November 25 2024

An Edinburgh aparthotel is set for expansion under plans to erect a five-storey extension over an existing car park to provide an additional 20 rooms.

The Holyrood Aparthotel at Bakehouse Close has commissioned Comprehensive Design Architects to build up its Slater's Steps elevation, increasing available accommodation to 97 rooms.

The Old Town site lies off the Canongate in an area redeveloped in the 1990s, following the demolition of the Holyrood Brewery complex, the area is now defined by an eclectic mix of primary coloured render, copper and zinc-clad buildings nestled amongst refurbished properties.

Added to this mix will be a that bulks up the distinctive herringbone street pattern. Promoting their development CDA wrote: "The proposal provides the opportunity to increase the height and density towards the middle of the lane that is characteristic of the Old Town. The addition of windows along the street edge will also add to the active frontage improving engagement with the pend and will increase passive surveillance through increased overlooking of the public realm to maintain safety on narrow streets."

Composed of a white render and a 'wave' frontage of dark metal cladding the extension will establish a narrow vennel, in keeping with its medieval setting, with new dormer windows intended to reflect a traditional pitched roof.

Daylighting studies have been commissioned to gauge the impact on opposing flats, with the applicant arguing that these are acceptable with retained daylight levels higher than elsewhere in Hammermen's Entry. 

1 Comment

#1 Posted by Anne Mechen on 30 Nov 2024 at 14:48 PM

Having looked at the proposed plans for this development and as this will affect residential flats at number 20 Hammermens Entry this will definitely cut out the daylight to these flats. Please also note that the small entry road will be affected what with HGV lorries making deliveries to this site causing unnecessary noise to residents and students alike, causing blockage for emergency vehicles and residents area leaving their homes...(an accident waiting to happen) Please also note that this is a no parking area with double yellow lines all round and that it is illegal to park cars or skips on this road. I am concerned with noise, safety to health due to dust and the general health of the residents. I am free to discuss the issues mentioned above, and will be submitting my concerns to the council and my MP.

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