THE Royal High School Preservation Trust, responsible for safeguarding and thoughtfully developing the historic Thomas Hamilton building beneath Calton Hill in Edinburgh, has revealed the appointment of Grant Mackenzie as Executive Director and Kate Smith as Development Director. The trust, which recently unveiled revised plans for the 19th-century building, is set to transform it into a new National Centre for Music.
Having completed the enabling works for the ambitious project, the trust has formed a senior leadership team to guide the development through its next crucial stages. Grant Mackenzie, with over 20 years of experience in heritage projects, will assume the role of Executive Director. He brings a wealth of expertise, having managed the £9.1 million redevelopment of the David Livingstone Birthplace at the David Livingstone Trust. Mackenzie has also held positions on the board of the Queens Hall in Edinburgh and worked with renowned heritage organisations, including the British Museum and National Museum of Scotland.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the venture, Grant Mackenzie said, “The iconic Thomas Hamilton building is rich in heritage and is a significant restoration project for Scotland. Over the past few months, it has been wonderful getting to know the building, the plans, and our partners. It is an honor to be leading the development of what is set to become a world-leading venue of culture and music, right in the heart of the historic city of Edinburgh.”
Joining the leadership team as Development Director is Kate Smith, who arrives from Capital Theatres, where she played a pivotal role in the restoration and redevelopment of the Kings Theatre. Kate Smith expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “I have been following the development of the former Royal High School for some time, and I am thrilled to be part of the team bringing the new National Centre for Music to fruition. This project has so much potential to be hugely significant for Edinburgh and Scotland, and I look forward to playing my part in bringing the vision of the Royal High School Preservation Trust to life.”
The trust’s recent announcement of the revised plans reflects its commitment to the careful development of the Thomas Hamilton building. The creation of a National Centre for Music is poised to make a lasting cultural impact, adding to the historic charm of Edinburgh.
