WORK is underway on the construction of one of Scotland’s largest net zero housing developments in the Granton area of Edinburgh.
First minister John Swinney was in attendance to mark the start of the first phase of the regeneration of Granton Waterfront, which will provide 847 net zero homes – 387 of which will be affordable – as well as 14 commercial units and a new primary school. Cruden Homes is leading this phase.
The work forms part of a wider £1.3 billion transformation of Edinburgh’s waterfront that will create 3,500 homes, new leisure facilities, and Scotland’s largest coastal park.
The first minister joined local school pupils at the site, including young people who have benefited from construction courses supported through Scottish Government investment in Granton’s regeneration. He said, “This is one of the largest regeneration projects Scotland has seen in decades and a major vote of confidence in Edinburgh’s future. For years, people have looked across this waterfront and seen disused industrial land. Today, we are laying the foundations for a new community that will be home to thousands of people.
“Through our investment, hundreds of families will have affordable, energy-efficient homes as we transform Edinburgh’s waterfront into a thriving neighbourhood with new homes, schools and businesses. We are putting the people of Granton at the heart of this transformation, with better transport links, new green spaces, apprenticeships, skills training and investment in local organisations.”
Jane Meagher, leader of City of Edinburgh Council, added, “This is a big step forward for Granton and the whole city, as construction begins on the first phase of one of the largest public sector led regeneration projects of its time. Through our joint efforts we’ll transform this former industrial site into a new coastal town and community. It’s important that those living in neighbouring communities benefit from the investment we’re making in the area. Our Place Accelerator approach will ensure residents see the benefits, including more green spaces to enjoy and opportunities for local young people to gain hands on construction skills and qualifications through work on site.”
Audrey Cumberford, principal of Edinburgh College, which works with Cruden Homes to deliver Granton Waterfront Construction Pathway courses for school and college pupils, commented, “Edinburgh College has been at the heart of the Granton community for many years and we’re delighted to be involved in the next stage of its regeneration. Not only will this project provide hundreds of new homes in the area, this is already providing hundreds of opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in the construction industry. These opportunities could be transformative for our learners – allowing them to gain vital skills and develop a career in the sector.”
