Delivery of National Centre for Music moves ahead

The development of the new National Centre for Music in Edinburgh city centre has taken a major step forward with the commencement of main contract works following the appointment of Robertson as principal contractor.

With a package of enabling works recently completed, work is now underway on a £47 million package of works that will see the historic building - which has lain largely empty for several decades - transformed into a new music centre offering three performance spaces along with rehearsal rooms, a recording studio, a learning studio, a café, and event and conference spaces. The project will involve nmajor works to the roof, stonework, and plumbing along with specialist works such as acoustics and lighting.

Richard Murphy Architects has designed the transformation of the building, with Simpson & Brown Architects as conservation architect.

Works are planned to complete in spring 2028, with the National Centre for Music opening early that summer.

"After years of dedication and work from our Trustees, design team and staff, moving to the construction phase is a truly memorable moment. Throughout the enabling works we've formed a strong working relationship with Robertson who share our vision for the building and have a wealth of experience when it comes to re-imagining historic locations. We're delighted to be continuing our relationship as we move forward into this main work construction contract. We'd like to say a huge thanks to everyone who has helped us reach this stage in the project, none of which would’ve been possible without the extraordinary founding gift from the Dunard Fund which has allowed us to preserve the heritage of the building and make it accessible for cultural and public benefit."

- Carol Nimmo, Chair, Royal High School Preservation Trust