WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff, a global professional services consultancy, has secured a contract from Ross Development Trust, to develop proposals for a £25m project including a new road bridge to completely regenerate Edinburgh’s famous West Princes Street Gardens.

The Ross Development Trust is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) comprised of a board of trustees, who work towards improvement of West Princes Street Gardens.

The deal will see WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff conduct a feasibility study for the new road bridge for improved vehicular access to help service the re-animated Gardens.

"Our goal with the redevelopment of the Ross Bandstand and West Princes Street Gardens is to create a unique and recognisable venue for all to enjoy."

WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff director Gordon Allerton said: “This project in Edinburgh’s West Princes Street Gardens is a very exciting one, not just for us but for the people of the city.

“Our part in the project involves carrying out a feasibility study where we will look at all types of constraints from archaeology and cultural heritage to noise and vibration.

"This will help us to determine the best type of bridge for vehicles to access the Ross Bandstand’s replacement and its supporting amenities.

“The gardens are one of Edinburgh’s most recognisable locations so it’s great to be working with the Ross Development Trust and the City of Edinburgh Council on a project which will not only improve the area but potentially help the city win bids for major cultural events.”

The project works include improvements to the west side of the gardens, and replacement of the historic outdoor performance venue, the Ross Bandstand.

The Ross Development Trust project director David Ellis said: “We are looking forward to working with WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff on what will be a great project for the city of Edinburgh.

“Our goal with the redevelopment of the Ross Bandstand and West Princes Street Gardens is to create a unique and recognisable venue for all to enjoy and to make it a socially inclusive centre in Edinburgh which promotes a diverse range of activities.

“WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff’s study will be important to help us determine what type of bridge is required for improved access to the gardens and will form an integral part in the  replacement of the Ross Bandstand”.

The Ross Development Trust is also planning for other incremental improvements including; restoring the Ross Fountain, re-landscaping, and lighting.