Transforming disused industrial site could bring Scots into 'vibrant' new Edinburgh community

The proposed project would see the transformation of a brownfield site on the city’s Gorgie Road into a “vibrant residential community”, delivering 63 properties, including 22 affordable homes split between social rent and mid-market rent. The plans from property developer Dundas Estates are set to be considered by a City of Edinburgh Council planning committee.

Bosses at the firm said the proposals for the 0.7-hectare site aligned with the Scottish Government’s national planning framework and Edinburgh’s City Plan 2030, which both emphasise the re-use of brownfield land as a priority amid the ongoing housing emergency.

Previously used for industrial storage and domestic garages, the site would host three modern flatted blocks ranging from two to four storeys in height, designed with a “focus on sustainability, community connectivity and biodiversity enhancement”. Further features include rain gardens, energy-efficient designs and secure cycling facilities.

In addition to private and communal green spaces, the project envisages a civic space to “promote community interaction”. Existing garages serving adjacent tenement residents would also be replaced with upgraded facilities, “ensuring seamless integration with the surrounding area”.

Mike Andrews, land and development manager with Dundas Estates, said: “This development is a positive step forward given Edinburgh’s stark housing needs, delivering attractive and efficient private homes and affordable properties. By regenerating unused brownfield land, we aim to provide high-quality homes while enhancing the local environment and fostering a strong sense of community.”

In developing its proposals, Livingston-based Dundas brought together a number of consultants, including Edinburgh-based EMA Architecture + Design and Dunfermline-based civil engineering practice Bayne Stevenson Associates.

Situated in a “well-connected area” with public transport links and proximity to schools, parks, and shops, the development is expected to support local living and reduce reliance on cars, contributing to Edinburgh’s “20-minute” neighbourhood initiative. Pending approval, construction could begin early next year, with completion targeted for 2026. Dundas said it would keep the community informed throughout the process.

Earlier this year, a residential development in Shawfair, south of Edinburgh, was rescued from collapsed housebuilder Stewart Milne to be delivered by Dundas Estates. The firm completed the purchase of the site on the well-established Shawfair development six miles south of the capital. As a result, the construction of 59 properties, consisting of a mix of three to six-bed homes, was able to push ahead.

Meanwhile, new figures show that annual house price growth accelerated to 2.9 per cent in September. Across the UK, the average property value is £292,000, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The annual pace of price growth estimated by the ONS ticked upwards from 2.7 per cent in the year to August. Average house prices increased in Scotland to £198,000 (a 5.7 per cent annual increase), in England to £309,000 (2.5 per cent) and in Wales to £217,000 (0.4 per cent), over the 12 months to September 2024.

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