The former chair of court at Napier University will lead a board of high profile, Edinburgh-based volunteers to set and deliver strategy on securing major philanthropic gifts from individuals and corporate donors to upgrade the city centre green space.

Sir Andrew Cubie was a solicitor in private practice, specialising in corporate law. He is the current chair of the Joint Negotiating Committee of USS, the largest private pension scheme in the UK, and has significant experience of strategic leadership in the charitable sector.

Sir Andrew Cubie is joined on the campaign board by inaugural members; entrepreneur, Bill Dobbie; former principal of the University of St Andrews, Dr. Brian Lang; and director of recruitment consultancy FWB Park Brown, Judy Wagner. Further campaign board members will join in due course as The Quaich Project is actively seeking other volunteers to support the important public-private partnership.

The Quaich Project’s vision is to reimagine West Princes Street Gardens as a space for all to celebrate and enjoy in new ways – with improved accessibility, dynamic architectural designs and innovative facilities.

Sir Andrew Cubie said: “I regard West Princes Street Gardens as a jewel in the crown of the city. It is a vital public resource and it needs to be presented in the best possible way for the 21st century – it needs to be refreshed. To me The Quaich Project affords the opportunity of that refreshment in a manner that is collaborative, positive and ambitious.

“I’ve lived in Edinburgh throughout my adult life and have hopefully contributed to the city in a variety of ways. I’ve certainly had a significant benefit, as have my family, of being citizens of Edinburgh. I’m looking forward to working closely with the campaign board and wider team to help West Princes Street Gardens achieve its full potential.”

Jules Haston, director of development at The Quaich Project, added:“As a public-private partnership, The Quaich Project has to raise £25 million to make the vision a reality, creating an accessible space for all in the heart of Edinburgh. Only through creative and considered fundraising can we realise that goal.

Members of the campaign board will be expected to help approach potential supporters, to act as project ambassadors, and to help raise the profile and reach of the project.

The campaign board will focus on domestic fundraising. The international element of it was launched in New York in October 2019 by The Quaich Project’s North American ambassador, Alan Cumming OBE.

Following a public consultation conducted by The Quaich Project in November, results are being independently reviewed and the findings will be made public in early 2020.