Castle traffic ban gets the green light

MOVES to cut down on the traffic outside Edinburgh Castle have been given the go-ahead by council chiefs.

The plans will see tour buses banned from the Esplanade and nearby Johnston Terrace used as a drop-off point for tour parties, with courtesy buses laid on for those unable to manage the short walk to the Castle.

The Castle's growing visitor numbers are said to have left pedestrians and traffic "battling" for space on Castlehill.

Narrow pavements have been blamed for visitors routinely stepping into the road, increasing the number of accidents and making it harder for larger vehicles to pass.

Castlehill also sees a high number of vehicles making deliveries, as well as cars and taxis dropping off passengers.

Other traffic management measures proposed by the council include limiting deliveries to businesses within Castlehill to before 10.30am and after 4.30pm.