Tag: South Queensferry

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

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.” 

Police use drones to target antisocial behaviour in South Queensferry

Police Scotland Air Support Unit launched their drone in South Queensferry this week as part of an operation tackling antisocial vehicle use in the Hawes Pier area.

Community officers were joined by Cllr Lewis Younie and assisted by colleagues from our Roads Policing Team to raise awareness of the issue and engage with those involved.

Cunard’s newest ship Queen Anne makes historic maiden call to Scotland

Scotland’s capital hosted the first visit to the nation by Cunard’s newest ship Queen Anne.

Queen Anne made a spectacular transit of the Firth of Forth before dropping anchor at South Queensferry for Edinburgh on the first port of call of its British Isles Festival Voyage – a celebratory ‘lap of honour’ circumnavigation of the British Isles.

Her arrival beneath the famous Forth Railway Bridge attracted significant interest as the 249th ship to fly under the Cunard flag made her maiden call.

A traditional piper played on the pier as Queen Anne sailed into port, with spectators also treated to a tug water cannon display during her arrival.

Queen Anne arrived early yesterday morning and later departed bound for Kirkwall, Orkney Islands.

Her passage then takes in scenic coastal cruising as well further calls at Invergordon and Greenock where Cunard’s long and historic association with the Clyde will be recorded.

This historic visit was marked by a short Plaque Ceremony during which the ship and the port exchanged specially commissioned commemorative plaques. The port plaque will be displayed on board Queen Anne and the ship’s memento will be displayed by the Port.

Cunard guests sailing on board had a range of shore excursion opportunities to enjoy, including the chance to savour a unique visit to Summerhall Distillery – partners of the luxury cruise line – with a Cunard 4 Queens gin tasting, an exclusive Queen Anne shore experience.

The British Isles Festival Voyage

The 14-night British Isles Festival Voyage departed Southampton on 24 May and includes a spectacular Naming Ceremony for the ship in Cunard’s spiritual home at Liverpool on 3 June.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Queen Anne’s British Isles Festival Voyage is celebrating the very best of Great Britain and Ireland and we are delighted that our guests on board can visit Scotland, starting in the nation’s capital Edinburgh.

“Queen Anne’s maiden voyage around these shores is a truly historic sailing for Cunard.”

Queen Anne 

Whatever your dream destination, discover it with Queen Anne. As the newest addition to the Cunard fleet, her design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest ship, which spans 14 decks, will offer travellers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before. 

She will also boast the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa facilities so far seen on a Cunard ship, with her reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty proposition heralding a new era of wellbeing at sea. 

Throughout her maiden season, Queen Anne will sail from Southampton on itineraries to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Canary Islands, and the Norwegian Fjords, visiting over 60 unique destinations in 16 countries – taking in several of Europe’s most enchanting ancient cities. 

Development underway on 400 new homes for South Queensferry

A sod cutting ceremony has been held to mark the beginning of the delivery of 100 new social homes for Sanctuary Scotland in South Queensferry.  

The properties are part of Lovell Partnerships’ The Crossings at Bridgewater Village development, which will bring around 400 homes to the area.  

The Crossings will be a mixed-tenure development of 398 homes and 14 commercial units, delivered in partnership by Lovell Partnerships, Sanctuary Scotland,  Sigma Capital, the Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council 

Development of the new site is expected to deliver around 200 jobs, directly by Lovell and through the supply chain. Many of the new roles will be for apprentices, including joiners and bricklayers.  

Lovell is proud to support the local community everywhere they build and, in addition to creating jobs, has invested nearly £7million in local business. 

The sod cutting ceremony took place on Scottish Housing Day, which this year focuses on housing as a career. It was attended by City of Edinburgh Council Housing Convenor, Councillor Jane Meagher.  

The development is set to boost housing stock in the area, with several impressive views of the historic bridges crossing the Forth.   

Those properties not earmarked for Sanctuary Scotland will be rented by Sigma Capital or sold on the open market by Lovell Homes.  

The Crossings will include active travel infrastructure and measures such as rain gardens and green/blue infrastructure that work with the water cycle to promote the health of the site and proper water management.   

The homes will also be environmentally sustainable, using solar panels and energy efficient boilers.   

The Crossings will be a 20-minute neighbourhood, meaning that residents will be able to have most of their daily needs met within a short walk or cycle. 

Sarah Freel, Head of Partnerships at Lovell, said: “We are particularly proud to be working with Sanctuary Scotland to provide social housing at this development, which will go towards achieving the Scottish Government’s target of building 110,000 affordable homes by 2032.

“With views of the historic Forth bridges and great access to amenities, this development is certain to be one of Edinburgh’s most desirable neighbourhoods.  

 “Today’s sod-cutting ceremony marks the start of this exciting new community, which will become home to many families over the coming years.”   

Gillian Lavety, Sanctuary’s Development Director for Scotland, commented: “As a leading national housing association, we’re committed to ensuring local people have access to affordable, good-quality homes. 

“The Crossings at Bridgewater Village is an exciting development that will make a real difference, and we’re delighted to be working with our partners to help meet the established need for more affordable homes in the area.” 

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, Councillor Jane Meagher said: “Today marks Scottish Housing Day and it is important to use this opportunity to reflect on this hugely important sector, not just here in Edinburgh but across the country.  

“It was fantastic to be able to mark the day by attending the ceremony to see the start of construction of one hundred social rented homes here in South Queensferry. 

“This exciting start represents an important step forward in the area’s development and will help to alleviate some of the critical pressures that face the Edinburgh’s housing sector.” 

Lovell Homes launches new homes beside the seaside 

Leading property developer Lovell Homes is launching sales of new homes at The Crossings at Bridgewater Village development on Saturday 17th June.

Located in the charming and historic harbour town of South Queensferry, just ten miles north-west of Edinburgh, the development is named after the three bridges that span the Firth of Forth and provides magnificent views of these.

The Crossings at Bridgewater Village, ultimately comprising 113 homes, will offer a fabulous selection of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes, and a choice of two-bedroom apartments.

With an initial release of two and three-bedroom Aberdour, Crail and Bothwell house types, homes will be priced from £265,000, with a sales cabin open onsite as of 17th June. Interested parties are encouraged to visit and find out from themselves what a Lovell home can offer them and their family.

Cleverly designed with modern day living in mind and built to the highest standards, these homes are aimed to appeal to a wide range of buyers, including young professionals, growing families or those looking to downsize.

Each home has been thoughtfully created with modern lifestyles in mind, such as open-plan kitchen/dining with French doors to the rear garden. In addition, new homeowners will be able to pick furnishings and fittings to reflect their lifestyle and personality, choosing from Lovell’s Inspirations’ range.

Lovell is also offering incentives to buyers to help them get started, receiving a personal inspirations package, which helps new buyers customise their homes to their taste; or delivered through the helping hands scheme, through which Lovell covers the cost of selling their existing home. A financial advisor will be available to help buyers make their decision.

Compared to older homes, the average Lovell homes boasts energy efficient insulation, use 30 percent less water, come fitted with efficient appliances, and uses up to 80 percent less electricity for lighting due to only using energy-saving bulbs.*

John McGill, Development Director for Lovell Partnerships Ltd, said: “We are very much looking forward to the sales launch for our new homes at The Crossings and welcoming potential buyers to the sales cabin.

“Located in the charming and historic town of South Queensferry, in the shadow of the three historic Forth bridges, our fabulous properties are beautifully stylish, with a modern look and design.

“With convenient access to Edinburgh and the amenities of the local area, this new development will be perfect for young professionals, families, and those seeking a welcoming community.”

Further information on The Crossings development is available at: 

https://www.lovell.co.uk/developments/the-crossings-at-bridgewater-village-south-queensferry/

*https://www.lovell.co.uk/your-lovell-home/energy-efficient-lovell-homes/

Sea Cadets set up Sea Hives to boost marine life at Port Edgar Marina


Sea cadets have installed a sea hive to benefit local marine life and biodiversity at the Sea Cadets Port Edgar Boat Station in South Queensferry.

Over the weekend, on a cold and overcast Saturday, eight junior cadets – all aged between 10 and 12 from nearby Methil and Queensferry Sea Cadets units – gathered at the Firth of the Forth against the backdrop of the iconic three bridges, first to assemble and then to install the sea hive, under the guidance of Mr David Francis of SeaHives Ltd.

“I measured the bolts used to fit the sea hive together,” one of the cadets, Jae (10) proudly announced. “I put the shackles on, which were used to attach the sea hive to the pontoon,” said Addie (11).

The sea cadets themselves have taken ownership of the exciting initiative, and not only with their hands-on approach in building and setting up the hive. The young people will be monitoring the variety and quantity of marine life that settles into their newly-installed hive over the coming months.

“We will be taking photos with an underwater camera once a week to see which marine life has moved in,” explains sea cadet Edward (10).

“I am excited because it will bring in new marine life,” said Ella (11), with Jude (10) adding that he is hoping that plenty of fish and barnacles (sticky little crustaceans related to crabs, lobsters and shrimp) will decide to make the sea hive their home.

Sea hives are artificial reefs designed to resemble the marine environment, providing surfaces for marine to settle on. Among the marine life that could decide to ‘move in’ are octopus, prawns, rock-dwelling fish and tube worms.

“We are really excited to be working with SeaHives Ltd on this venture, which started six months ago for us,” said Adam Ranklin, Boat Station Manager at the Sea Cadets Port Edgar Boat Station.

“It was great to see how fully engaged the cadets were in the set up and installation of the sea hives. They were very hands-on throughout, using drills and tools as well as taking charge in making decisions about the sea hives. It was a new and very positive experience for our junior sea cadets.”

David Francis of SeaHives Ltd said: ‘What a great bunch of Sea Cadets there were at Port Edgar! They really know how to work as a team to get the job done.

“Their boat station is an ideal location for a sea hive as it provides access to the plankton and nutrient rich waters of the North Sea, in an environment protected from extreme tidal and wave action.

“The sea hive will also provide shelter from predators for small fish and invertebrates like crabs and octopus to grow and breed.

“Sea hives are manufactured partly from processed and recycled fishing nets, an excellent example of how plastic can be re-used with a positive purpose.”

The sea hives project follows local and national forums among the cadets, called Cadet Voice, where the young people decide on the issues closest to their hearts to action. Being more environmentally responsible emerged as one of the young people’s top priorities.

Installation of sea hives will also take place next week at the Sea Cadets Thrapston Boat Station in Northamptonshire, with an eye to installing more sea hives at other Sea Cadets boat stations across the country.

As sea cadet Remy (11) says, “Sea cadets spend many hours on the water – so it’s only right that we should look after our marine environment.”

For more information on Sea Cadets, visit www.sea-cadets.org

To find out more about sea hives, see www.seahives.com

South Queensferry: Have your say on active travel at drop-in session

Do you live in Queensferry? The city council wants to improve walking, wheeling and cycling conditions there, creating more travel options for daily trips to school, work and in your local community.

Come to their drop-in at South Queensferry Community Centre, School Lane on Thursday, 30 June between 3pm and 7pm to meet the project team and find out more

https://consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/…/southqueens…/