Leith gasworks redevelopment recommended for approval

Councillors have been recommended to approve plans for a mixed-use development including 18 affordable homes at a former gasworks in Leith.

Submitted by Michael Laird Architects in February, the proposals for the site at 1-5 Baltic Street and 7-27 Constitution Street also include 66 HMO apartments comprising 558 postgraduate student bedrooms, two separate 2-bedroom warden flats, four affordable shop units, and café & digital co-working space.

During a public exhibition held in December, developer Sundial Properties said it believes affordable housing would be an important part of the mix even though the proposed other uses for the site carry no statutory requirement to provide it.

Leith gasworks redevelopment recommended for approval

Michael Laird Architects said it hoped to retain the industrial architecture of the site wherever possible.

The planning statement revealed: “As the site once more adapts to new uses, it is important that these old buildings and their rough finishes are celebrated. This can be done by ensuring that the newer buildings are layered into the site and are completely legible as new. This way, the development will be sure to capture every period of its history and will tell of the constant change it has undergone.

“The industrial buildings will be appreciated for their robust design, surrounded by elegant and modern additions which echo the buildings which did not survive.”

The City of Edinburgh Council is due to decide on the plans on Wednesday.

UPDATE: The planning was approved by councillors - read more here.

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