Fringe venue plans to expand into street

One of the Edinburgh Fringe's biggest venues wants to expand into the street, to create a hub of performance and entertainment.

Managers at the Assembly Rooms want to spill out into George Street, with an outdoor bar and places to meet, creating a new area to rival the Pleasance.

The city council is considering pedestrianising the road any way, and is currently in discussions with shop-owers.

Assembly Rooms director William Burdett-Coutts told The Scotsman: "The main focus of the Fringe is over in the Old Town, partly because of the concentration of venues but also because there is a great atmosphere.

"What we would like to do is allow people to spill out into an area in front of the Assembly Rooms so that they can mix, enjoy a drink and maybe stay and see more shows.

"We have had a good year and would like to expand for next year. The only way to expand is outwards because we've already used all the space we can inside.

"It would be nice to have to create some more space for people to come along, and it would also free up space for performers.

"We'll be asking the council to close off the section between Hanover Street and Frederick Street."

Published: 28 Aug 2002