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.
One of the largest regeneration projects of its kind in Scotland, to develop a £1.3bn environmentally friendly coastal town on the Capital’s largest brownfield site at Granton Waterfront, is set to take a huge step forward.
The delivery plans include new housing which will be enhanced with a new primary school (the school to be delivered through a separate contract), retail units, public and open green space.
This would be achieved through entering into a development agreement with Cruden Homes to deliver site wide enabling, infrastructure and new homes.
Each of the 847 new homes will be fitted with an air source heat pump providing residents who move in with new, warm, energy efficient ‘net zero ready’ homes, with fairly priced energy bills.
At least 45% of the homes will be affordable – 214 will be for social rent with the rest a mixture of mid-market rent and homes for sale. Some will also be suitable for families who require wheelchair accessibility.
The revitalisation of Granton Waterfront’s historic buildings and industrial built heritage, coupled with the delivery of new leisure and recreation opportunities, will significantly increase visitors to the area, creating new local employment opportunities.
The overall development will make a significant contribution to Edinburgh’s target to become a net zero carbon city, through a mix of energy efficient buildings, gas free heat solutions, cycling and walking paths and a nature-based approach to climate mitigation and adaptation.
This exciting regeneration in the north of Edinburgh, set to start early next year and due for completion in 2033 will build on early action projects already underway in Granton Waterfront. If approved by the Finance and Resources Committee on Tuesday, 18 November, the business case will then be considered by Council on Thursday, 18 December.
Some of these projects are already complete with others taking shape. Tenants are already living in 75 new ‘net zero ready homes’ for social and mid-market rent at Granton Station View. A short distance away Western Villages has 444 ‘net zero ready’ homes for social, mid-market rent and some for sale, which are nearly all occupied. A further 143 ‘net zero ready’ social and mid-market rent homes at Silverlea are also due for completion in Summer 2026.
At the heart of this nationally significant development of Edinburgh’s coastline sits the Granton Gasholder now known as ‘Gasholder 1 Park’.
The iconic gasholder frame has been restored and can be seen for miles around as it is lit up after dark. It has a new public park created within the frame making it a spectacular focal point in the area. The historic former Granton Station has been refurbished as a creative hub and has a new civic square in its grounds.
The Pitt has opened in a repurposed industrial building at 20 West Shore Road and the core path through the development has been upgraded and named Speirs Bruce Way.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“The £1.3bn regeneration of Edinburgh’s coastline is hugely significant for our Capital city. It is the largest public sector led project of its kind in Scotland. Over the next 10 to 15 years, it will continue to set the standard for sustainable economic growth in Edinburgh.
“We’re using the largest brownfield site we own to deliver the first phase of this project, with our development partner Cruden Homes. We will be delivering new and affordable, energy efficient ‘net zero ready’ homes which will provide our residents with fairly priced energy bills.
“The retail and leisure units we will deliver will provide an opportunity for local people to enjoy recreation and access employment. We’ll also be improving public transport and cycling and walking paths as well as education services. Our aim is to help to reduce child poverty as well as address the nature and climate emergencies we face locally and globally.
“Our investment in this major project for the Capital further reinforces our approach across the city to achieve low carbon affordable living for as many of our residents as possible. Our aim is to make Edinburgh more inclusive and well connected to support prosperity and wellbeing for those in the Granton Waterfront area and across the city region.”
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes, said:“We’re proud to be playing a leading role in delivering this landmark regeneration of Edinburgh’s coastline.
“Granton Waterfront is a bold and innovative project that will create a distinctive new coastal neighbourhood with a real sense of place, centred around much-needed, high-quality, energy-efficient homes and sustainable infrastructure.
“Working in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, we’re not only building net zero ready homes but also creating valuable community benefits, from local employment and apprenticeships to investment in skills and supply chains.
“This next phase marks an exciting milestone in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable and connected future for the Capital.”
Phase 1 of the project has been made possible through the Council securing funding from the Scottish Government – capital grant funding from its Housing Infrastructure Fund as part of its commitment through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, along with revenue funding through an innovative Place Based Accelerator grant. This was formulated with the support of Scottish Futures Trust.
The Place Based Accelerator grant is an innovative funding model that will allow the Council to take forward the development in return for achieving outcomes for the people in the north of Edinburgh including achieving targets related to improvements to health and wellbeing, educational attainment and local employment opportunities.
Granton Waterfront regeneration supports the delivery of the City of Edinburgh Council Business Plan, the Edinburgh City Mobility Plan, Edinburgh City Plan 2030, Climate Ready Edinburgh Plan 2024 – 2030 and the Edinburgh 2030 Climate Strategy. It also supports the delivery of key national policy objectives as set out in NPF 4, Housing to 2040 and the Programme for Government, 2025-2026.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “For people living in Granton and north Edinburgh, this investment means real improvements to daily life. Families will have access to affordable, energy-efficient homes that are cheaper to heat.
“Young people will get construction training and local job opportunities. Parents will see new safe walking and cycling routes to schools and shops and green spaces where their children can play.
“Our support for this project is directly tied to delivering outcomes that matter to local people—improving health and wellbeing, creating jobs that go to local residents first and supporting community organisations.”
Neil Rutherford, Senior Associate Director at the Scottish Futures Trust, said: “This innovative outcomes-based Place Accelerator, backed by Scottish Government and partners, is unlocking new opportunities for people in north Edinburgh and delivering benefits for the wider city.
“We believe the Place Accelerator shows how smart funding and collaboration can turn ambition into action, helping create healthier, fairer, and more prosperous communities.”
Five-star housebuilder Cruden has been granted planning permission to redevelop the former St John Vianney’s Roman Catholic Church site at 40 Fernieside Gardens in Edinburgh.
The plans will transform the vacant, deteriorating 1950s building into a high-quality, fully affordable housing development, delivering 35 much-needed new homes within one of the city’s well-connected 20-minute neighbourhoods.
The new development will comprise two flatted blocks of three to four storeys, offering a mix of 17 one-bedroom, 11 two-bedroom and 7 three-bedroom homes. Located close to schools, shops, parks, healthcare facilities, and excellent public transport links, Fernieside Gardens will provide residents with convenient access to essential services while promoting sustainable, low-carbon living.
Making sustainable use of brownfield land, the sympathetic redevelopment supports the Scottish Government’s drive to protect greenfield sites and create thriving communities in existing urban areas.
An impressive 70% of the site will be open landscaped space, with almost half (44%) dedicated to green space, including central communal gardens, rain gardens, and green buffers to boost biodiversity and support sustainable drainage.
The homes will be built to high environmental standards and have a number of sustainability features. Plans include zero-emission heating, photovoltaic solar panels and high levels of insulation.
The car parking provision includes EV charging points, accessible spaces, and ample cycle storage alongside strong emphasis on walking, cycling and public transport.
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes, said: “It is fantastic to have secured planning permission for Fernieside Gardens, which will deliver high-quality, affordable homes in a location that’s already rich in amenities and community spirit.
“This development breathes new life into a redundant, brownfield site by placing sustainable communities and green infrastructure at its heart. It’s another example of how thoughtful design can support Edinburgh’s net-zero ambitions while meeting the critical need for affordable housing.”
Work on Fernieside Gardens is expected to begin later this year.
The Avenue, an exclusive retirement community by five-star home builder Cruden Homes, is in the running for its third major accolade after being shortlisted for ‘Development of the Year’ at the 2025 Herald Property Awards.
This latest nomination follows an impressive award season for The Avenue, which has already scooped Housing Development of the Year (Small, Private Sale) at the 2025 Scottish Home Awards and Private Development of the Year (Medium) at the 2025 Homes for Scotland Awards.
Located in the leafy suburb of Barnton, just minutes from Edinburgh’s bustling city centre, The Avenue’s boutique offering includes 48 energy-efficient apartments, penthouses, and executive villas, each built to a high specification.
Designed exclusively for those aged 55 and over, the development combines elegant, hotel-inspired living and thoughtful amenities. Residents can enjoy access to a stylish club lounge and guest suite, and will benefit from a dedicated concierge service. The Avenue’s focus on sustainability, quality and design sets it apart in the retirement living sector.
Hazel Davies, Sales and Marketing Director of Cruden Homes, said: “The Avenue offers a truly unique opportunity for those aged 55 and over to live in luxurious, peaceful homes, alongside a lovely community of like-minded neighbours.
“We prioritised quality and innovation from the outset, and it is fantastic to see this commitment recognised with our recent award successes and this latest nomination.”
The Herald Property awards, hosted in partnership with Prime Property Auctions, celebrate Scotland’s most innovative and successful home and commercial builders, developers, agents, interior designers and registered social landlords.
For more information on The Avenue’s luxury retirement living, please visit:
Limited time £10,000 incentives bundle available on new apartments
Five-star Scottish housebuilder Cruden Homes has released more homes for sale at its multi-award-winning Longniddry Village development in East Lothian with prices from £290,000.
The latest release is across five plots, namely three two-bedroom apartments, available to move in from November and two four-bedroom properties which will be complete by early 2026.
To further entice buyers, Cruden is offering a limited-time package of huge savings on the apartments with £5,000 cashback and a further £5,000 options voucher to make a new house at Longniddry a dream home.
Longniddry Village takes inspiration from the characterful architecture and appeal of quaint East Lothian villages and towns. Its local vernacular and carefully considered landscape design seamlessly extends into the existing vibrant village community.
The traditionally inspired architecture includes period-style features such as sash windows, chimneys and high ceilings.
Meanwhile, the interior accommodation is spacious and airy, complete with high-quality fixtures and fittings that include designer German kitchens with integrated Siemens appliances, built-in wardrobes, stylish bathrooms and fibre broadband.
When complete, the development will include several features for residents to enjoy, including a play park, sports pitch, restored mill pond and wildflower meadow.
New owners will also benefit from the neighbouring steadings restoration, which will be a hub for several amenities including an independent coffee outlet, a luxury convenience store and salon.
Hazel Davies, Sales and Marketing Director of Cruden Homes, said: “It’s great to extend the new home options available to discerning buyers at our Longniddry Village development, whether they’re taking their first step on the property ladder or looking for more space to grow.
“The added incentives for our range of apartments make now the perfect time to move.
“This has been an incredibly popular development, with previous launches selling out ahead of plan. We would advise potential home buyers to book a viewing as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”
Five-star housebuilder to deliver 99 new homes including affordable housing overlooking city park
Leading Scottish housebuilder Cruden Homes, in a joint venture with Evantyr Properties, has acquired a new site on Salamander Street in Leith, as part of the ongoing regeneration of the former industrial area.
The latest proposals from Cruden and Evantyr outline plans for a new residential development of 99 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, many of which include balconies. Of these, 35% will be allocated as affordable housing, surpassing the planning requirement of 25%.
Working alongside 7N Architects, the new scheme has been carefully planned to integrate with the existing urban landscape, incorporating a landscaped central courtyard and strong connections to sustainable transport options. Many of the new homes will also back onto the adjacent Leith Links, a large public park with an abundance of open green space and lots of mature trees.
The development will also be designed around and alongside the active travel initiative which will see the inclusion of a segregated cycle path as part of the wider Leith Connections project. This is a major infrastructure initiative designed to improve travel for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the area.
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes,said: “Securing this prime site in the heart of Leith marks the latest phase in our commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable communities where they are needed most.
“Leith is a location that continues to thrive thanks to its strong community spirit and excellent local amenities. In partnership with Evantyr, our plans will deliver a high-quality, sustainable development that complements the surrounding area and provides much-needed new homes, including a significant proportion of affordable housing – creating a modern, connected place where people will love to live.”
Marc Teague, Director at Evantyr Properties, added: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Cruden Homes on this exciting project in one of Edinburgh’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.
“Together, we’re bringing forward a development that not only delivers high-quality homes but also enhances the character of the local area through thoughtful design and strong sustainability credentials.
“This joint venture demonstrates our shared commitment to placemaking and long-term investment in Leith.”
The Leith site is adjacent to the Ropeworks masterplan for over 600 new homes.
This latest development on Salamander Street is expected to start later this year, subject to final planning conditions being met.
CRUDEN HOMES AND CITY COUNCIL SUPPORT NORTH EDINBURGH COMMUNITY FESTIVAL WITH £2,000 DONATION
The North Edinburgh Community Festival (NECF), one of the city’s most anticipated family-friendly events, has received a £2,000 donation from Cruden Homes and City of Edinburgh Council, to help deliver its biggest and most inclusive festival yet.
Taking place on Saturday, 17 May 2025, from 12:00pm to 5:30pm at West Pilton Park, the free event will feature a vibrant mix of activities, live music, workshops, food stalls, a community parade, sports, and opportunities for jobs, skills, and learning.
This generous donation will go directly towards the essential costs of hiring equipment and providing vital support for over 150 local charities, groups, and organisations leading community-focused stalls and initiatives at the event.
Cruden is building 143 energy efficient affordable homes at Silverlea on behalf of City of Edinburgh Council and this donation forms part of the range of community benefits that are being delivered here.
Adele Conn, Festival Director of the North Edinburgh Community Festival, said: “Many thanks to Cruden and the City of Edinburgh Council for their £2,000 donation, supporting the hiring of equipment and supporting local charities and organisations involved with the event.
“The 2025 festival is set to be one of the biggest and most inclusive festivals yet, and this donation will help us to continue to strengthen community bonds, pride, and unity in North Edinburgh.”
Michael Palethorpe, Production and Community Benefit Manager at Cruden, said: “The North Edinburgh Community Festival is a cornerstone of local culture, uniting the community through a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and food, alongside invaluable workshops focused on jobs, skills, and learning.
“As a company with deep roots in the area, Cruden is proud to be involved, alongside our partners at the City of Edinburgh Council, in supporting this enriching event that makes such a positive impact on the community.”
Jane Meagher, Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We’re delighted to see this important annual festival for north Edinburgh receiving support through our contractor who is building affordable homes for us as part of our £1.3bn regeneration of Granton Waterfront.
“Providing events such as these is so important to bring communities together to enjoy inclusive cultural activities and have lots of fun for residents of all ages to enjoy.”
The North Edinburgh Community Festival has become a key event in the local calendar, fostering a sense of pride and creating opportunities for families, residents, and organisations to come together in a fun, inclusive, and celebratory environment. The 2025 festival is set to showcase North Edinburgh’s talent, culture and community spirit, with a diverse and exciting programme that will highlight the very best of the area.
Kickstart Your New Year with a New Home and £10,000 Cashback from Cruden Homes
Award-winning Scottish housebuilder Cruden Homes is helping homebuyers make a fresh start in 2025 with an exciting new offer – a generous £10,000 cashback on homes reserved at any of their developments from 3rd January until 14th February 2025.
The limited-time cashback incentive is designed to support buyers looking to secure their dream home this new year, providing a significant financial boost to make moving that little bit easier. Whether buyers are looking to move up the property ladder, downsize, or purchase their first home, Cruden Homes’ high-quality, energy-efficient properties offer the perfect solution.
Four outstanding developments in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas are included in this unmissable offer:
West Craigs Green, Edinburgh: A collection of 122 modern homes featuring apartments, terraced houses, and townhouses. With generous balconies, green open spaces, and excellent transport links, prices start from £220,000.
Wellwater Grove, West Lothian: Three and four-bedroom homes in East Calder, ideally located near local shops, pubs, and cafes, perfect for families and professionals alike. Prices start from £278,500.
Longniddry Village, East Lothian: Traditionally designed two to five-bedroom homes, coach houses, and apartments with standout features like German kitchens, Siemens appliances, and timber sash windows. Prices start from £232,500.
The Avenue, Barnton: Age-exclusive retirement development, designed specifically for the needs of residents over 55 years old, featuring elegant apartments, penthouses, and villas with on-site facilities, private parking, and EV charging points. Prices start from £365,000.
Hazel Davies, Sales and Marketing Director at Cruden Homes, said:“January is often a time for new beginnings, and what better way to start the year than by securing a beautiful new home?
“Our £10,000 cashback offer is there to make that move a little easier, whether it’s helping with furniture, deposit costs, or something else buyers might need to get settled in their new home.
“With a fantastic selection of homes across our developments, there’s never been a better time to make your move with Cruden Homes.”
Cruden Homes offers a range of thoughtfully designed properties across Scotland, combining style, comfort, and energy efficiency to suit modern lifestyles.
This new incentive extends to all Cruden Homes developments and is expected to appeal to a variety of buyers, including first-time homeowners and growing families, looking to make the most of the new year.
To find out more about the £10,000 cashback offer and explore developments near you, visit crudenhomes.co.uk.
Cruden Homes and Mac Mic Group get green light for landmark Millerhill development
Two of Scotland’s most established property companies, with a combined 181 years of expertise, are set to invest into the thriving community at Millerhill, just south-east of Edinburgh.
Cruden Homes, with 81 years of innovation in homebuilding, and Mac Mic Group, marking its centenary next year, have secured planning consent for 172 energy-efficient new homes in one of Scotland’s most vibrant and best-connected new communities.
The Millerhill development is part of the wider Shawfair masterplan to create a new town on Edinburgh’s doorstep. The new development will include a mix of private sale, build-to-rent, and affordable housing, helping to combat Edinburgh’s ongoing housing emergency.
Work will start in early 2025, with the first phase of homes expected to be completed and ready for residents by the end of the year.
Both businesses have a strong local heritage, having been involved in the delivery of a number of new homes in the area in recent years. This latest development includes a range of houses and flats for private sale, offering an impressive selection of two-bedroom flats, two- and three-bedroom terraced and semi-detached homes, four-bedroom townhouses, and four- and five-bedroom detached properties.
Additionally, a number of houses and flats are to be retained by Mac Mic Group as part of its longstanding rental portfolio, offering an important alternative for home seekers. Thirty-five homes, consisting of six houses and 29 flats, will be affordable, providing much-needed options for local families and individuals.
Nestled in the desirable Millerhill area, this thoughtfully designed development combines the appeal of country living with exceptional transport links to Edinburgh, the Borders, and beyond. Residents will enjoy a new neighbourhood with landscaped streets, carefully planned frontages, extensive landscaping throughout and a tree-lined corridor.
The new homes lie within easy reach of the vibrant new Shawfair town centre, with a health club, offices, shops and places to eat, and are well served by excellent local schools and plentiful landscaped green space, woodland paths and open water. The development is close to Shawfair train station and benefits from a network of cycle and walking paths, providing an abundance of sustainable transport options.
All of the new homes will incorporate a cutting-edge district heating system, providing a low-carbon solution for heating and hot water. This innovative heat network eliminates the need for individual boilers and significantly reduces carbon emissions.
Kevin Reid, Executive Chairman of Cruden, said:“We are delighted to take forward this fantastic new development at Millerhill in partnership with Mac Mic Group. Not only will it deliver much-needed new housing across all tenures, but it will also add to an already vibrant, sustainable community that offers the perfect blend of connectivity, green spaces, and excellent amenities on the doorstep.
“Work will start early next year and will deliver a blueprint for quality, energy-efficient new homes that are perfectly suited to the needs of modern living.”
Plans for the largest regeneration project of its kind in Scotland for a new environmentally friendly coastal town in Edinburgh have been given the go ahead by the Capital’s planning authority.
Today’s decision gives the go ahead for 847 ‘net zero ready’ homes to be built in partnership with Cruden Homes on the city’s largest brownfield site.
These warm, energy efficient homes will be a mixture of social rent, mid-market rent and homes for sale catering for families and those who require wheelchair accessibility. The new development will create attractive local living for residents by providing capacity for a new primary school and a low carbon heat network.
There will also be commercial units, active travel routes and other sustainable transport infrastructure as well as attractive public and open space.
This exciting first phase of regeneration in Granton Waterfront will be delivered from 2025 to 2032.
As part of the Council’s strategy to address the city’s housing emergency 45% of the homes will be affordable.
The Council’s regeneration plans are already well underway at Granton Waterfront with some early projects taking shape.
Council Leader Cammy Day said:“This is welcome news for Edinburgh as we can now continue our exciting plans to transform the north of the city into a thriving environmentally friendly new neighbourhood which people will want to call home, work in and visit.
“I’m really excited to see this milestone achieved, as we are one step closer to delivering a first phase of regeneration in Granton Waterfront.
“When putting the planning application together we consulted local people every step of the way including those living in established communities nearby as well as other interested groups. Today’s decision will allow us to bring together those we listened to in these communities with new residents.
“After declaring a housing emergency last year it is vital that much of the housing provided will be affordable. Using the latest advances in technology the homes will also be energy efficient keeping bills down for our tenants as well as helping the city to transition to net zero and meet our other climate goals.
“This £1.3bn project is the largest regeneration scheme of its kind in Scotland. It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to bring communities together, with affordable energy efficient housing to live well locally with access to shops, cultural, leisure and education and health facilities and job opportunities all nearby.
“We’ll also make sure Granton Waterfront has excellent active travel and public transport links to rest of the city and beyond as well as to the many established communities already in the area.
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes, said: “This development represents a significant leap toward meeting Scotland’s growing demand for high-quality, energy-efficient housing of all tenures, and the planning outcome marks a major milestone for the project.
“In partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, our work at Granton Waterfront will deliver a diverse range of sustainable new homes designed to meet the community’s evolving needs. By pioneering innovative net-zero solutions, Granton Waterfront is set to become a model for future housing developments across Scotland.
“At Cruden, we’re proud of our long history of building more than just homes; we’re fostering vibrant communities built to endure and flourish, setting a new standard for housing that truly serves both people and the environment.”
