Today marks the start of construction on one of Scotland's largest net zero housing developments, bringing the next phase of the Granton Waterfront regeneration project under way.
The development will provide 847 net zero homes, including 387 affordable homes, 14 commercial units and a new primary school on former industrial land.
It is 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.
Local school pupils, including young people who have benefited from construction courses supported through Scottish Government investment in Granton's regeneration joined the visit.
Jane Meagher, Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, said:
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. I am really proud to mark this, alongside our development partner Cruden and the Scottish Government - through our joint efforts we’ll transform this former industrial site into a new coastal town and community.
I’ve been clear in my commitment to tackle the housing emergency and our citywide investment programme to address this. We’ll see 847 brand new energy efficient homes made available, with at least 45% of these being affordable. Alongside this, the new Granton Waterfront community includes a new school, improved public transport including routes for walking and wheeling, shops and new leisure and recreation facilities. It is set to be a fantastic, vibrant place to live and work.
“It’s important that those living in neighbouring communities also benefit from the investment we’re making in the area, which is why our Place Accelerator approach will ensure residents see the benefits. This includes more green spaces to enjoy and opportunities for local young people to gain hands on construction skills and qualifications through work on site. It’s fantastic to see the investment we’re making will last long into the future.
Fraser Lynes, Chief Executive Officer of Cruden Homes, said:
Starting construction at Granton Waterfront is an important milestone for everyone involved in bringing this ambitious vision to life. Granton is a development of real significance for Edinburgh, not only because of the new homes and neighbourhood it will create, but because of the opportunity to deliver lasting social and economic benefits for the communities around it.
As construction gathers pace, our focus is firmly on delivering high-quality, sustainable homes while ensuring the investment being made here creates opportunities for local people. Our work with Edinburgh College and local schools is an important part of that, helping young people see the breadth of careers available in construction and giving them a tangible connection to one of the most exciting coastal regeneration projects taking place in the UK.
Principal of Edinburgh College, Audrey Cumberford said:
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.
Background
More information about Granton Waterfront’s regeneration is available online.
The Scottish Government is providing the City of Edinburgh Council with up to £2.1 million per year over a 20-year period to support the first phase of Granton Waterfront's regeneration. Payment is conditional on the council meeting targets related to the delivery of walking and cycling routes, green spaces, construction skills training for local secondary pupils, investment in non-profit organisations and establishing a fund to reinvest developer contributions in jobs and businesses in Granton.
An additional £16 million is being provided towards the first phase of the Granton Waterfront project by the Scottish Government through its contribution to the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal. Public sector investment is estimated to leverage a further £220 million of private sector investment in houses and business space.
Granton Waterfront Construction Pathway courses are delivered by Edinburgh College in partnership with local schools and Cruden Homes. The programme gives school and college pupils hands-on experience of the construction industry and a route into further education, apprenticeships and careers in construction. There are currently 264 S3 pupils, 195 S4 pupils and 307 full-time college students participating.