Plans to stop revellers climbing Calton Hill to watch this year's Hogmanay fireworks have been dropped.

Safety fears had been raised over the thousands of people who flock to the hill to watch the famous display on December 31.

Edinburgh City Council confirmed on Thursday that Calton Hill would now remain open to the public for this year's festivities.

The park was closed last year as a "public safety measure" due to it being used as a fireworks site.

Organisers said after consulting agencies involved in the event, the area would not be closed for this year.

Councillor Richard Lewis, the city's festivals and events convener, said: "The council will ensure Calton Hill remains open to the general public on Hogmanay night.

"A small area of the hill will be used as a fireworks site by the organisers of Edinburgh's Hogmanay. This area will be stewarded."

The Midnight Moment Fireworks on December 31 will be launched from the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens and Calton Hill after a headline performance by Paulo Nutini.

Access to Calton Hill during the Torchlight Procession on the previous evening will be limited to those with torches and wristbands taking part in the procession.