AROUND 1,070 homes have been built in Midlothian’s Shawfair and Craighall, with over 1,100 in construction and around 3,000 more advancing through the planning system.
Eight housebuilders are currently active across this new settlement, with multiple parts of the site moving forward at the same time. This level of activity makes Shawfair one of the most active housing development sites in Scotland at the moment, Midlothian Council said.
Alongside new homes, key infrastructure is being delivered to support a sustainable, connected community. Almost 20k of pipework has now been laid for the Shawfair district heat network. Nearly all homes currently under construction will connect to this network, providing low‑carbon heating and hot water to residents.
The network is being delivered by Midlothian Energy Ltd, a joint venture between Midlothian Council and Vattenfall Heat UK.
Work is also underway preparing the site for a new all‑through education campus at Shawfair. Once completed in June 2028, the campus will include a two-stream primary school with capacity for 459 pupils and early years provision. This will be extended to a three-stream school with capacity for 676 pupils when required later.
Secondary school facilities will be able to take 900 pupils initially with the option to expand to accommodate 1200 pupils, whenever needed. Sports and community facilities will be included.
A planning application for the Shawfair Campus has now been submitted to Midlothian Council planning authority.
Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Midlothian Council cabinet member for housing, said, “Shawfair is growing into a well‑planned community with new homes, a new school, and modern infrastructure coming together in one place. This approach helps us meet housing need while building for the future, with low‑carbon heating, good transport links and community facilities from the outset.
“While construction on this scale can bring disruption for residents living nearby, the council and Shawfair LLP meet regularly with landowners and developers to coordinate activity and reduce impacts where possible. The Shawfair website has also recently being updated, helping residents keep track of progress.”
