More than 13,000 people have signed a petition urging the council to reject planning permission, while over 200 supporters attended an emergency meeting to discuss the venue’s future.

Summerhall Arts, the charity responsible for the venue’s artistic programme, has questioned the feasibility of the proposals put forward by developer AMA Homes. The organisation believes that any redevelopment should prioritise restoring and preserving the existing buildings rather than demolishing them.

The issue has also reached the Scottish Parliament, where the Scottish Green Party raised concerns about Summerhall’s future. First Minister John Swinney acknowledged the situation and expressed concern about the issues involved.

In response to the ongoing debate, AMA Homes has postponed its next public consultation by approximately four weeks. Originally scheduled for November, the consultation is now expected to take place in mid-December, ahead of a full planning application anticipated in January.

The developer says it has revised its proposals following feedback received during the initial consultation and intends to present the updated plans to the public before finalising its application.

Originally a veterinary school, Summerhall reopened as an arts centre in 2011 and has since established itself as one of Edinburgh’s most important independent cultural spaces. It plays a prominent role in the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe and provides year-round accommodation for more than 100 artists, creative organisations and small businesses.

The debate surrounding its future highlights the continuing challenges facing independent arts venues as redevelopment pressures threaten established cultural spaces.