Plans for Edinburgh city centre offices to become 'exclusive high end hotel' and bar

Plans have been revealed to turn Edinburgh city centre A-listed office space into a "boutique" hotel with a bar and lounge.

Perle Hotel Group has submitted proposals to the council for a new hotel on Castle Street which will include 28 bedrooms. The applicant states the property is currently in poor condition, having becoming "rundown and tired over the years."

The five-storey building, at number 16-20, will be used predominantly as a hotel including a lounge and bar area providing breakfast, day time coffee and evening drinks located directly at the entrance.

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The bar will be open for both guest and public use and the proposed layout has been designed to retain the character of the original building including removing significant walls but retaining cornices.

In a design and heritage statement, the GLM Architects say the development will result in an "exclusive high end hotel" and will enhance the building from a heritage perspective

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They wrote: "The applicant is seeking to change the use of 16-20 Castle Street from offices into an exclusive high end hotel. This will create a use much closer to its original intent thereby offering an opportunity fully express its grandeur and tradition.

"As part of the original New Town design 16-20 Castle Street should be as impressive internally as it is externally which is not the case as of present. The proposals and change of use present an opportunity to restore the building back to its former glory which should be supported given its significant location.

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"A restoration that is much needed. The proposed development enhances the building from a heritage perspective and should be supported by the local authority and other stakeholders."