Management Plan

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site Management Plan identifies what is significant about the World Heritage Site, recognises challenges and threats, and sets out policies to preserve and enhance the Site.

The plan was prepared by Edinburgh World Heritage in consultation with the City of Edinburgh Council, Historic Scotland and other parts of the Scottish Executive, the Edinburgh City Centre Management Company and Scottish Enterprise Edinburgh and Lothian.

Why have a management plan?

Those responsible for World Heritage Site’s are required by UNESCO to draw up a management plan to summarise the significance of the site and the policies proposed to protect, conserve, develop and enhance it. 

What does it say?

The management plan identifies key features of the World Heritage Site such as the unique landscape, the contrasting architectural characters of the medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, and the history and heritage of Scotland’s ancient capital. Challenges and opportunities are also detailed, for example the risk of inappropriate development and the need to promote the use of traditional materials.

Crucially the management plan is not just about preservation. It is about facilitating change to ensure that Edinburgh is a thriving, dynamic, economically successful city.

How will it be used?

Edinburgh World Heritage will use the management plan to help protect the Site’s special qualities and promote best practice. The plan will enable those involved in developing the city centre to consider the protection and enhancement of the World Heritage Site at an early stage in the planning process. For everyone the plan will promote awareness of the World Heritage Site and encourage involvement in its management.

View the July 2005 Management Plan (PDF document).