Tag: construction work

Construction work begins on iconic Jenners building

GRAHAM appointed to reinstate one of the world’s oldest department stores

Leading construction firm GRAHAM has begun construction work on the historic Jenners building on Princes Street, to transform the location into a contemporary mixed-use space.

The development encompasses 17,500 square metres across ten floors. The plans include the restoration of Jenners and will feature its iconic atrium. The upper floors will house a new 90-room boutique hotel, along with vibrant café, bars and restaurant spaces that will complement the Jenners building’s future offerings. GRAHAM has been appointed to carry out the shell and core works.

 please see here for drone footage.

The plans for this Category A-listed structure, led by David Chipperfield Architects, focus on a sensitive restoration that will revive many original features lost over time. The Jenners building first opened in 1895 and was expanded in 1903, with further additions in the 1950s and 60s. It closed its doors in December 2020.

Gary Holmes, regional managing director at GRAHAM Building North, said: “Edinburgh is a globally renowned city with a thriving hotel and leisure sector that draws visitors from around the world.

“It is exciting to see such an ambitious development taking shape, marking a new chapter for one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings.

“GRAHAM is proud to contribute to this historic transformation. Our team’s expertise will ensure a sensitive restoration as we work to bring the new vision for this landmark to life.

“We thank the owners of Jenners for believing in us and providing us with this great opportunity”.

Dean Path and Damside Bridge: work to begin at last

Work towards the reopening of Dean Path and Damside Bridge will begin next month, the City of Edinburgh Council has confirmed. The path and bridge have been closed since early 2016 following a landslip.

It is estimated that the construction work on Dean Path will take approximately 26 weeks which will see a completion date around the end of October 2021. 

Repair work for the nearby Damside Bridge is also scheduled to begin next month. 

Works will include:

  • Clearance of debris and vegetation on the slope
  • Repair and reinstatement of the footpath located along the Water of Leith affected by the land slip
  • Remedial landscaping 
  • Installation of external drainage

Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Donald Wilson said: “The ongoing pandemic has had a great impact on the construction work necessary for the re-opening of the Dean Path.

“We are delighted to be moving forward with the project and that work will begin shortly. Its restoration will return a key section of our off-road paths network which I know will be welcomed by the many people who enjoy using it – including myself for running!”

Culture and Communities Vice Convener Cllr Amy McNeese-Mechan said: “It’s fantastic to see this project progressing, which will see a key route restored to the area, benefiting walkers, runners and cyclists.

“As the works on the path and bridge get underway, I want to take the opportunity to remind those nearby to take workers’ safety into consideration when passing the site. Please remember to stick to the ongoing guidance to keep us all safe.”