ONE of Scotland's most prestigious private gardens should be opened to the public on a permanent basis, a major new study has recommended. Charlotte Square would become a year-round attraction in the heart of Edinburgh's West End under plans being developed by heritage chiefs.

The city council and the National Trust for Scotland (NTS), which owns most of buildings on the square, are being urged to spearhead efforts to replicate the success of the opening of St Andrew Square Garden last year. Edinburgh World Heritage, which is expected to start fundraising for the project in the next few months, believes the square is one of the best in Europe, and said it would be "delightful" if the gardens could be opened up to the public.