Watkin Jones has been given the green light to push ahead with a residential scheme in Edinburgh, which was called in by the Scottish government.
The scheme, which was previously approved by the City of Edinburgh Council’s development management sub-committee on 7 December 2022, was called in so ministers could review a number of noise-related concerns.
Ministers have now approved the scheme in Chesser, to the west of Edinburgh city centre, after finding the concerns were unfounded.
The development will deliver 293 build-to-rent (BTR) homes, 406 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) bedrooms and 100 new affordable homes. Watkin Jones is in discussions with a local registered provider to procure and operate the affordable housing post-completion.
Iain Smith, planning director at Watkin Jones, said: “Securing approval from Scottish ministers for this landmark regeneration project in Chesser is another step in addressing the city’s housing shortage. Following the Scottish government’s declaration of a national housing emergency in 2024, our new development helps to address Edinburgh’s housing needs across several tenures by delivering high quality homes in a highly accessible location.
“We are not only relieving pressure on the city’s housing market, but also contributing to a more sustainable city. Importantly, the development will also protect the most important elements of historic buildings for future generations and ensure the public has access to Heritage Square for years to come.”
