Canongate student flats bid gains consent on appeal
December 15 2022
A bid to build student accommodation on a former 19th-century gasworks in Edinburgh has been approved on appeal.
Planners had initially thrown out the scheme in August prompting developers Summix and S Harrison to take their case directly to the Scottish Government.
The reversal permits the construction of 76 studio rooms for postgraduate students at Edinburgh University, requiring the demolition of 20th-century additions at 179A Canongate.
Explaining the decision to grant consent the reporter wrote: "The proposed development utilises a brownfield site making efficient use of existing land and buildings. It supports the delivery of accessible accommodation and is appropriately located within walking distance of education facilities, local amenities, and public transport. The scale, form and design respect the historic environment and mitigation measures are incorporated to safeguard the amenity of existing and future occupiers.”
David Clancy of S Harrison commented: “We are pleased to see that the Reporter noted that the proposed PBSA does not result in an ‘excessive concentration’ of student accommodation in the area and will fit in with the nearby listed buildings, preserving the character and appearance of the Old Town Conservation Area."
Arranged around an open courtyard the homes will provide shared amenity space, study rooms, a gym and a multimedia room, with historic elements including perimeter walls and a workshop incorporated into the design.
Interventions by 3DReid Architects include a five-storey element under a triple-pitched roof, falling to a two-storey, dual-pitched roof overlooking a kirkyard.
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