PLACES for People has secured land on the outskirts of Edinburgh to bring forward over 1,300 new homes.
The social enterprise, which supplied over 1,700 new homes in the last year, acquired the 110-acre site, located west of the city centre, from Murray Estates.
Colin Jack, regional MD – Scotland of Places for People Developments, said, “The city of Edinburgh and the Scottish Government have declared a housing emergency. This is a sign that for too long Scotland has failed to address our chronic shortage of homes being built. We are ready to help address this, and it is why we’re thrilled to play a part in developing the west of Edinburgh.
“This site will see over 1,300 new homes being brought forward in much needed mixed-tenure communities. Using our team’s extensive housebuilding background, we can create communities that last for generations to come.”
A masterplan is being prepared for the site in line with the Edinburgh City Plan 2030 which could include, but is not limited to: a broad mix of housing types to suit local needs; a ‘substantial’ number of affordable homes to be included; plenty of greenspace with a landscaped linear park running through the development; employment opportunities during the ten-year construction period and afterwards; new educational provisions including a primary school; greater connectivity to the city centre; and a local commercial centre.
David Murray, managing director of Murray Estates’ owner Murray Capital, said, “As a family business that has owned this site for 40 years, we’re pleased to see our vision for Redheughs taken forward by an organisation committed to creating sustainable, high-quality communities. It’s nearly 10 years since we first applied for outline planning approval, so this transaction also unlocks capital that we can invest in new projects that support our ambitions as a patient, entrepreneurial business.
“This is the first phase of the broader Edinburgh Garden District, which is a key part of the western expansion of the city. We look forward to seeing west Edinburgh come to life and contribute thousands of new homes the capital so desperately needs. We retain other strategic land holdings in the area – including 500 acres of the Garden District – and will look to develop options for these over the coming years.”
Places for People said it will look to boost social impact activities across Scotland. In addition to promoting apprenticeships, local labour schemes and training opportunities through the development, the organisation aims to supplement existing schemes in Edinburgh including the Hays Community Pantry and the Tools for Equity project.
In partnership with subsidiary Places Leisure, Places for People will also deliver additional physical activity sessions, extend the relational mentoring project in partnership with Wise Group and form new partnerships with charities to address challenges in local communities.
Colin Jack added, “With the scale of our organisation, we know how important access to affordable housing is and our unique model supports us in delivering places that allow people to flourish. We don’t just build homes; we create communities that allow people to connect.”
Plans will see homes being built from summer 2026.