A public outcry by former students and heritage campaigners has prompted the return of landmark gates to the University of Edinburgh.
The carved sandstone and wrought iron gates stood next to the university’s graduation venue, the McEwan Hall, but were removed (with consent) as part of a £33 million redevelopment of the site. They had been due to be sold at auction.
The entranceway had been an important gathering place for students on graduation day until it was removed for restoration work, and the 19th Century carved sandstone and iron railings were to be sold in Summer Place Auctions on 21 September. It was estimated the entranceway, which is over 53ft (16m( wide and nearly 10ft (3m) high, could sell for up to £120,000.
After substantial public controversy, Sir Tim O’Shea, the principal, ensured that the structures would be reinstated.
Read more in The Times, Edinburgh Evening News and BBC News
