The newly restored Yards steps at Edinburgh High School have been reopened to the public after being closed for 12 years.

The historic steps, which link the Cowgate and High School Yards, were closed in 2003 after reports of anti-social behaviour. Their restoration is the result of an 18 month partnership project to revive the route between the City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh World Heritageand The University of Edinburgh.

As well as significant conservation work, including the renewal of railings and the addition of gates to close the stairs off at night, the refurbished steps feature an installation by Callum Innes.

Aiming to reclaim the area as a public space, the artwork features an infrared camera which captures the movement of people as they climb the steps, projecting their silhouettes onto a large LED mesh screen above them, revealing a hidden section of the stairs.


Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Lesley Hinds, said: "The incredible transformation of High School Yards steps is testament to the partnership working by all those involved in this project, including members of the local community.

"The vast improvement to the area, including Callum Innes’ innovative artwork, will not only create a safer and more attractive atmosphere for those working, living and studying nearby, but will enhance this lesser-used end of the Cowgate."

Artist Callum Innes added: "By placing an infrared camera half-way up the steps we make a hidden part of the steps visible, relaying live footage of silhouetted figures to be superimposed onto the changing colours of the screen.

"The installation directly engages both the architecture of the steps and the public for whom they serve.

"In conjunction with the development of the work, I wanted to involve local school children in creating recorded silhouettes that can run on the screen when the steps are closed, or at quieter times."

(CD)