city centre – Page 18 – The NEN

Festival venue takes bold step towards greener Fringe

Sustainable souvenir scheme tackles single-use cup waste

FRINGE-GOERS picking up a drink at one of the capital’s busiest venues are being asked to make a small change with a big impact – as part of a bold new drive to reduce waste and support charitable causes.

In a new initiative Surgeons Quarter, the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, has introduced a £2 reusable cup policy, replacing throwaway plastic with souvenir-style cups that support good causes.

Customers pay a one-time £2 charge for a reusable cup, which is theirs to keep. When returning for another drink, they’ll receive a fresh, clean replacement cup at no extra cost.

Surgeons Quarter has a longstanding reputation for leading with innovation through environmental initiatives and investing heavily in the wellbeing of its staff.

Ten Hill Place Hotel, part of the Surgeons Quarter portfolio, was first awarded a Green Tourism Gold Award in 2008 and has proudly retained this accolade for 17 consecutive years.

One of the hotel’s many sustainable efforts has been the removal of single-use plastic bottles from guest bedrooms. It’s a change which has saved over 100,000 bottles to date. In their place, guests are gifted Scottish wildflower seed packets to take home, encouraging biodiversity in their own gardens and extending memories of their stay at the hotel.

Other green initiatives have included a £20,000 investment for installation of EV charging stations at the hotel, as well as a £60,000 investment in new staff members uniforms made from

recycled plastic bottles with each uniform preventing 45 bottles from reaching landfills or oceans.

But sustainability is only part of the picture. Surgeons Quarter also goes above and beyond for its team.

Recognised by the Living Wage Foundation (LWF), it ensures all staff, regardless of age, are paid above the LWF Living Wage. In addition, all employees contribute at least 12% of their salary toward their pension, with 7.5% of that contributed by the employer, more than double the required minimum.

Scott Mitchell, Managing Director at Surgeons Quarter said: “We’re always looking at how we can help improve the planet, improve the guest experience and also improve the working environment for our team.

“That’s why we continually invest in initiatives prioritising long-term sustainability and staff wellbeing. We believe these aspects go hand in hand.”

The reusable cup policy reflects this commitment. Surgeons Quarter invested over £20,000 in the upfront cost of the cups, making the £2 charge fair and necessary, so it can continue running operations that pay staff fairly, reduce environmental impact and maintain the support for its local charity partners.

Scott added: “This step is a part of a wider commitment to doing what’s right, even when it costs more. That’s why we’re asking the public to support the reusable cup chaange as it helps us improve standards across the board.”

Some of the reusable and dishwasher safe cups feature the striking silhouette of the iconic Playfair Hall, while others are branded with the logos of theSpaceUK, which hosts the largest and most diverse programme at the Festival Fringe, and Surgeons Quarter itself.

The variety of designs provides visitors with eye-catching tangible reminders of their Festival experience as well as supporting the drive to reduce single-use waste.

Scott said: “After testing the concept in 2024, we’ve streamlined the system and are excited to launch the full initiative.

“We’re trying to shift the mindset. Rather than something disposable, we want people to see these as souvenirs that do good.

“We know some will be resistant to change but when it’s a minimal cost for an item that supports local and global causes, we hope people will get on board.’’

A portion of proceeds from cup sales will support three key causes: carbon offsetting initiatives through Ecologi; a special Supper Soirée hosted by Surgeons Quarter in support of Cyrenians, the homelessness charity tackling isolation and homelessness; and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s global efforts to improve patient outcomes around the world.

Under the new guidelines, festivalgoers are welcome to bring their own clean reusable cups for wine, spirits, bottled beer and soft drinks only — provided the cup is visibly clean.

However, if the cup is not SQ-branded, it is your responsibility to ensure it is hygienic, as staff are unable to wash or handle personal cups. Single-use plastic cups, including supermarket-style cups, will not be accepted.

Scott added: “This isn’t about jumping on a trend. It’s a long-term commitment to reducing our footprint and boosting our social impact.

“A single-use plastic cup has an impact of 0.07kg CO2e, and a reusable equivalent has an impact of 0.0084kg CO2e per use. Every cup that isn’t thrown away is a small win for the environment and every cup that helps someone in need makes that win even sweeter.”

Surgeons Quarter promotes, sells, and manages all commercial activities held within the RCSEd campus.

These include facilities for conferences, meetings, private events, parties, and weddings, as well as its own four-star hotel, Ten Hill Place, Café 1505, and SQ Travel.

To find out more about Surgeons Quarter, visit:

https://www.surgeonsquarter.com/festival-fringe-2025/

Living Streets objects to two-way cycling on Rose Street

We object to the advertised Traffic Regulation Order (TRO/24/27 bit.ly/3IFOQQ6) allowing two-way cycling on Rose Street.

The idea of promoting two-way cycling on the street was raised in a report to the Transport and Environment Committee (TEC) on 30 January 2025, as a means to facilitate cycling across the city while the CCWEL route through George Street is not yet in place. We made our objection to this proposal at that time.

The Council’s own report recognised that “integrating cyclists into a space primarily designed for pedestrians presents challenges. The narrow width of Rose Street, combined with the high footfall at certain times, could lead to safety concerns between cycling and walking/wheeling. With no dedicated cycling infrastructure, conflict could be created between users.”

It is not appropriate in our view to encourage Rose Street – the closest thing Edinburgh currently has to a pedestrianised street – as a major cycle route.

The proposal does not respect the Council’s agreed travel hierarchy which places walking and wheeling first. The TRO is especially inappropriate given that the TEC recently decided that two way cycle access should be maintained on George Street itself during any redevelopment works.

You can object to the order by 1st August – details here: http://bit.ly/3IFOQQ6.

Portrait Gallery showcase for Edinburgh College of Art designers

Over 40 independent designers will descend on National Galleries Scotland: Portrait in Edinburgh for a showcase of creative talent.

Now in its 11th year, Tea Green Events has become a major platform for independent Scottish designers, drawing thousands of visitors to its markets across the country.

Following the success of Tea Green Events’ markets at National Galleries Scotland: National last year, this is the market’s debut event at the Queen Street venue, taking place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August 2025 (10am-5pm).

This year’s markets will also come to V&A Dundee, Bowhouse in the East Neuk of Fife, Aberdeen Art Gallery and both Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and The Burrell Collection in Glasgow.

Specialising in carefully curated markets within some of Scotland’s most stunning creative spaces, Tea Green Events was launched by Dundee jeweller Joanne MacFadyen in 2014.

Joanne said, “The Portrait is a truly spectacular space and the perfect backdrop to show off the cream of Scotland’s creative talent, including many designers and makers who live and work in and around the capital.

“Due to the large number of tourists visiting Edinburgh at this time, the market will also put Scotland’s design talent on a global stage, where we can showcase the very best of Scottish craftsmanship.

“With everything from jewellery and prints to knitwear and ceramics, these beautiful hand-crafted pieces of work are made by some truly talented individuals who I know are looking forward to this amazing opportunity”.

Amongst the designers and makers preparing to set out their stalls are a number of Edinburgh College of Art graduates, including illustrator and paper artist, Laura Sayers.

Laura commented, “Turning up at a market can sometimes be quite alienating for folk like me who spend a lot of their work life alone, but the community of makers and the customers that come along are always so warm and welcoming.

“It’s been encouraging for me to see my own work looking and feeling at home alongside some of my favourite small businesses who are all making such high-quality, handmade products.

“As a result, I feel spurred on to make more wholehearted work to mirror the high standards of the other artisans, and the markets give me direction and something to aim for, particularly in the slow summer months.

“There’s also something special about that human interaction and living online means that you’re often craving a space for these conversations. I always come away feeling refreshed and excited for what’s next.

“Edinburgh was a beautiful city to study in, and my time at the College of Art really shaped and laid foundations for the work I make today. I’m always more than happy to return to soak up some more inspiration, and the Portrait Gallery has been one of my personal favourite spots for a long time.

“Making it a base for my artwork for a couple of days is a real pleasure.”

National Galleries of Scotland’s Director of Audience, Isabella Miller, said, “We can’t wait to welcome the makers back to the National Galleries of Scotland following the amazing success of the Tea Green market at the National gallery last summer and winter.

“This time around we’re hosting the market in the stunning surroundings of the Portrait gallery in the centre of Edinburgh. Visitors can explore the market under the bedazzling stars in the world-famous Great Hall.

“The decadent and ornate backdrop of the Portrait is the perfect setting for visitors to feel fully enveloped in the spirit of the market. Beautiful hand-crafted designs, in a beautiful hand-crafted building, what’s not to love!

“The Portrait is dedicated to exploring various aspects of the Scottish story, so where better to also showcase the talents of the incredible market creatives and support Scottish businesses. We hope this will offer something a little different for our visitors to enjoy and that people can browse the stalls then explore the art, or pop into the café to relax and enjoy some delicious food.

“There will be something for everyone to discover during a day out at the Portrait.”

Dr Maria Maclennan, Senior Lecturer at Edinburgh College of Art, added, “It’s always wonderful to follow our graduates’ creative journeys as they grow and flourish into confident and established designer-makers.

“Communities and markets like Tea Green are ever-important platforms for our alumni in realising their ambitions, connecting with fellow creatives, and showcasing the breadth, diversity, and quality of work emerging from Scottish art colleges.

“At ECA, we strive to create opportunities for our students locally, nationally, and internationally; however, it is always particularly rewarding when graduates decide to remain in and around Edinburgh, and to further champion and grow Scotland’s vibrant creative landscape and economy.”

For more information about Tea Green Markets and the programme of events, visit:

https://www.teagreen.co.uk/

Heroes on the Hill: Tattoo welcomes global heroes to Edinburgh

Against the iconic backdrop of Calton Hill, performers from across the globe, strike heroic poses, capturing the essence of this year’s theme: The Heroes Who Made Us.

The milestone event promises to celebrate the past, while imagining the future of the Tattoo. Taking audiences back to where it all began in 1950, with the British Army taking on the prestigious role of the Lead Service, the Show will present music, dance and performance that make up the last 75 years of the Tattoo story and beyond.

Featured in the photography are The Massed Band of the British Army, The Orchestra of the Naval Forces of the Defence Forces of Ukraine, The Representative of the Polish Border Guard, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Performers, Top Secret Drum Corps, United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team and United States Old Guard Fife and Drums.

Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.

Dean Banks launches 1925 at Pompadour

Chef Dean Banks launches revamped restaurant at the iconic Caledonian Hotel in Edinburgh

Copyright – Grant Anderson / www.grantanderson.me / @grantandersondotme

In response to changing consumer demands, Chef Dean Banks has relaunched his signature restaurant in the historic Caledonian Hotel on Princes Street, launching 1925 at Pompadour which opened its doors on Wednesday (23 July).

The new offering will provide diners with a delicious a la carte menu in the heart of the city that showcases the best of local produce, across land and sea. 1925 at Pompadour opens following a change in consumer desires away from multi-course tasting menus to a more accessible dining option that has flavour and creativity at its heart.

Located in the West End, diners can enjoy the new menu at 1925 at Pompadour while taking in stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and learning all about the local suppliers Chef Dean Banks works with to create his renowned dishes.

To celebrate the launch of 1925 at Pompadour, diners will receive 50% off food until Wednesday 30 July, providing an opportunity to sample the new dishes and explore the revamped restaurant.

Featuring fresh, local, produce, seafood lovers can sample Dean’s signature lobster thermidor, Orkney hand dived scallops with vadouvan carrot, or champagne baked market fish. Diners can also enjoy corn fed chicken with king oyster mushrooms, pomme mousseline and a madeira sauce, or smoked ricotta and egg yolk raviolo, served with leeks and lemon butter.

With starters from £15 and mains starting at £26, and a three-course lunch for just £39.50, 1925 at Pompadour aims to provide a premium food offering at an accessible price point in the heart of the city.

Commenting on the launch, Chef Dean Banks said: “Consumers are moving away from multi-course tasting menus, instead preferring restaurants where they can enjoy premium dishes at an accessible price point.

“When considering the future of Dean Banks at the Pompadour, it was important to reflect these changing consumer demands while ensuring the high quality offering we pride ourselves on remains.

“1925 at Pompadour perfectly brings this together, all under the iconic setting of Edinburgh Castle, and we look forward to welcoming diners to experience this next chapter in our restaurant’s history.”

The Pompadour restaurant first opened its doors at the Caledonian Hotel, Edinburgh, in 1925, with the new restaurant named as an homage to the venue’s rich history.

For more information on 1925 at Pompadour, or to book your table, visit:

www.restaurant1925.com.

Opening Saturday: Celebrate Fifty Years of Andy Goldsworthy at the National Galleries of Scotland

Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years

National Galleries Scotland exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy building

26 July – 2 November 2025

Tickets £5-£19 | Friends go free

Andy Goldsworthy | Fifty Years | National Galleries of Scotland

This Saturday, the largest ever indoor exhibition by Andy Goldsworthy will open to the public, taking over the National Galleries of Scotland in the heart of Edinburgh.

Featuring over 200 works, the show will include major installations made in response to the iconic Royal Scottish Academy (RSA) building, as well as drawings, photographs, films, sketchbooks and archival items dating back to the mid-1970s and spanning fifty years.

Sure to be one of the most talked-about art events of the year and only to be seen in Edinburgh,. Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years opens on Saturday 26 July 2025, and is brought to you by National Galleries Scotland.

Tickets are on sale now.

Born in England in 1956, and based in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, for the past four decades, Goldsworthy is internationally recognised for his work with natural materials such as clay, stones, reeds, branches, leaves, snow and ice.

Over fifty years, he has created a unique and highly influential body of work that speaks of our relationship with the land. In Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years the land is brought indoors, into Scotland’s capital city.

Working as a teenager on farms near Leeds in Yorkshire, where he grew up, Goldsworthy developed a passion for working with the land: harrowing the fields, bailing hay, picking out and piling stones, feeding cows and sheep.

This is where he acquired many of the skills he uses in his practice today: cutting, digging, gathering, stacking, building. Goldsworthy then studied art at Bradford and Preston, while based in Morecombe Bay.

It was there that he began making ephemeral works in the sand, recording what he made in photographs and film.

Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years has been conceived by the artist as a single immersive artwork in response to the space, materials and character of the RSA building. Occupying all of the upper rooms and most of the lower floor, the exhibition is at once beautiful and ambitious in scale.

The interrelationship of humans and the working land is a recurrent theme in Goldsworthy’s art and in the exhibition. He often presents the land as a hard, hostile and brutal place. Fences and barriers feature prominently, in the form of rusted barbed wire stretched across a room, and a massive, cracked clay wall.

As in nature, beauty and danger co-exist.

In dialogue with the oak floor, the vast 20-metre-long Oak Passage fills the largest room, with hundreds of oak branches forming a narrow path through its centre. Made from the leftovers of windfallen trees, the passage acts as a reminder that the gallery floor was once a tree, and that a building is part of nature – just as we are.

Another highlight is the floor of one large room which is entirely covered with stones left over from gravedigging – collected from over 100 graveyards in Dumfriesshire.

With this new work, Goldsworthy explores the metaphorical correlation between the body and the earth. When a body is buried, the body takes the place of the stones, and the stones take the place of the body.

At the other end of the sculpture court, in contrast, a room will contain 10,000 reeds suspended from a halo on the ceiling. They will appear to rain down from the sky and float above the gallery floor at the same time.

Red Flags was originally created for the main square in the Rockefeller Center in New York and installed there for a month in September 2020.

The fifty large canvas flags, individually stained with red earth collected from each of the fifty US states, refer equally to difference and similarity, a work, in the words of artist, ‘that talks of connection and not division.’

The colour red features in many of Goldsworthy’s works in the exhibition, referencing blood and the iron content which makes blood red – another connection between our bodies and the land.

Themes of access to the land and the right to roam have informed Goldsworthy’s work. Another new sculpture, which stretches up the impressive entrance stair at the RSA, is made of sheep fleeces marked with the colour codes of different farmers.

While Andy Goldsworthy is one of the most celebrated figures in contemporary art, his work is seldom seen in exhibitions. He has completed outdoor commissions all around the world, from the Arctic Circle to Tasmania, but the inclusion of his work in museum shows is rare.

Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years is by far the largest and most ambitious indoor exhibition of his work ever attempted. Conceived by the artist specifically for the RSA building in Edinburgh, never seen before and never to be seen again, this exhibition is set to cement Goldsworthy’s position as one of the leading artists of our time.

Andy Goldsworthy, says: “The show has come at a particular time for me. I don’t think I’ve ever had an exhibition that has paralleled the work that I’m making in the landscape here in Scotland.

“That’s because the RSA is not far from where I live, so I have been able to make work in Dumfriesshire alongside visits to the RSA, which has become connected to what I am doing outside. I couldn’t have done this exhibition anywhere else.

“Actually, describing it as an exhibition seems wrong – it is a work in its own right.”

Anne Lyden, Director-General at the National Galleries of Scotland, says: “Andy Goldsworthy is a unique artist, he has such vision, and his work is extraordinarily beautiful.

“Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years is incredibly special, bringing the land indoors, and only at the National Galleries of Scotland. I’m so excited for everyone in Edinburgh to have the opportunity to visit this wonderful exhibition this summer.”

Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years is a National Galleries Scotland exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy building, opening on 26 July 2025.

Tickets are on sale now!

OMNI celebrates 20 years of iconic giraffe sculpture with Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre is marking the 20th anniversary of its beloved giraffe sculpture, Dreaming Spires, with a line-up of colourful celebrations, including playful party hats, exciting giveaways and a creative community initiative.

Created in 2005 by renowned Scottish artist Helen Denerley, the towering giraffes – affectionately named Martha and Gilbert – have become more than just a striking piece of public art.

Sculpted entirely from scrap metal, they were designed to inspire imagination, spark conversation, and encourage people to look ahead and think big. Over the years, they’ve also become a beloved local landmark and a natural meeting point for friends, families, and visitors alike.

This enduring role as a gathering place has inspired OMNi’s recent brand refresh and new tagline: ‘Let’s Meet at OMNi’. As the centre undergoes a £5 million refurbishment, the giraffes remain a symbol of creativity, connection and community – values that are central to OMNi’s vision for the future.

To kick-start the celebrations, OMNi has adorned the giraffes with colourful party hats complete with playful tassels, just in time for the buzz of Edinburgh Fringe. A new information stand beside the sculpture invites visitors to learn about the giraffes’ story and their place in the city’s cultural fabric.

Eilidh Parker, OMNi Deputy Centre Manager, said: “We’re thrilled to celebrate Dreaming Spires’ 20th Anniversary during this exciting time of transformation.

“As OMNi’s refurbishment gets underway, we’re full of anticipation and excitement for what’s ahead. Huge thanks to our partners at Edinburgh Zoo and Helen Denerley for making this moment memorable.

“Here’s to the next 20 years of growth, creativity and collaboration.”

From today, 23 July, OMNi will launch a 4-week social media competition with four Vue cinema tickets, four sets of Edinburgh Zoo tickets and giraffe plush toys up for grabs each week, courtesy of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), the wildlife conservation charity which runs the zoo.

A local primary school initiative in August will round off the celebrations with a design project co-created with Helen Denerley and RZSS.

Helen Denerley, Dreaming Spires Sculptor and Scottish Artist, said: “When I was invited to tender for a sculpture at the Omni Centre, the brief was to relate to the history of the site. I decided it would be more fun and interesting to look forward to our future and aspirations, rather than dwelling on the past.

“I always hoped that the giraffes would create their own history, and twenty years on I am delighted to see how much they have been taken to heart by locals and visitors alike.”

Continuing the momentum, OMNi has also announced a 12-month corporate partnership with the wildlife charity to support conservation efforts at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park. As part of this collaboration, OMNi is adopting a resident giraffe at the Zoo – further cementing its commitment to wildlife, education, and community engagement.

Phillip Mathis, Learning Manager at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that OMNi has committed to supporting our wildlife conservation charity over the coming year.

“This partnership will not only shine a light on our mission to create a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved, but also inspire young people across Edinburgh to think creatively about how they can help wildlife in their everyday lives, recognising the cultural importance of our sites.

“With the exciting design project launching later this summer, we can’t wait to see the incredible ideas local primary schools will bring to life.”

The anniversary celebrations coincide with OMNi’s transformation into a more vibrant, welcoming space. While the refurbishment is underway, OMNi and its brands remain open and fully accessible. Visitors can follow progress and updates via OMNi’s website and social media channels.

OMNi is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening times may vary, including Bank Holidays.

Edinburgh Unicorns Named in Gaelic Tradition After Being Reunited With Their Horns

Two prominent Edinburgh sculptures have been given new names after being lovingly restored to their former glory as part of a wider conservation project at one of the city’s most iconic visitor attractions.

Perched above the historic Scotch Whisky Experience at the top of the Royal Mile, the pair of unicorns, long stripped of their horns by time and weather, have now been fully reinstated through a major heritage-led restoration of the building.

A naming competition, launched in partnership with Forever Edinburgh, attracted hundreds of creative suggestions from locals and visitors alike.

The winning names, Deoch and Doras, were chosen by the public in a witty and affectionate nod to the Gaelic phrase deoch an dorais, meaning “a farewell drink” or “one for the road”, literally “drink of the door.”

One of the winners, Archie Hamilton, noted the Harry Lauder song, A Wee Deoch An Doris, which captures the spirit of the tradition, as he explained the inspiration behind the names: “Deoch an dorus’ just seemed natural for the Unicorns, our national animal.

“With Gaelic being our national language, plus the whisky link through the old Harry Lauder song, what better option!”

Julie Trevisan Hunter, Marketing Director at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said: “We were genuinely moved by the imagination and thought that people put into naming the unicorns.

“Many of the more than 1,500 suggestions reflected deep affection for Scotland’s culture, language and folklore, which is exactly the kind of connection we hope to inspire as we bring the world of Scotch whisky to life. ‘Deoch and Doras’ captured something uniquely Scottish while being warm, fun and rooted in tradition.”

Among the many entries were names drawn from Scottish landscapes and whisky regions and history, and some playful puns such as Whisker & Snifter. Others favoured names from popular children’s stories, reflecting the unicorns’ imaginative appeal across generations, and there were many Gaelic references.

Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard (CEO) of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the main public body for promoting and developing Gaelic language and culture in Scotland, praised the decision to use Gaelic, saying: “I was delighted to hear from the Scotch Whisky Experience that Gaelic featured so prominently in their highly successful search for strong Scottish names for their unicorns.

“This highlights the understanding and appreciation of Gaelic when we celebrate the old and the new in Scottish culture, underlining its importance as a national cultural and economic asset. I’m sure the newly restored Deoch and Doras will provide a warm Gaelic welcome to everyone that visits.”

The unicorn restoration is part of a major project to preserve the integrity of The Scotch Whisky Experience’s historic site while enhancing its visitor experience. Susan Morrison, Chief Executive of The Scotch Whisky Experience explained that:

“The building’s recent conservation programme has been guided by a deep respect for our setting next to Edinburgh Castle and a commitment to our role as gateway for the appreciation of Scotland’s national drink and rich cultural heritage.

“Deoch and Doras now feel not only restored but brought back to life by the public, with names that will interest and spark curiosity in visitors at the threshold for years to come.”

Thee more Palestine protesters arrested in Edinburgh

Three men have been arrested in Edinburgh under the Terrorism Act 2000 for showing support for a proscribed organisation.

Around 1.30pm, a 58-year-old man was arrested by officers in the vicinity of the Scottish Parliament for displaying a sign showing support for a proscribed organisation.

Earlier, two men aged 78 and 60 years, were arrested for showing support for a proscribed organisation at a protest in Edinburgh on Saturday, 19 July 2025.

Reports will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

McEwan development completed in Fountainbridge

Moda and Apache Capital’s The McEwan development completes with 139 new homes and amenities at the city’s top rated rental neighbourhood

Moda, The McEwan, the 476-home rental neighbourhood in Edinburgh’s historic Fountainbridge district has marked the completion of its final phase.

Located on the site of the former McEwan’s Brewery, Moda, The McEwan is rated the number one BTR neighbourhood in the city on BTR review site Homeviews, with 139 new homes opening the doors to their new residents.

Spanning 140,000 sq ft, the completed development offers 15,000 sq ft of best-in-class amenities, including a 24/7 gym and fitness centre, private dining room, co-working spaces, cinema room, and rooftop terraces with sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle – all included as part of the monthly rent.

Additionally, all Moda residents benefit from access to the MyModa app from day one, allowing them to connect with neighbours, message the concierge, and book exclusive events and services from a tap on their phone.

Located in the heart of the capital, The McEwan is conveniently located within walking distance of Haymarket station, the city centre and several major universities, offering excellent connectivity for residents studying or working in Edinburgh.

The development was also the first building in Europe to achieve the highest, 3-star Fitwel rating, demonstrating Moda’s commitment to maximising the health and wellbeing of its residents and the wider Edinburgh community.

The neighbourhood was the first development in Scotland to be brought forward by Moda and its funding partner Apache Capital with its investors Harrison Street and NFU Mutual. Robertson Construction Central East has completed the final phase of the remaining 139 high-quality rental homes.

These add to the existing mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, ideal for a mixed demographic who make renting their tenure of choice.

Delivery of the neighbourhood’s second phase generated £32.8m of social, local and economic value, with almost £17m spend with SMEs and £18m spent with a local supply chain.

The build generated 419 weeks of on-site apprenticeship training, with 244 local people employed on the site. Robertson also achieved the highest possible Considerate Constructors Scheme score while on site, with a 45/45.

Both phases of the neighbourhood were funded by Apache Capital with its investors Harrison Street and NFU Mutual.

Delivered in partnership with Robertson, the neighbourhood is a key part of the wider regeneration of Fountainbridge, set to revitalise a historic part of Edinburgh with new homes, public spaces, and opportunities for the local community.

With practical completion now achieved, the new homes already have their first residents in situ.

Tony Brooks, Executive Chairman at Moda Living said: “Reaching practical completion at Moda, The McEwan is a landmark moment, and we’re grateful to Robertson, Apache Capital and its investment partners and other stakeholders for helping to deliver the second phase of this fantastic neighbourhood.

“We’re proud to be playing a role in the regeneration of Fountainbridge and to be welcoming residents into this already dynamic community, designed with health, wellbeing and community in mind, that makes it more than an apartment but a home.”

Jamie Snary, Executive Director Asset Management and Operations at Apache Capital said: “The McEwan is another exemplar BTR asset forming part of our prime regional portfolio, bringing another 139 homes into operation adding to the 6,000 units which are either operational or in the development pipeline.

“Alongside welcoming our new residents we have also secured the first commercial occupiers including a convenience-led retailer which will be opening imminently.”

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Working closely with Moda, we’ve brought new life to a once underused part of the city to create a thriving neighbourhood that has become a welcome addition to Edinburgh.

“This project gave us the opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in operating safely in complex, busy environments while not compromising the quality standards that Robertson is known for.

“A real focus of our approach was to ensure that we provided long-lasting benefits for the local economy and community throughout construction. It’s fantastic that we achieved this by supporting local suppliers, creating jobs, and offering apprenticeships that will help build skills for the future.”