Historic Edinburgh Radical Road Plans Partial Reopening Next Year

Edinburgh's Radical Road, closed nearly seven years ago due to a rockfall, is set to partially reopen early next year, with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) overseeing the restoration. The section from the Hawse to the northern end of the South Quarry will be accessible again, timed to coincide with the 300th anniversary of geologist James Hutton's birth, who made significant discoveries partly inspired by views from the route. The reopening follows years of debate balancing safety concerns against public access, with new and repaired barriers, interpretive signage, and vegetation clearing planned to mitigate risks. Despite the closure, ranger-guided tours have continued on parts of the path, and HES is also working to make the nearby Duddingston Low Road safe again after its closure earlier this year due to rockfall risk. Local officials, including Labour Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, have expressed support for the reopening, emphasizing ongoing safety inspections and remedial work. The path has suffered from graffiti and vandalism during its closure, further highlighting the importance of restoration efforts.