Edinburgh council approves new scheme including 291 build-to-rent homes

The proposed housing includes 291 build-to-rent homes, 331 private market homes and 335 affordable homes. A total of 35% of the homes will be affordable.

Ten per cent of the build-to-rent homes will be adaptable, meaning they can be converted to accessible homes if required. Meanwhile, 10% of the affordable homes are designed to be wheelchair-accessible.

A northern park area with a rain garden was also proposed, along with wildflower meadows, tree planting, a playground, lawn and picnic areas and two new squares.

The site was allocated in the council’s City Plan 2030 for residential-focused redevelopment.

But several Edinburgh residents have shared their concerns over the plans. Last year, residents told the local press in Edinburgh that they were concerned over traffic congestion in the area from the new homes.

However, a report prepared by council planning officers read: “The proposal complies with the development plan and aligns to a high degree with the council guidance in the West Edinburgh placemaking framework and the Edinburgh design guidance.

“Subject to developer contributions being secured towards required infrastructure the proposal is acceptable.

“There are no material considerations which outweigh the conclusion to grant planning permission.”

Stuart Black, development director for Summix Capital, said: “The granting of this planning application for Edinburgh Gateway will create one of Scotland’s most exciting and best-connected neighbourhoods, representing a significant investment in the capital.

“Redeveloping one of the last significant pieces of brownfield land in the city into a brand-new, sustainable mixed-use community, Edinburgh Gateway will support the tackling of the city’s well-publicised housing emergency.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the local community and council officers, as we progress the delivery of the development.”

Last year, Scottish ministers approved 799 homes including build-to-rent in Edinburgh, subject to a series of noise concerns being addressed. The plans were called in by the Scottish government in 2023 so that ministers could review a number of noise-related concerns.