WORK is underway on a new 388-home residential development in Leith.
The Waterfront Plaza project has been tipped to transform disused land at a section of Leith’s waterfront. Being delivered by CALA Homes (East), the site is located opposite Ocean Terminal. As well as the new homes, some 1500 sqm of flexible workspace units will be created.
“Urgently needed” affordable homes form part of the development, with 82 to be built and brought to market by a housing association with a further 15 units delivered through the council’s Golden Share model.
CALA said that despite being initially recommended for refusal due to historic zoning for a commercial-led scheme, the brownfield site was unanimously backed by councillors after receiving support by local community leaders, businesses and politicians.
Craig Lynes, land director at CALA Homes (East) said, “This is a milestone moment for Leith’s famous waterfront and will make a significant and tangible difference to the prosperity of the wider area. The community and key stakeholders have played a crucial role in helping us to get to this stage – as constructive feedback early on in the process helped us to amend plans in a way that really works. I would like to thank all of those who have positively engaged in the planning process and offered that support.
“By responding to the demand for a range of high-quality homes, improved public realm and connectivity to the Shore from Ocean Terminal, the site represents a success story for the council’s planning system. It has realised the potential of a brownfield site which has lain derelict for decades.”
Waterfront Plaza includes a mix of homes from flats to large townhouses. The first homes are tipped to be occupied towards the end of next year.
Local ward councillor Gordon Munro said, “There has been a lot of talk over the years about what would happen here. At last ground is being broken.This is the catalyst for a lot more and will set the standard for what is to come.”
Local councillor and City of Edinburgh Council leader, Adam McVey added, “This development has a strong sense of place and strong understanding of Leith. I’m delighted that such a prominent patch of land in Leith which has been brownfield for so long is finally getting a development our community can be proud of.”
