October 30 2023

FM Developments have set out plans for hundreds of apartments and townhouses in the latest phase of expansion at Western Harbour, Port of Leith.

The developer is in the process of acquiring the 0.62-hectare waterfront site but has already developed initial ideas for the land ahead of an anticipated planning application early next year.

A public consultation led by 56Three Architects sets out those ideas, with the practice explaining: "The proposed concept for the development comprises two blocks of accommodation, with gables facing the adjacent residential apartments to minimise the visual impact. The proposed northern apartment block faces the Firth of Forth and extends from 9-15 storeys in a broadly similar form to the adjacent developments, which were completed in 2007-2008.

"The southern block consists of duplex units and townhouses over 3 storeys with parking contained to the rear within a sunken courtyard which also provides parking and servicing for the apartment block. The western gable of each building has been positioned within the site to allow a sizeable area of landscaping to be retained between the existing and proposed developments."

A second public consultation is scheduled for 11 November to set out the plans in more detail. 

3 Comments

#1 Posted by Johnny Handcock on 30 Oct 2023 at 13:40 PM

Low rise garbage

#2 Posted by town planner on 30 Oct 2023 at 15:04 PM

Not many places in Edinburgh where buildings with more height are appropriate, but this is one. Build something a bit taller (and well-designed) to obtain the many benefits from higher density urban developments, slow the sprawl of Edinburgh into the surrounding countryside/green belt, and also provide some options for those who would like to live in higher-rise buildings but who currently aren't catered for.

#3 Posted by Jack on 31 Oct 2023 at 09:48 AM

Seems like a missed opportunity to extend the tram line to western harbour and build a truly urban new district. The master plan for the rest of western harbour across the road looked great when I saw it a few years ago, but haven’t heard anything about it since then, is that happening?

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