Councillors have agreed to designate Restalrig as Edinburgh’s 50th conservation area to protect its historical and architectural significance.

Approval was given today after a report was considered by the City of Edinburgh Council’s planning committee, following a public consultation in the local area.

Restalrig lies to the north east of the city and the boundary of the conservation area includes St Margaret’s Parish Church, graveyard and surrounding buildings at the entrance to Restalrig Road South from Restalrig Avenue.

Restalrig conservation area is historically significant as a result of its development around St Margaret’s Parish Church. Within the area there are other listed buildings at 62 Restalrig Road South and The Deanery Wall. There is also a scheduled monument, St Triduana’s Aisle, Chapel and Well house. These buildings reflect the historical and architectural significance of the area and its development as a centre of religious activities.

Councillor Neil Gardiner, planning convener, said: “I would like to thank all those who showed an interest in Restalrig and filled out our survey. The results helped us make today’s decision as the comments were almost unanimous in expressing support for the area being given conservation status.

“Conservation areas have special architectural or historic interest and we protect them by putting in place extra rules to control building work. The use of natural materials in several of the listed buildings in the area, such as rubble stone, creates a sense of place and are integral to its character.”