Plans have been granted approval for a new student accommodation project located on London Road in Edinburgh. This development, which will provide 76 beds, is being undertaken by HG Developments and constitutes the second phase of their ongoing expansion in this area. The new building will sit adjacent to another planned project, which will comprise 198 beds at 61-63 London Road. The site is strategically positioned opposite the Meadowbank Stadium, and the project will replace an existing car wash with a six-storey structure that is designed to introduce a robust architectural presence at this key corner location.
Project Details and Community Impact
Upon its completion, the new student accommodation will house the headquarters of the Edinburgh-based charity, People Know How, on the ground floor of the neighbouring 61-63 London Road. This charity is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their potential, and the new premises will enable them to strengthen their ties with the community they aim to serve. The development will also prioritise sustainability, providing only four parking spaces while offering an impressive capacity for 198 bicycle spaces. Additionally, the plans include Sheffield racks for visitors and staff, bringing the total bicycle space to 210.
Sustainability Initiatives
The design of the accommodation will feature energy-efficient technologies aimed at enhancing its sustainability profile. This includes the installation of water-saving fixtures such as low flush toilets and low flow taps and showers, which will significantly reduce water consumption compared to standard designs. Architects 3DReid have been instrumental in developing the design, while Turley served as the planning consultants for the project.
Statements from the Developers
A representative from HG Developments expressed their satisfaction with the planning committee’s approval, stating, “We are delighted to have received approval of our application at committee today. This high-quality student accommodation proposal will serve to redevelop a brownfield site in previous commercial use.” They highlighted that the development is crucial for addressing the increasing demand for student accommodation in Edinburgh, driven by the growth ambitions of local universities. Furthermore, this initiative aims to alleviate pressure on the private housing market while injecting substantial economic activity into the local community.
Community Engagement
Glenn Liddall, the chief executive of People Know How, shared his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “Having worked closely with the developer we were pleased to see this scheme, which acts as an extension to the neighbouring building which is now under construction, gaining planning approval. We are locating our headquarters here, allowing us to serve the local community and enabling us to grow.” He noted that many students volunteer with the organisation, creating a beneficial relationship between the charity and the student residents, which is expected to foster a sense of community engagement.
Architectural Vision and Urban Development
Ruta Turcinaviciute, the project designer from 3DReid, emphasised the importance of this development for the future of the area, stating, “The proposed scheme marks an important moment for the future redevelopment of a constrained and complicated site, which will benefit the urban quality of London Road and represent a further contribution to the ongoing regeneration of the wider area.” The building’s design aims to complement the character of the surrounding architecture, integrating modern elements with the historic tenements that define the neighbourhood.