The recent announcement that the beloved Summerhall buildings in Edinburgh are up for sale has stirred significant public concern. The news, arriving 13 years after the site was transformed from a veterinary school into a vibrant arts and festival venue, has prompted fears about the future of this cultural cornerstone.
Owners of the venue revealed the sale on Tuesday afternoon, assuring that all planned events, including the upcoming Fringe Festival, would proceed as scheduled. The property consultants managing the sale have advertised its potential to become a boutique hotel or student accommodation, a proposition that has sparked widespread disapproval.
In response, nearly 6,000 people signed a petition within the first 24 hours, advocating for the venue’s preservation. Supporters, including prominent local figures, are calling for the council to take decisive action and develop a comprehensive plan to safeguard Summerhall’s future.
The venue’s owners expressed their gratitude on social media, stating, “We are deeply appreciative of the overwhelming support—from petitions to messages and action groups. Your outpouring of love for Summerhall is truly heartening.” They encouraged continued support by attending events, visiting exhibitions, and enjoying the venue’s pub, affirming, “We are here to stay.”
Local residents have passionately defended the venue’s importance. One resident commented, “Summerhall is one of the last places in Edinburgh that genuinely supports local long-term creative arts. Edinburgh needs this place. The number of songs, shows, and ideas that have emerged from here since 2011 is countless.” Another resident lamented the lack of year-round arts venues in a city renowned for its international arts festival, adding, “We cannot afford to lose Summerhall.”
A poignant comment on the petition read, “Losing such a unique creative space would be a tragedy. I hope the city and civic leaders are taking note.”
The two-acre Southside venue, which began operations in 2011, hosts over 100 independent companies, including local breweries and distilleries. It has been confirmed that all resident companies will remain until their current leases expire.
The CEO of Summerhall Arts reiterated the team’s commitment to the venue’s cultural mission, stating, “We are dedicated to ensuring the long-term survival of the important cultural work that started here in 2011.”
The venue’s director and founder expressed his regret over the decision to sell, noting it was made by a majority of the shareholders despite his personal objections. He expressed hope that Summerhall could continue its operations, potentially even improving, and highlighted the venue’s significant contribution to Edinburgh’s international reputation. “We are honoured by the immense support we have received; let us hope for a positive outcome,” he remarked.
A local MP’s open letter to the council leader stressed the urgency of council intervention to prevent the venue from becoming merely another hotel or student accommodation. The letter urged the council to take a proactive approach, forming a dedicated group of senior officials with planning, cultural, and economic development expertise to create a long-term strategy for Summerhall.
The letter emphasised the need for a cohesive masterplan, arguing that such an approach would discourage speculative buyers and help maintain the site’s cultural essence. “The council should use all available powers to prevent developments that would undermine the site’s overall purpose. Announcing a clear planning framework would make the site less attractive to those looking to make significant future profits at the expense of its current ethos,” the letter stated.
As the local authorities consider their next steps, the future of Summerhall remains uncertain. The widespread public support underscores the venue’s vital role in the city’s cultural landscape and reflects the community’s determination to preserve its unique artistic spirit.
In conclusion, while the sale of Summerhall has caused considerable anxiety, the collective efforts of the community, local leaders, and cultural advocates provide a glimmer of hope. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether this treasured venue can continue to flourish as a cornerstone of creativity in Edinburgh.
