PLACES for People (PFP) is to build 160 affordable homes in Edinburgh after completing the acquisition of land at Beat Street East.
The development, which will include a mix of social rent and mid-market rent properties, is PFP’s second major land deal in the city in 2025, following its acquisition of Redheughs earlier this year.
Located to the west of the city with transport links including tram and rail connections, the Beat Street East site forms part of the affordable housing provision for Edinburgh Park. The site will be developed and owned by Places for People Scotland, part of the PFP Group, and will benefit from Scottish Government grant funding.
The acquisition builds on PFP’s ongoing investment in the capital, which includes the delivery of 377 new homes at The Engine Yard as well as the developer’s planned 1,300 homes at Redheughs Village.
In addition to new housing, the Beat Street East project will also include landscaping, green courtyards and accessible housing, enhancing biodiversity and quality of life for future residents.
Colin Jack, regional MD of Scotland at Places for People Developments, said, “Beat Street East is a vital addition to our growing portfolio of developments in Edinburgh. We are committed to tackling the city’s housing needs and delivering well-designed, affordable homes in thriving, connected neighbourhoods. As a social enterprise, we reinvest our profits to create long-term value for communities, and we are already making a tangible impact in Edinburgh through our community hub, tool library, and the regeneration of local housing stock.”
The Beat Street East project will be delivered in partnership with Parabola, the landowner and master planner behind Edinburgh Park, and the City of Edinburgh Council. The land has planning permission in place and PfP expect work to start on site in August 2025.
Tony Hordon, MD at Parabola, commented, “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Places for People to deliver much-needed affordable housing at Edinburgh Park. The Beat Street East site forms an integral part of the wider vision for a connected, inclusive and sustainable new district for Edinburgh. Ensuring that high-quality affordable homes are embedded within the masterplan is central to our ambition to create a vibrant and balanced community. We look forward to seeing this next phase of the development take shape.
“PFP’s development activity in Edinburgh brings wider benefits beyond housing delivery. Colin Continued “By investing in underused sites and introducing new affordable homes in well-connected locations, PFP is helping to meet urgent housing need while relieving pressure on existing infrastructure. Our community-focused model also ensures support services and facilities are put in place to help people thrive.”
