New Edinburgh student-led development approved

A student-led residential development on Edinburgh’s London Road has been granted planning permission.

The 198-bed development by property developer Summix Capital will result in the redevelopment of a site recently in commercial retail use.

Situated opposite Meadowbank Stadium, the building will comprise a mix of clusters and studios together with a community/office space, student common areas, a laundry, cycle parking and underground bin stores.

The developers said that an energy efficient design will enhance sustainability, with water consuming systems offering ‘considerable reductions’ in water use compared to baseline technologies, including low flush toilets and low flow taps and showers 

The development has been tipped to deliver an estimated £15 million of investment in its construction, with an estimated 85 jobs generated through the construction period.

Once complete, Edinburgh-based charity People Know How will locate their headquarters on the ground floor of the building.

Architects 3DReid worked on the scheme and the planning consultants were Turley.

A spokesperson for Summix Capital said, “We are delighted to have received approval of our application at committee today. This high-quality student accommodation proposal will serve to redevelop a location in previous commercial and industrial use.

“Positive interaction with the community during the design and planning process informed the scheme’s final form and successful engagement with council officers has enabled the project to evolve into a successful and sustainable scheme.

“Given the high sustainability of the location there is no requirement for car parking spaces beyond those for the City Car club and disabled spaces, and we are ensuring that there is excellent provision of bicycle spaces. The development also serves to address the increasing demand for student accommodation, fulfilling the ambitious growth plans of universities in the city, which are key drivers of the economy. This also helps to reduce pressure on the private housing market as well as delivering a substantial amount in additional expenditure into the local economy.”