Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has recently submitted a planning application (25/06329/FUL) to partially re-open the Radical Road in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh. The Radical Road right of way has been closed for more than seven years due to rockfall concerns, which has also restricted access to the South Quarry, including Hutton’s Section and Hutton’s Rock. These areas are significant for geology, history, education and public enjoyment. 

ScotWays has consistently pressed for the reinstatement of public access and is an active participant in the Radical Road stakeholder group. In October 2025, we attended a Radical Road site meeting during which the intent of HES’s plans was outlined. While our concerns about the prolonged closure remain, we view this application as a welcome first step towards reopening. As we also acknowledge the time pressure created by the 2026 James Hutton Tercentenary, we are keen not to hinder this long-overdue progress.  To that end, we have not objected to the planning application but have submitted comments. The current proposal must be recognised by HES and the City of Edinburgh Council as only the beginning of finding a way forward to better protect public access along the Radical Road. 

ScotWays remains committed to constructive engagement to ensure the Radical Road is restored for public use and preserved for future generations. 

Photo by Richard Barron