An unconfirmed story circulating in Broughton suggests that the new owner of St Stephen’s Church is either the Edinburgh-based video game designer Rockstar North or a senior director there acting in a private capacity.
We understand that at least part of the listed property is now intended for storing bulky props used in the scenic realisation of computer games such as Grand Theft Auto. Spurtle further understands that the individual behind the purchase lives locally.
The story partially confirms a separate assertion made by the St Stephen’s Playfair Trust in March that the building had been acquired by a ‘multi-millionaire with a media empire’ (Breaking news, 17.3.14).
Spurtle approached Rockstar North seeking confirmation or denial of the latest story last Tuesday. We were referred to the public relations department of parent company Rockstar Games, from whom we have heard precisely nothing since.
Rockstar reportedly netted £500m within 24 hours of releasing Grand Theft Auto V in September 2013. It is possible that the Broughton Spurtle does not register highly on their list of global priorities.
Rockstar North is currently based in Greenside Row (opposite John Lewis), but has plans to take over Barclay House on Holyrood Road later this year once Scotsman Publications and its financially embattled owner Johnston Press move out.
From Rock to tock
Meanwhile, Stockbridge residents have warmly greeted the restarting last week of the St Stephen’s clock’s ticks, chimes and illumination.
@theSpurtle @StSPTrust @stockbridgetwit pleased to say the clock at StStephens is working, & the hourly chimes are back. Thanks new owner.
@Bailielife @theSpurtle @StSPTrust @stockbridgetwit WOOOOOOOO!! :D
Timing of this resumption probably has less to do with the property’s purchase than with removal of scaffolding erected inside the tower during an upgrade of telecommunications equipment at the top (Breaking news, 27.11.13).
