Sherlock Holmes returns to keep ‘watchful eye’ over Picardy Place as ‘finishing touch’ to the island unveiled

A beloved Sherlock Holmes statue has finally returned to Picardy Place in Edinburgh following refurbishment.

The statue famously marks the nearby birthplace of the character’s creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

It was sculpted by Gerald Ogilvie Laing and originally installed near 11 Picardy Place, where Conan Doyle was born, which has since been demolished.

The new statue, part of the Growth Accelerator Model Agreement for the St James Quarter development, was unveiled on Wednesday by Conan Doyle’s step-great granddaughter and creator of the Sherlock Holmes Tartan, Tania Henzell.

Henzell told Edinburgh City Council she was “pleased” about the return of the statue, saying: “Many of his followers have asked where he had gone; to the north of Scotland to solve a long running case, I replied.”

The life-size bronze sculpture was originally removed in 2018 while works on trams to Newhaven were carried out.

However, Holmes is back to keep a watchful eye on pedestrians after being renovated by Black Isle Bronze in Nairn.

Councillor Scott Arthur, transport and environment convener, said: “Sherlock’s return has been the finishing touch for Picardy Place island – I’m pleased to welcome him back to his creator’s birthplace, taking pride of place in this transformed public space.

“For so long this area has been disused and unloved, so it’s wonderful to see it brought back to life. Not only will it link walking and cycling routes to and from the city centre, but will provide a spot to relax, meet up and enjoy some of the fascinating cultural artefacts on display.

The Edinburgh council website confirmed that the redeveloped Picardy Place island will include pedestrian routes, and cycle ways as well as trees and shrubs being planted on the spot in October.

Edinburgh City Council did not immediately respond to requests for a specific date in which Picardy Place island will open.