Category: Leith

Cabinet Secretary for Housing visits Edinburgh housing development to mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week

The Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Màiri McAllan, visited Barratt Homes’ Tower Street at Merchant Quay development in Leith yesterday to mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week and meet with current and former apprentices building their careers in the construction industry.

The visit highlighted the important role apprenticeships play in supporting Scotland’s housing sector, developing future talent and creating sustainable career opportunities. During the visit, the Cabinet Secretary toured the development, spoke with the site team and heard first-hand from apprentices about their experiences and career progression within the industry.

Tower Street at Merchant Quay, one of Barratt Homes East Scotland’s developments, features a range of one-, two-and three-bedroom apartments. Barratt Homes has numerous apprentices across a range of disciplines on their sites, with several Construction Managers, Site Managers and Senior Site Managers beginning their careers as apprentices, demonstrating the long-term career opportunities available within the business.  

Coordinated by Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Apprenticeship Week shines a spotlight on the power of apprenticeships to create careers, build businesses, grow the workforce and get real returns for the economy.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Màiri McAllan, said: “Apprentices are a central part of growing our economy and I’ve enjoyed hearing directly from the young people who are starting out their careers in the building industry. 

“Through the Scottish Government’s Future Planners Programme we’re also increasing the number of planners and supporting future improvements in the planning system by supporting students to study and gain real work experience.

“We know how important these programmes are to the success of the whole housing sector which our new agency, More Homes Scotland, will help to grow. I wish every success to our apprentices and thank them for their contribution to our future workforce.”  

Frank Mitchell, Skills Development Scotland Chair, said: “Scottish Apprenticeships provide real returns for employers, individuals and the economy. 

“People from all backgrounds are gaining meaningful career opportunities through apprenticeships, creating diverse workforces that benefits business and our society. At a time when employers are seeing skill shortages all over the country, apprenticeships have never been so important than they are now.”

Andrew Morrison, Managing Director of Barratt Homes East Scotland, said: “Scottish Apprenticeship Week is an important opportunity to recognise the incredible contribution apprentices make to our business and the wider construction industry.

“We were proud to welcome the Cabinet Secretary to our Tower Street at Merchant Quay development to meet some of our talented apprentices and hear about the vital work being done on site. Apprenticeships are fundamental to developing the next generation of skilled professionals and addressing the construction skills gap.

“At Barratt Homes, we are committed to investing in people, providing structured training and clear progression pathways so that individuals can build long and rewarding careers with us. “Developments like Tower Street at Merchant Quay demonstrate how investing in skills supports both local communities and Scotland’s housing ambitions.”

As one of the UK’s leading housebuilders, Barratt Redrow continues to play a central role in tackling Scotland’s housing challenges while supporting the local economy and helping to close the construction skills gap through investment in apprenticeships, graduate programmes and training initiatives.

For further information about Barratt Homes’ Tower Street at Merchant Quay development, visit: 

https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/dev002948-tower-street-at-merchant-quay/.

Historic Leith bingo hall is set to be transformed into student hub

A historic Leith landmark – once an industrial mill, later a cinema and most recently a bingo hall – is set for a new lease of life as a 200-bed student accommodation development.

JLL has brought the Manderston Street site, located just off Leith Walk, to market offering developers and investors the opportunity to a create high-quality, sustainable student living community in one of Edinburgh’s most characterful districts.

The building, which has been renamed The Grainworks, already benefits from planning consent for the transformation of the existing building into contemporary purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). A feasibility study has also been undertaken to explore the possibility of delivering a co-living scheme, depending on developer appetite.

The design, by Oberlanders Architects, celebrates the building’s heritage by utilising much of the original structure while introducing modern, light-filled spaces around a landscaped central courtyard. 

The main entrance to the accommodation will open onto a new public realm that links directly to Leith Walk with the former railway viaduct and arches bordering the site to the north along Manderston Street.

The proposed scheme features a mix of cluster and studio apartments, complemented by shared amenities including study lounges, social spaces, a gym and outdoor areas. It has been designed to achieve PassivHaus (EnerPhit) sustainability standards, setting a new benchmark for low-carbon, adaptive reuse within Scotland’s student housing market.

Once complete, the development will add to the ongoing regeneration of Leith, now one of Edinburgh’s most desirable neighbourhoods, known for its independent cafés, restaurants and creative scene, all just a short tram ride from the city centre.

Ewan Scott, Development & Regeneration Associate at JLL, said: “This scheme really captures the spirit of modern Leith, preserving the area’s history while giving it fresh purpose.

“Transforming a building that’s been part of the community for generations into a vibrant new home feels like the perfect next chapter.

“With planning already in place and a design that celebrates sustainability and heritage, The Grainworks offers a standout development opportunity in one of Edinburgh’s most exciting neighbourhoods.”

SAVE THE SHORE!

Office evictions threaten the future of Leith businesses

The future of Leith’s vibrant Shore community is under threat as local office tenants at Waterside House face eviction to make way for short-term holiday lets. 

The Shore Business Collective has launched the ‘Save The Shore’ campaign, backed by Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern & Leith, to block a planning application that threatens the survival of local institutions.

The proposal by Gregor Properties (Ref: 26/00362/FULSTL) seeks to convert the offices at 46 Shore (Waterside House) into guest serviced apartments.

The Shore Business Collective warns this move will replace a steady, year-round workforce with a transient population, devastating the trade for local staples including the likes of Shore Deli, Victor Hugo Deli, and SESH Hairdressing.

The threat extends beyond footfall. The proposed apartments sit directly above the Malt & Hops, one of Leith’s most historic pubs and live music venue. Residents in short-term lets often clash with established music venues, putting the pub’s license and viability at risk.

The Shore Business Collective also cites increased security concerns and waste management issues often associated with high-turnover holiday apartments.

The Malt & Hops is a primary fundraiser for the Leith Jazz & Blues Festival, there are also concerns that impact to the pub’s trade put the future of cultural events like this at risk. 

January Watson, Secretary of the Shore Business Collective and Area Manager for The Malt Group, said: “The Shore thrives because of its balance of residents, workers, and visitors. By evicting the businesses that call 46 Shore home, we are losing the very people who sustain our economy from Monday to Friday.

“Tourists don’t use local dry cleaners or hairdressers. If we lose our daytime population and see our pubs silenced by noise complaints, the unique vibrancy of Leith will vanish.”

Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern & Leith added: “Proposals by Gregor Properties to convert the Waterside House offices into guest serviced apartments are concerning many people locally.

“The loss of office space would not only affect those based in the building but it could also impact local hospitality units, like the Malt & Hops pub.

“I encourage people in Leith and beyond to get behind the various efforts to protect the Shore area. Together, let’s make it clear that we really value our local businesses and want them to be supported.”

The Shore Business Collective is calling on all locals and supporters of Leith to object to the change of use by emailing local councillors and the planning department and referencing: 26/00362/FULSTL

Visit bit.ly/SaveTheShore to view and comment on the planning application.

Work underway on new 99-home Salamander Yards development 

Construction is now underway at Salamander Yards, a landmark 99-home development set within one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant and popular neighbourhoods, Leith.

Located on Salamander Street, just moments from the buzzing heart of Leith and backing directly onto Leith Links, the development is a joint venture between five star housebuilder Cruden Homes and MNM Developments. The project will transform a former industrial site into a contemporary mixed-use neighbourhood, contributing to the continued regeneration and growing cultural energy of the Leith Waterfront.

Leith has become synonymous with independent retailers, creative workspaces, community-led events and some of the capital’s most celebrated restaurants and bars. From artisan coffee shops and street markets to waterside dining and cultural festivals, the area has evolved into one of Scotland’s most dynamic places to live.

Salamander Yards will provide a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with 35% of the homes allocated as affordable housing to help meet the growing demand for high-quality, accessible homes in the capital. The development will also feature two commercial units at ground level, further enhancing the area’s thriving business scene and creating a lively street presence.

Designed by 7N Architects, the development has been carefully crafted to complement Leith’s distinctive character, blending contemporary design with the area’s industrial heritage.

Residents will benefit from landscaped outdoor spaces, including a private courtyard, alongside enhanced public realm improvements on Salamander Street and new active travel routes to promote safer, more accessible cycling.

The new development backs directly onto Leith Links, one of Edinburgh’s most historic and well-loved green spaces, giving residents immediate access to expansive parkland, sports pitches and walking routes. 

Salamander Yards is situated close to excellent transport connections, including bus routes, established cycle paths and the tram network, offering outstanding connectivity to Edinburgh city centre and beyond.

Fraser Lynes, Chief Executive of Cruden, said: “Salamander Yards is a key contribution to the evolution of Leith Waterfront, helping to shape a vibrant and sustainable place for people to live.

Together with our partners at MNM Developments, we are proud to deliver high-quality homes, including much-needed affordable housing, in one of Edinburgh’s most exciting and culturally rich neighbourhoods.

“Backing onto Leith Links and just moments from the Shore, this development combines green space, connectivity and community in a truly unique setting.”

Marc Teague, Managing Director at MNM Developments, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Cruden to bring Salamander Yards to life.

“Leith continues to grow as a vibrant, creative and highly desirable place to live and work. This development not only delivers much-needed homes, but also supports the wider regeneration of the waterfront and enhances the strong sense of community that defines the area.”

Salamander Yards forms part of the wider regeneration of the Leith Waterfront, helping to create a thriving, mixed-use neighbourhood just minutes from the heart of the capital. First homes are due to complete in Spring 2027. 

Leith Chooses 2026 sees ten new community projects get the go-ahead

Community projects have been given the green light after another successful public vote at the annual Leith Chooses event.

Thanks to the decisions of people in the Leith (ward 13) and Leith Walk (ward 12) areas of the city, the following organisations have received Community Grant Funding to progress projects that seek to improve wellbeing in Leith:

  • Dr Bell’s Family Centre – ‘Wellbeing in Leith’
  • Milan Senior Welfare Organisation – ‘Leith Connections’
  • Leith Community Growers – ‘Dùthchas – Growing an Orchard for the People’
  • Edinburgh Community Food – ‘Tasty Tales of Leith’
  • Water of Leith Conservation Trust – ‘Coalie Coalition Resources’
  • Edinburgh & Lothians Regional Equality Council – ‘Efficient and Healthy Cooking’
  • Pilmeny Development Project – ‘Wellbeing in Leith: Supporting Older People Out of Isolation’
  • Living Memory Association – ‘The Wee Hub’
  • Mustard Seed Edinburgh – ‘Roots and Routes: Conversations on Easter Road’
  • Kin Collective Family Wellbeing – ‘Kin Begins: Community Wellbeing Pregnancy Support’

From a community orchard to activity programmes tackling social isolation, this year will see the start of a variety of exciting new experiences in the area.

A full description of each project can be found on the Leith Chooses website.

PIC: Tim Duffin

Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “It’s great to see so many fantastic local projects benefitting through the Leith Chooses scheme. I look forward to seeing the difference this investment will make over the coming months.

“Participatory budgeting gives residents a genuine voice and real influence over how public funds are allocated, and it has been delivering meaningful results in Leith for more than a decade.

“I’m delighted that nearly £2million of income generated from the visitor levy is now going to use participatory budgeting to support activity that makes a difference for communities right across Edinburgh.”

Steering Group Chair Councillor Susan Rae said: “Thank you to everyone who took part in another successful Leith Chooses. I’m really looking forward to seeing these new projects develop.

“There’s a big push for Participatory Budgeting across the city of Edinburgh, and I’m just delighted to see it continue in Leith, well over a decade since it was first conceived.”

Steering group volunteer member and Harbour Homes’ Placemaking & Employability Officer Rachel Hutton said: “I was truly impressed and inspired to be part of my first Leith Chooses event.

“The passion of local people and the commitment shown by fund applicants are remarkable — qualities that would make anyone who lives, works or volunteers in Leith proud. This is what community involvement looks like in action.”

Steering Group Member Councillor Jack Caldwell said: “Once again, hundreds of people turned out to support wellbeing in Leith.

“Community Grant Funding continues to be vitally important for residents of all ages, and it’s great to see so many people across our neighbourhoods share so much enthusiasm for community wellbeing, and we’ll no doubt see some great projects take shape.”

Three Hands to host live webinar on Utilita Energy Hub community screens this weekend

THIS Saturday, 14 February at 11am, the team at Three Hands will take to the large community screens inside Utilita’s high street Energy Hubs to promote the opportunity to speak directly to some of the UK’s biggest businesses, to tell them what does doesn’t work for you as a customer.

The session will introduce hub visitors to the work Three Hands does to bring real‑world insight into organisations such as high street banks, energy companies and insurance providers, ensuring that people whose voices are often overlooked are represented in important conversations.

The team will explore the positive impact lived experience has already had in designing solutions that genuinely meet community needs. They are now looking for more people with lived experience to share their views to help even more businesses meet a fully diverse range of needs. 

After hearing about the work Three Hands do, attendees will be invited to join their Lived Experts Research Community.  Being a member of the community means being contacted directly about paid opportunities to share your views via online or in-person group discussions, or 1-1 interviews.

Participants will always receive a thank you payment for their time via bank transfer or gift voucher.

We’d love to hear your voice!

Donna Hall, Utilita’s Partnership Manager, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Three Hands’ ongoing mission to create stronger links between organisations and the communities they serve, ensuring that real experiences drive real change.

“Why not pop along this Valentine’s Day as we’d LOVE for you to have a chance to share your voice with the Three Hands team.  Hot drinks will be available and our friendly Energy Experts can also provide top tips for saving energy and staying warm this Winter.”  

A Three Hands Lived Expert added: “Since working with Three Hands over a year now, I can truly say that it has been the best decision of my life.

“I am blessed to be working with such a great team that has given me back the confidence and courage to actually tackle the challenges I face every day in my life.”

One Three Hands client said: “The personal experiences and insight these sessions provide have been invaluable and enabled us to ensure that the improvements we make will actually make a difference.”

Where’s my local hub?

The first Utilita Energy Hub opened in 2018 as there was a demand to bring face-to-face dialogue to the retail energy sector.  Since then, they have opened multiple hubs around the UK to serve local communities – and be part of them. 

  • Leith Energy Hub: 41 Newkirkgate, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6AA
  • Isle of Wight Energy Hub: 121 High Street, Newport, PO30 1TP
  • Shirley Energy Hub: 7A Shirley High Street, Shirley, Southampton, SO15 3LR
  • Gosport Energy Hub: 67 High Street, Gosport, PO12 1DR
  • Luton Energy Hub: Unit 47 Luton Point, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2TD
  • West Brom Energy Hub: 3D Astle Park, West Bromwich, B70 8NS
  • Leicester Energy Hub: 56 Charles Street, Leicester, LE1 1FB
  • Derby Energy Hub: Unit 8 St Peters Street, Mall, Derby, DE1 2NR
  • Sheffield Energy Hub: Unit 2, 5 St. James Row, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S12EU
  • Huddersfield Energy Hub: 71 New Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2BQ
  • Blackburn Energy Hub: Unit 158, The Mall, 28 King William St, Blackburn, BB1 5AF
  • Hartlepool Energy Hub: Unit 1, Jubilee House, York Road, Hartlepool, TS26 9EN

See more on Utilita Energy Hubs at https://utilita.co.uk/energy-hub.

Local MP calls for stronger protection for retail workers as shoplifting soars

Scotland has seen a drastic 129% rise in shoplifting since 2021, with 48,564 recorded incidents in the year ending September 2025, according to figures from Police Scotland. Yet only 2,854 people were convicted in 2023/24, showing a growing gap between crime and accountability. 

Tracy Gilbert MP, who worked on the Protection of Workers (Retail and Age-Restricted Goods and Services) Scotland Bill before her election to Parliament and has a long history in the trade union movement advocating for worker rights, said: “These figures are deeply concerning. Retail workers are on the frontline, facing increasing risk from shoplifting and associated crime, yet our laws and policing are not keeping pace. Workers and communities deserve better protection.

“This is not just about crime statistics, it’s about real people, and real communities. Adequate resources are required to ensure effective policing, and support for retail staff is urgently needed to tackle this growing problem.”  

The Protection of Workers Bill, which Tracy contributed to before her parliamentary career, provides a vital framework for safeguarding retail staff, ensuring they can carry out their roles safely and without fear. 

Tracy Gilbert added: “We must act now to ensure that Scotland’s workers and communities are protected.

“I will continue to advocate for better policing and laws that safeguard those on the frontline by working with trade unions and employers to ensure retail crimes are reported and prosecuted.”

OMNI enters home stretch of landmark £5 million refurbishment

Edinburgh’s affordable leisure and entertainment hub, OMNi has announced its centre-wide  refurbishment is progressing well and is due to complete at the end of March 2026. 

OMNi is home to brand favourites including Vue, Boom Battle Bar, Wetherspoon, Escape  Hunt, The Glasshouse Hotel, and Edinburgh Street Food.  

The £5 million transformation, which began last summer, is delivering significant  enhancements to the public realm.

These include new flooring throughout the centre, an  upgraded and more visible main entrance, modern LED lighting, new seating zones, and  extensive internal structural improvements.

Together, these upgrades will create a more  vibrant, welcoming, and contemporary space for the local community in the heart of  Edinburgh. 

OMNi is planning a series of celebrations to mark the completion of the project, with further  details to be shared in the coming weeks. 

Neil Mackie, OMNi Edinburgh Centre Manager, said: “We’re thrilled with the progress of the refurbishment and can’t wait to reveal a revitalised  OMNi this spring. These improvements will create a more welcoming and vibrant space for  everyone who visits, works, and relaxes here in the heart of Edinburgh. 

“With the refurbishment entering its final stage, we’re now shaping our celebration plans and  can’t wait to mark the completion with our community soon!” 

International investment group Triple B acquired OMNi in April 2024 and announced its  commitment to enhancing communities and promoting positive experiences through  transformative real estate projects.

The investment will help OMNi kick-start its journey of  evolution, with locals at the heart of the project. 

Refurbishment updates will be available throughout via the OMNi website and social media  channels. OMNi Edinburgh is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening  times may vary, including Bank Holidays.