New Edinburgh student accommodation to reflect 1800s streetscape

GRAHAM has commenced works on the build of a new student accommodation scheme in the Abbeyhill area of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh-based developer, Glencairn Properties, is behind the build which will see the creation of 149 studios and cluster flats.

Occupying a corner plot on Montrose Terrace and West Norton Place, the developers said the build will bring a ‘characterful’ building ‘sympathetically designed to reflect the original streetscape that was set out in the 1800s.

The energy-efficient building will be complemented with multi-use common areas, laundry facilities, cycle-storage, underground bin facilities, a gyn and a community room.

It is expected that construction will be complete in late summer of 2023, with 12 jobs on a longer-term basis being created on the back of the construction of the development, as well as 10 roles for the maintenance and security of the site.

Gary Holmes, regional MD for GRAHAM’s building division, said, “Glencairn Properties has a track record of delivering high-quality homes and we are very pleased to work with their team to deliver the Montrose Terrace scheme as they expand their purpose-built student accommodation portfolio. GRAHAM’s expertise across the student accommodation sector will bring a wealth of knowledge to the build.

“Edinburgh’s world-renowned universities and colleges drive a significant volume of investment within the city, and it is important that there is the correct level of accommodation to match student intake which Montrose Terrace will help to achieve.”

Daryl Teague, MD at Glencairn Properties, added, “Edinburgh is a diverse city with a large student population. Our investment into this state-of-the-art accommodation, matches the quality of education available. We are thrilled to get underway to deliver prime student accommodation in the heart of the city, transforming a currently derelict site into a space that is cleverly designed for modern-day lifestyle habits.

“The community support from the outset, has been very encouraging and we are confident that it will help to boost the economy through tenancies and job creation.”

56three Architects and Will Rudd Davidson were appointed as the architect and consultant engineer on the scheme respectively.