Edinburgh Council Rejects Netflix’s Proposal for “One Day” Plaque

Edinburgh city planners have declined Netflix’s proposal to install a plaque commemorating its popular TV series “One Day” at a significant historical site in the city. The streaming platform had sought to place a red plaque, featuring a quotation from the program, on The Vennel Steps, a location where the show’s main characters share a pivotal moment. The application for planning permission was submitted to the City of Edinburgh Council because the proposed sign would be affixed to the wall of a listed building constructed in 1910. A heritage preservation group criticized the plan, calling it a “simple exercise in product marketing,” and the council has subsequently denied approval, citing heritage considerations. The intended location for the sign was at the base of the steps, across from the 16th-century Flodden Wall, which historically defined Edinburgh’s boundary. David Givan, the chief planning officer for the City of Edinburgh Council, stated that the application garnered 38 objections. He elaborated, stating: “The proposal fails to have special regard to the desirability of preserving the character of the building and would adversely impact on its special architectural and historic interest. The proposal represents an inappropriate and low quality addition to the listed building, failing to meet the statutory requirement of retaining its character. It would fail to preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area.” The inscription intended for the sign was: “It’s one of the great cosmic mysteries. How someone can go from being a total stranger to the most important person in your life.” Tery Levinthal, director of the Cockburn Association, voiced opposition to the proposal last month. He commented: “If every production or every connection with a novel or film or TV series did the same, one wouldn’t be able to see parts of the city due to the proliferation of plaques.” The series “One Day,” adapted from David Nicholls’ book, chronicles the lives of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew annually on St. Swithin’s Day, July 15. Their initial encounter occurs at their Edinburgh University graduation ball in 1988, leading to an unsuccessful one-night stand. The program delves into the couple’s evolving relationship, depicting their growth, separations, reunions, and experiences of both happiness and sorrow. A notable scene set in Edinburgh was shot on The Vennel Steps, a historic flight of stairs extending from The Grassmarket along the perimeter of George Heriot’s School. A well-known vista of Edinburgh Castle is visible from the summit of these steps.