PLANS have been launched for a major retrofit project at Edinburgh’s Cables Wynd House and Linksview House.
Built in the 1960s, the now designated A-listed buildings collectively provide 310 homes – the majority of which are owned by the City of Edinburgh Council.
The local authority is behind the plans, with Collective Architecture leading the design. The proposed works are being driven by the need to meet the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2).
Achieving compliance will require ‘substantial’ upgrades to both the building fabric and mechanical systems, the council said. Alongside this, the local authority has identified the opportunity to deliver wider improvements that will bring the buildings in line with modern new-build standards.
Key elements of the proposal include improved insulation, window replacements, and energy-efficient heating systems to meet EESSH2 standards.
Further to this will be the installation of sprinkler systems, smoke ventilation, a new fire-fighting lift, and improved fire compartmentalisation in communal areas. The removal of legacy bin chutes and inclusion of internal waste management facilities will also contribute to enhanced fire safety.
Upgraded internal and external lighting will also be delivered, as well as a ‘comprehensive’ review of CCTV systems, and improved access control throughout the buildings.
The council added that the refurbishment project presents a ‘unique’ opportunity to reimagine the outdoor environment surrounding both towers. Proposals include new play areas, external seating, wildflower meadows, sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), and a full review of parking and waste facilities.
Housing, homelessness and fair work convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, Lezley Marion Cameron, said, “I am delighted that the proposals for the Council’s £69 million investment in Cables Wynd House and Linksview House have now been submitted to the CEC Planning Service, setting out our plans to make our residents’ homes safer, more comfortable and more energy efficient.
“Cables Wynd and Linksview House residents have long campaigned for this much needed and substantive investment in their homes to happen. Their influence and input into our consultation sessions have shaped these proposals and is hugely valued. I look forward to continuing this positive engagement with Cables Wynd and Linksview House residents and Leith Ward Councillors as the project progresses.”
Carl Baker, Architect, certified Passivhaus designer at Collective Architecture, added, “Collective Architecture is proud to be working with The City of Edinburgh Council on the retrofit of Cables Wynd House and Linksview House. Our proposals place residents at the heart of the process, aiming to provide greener, warmer homes, while celebrating and sensitively enhancing the unique character of the Category A listed buildings.
“As part of a just transition, our carefully considered interventions will improve the thermal and environmental performance of the iconic structures – boosting energy efficiency and alleviating the risk of fuel poverty.
“As with many of our projects, meaningful resident engagement has been central to the design process and will remain a key focus through the final design stage and into construction.”
