Tag: housing development

New affordable homes planned for Leith

A high-quality, energy efficient development at Coatfield Lane, Leith will deliver much-needed family housing and improved greenspace.

Plans to deliver 49 new affordable homes at Coatfield Lane have been approved, marking a significant step forward in the Council’s ongoing programme to increase the supply of high-quality affordable housing across the city.

The new homes will be delivered on behalf of the Council by CCG (Scotland) Ltd in collaboration with Collective Architecture. The development, designed to meet a range of housing needs will include a mix of 1–4 bedroom flats and family houses and will be located in the heart of the Leith Conservation Area, close to the historic Kirkgate.

The homes will be well insulated and highly energy efficient thanks to a combination of advanced construction methods and the adoption of air source heat pump technology.

In addition to the homes, the project will provide improvements to the existing public realm including greenspaces, rain gardens and biodiverse planting.

Councillor Tim Pogson, the Council’s Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “This approval is a vital step in tackling the housing emergency facing our city. Unfortunately too many people are struggling to find a safe, secure and affordable place to call home and developments like this are a key part of the solution.

“The 49 new homes will not only provide much-needed accommodation for residents, but they do so in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and community-focused. And, as we build these new homes, we’ll create well designed places that respect the historic character of the area while delivering modern high-quality homes.

“I look forward to seeing work get underway and to welcoming the first residents into a vibrant new part of the community.”

CCG Managing Director David Wylie said: “We are delighted that plans for 49 affordable homes at Coatfield Lane have now been approved.

“Our team has worked collaboratively with the design partners to develop the proposals and realise the Council’s aspirations to deliver what will be a transformative development for the Leith community, and we look forward to commencing construction later this year.”

Collective Architecture said: “We’re delighted that the scheme has received planning approval.

“The new homes are sensitively integrated into the historic Kirkgate setting, sitting comfortably within the existing urban grain and immediately adjacent to the Category A-Listed Linksview House.

“Our proposals enhance the surrounding public realm and prioritise high quality architectural and urban design, incorporating social and environmental needs. This approach ensures meaningful benefits for both new residents and the existing community in Leith.”

Planning application paves the way for 67 new homes

Award-winning five-star housebuilder Cruden has submitted a planning application for a new residential development at Kirkton North, Livingston.

The site is currently allocated for residential development in the West Lothian local development plan and will deliver much-needed multi tenure family homes for West Lothian.

Located to the west of Livingston and just three miles from the town centre, the proposed development will provide 67 high-quality homes, including detached, semi-detached, terraced homes and cottage flats, offering accommodation from two- to five-bedroom homes.

In line with local policy, 25% of the homes will be delivered as affordable housing, supporting a balanced and inclusive community to meet a wide range of local housing needs.

Designed by EMA Architects to integrate sensitively with its surroundings, the scheme places a strong emphasis on design quality, placemaking and landscape.

The 8 acre site features retained woodland and a new neighbourhood play area, alongside enhanced pedestrian connections linking the site to nearby bus stops, paths and local amenities.

The new development also boasts excellent transport links and access to good schools and a wide range of facilities, including parks, supermarkets, a medical centre and a pharmacy.

The plans have been shaped through extensive engagement with West Lothian Council and the local community, with feedback from pre-application consultation events directly influencing the final layout, housing mix and open space provision. The development will also deliver energy-efficient homes designed to meet modern building standards, helping to support more sustainable living.

Paul Doran, Development Director at Cruden, said: “From the outset, our approach has been to create a carefully designed development that respects and enhances its surroundings, strengthens the local sense of place, and thoughtfully integrates new homes with green spaces and the existing community.

“Our proposals provide much-needed, high-quality housing for Livingston, building on our recent track record of delivering homes across a range of tenures in West Lothian. Beyond housing, the development will contribute to the vibrancy of the area, promote sustainable living, and generate long-term social and economic benefits for the wider community.”

Pending detailed planning consent, Cruden expects to start work on site in 2026.

Craigiehall Barracks now home to thriving new community

Scottish army HQ reborn as first phase of new redevelopment sells out

IN just over a year, the first phase of a former Edinburgh army headquarters has been transformed from derelict barracks into a thriving new community.

Craigiehall Meadows, formerly Craigiehall Barracks, has now reached a major milestone with Hillside Road, the first phase of the development to come to market, has now completely sold out.

In summer 2024, work began to breathe new life into 78 long-abandoned houses that once housed generations of army families.

Just over a year on, the first phase has seen 26 homes sold, worth a combined £7,185,000, and is already home to a thriving community of 53 people.

Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency at Ralph Sayer, which oversees all sales at Craigiehall Meadows, said: “When work first began just over a year ago, we knew we had a huge challenge ahead of us to bring this site to life and create something really special.

“The whole team has been incredible. Together, we’ve taken what was once an empty, forgotten place and turned it into one of Edinburgh’s most sought-after new communities in a truly beautiful location.

“To have sold out Hillside Road in just over a year is amazing. We always believed this would be a popular development, but the demand has gone far beyond what we imagined.

“Now, seeing this part of the development alive with families settling in, first-time buyers putting down roots and young professionals building their futures, all so happy in their new homes, makes every bit of the hard work worthwhile.”

The second phase of the development at Craigiehall Meadows launched in May, introduced two new streets, Riverside Road and Primrose Drive.

Riverside Road features 27 detached homes, 21 four-bedroom properties in the Holly, Hazel, Oak and Yew styles, along with six five-bedroom homes in the Pine and Alder styles.

A short walk away, Primrose Drive offers eight substantial five-bedroom Willow homes. Together, the 35 new homes combine generous space, landscaped gardens, high-quality finishes and modern, energy-efficient features, with prices ranging from £550,000 to £600,000.

Tzana added: “Hillside Road was our core focus for a long time, but now that this chapter has closed, we’re fully focused on driving forward with phase two and we’re confident Riverside Road and Primrose Drive will be every bit as successful.

“We’ve already seen an incredible amount of interest in these homes, and it’s easy to understand why. They’re spacious, beautifully finished and set in a location that’s perfect for families who want both room to grow and a real sense of community.

“With larger detached homes, landscaped gardens and the backdrop of the River Almond and surrounding woodlands, this next chapter offers something really special, and we can’t wait to welcome the next group of buyers into Craigiehall Meadows.”

Craigiehall Meadows is the latest chapter in the long story of a site that once played a central role in Scotland’s military history.

Established in 1939 to house army families, it became the Scottish Army Headquarters in 1951 and was active for decades, with regiments including The Black Watch based there until the barracks closed in 2019.

Now, the site is being carefully reimagined. What was once a military stronghold is fast becoming one of Edinburgh’s most desirable new neighbourhoods.

The site offers a tranquil, semi-rural lifestyle, just minutes from Cammo, Cramond and Dalmeny, yet still perfectly connected to the capital.

Viewings are now open by appointment for the Riverside Road and Primrose Drive show homes.

Early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. To arrange a slot, contact Ralph Sayer on 0131 225 5567 or property@ralphsayer.com

To learn more about Craigiehall Meadows, please visit:

 https://www.craigiehall-meadows.co.uk/

Application submitted for new neighbourhood on former brownfield site in West Edinburgh

Regeneration specialist, Summix Capital, has submitted a planning application to City of Edinburgh Council for a residential-led, mixed-use development at Edinburgh Gateway, the site of the former Saica packaging facility in West Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Gateway provides a unique opportunity to regenerate this former industrial location on Turnhouse Road, which covers 15.5 acres (6.3 hectares).

This brownfield site is allocated in the Council’s City Plan 2030 for residential-focused redevelopment.

The flagship vibrant new neighbourhood aims to deliver a mix of uses. This includes the delivery of 950+ homes, including 35 per cent affordable homes, plus a new hotel with over 170 bedrooms.

The housing proposed will include tenure blind affordable housing, addressing the city’s well-publicised housing emergency, and including the provision of accessible family homes and Build to Rent (BTR) accommodation. BTR sees homes built specifically for rent, rather than sale.

The development masterplan defines seven development plots. Plots 1 and 2 will deliver private sale housing; Plots 3 and 4 are dedicated to BTR homes; and Plots 5 and 6 contribute to the city’s affordable housing provision. Plot 7 will accommodate the new hotel.

A new network of streets and public spaces will integrate seamlessly with the surrounding area, creating inviting routes and meaningful connections for both existing and future residents.

Stuart Black, Development Director for Summix Capital, commented: “We are delighted to be submitting this planning application for Edinburgh Gateway, which represents a significant investment in the capital.

“Our exciting proposals provide a unique opportunity to redevelop one of the last major pieces of brownfield land in the city into a brand-new, sustainable mixed-use community, supporting the tackling of the housing emergency. 

“This will ensure that Edinburgh Gateway fulfils our vision to be one of the most exciting and best-connected development sites in Scotland.

“The planning application follows extensive engagement with the local community, and we would like to thank individuals for taking the time to provide highly valued comments and feedback.”

Spain-based paper and cardboard company Saica has relocated to a purpose-built facility at Deans Road in Livingston.  It is active in nine other European countries.

PICTURES: Axson Office

New affordable housing development taking shape in Wester Hailes

WORK is well underway on the Wester Hailes development, marking a key step forward in the Council’s long-term vision to transform the area.

Located at the former Wester Hailes Health Centre site at 7 Murrayburn Gate, the Council has appointed CCG (Scotland) Ltd to deliver 73 net-zero carbon homes.

The development will offer a mix of one, two and three-bedroom flats – all affordable housing, with five properties designed to be wheelchair accessible.

It will also include a central recreational space with play facilities, a rain garden, structured landscaping, private gardens and terraces, and excellent access to pedestrian and cycle routes.

As part of a wider regeneration initiative, the project aims to support the creation of a model 20-minute neighbourhood – where residents can access work, education, shops, and services within a short walk or cycle from their homes.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said: “I am delighted to see the work progressing on our ambitious plans to transform Wester Hailes into one of Edinburgh’s 20-minute neighbourhoods.

“I also warmly welcome the direct benefits to local people which this development will deliver in terms of employment and training opportunities.

“These new homes at Murrayburn Gate will deliver much-needed high-quality, net-zero carbon housing and provide improved access to green spaces and community services – all essential attributes of thriving and inclusive local communities, and reflective of our efforts to address Edinburgh’s ongoing Housing Emergency.”

CCG Managing Director, David Wylie, said: “We are delighted to have commenced construction at Murrayburn Gate – another example of how the City of Edinburgh Council and CCG are working together to address localised housing needs and demand across the city region.

“The development is set to have a positive impact on the Wester Hailes community, not only through the delivery of high-quality, highly energy efficient homes, but also by job creation, various training opportunities, and localised charitable investment . I look forward to seeing how the development progresses over months ahead, as we work towards full completion in late-2026.”

As part of the project, CCG will deliver a broad programme of community benefits throughout the EH14 postcode area and beyond, in partnership with the Council. These include employment and training opportunities, as well as support for local initiatives during the construction phase.

Firethorn Trust tops out PBSA development in Leith Walk

Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn Trust, has reached a significant construction milestone at its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development at Leith, Edinburgh, with a topping out ceremony marking completion of the site’s structural framework.

Located on Leith Walk, Firethorn’s six-storey asset will provide high quality accommodation for 230 student beds, alongside generous amenities including a fully equipped gym, student common room, cinema and modern study spaces.

Work commenced last summer, following Firethorn’s purchase of the site in February 2024, marking the first acquisition under its Living portfolio. The company has since expanded its footprint with additional PBSA assets in Hackney Wick and Stratford, plus a hotel development in central Dublin and the One Bessborough Gardens residential conversion in London.

With the structural frame now complete, Leith Walk is on track for completion in time for the 2026/27 academic year.

Paul Martin, Head of Development at Firethorn Trust, commented: “As the first asset within our Living portfolio, topping out at Leith Walk is a significant milestone for Firethorn, and a prime example of our ability to deliver buildings swiftly and to a high standard.

“Edinburgh has a growing student population and an urgent need for modern, quality accommodation, so we are very pleased with the pace at which works are progressing and look forward to bringing the site to completion over the next 12 months.”

Grier Edmead, Operations Director, Ogilvie Construction, said: “Today’s topping out marks the significant progress that we have made since breaking ground last year, and we look forward to handing over a first class building in 2026.

“This will be the fifteenth student accommodation facility that we have delivered in recent years using our extensive experience and expertise in the sector.”

For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com

Cruden & Evantyr acquire site on Salamander Street in Leith

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.

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.

Ferryhill pupils stand out from the crowd thanks to hi-vis donation

School pupils at Ferryhill Primary School in Drylaw can now stand out from the crowd thanks to an eye-catching set of high-visibility vests provided by Artisan Real Estate and their development and construction partners.

Regeneration specialist Artisan, together with fund manager partner REInvest Asset Management S.A and contractor Metropolitan Demolition, are currently transforming the former Deutsche Bank House at 525 Ferry Road, Edinburgh into a spectacular homes-led development.

Now that demolition is currently underway, the developers are keen to work closely with the local community in advance of the home sales launch later this year. This includes helping out the local Ferryhill Primary school with the gift of ‘high-viz’ vests to enable the pupils to travel safely in and out of school.

“The schoolchildren are all delighted with their spanking new bright orange high visibility vests,” explains Eilidh Mitchell, Depute at Ferryhill Primary School.

“It means we can now safely plan for more trips away from the school, knowing that every pupil will be safe and be seen, whatever the weather conditions. It’s great to work in partnership with the developers who will be building just around the corner from us. And we look forward to continuing our relationship as the exciting new development comes to fruition.”

David Westwater, Artisan’s Regional Director for Scotland, David Westwater, says: “We had a great time giving the vests to the very well-behaved schoolchildren at Ferryhill Primary School, and we are pleased that our contribution will make life a little more interesting for everyone.

“As with any major development, it’s important to establish positive and close relations with our neighbours – and we look forward to many more opportunities to engage with more individuals, groups and organisations that work hard to make their local community so vibrant and so special.”

Michael Hirst, Director at Metropolitan Demolition, adds: “We are delighted to help out at Ferryhill Primary School. The demolition is progressing well at the Ferry Road site, and we subscribe to the highest levels of neighbour consultation and engagement throughout the process.

“Developing good relations with our neighbours is an important part of this.”

The demolition of Deutsche Bank House – near the Crewe Toll roundabout – is due to complete in the summer, with construction of a low-carbon residential community starting later this year.

Known as ‘525 Park View’, the new neighbourhood will provide 256 sustainable homes, 25% of which will be for affordable housing. Flexible commercial space facing on to Ferry Road will provide potential for cafes, shops and shared workspaces. 

For more information, and to register interest in 525 Park View, visit:

www.525parkview.co.uk

Alex Cole-Hamilton welcomes former Army HQ transformation

Scottish Lib Dem Leader applauds transformation of popular development

THE LEADER of the Scottish Liberal Democrats has praised the redevelopment of 78 homes at Scotland’s former Army Headquarters, commending ongoing revitalisation efforts.

In a recent visit to the project within his constituency, Mr Cole-Hamilton was invited to tour Craigiehall Meadows, formally Craigiehall Barracks, viewing homes at both the Hillside Road and Riverside areas of the development.

Led by Ralph Sayer and situated on the northwest edge of Edinburgh, the development has attracted strong buyer interest, with more than half of the first phase already sold.

Mr Cole-Hamilton, MSP for Edinburgh Western said; “One thing that’s absolutely vital is new housing, but it’s intelligent new housing that we need. 

“In West Edinburgh, we’ve had our fill of a proliferation of new housing developments and without much thought from developers about what that means for schools or roads or health infrastructure. 

“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.

“So, it’s been a great privilege to visit to see these houses come on in the way they are, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”

Hillside Road introduces a range of affordable homes, ideal for first-time buyers, downsizers, and buy-to-let investors, while Riverside and Primrose will feature spacious, high-spec family residences.

The Riverside area of the development is set to feature a mix of 21 four-bedroom and six five-bedroom detached homes, all designed with modern living in mind and offering private driveways, off-street parking, and garages.

Finally, Primrose, will comprise of eight five-bedroom detached homes, each benefiting from generous plots, dedicated parking, and secure garage space.

Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency at Ralph Sayer said: “Our team has been in regular contact with Mr. Cole-Hamilton, so it was a pleasure to finally welcome him on-site and showcase the progress we’ve made in breathing new life into these homes for future residents.

“With new homeowners now settling into Hillside Road, we expect this phase of the development to be fully sold out by the end of the quarter.

“As we move into the next stage, our focus is on finalising the show homes at Riverside and Primrose, preparing them for viewings.

“Given the incredible demand we’ve already experienced, we’re confident these homes will be just as sought after, if not more, than those at Hillside Road.”

Located by the River Almond and set within mature woodlands, the site enjoys a prime semi-rural setting while maintaining strong connections to sought-after areas like Cammo, Cramond, and Dalmeny.

Originally established in 1939 to house military families, the development played a key role in the 1945 German surrender in Norway and later served as the Scottish Army HQ, home to regiments such as The Black Watch until its closure in 2014.

Blending contemporary living with a rich heritage, Craigiehall Meadows offers a rare opportunity to enjoy natural surroundings with convenient city access.

Those interested in the development can register their interest here – https://www.craigiehall-meadows.co.uk/

Viewings are now open and those interested can contact Ralph Sayer on 0131 225 5567 | property@ralphsayer.com to book in a viewing appointment for the 2 Bedroom Juniper or the 3 Bedroom Poplar. 

Bookings are strictly by appointment only.