VITA Group has published plans to create new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and social housing in New Waverley North in Edinburgh.
Vita Student has been targeting the Scottish capital for new investment with sites now operating at Fountainbridge in the city centre and Iona Street off Leith Walk.
A public consultation will be carried out as part of the proposals with two events being held in the Scottish Story Telling Centre on Edinburgh’s High Street. A planning application will be submitted in due course.
Vita Student said it sees the creation of new PBSA as ‘vital’ for the realisation of the city’s ambitions for a knowledge-based economy as set out in the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.
James Rooke, head of planning at Vita Group, said, “We know that so much of Edinburgh’s success is based on attracting and retaining students that help power the city’s success. The site at New Waverley North will support around 300 students on site and between five to ten affordable homes.
“We do realise that student accommodation can be controversial in Edinburgh, but students are the building blocks of a knowledge economy and Edinburgh is well placed achieve its ambitions to become a ‘Data Capital’. However, the city needs more, better and a wider range of student accommodation for that to happen. New Waverley North is well placed to contribute to Edinburgh’s success.
“We look forward to the consultation with the local community and to discussing the proposals with local stakeholders.”
