Category: South Queensferry

Scenic family homes come to market amid ‘phenomenal’ interest

Househunters urged to book viewing slots as early as possible for sought-after location

THE newest chapter at one of Edinburgh’s most in-demand residential developments is opening, as a new collection of high-spec family homes are now welcoming viewings.

Riverside Road and Primrose Drive mark an important phase in the transformation at Craigiehall Meadows, where the once abandoned home of the British army, is fast becoming a flourishing community.

Launching on May 3, the development will welcome viewings by appointment, offering buyers a first look at the new, spacious, family-focused homes on offer in one of the capital’s most desirable settings.

Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency at Ralph Sayer, said: “The appetite for Craigiehall Meadows has been nothing short of phenomenal, and we’re thrilled that Hillside is now almost completely sold out, just months after launch.

“We’ve seen demand from a broad range of buyers, but at its heart, the demand comes down to this just being an exceptional place to live, with high-quality homes set in a beautiful setting surrounded by nature.

“In this next phase, we’re offering exactly what many families are searching for, spacious homes at a highly competitive price.

“Riverside Road and Primrose Drive represent the next step up, larger homes with room to grow, and we fully expect interest to soar as buyers see what’s coming next.”

The launch follows the runaway success of Hillside Road, where 26 semi-detached homes were snapped up at an astonishing rate, with just a small number remaining available.

Riverside Road will feature 27 detached homes, comprising 21 four-bedroom and 6 five-bedroom properties.

Buyers can choose from a range of distinctive styles: Holly, Hazel, Oak, and Yew for the four-bedroom homes, and Pine and Alder for the five-bedroom homes, with prices ranging from £550,000 to £600,000. 

Every home has been thoughtfully designed to provide generous space with beautiful, landscaped gardens, quality finishes and modern, energy-efficient features that cater to the needs of growing families.

A short walk away, Primrose Drive will feature eight substantial five-bedroom homes, each of the same luxurious Willow style with prices ranging from £565,000 to £575,000.

These expansive properties will include garages, spacious kitchens and generous living areas and bedrooms all set along a quiet, tree-lined avenue designed to offer privacy and space.

Tzana added: “The show homes give buyers their first chance to truly visualise what life at Riverside Road and Primrose Drive could be like.

“These homes have been meticulously planned with modern family lifestyles in mind. From the modern finishes to spacious gardens, every detail has been considered, and we expect viewing slots to fill very quickly.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost a year since work started on site. The transformation has been nothing short of incredible.

“Hillside is now bustling with new residents and it’s already feeling like a proper community. Seeing families move in, kids playing outside, and people walking their dogs through what was once a closed-off site, it’s a brilliant turnaround.

“There’s a real buzz around the place now and it’s fantastic to see the area thriving again.”

Set against a backdrop of mature woodlands and tracing the banks of the River Almond, Craigiehall Meadows enjoys a rare combination of tranquillity and connectivity.

Just minutes from Cammo, Cramond and Dalmeny, it offers families the chance to enjoy a semi-rural lifestyle while remaining well-linked to the capital.

Once the site of the Scottish Army Headquarters, Craigiehall has played a significant role in modern history.

First established in 1939 to house military families, it was instrumental in operations following the German surrender in Norway in 1945 and remained an active base for regiments including The Black Watch until its closure in 2019.

During a recent visit, local MSP and Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton praised the transformation, saying: “What I love about the Craigiehall Meadows development is that they are lovingly restoring 1960s housing to the highest specification possible, so that they’ll have a new lease of life where families will enjoy them for decades to come.”

Viewings are strictly by appointment and now open for the Riverside Road and Primrose Drive show home, with appointments available on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May.

Those interested are encouraged to contact Ralph Sayer on 0131 225 5567 or property@ralphsayer.com to secure a slot, early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Explore the world heritage on your doorstep with trove.scot

This World Heritage Day, rediscover the Forth Bridge with HES’s new digital portal

In celebration of World Heritage Day on 18 April, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is highlighting how its new platform trove.scot can make it easy and exciting to discover more about the unique World Heritage site of the Forth Bridge.

The  Forth Bridge was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2015. It is one of the world’s greatest cantilever trussed bridges, and was innovative in both style, materials and scale when it was first built. Even today, the distinctive industrial silhouette of the Forth Bridge is iconic across the world.

On trove.scot, visitors can explore archive records and images to walk through the immense process of building the bridge through photographs and artwork, and digitally get into the nooks and crannies that are inaccessible in person.

James Bruhn, Head of World Heritage and Heritage Policy at HES, said: “World Heritage Sites are globally important and part of everyone’s heritage, and we are excited to make them more digitally accessible than ever.

“With trove.scot, both local residents and visitors from all over the world can learn more about this unique and world-famous site.”

Unlock Scotland’s world heritage anytime, anywhere with trove.scot, the key to Scotland’s past.

Tomorrow: Free drumming session at South Queensferry Library

How about some feelgood drumming session this weekend?

@edmcfest director Morgan Njobo is bringing his signature drumming workshop rooted in the South African rhythms to South Queensferry Library at 2pm tomorrow – Saturday 1st March.

No fee/booking required.

@Edinburgh_CC

@TalesOfOneCity

Cala Homes unveils trio of new showhomes in South Queensferry

The homebuilder has unveiled a brand new four-bedroom Showhome of Support, as well a three-bedroom showhome and three-bedroom show apartment at Rosebery Wynd

LOCAL businesses from in and around South Queensferry have been put in the spotlight by Cala Homes (East) as it unveiled its second ‘Showhome of Support’ within the area.  

Situated within the homebuilder’s Rosebery Wynd development off Builyeon Road, the impressive four-bedroom Buchanan townhouse showhome has provided a platform for local retailers to promote their wares and showcase the very best that businesses in the area have to offer.  

The initiative forms part of Cala’s South Queensferry Community Pledge – a bespoke package of community support designed to assist with local projects which bring benefit and value to the local community, in a meaningful and measurable way. 

Expertly designed by the team at Show Business, the showhomes feature items from several local businesses from the area, including: Harbour Lane; Craigies Farm Beacon Stores; Lifestory; Catalog Interiors; The Bonnie Home; An Independent Zebra; Edinburgh Mercantile; Chloe Gardner Art and Ormis.

Jenni Colquhoun, studio manager at Harbour Lane, said: “We were thrilled when Cala approached us to style their new showhome with some of our pieces.

“South Queensferry’s high street is a gem which is filled with unique, vibrant independents that draw people to this truly special area, so it’s fantastic to see a housebuilder of that size celebrating and supporting the businesses at the heart of this community.”

As well as the new Showhome of Support, the award-winning homebuilder has also unveiled a new three-bedroom Balvenie showhome and three-bedroom Almond show apartment which are now available to view at Rosebery Wynd.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Forth Bridges, each of the homes within this new development offer a unique versatility that suit any lifestyle, with flexible spaces perfect for hosting friends and family, working from home or even transforming into a home gym or hobby room.

Homes within this vibrant new community benefit from all the beauty and convenience South Queensferry has to offer, all while being within easy reach of Scotland’s capital. The development perfectly combines semi-rural and urban city living, with Edinburgh just 20 minutes away by train and excellent commuter links to Fife and beyond.

What’s more, the development is surrounded by plenty of green space and is positioned within close proximity to a number of walking and cycling routes, as well as excellent local schools and a range of amenities, including independent shops, cafes and restaurants.

Elaine Doyle, Sales and Marketing Director at Cala Homes (East), said: “We’re delighted to showcase the incredible talent of South Queensferry’s local businesses through our new Showhome of Support at Rosebery Wynd.

“This initiative is a key part of our South Queensferry Community Pledge, and by featuring locally sourced items from various artisans in our new four-bedroom Buchanan townhouse, we’re providing a unique platform for these businesses to showcase the best of their wares.

“With the addition of our new three-bedroom showhome and three-bedroom show apartment at Rosebery Wynd, we’re excited to offer even more choices for prospective buyers, whether it be first time buyers, downsizers or growing families alike.

“We expect demand for these homes to be high, so I would recommend to anyone who is interested in making the move to South Queensferry to book a viewing appointment with a member of our expert sales team, who will be able to discuss the range of incentives Cala can offer.”

The four-bedroom Buchanan Showhome of Support is available to view now, as well as the three-bedroom Balvenie and three-bedroom Almond apartment. To book a viewing, visit the Cala Homes website or call the sales team on 0131 608 5652.

Prices for two-, three- and four-bedroom homes at Rosebery Wynd start from £249,995 and £434,995. To find out more, visit: www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/scotland/edinburgh/rosebery-wynd-south-queensferry

Cala’s Showhome of Support initiative is one of many activities designed to bring meaningful and measurable benefit to South Queensferry through the town’s Community Pledge.

The housebuilder is currently supporting Queensferry and District Community Council’s (QDCC) ‘Community Chest’, which will see a total of £5,000 distributed to local organisations in 2025.

Groups can apply for up to £1,000 of funding until the deadline on Thursday, 31 December 2024. To apply, visit the application form link on the QDCC website.

To learn more about the South Queensferry Community Pledge, go to: 

www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/scotland/edinburgh/queensferry-heights-south-queensferry/community-pledge

CCTV appeal following robbery in South Queensferry

Police Scotland have released images of a man they believe may be able to assist with their ongoing enquiries into a robbery which occurred at around 2.15pm on Friday, 25 October, 2024, at a petrol station at Ferrymuir Gait, South Queensferry.

Officers believe the man shown in the images may have information that can assist the ongoing investigation.

He is described as white, 5ft 8ins -5ft 10ins tall and of medium build. He was wearing a black beanie style hat with grey trim, a grey snood which covered his mouth and nose, brown coat with fur trim collar and cuffs, blue jeans and white trainers. He was also wearing a black backpack and blue gloves.

Detective Sergeant Jennifer Hughes said: “Extensive enquiries into this incident remain ongoing.

“I would encourage this man, or anyone who may recognise him, to contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2072 of 25 October, 2024. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Applications for South Queensferry ‘Community Chest’ funding grant for local groups set to open

The initiative, which is being run by Queensferry and District Community Council and supported by homebuilder Cala Homes, will open to applications on Friday 1 November

Groups in South Queensferry have the opportunity to apply for up to £1000 of funding for local projects, thanks to a new initiative between Queensferry & District Community Council (QDCC) and Cala Homes (East). 

The ‘QDCC & Cala Community Chest’ scheme will see a total of £5,000 distributed to local organisations in 2025. The funds will be provided by the local homebuilder and forms a key part of its Community Pledge for the South Queensferry area.

The joint Community Chest initiative aims to support a diverse range of voluntary groups that exist within the town, as well as cultural, environmental and sports clubs.

Applications open on Friday 1 November 2024 at 7am, with groups able to apply to the grant scheme before the deadline on Tuesday 31 December 2024.

A panel comprising QDCC & Cala representatives will formally review all applications in January 2025 and will announce successful recipients of the funding at the end of January.

Keith Giblett, chairperson of South Queensferry and District Community Council, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Cala Homes (East) once again to offer this fantastic opportunity for local groups.

“The Community Council and Cala have worked closely together for a number of years, and this ongoing collaboration has already brought significant benefits to South Queensferry.

“We are excited to continue building on this strong relationship, which reflects our shared commitment to supporting local projects and enhancing the wellbeing of our community.

“We encourage as many groups as possible to apply and look forward to seeing the range of projects that come forward, all of which will contribute to the vibrancy and wellbeing of our town.”

Elaine Doyle, Sales and Marketing Director at Cala Homes (East), said: “We’re thrilled to be working in partnership with Queensferry & District Community Council on this Community Chest to help voluntary groups in the area thrive.

“This project forms a key part of our Community Pledge for the area, which is designed to bring measurable and meaningful benefit to the town and the people living in it.

“Collaborating with communities on initiatives that will really make a difference helps us forge even stronger connections to the places in which we are building homes, and we are excited to be continuing our close work with QDCC.

“We are looking forward to learning about the groups which will benefit from this additional funding and watch them make a real difference to the lives of the people living in the town.”

To apply for a funding grant, visit the application form link on the QDCC website: https://www.queensferrycommunitycouncil.co.uk/qdcc-cala-community-chest/

To learn more about Queensferry and District Community Council, visit: https://www.queensferrycommunitycouncil.co.uk/

Cala Homes (East) has two flagship developments in South Queensferry – Queensferry Heights and the recently launched Rosebery Wynd – presenting an impressive mix of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom houses as well as one-, two- and three- bedroom apartments.

Meanwhile, a brand-new show apartment plus two showhomes recently opened their doors at Rosebery Wynd.

To find out more information, visit: https://www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/scotland/edinburgh/rosebery-wynd-south-queensferry/

To learn more about the range of community support initiatives announced for the South Queensferry area of Fife as part of the Community Pledge programme, and to explore Cala’s developments within South Queensferry, visit: 

www.cala.co.uk/southqueensferry

Appeal for witnesses following petrol station robbery in South Queensferry

Detectives are appealing for information following a robbery in South Queensferry.

Around 2.15pm yesterday (Friday, 25 October, 2024), a man was seen outside a petrol station at Ferrymuir Gait.

A short time later he entered the premises, presented a weapon and demanded money.

The male staff member was unhurt and did not require medical treatment.

The suspect is described as being between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins and of medium build. He was wearing a black beanie style hat with a grey trim, a grey snood which covered his mouth and nose. He was also wearing a brown coat with a fur trim collar and cuffs, blue jeans and white trainers. He wore blue gloves with writing on the rear of the left hand, was carrying a black backpack and he spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Martin Smith said: “The staff member was understandably shocked at what happened, but thankfully uninjured.

“Reviewing CCTV is key part of this enquiry and officers are extensively working through all available footage. If you have local CCTV or were in the area and have dash-cam footage, please get in touch as you may have captured something that can assist our investigation.

“Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2072 of 25 October, 2024. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Meet Pantosaurus!

THIS MORNING AT MUIRHOUSE LIBRARY

BRING your kids along to meet Pantosaurus and listen to his roarsome story!

Muirhouse Library, Friday 18 Oct, 10.30am

Stockbridge Library, Friday 25 Oct, 2.30pm

South Queensferry Library, Friday 1 Nov, 10.30am

Find out more about keeping children safe at http://edinburgh.gov.uk/talkpants

Cala breaks ground on affordable homes in South Queensferry

CONSTRUCTION has begun on the second phase of affordable homes in South Queensferry which will provide a much-needed boost to housing supply.

Cala Homes (East), in partnership with Manor Estates Housing Association (MEHA), has broken ground on 25 social rent homes at its Queensferry Heights development near the Firth of Forth.

The £4.3 million project, supported by the City of Edinburgh Council with grant funding from the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Investment Programme, includes 15 one- and two-bedroom apartments and 10 three-bedroom terraced houses.

It builds on the 19 homes that have already been built and handed over to MEHA as part of the first phase, taking the total number of affordable homes delivered across the development to 44.

The second phase of homes are scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026, providing new opportunities for families and individuals seeking affordable living in the area.

Derek Lawson, Strategic Land Director at Cala Homes (East), said: “Given all the challenges around building new affordable homes in Scotland we are delighted to have agreed all the terms required to start work on this second, larger phase.

“Manor Estates Housing Association is based locally and has already proven to be an excellent partner to work with at this location. Together we’re able to ensure that those moving in can benefit from warm, efficient and contemporary homes, within a flourishing community.”

The development, located in a prime position near the Forth Bridges, offers excellent transport links and access to local amenities, making it a desirable location for new residents. As with the first phase of 19 MEHA homes, the second phase blends seamlessly with the wider private development.

In addition to its attractive location, the development has been designed with sustainability and community in mind, featuring energy-efficient homes and integrated green spaces.

Cala have signed a contract with housing association, Manor Estates, to provide 19affordable homes at Cala’s Queensferry Heights development. Pictured: site manager Gavin McCann and Manor Estates’s CEO, Claire Ironside and Chair of the Board, Rachel Hutton (Glasses)

Amanda Hay, Property Services Director with Manor Estates Housing Association said: “Our goal is to create safe, sustainable communities, and this project is an excellent example of what can be achieved through collaboration with Cala Homes and support from the Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. 

“We are delighted to have appointed C~urb Property Development to provide a full development consultancy service for this phase of new homes.”

C~urb Property Development, part of the Link group of companies, provides expert affordable housing development services to a range of customers including Registered Social Landlords cross Scotland.

Keith Giblett, Chair with Queensferry and District Community Council (QDCC), said: “QDCC is pleased that Cala has found a way forward to deliver the much needed affordable homes working with Manor Estates, an existing provider of homes in Queensferry.

“The added benefit is the Community Council has good working relationships with Manor built up over many years which is good for the community of Queensferry.” 

Search for Jenny Hastings: Body found

Around 3.20pm this afternoon (Saturday, 7 September, 2024), the body of a woman was found in the Hound Point area of South Queensferry.

Formal identification is yet to take place but the family of missing woman Jenny Hastings has been informed.

There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.