinburgh’s New Town architecture along with the preserved nature trail along the Water of Leith. Built in 1789, the sculpture of Bernard’s Well really takes you back in time. It’s a must see for any visitor to Edinburgh.
