The event was attended by Bob Bratland, Mark Yonwin and George Rose from Danehurst, representatives from the design team and representatives from Clark Contracts including director Michael Scanlan and the wider project team.

To mark the occasion Bob Bratland, the co-founder of Danehurst, cast the last section of concrete on the development.

Scheduled to open Autumn 2025, the six-storey development will comprise 155 beds along with generously sized amenity spaces, including a lounge area, games room, communal kitchen, gym, library and group study rooms. In total, almost 500 sqm will be provided for students to socialise, relax and enjoy.

The development is designed to achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” rating and includes roof-mounted air source heat pumps which will provide the heating and hot water for the building, with SUDs incorporated in the form of green and blue roofs. The development will also achieve WiredScore ‘Platinum’ demonstrating the site’s connectivity which is critical to support students in their studies and daily lives.

This project is being delivered in collaboration with architect ISA Architects, structural engineer Fairhurst, services engineer Rybka and principal designer F3 Building Surveyors.

Bob Bratland from Danehurst said: “This is Danehurst’s first project north of the border and it is a great experience working with our Scottish design team and Clark Contracts who are all working to make Danehurst’s vision of providing students with a ‘home away from home’ experience in Edinburgh a reality. Designed to satisfy critical requirements to ensure the security, safety and well-being of the residents, we look forward to welcoming students in later this year.” 

Michael Scanlan, director at Clark Contracts added: “This topping out marks a significant milestone in the development of The Pepper Mill student accommodation project. This state-of-the-art facility will provide students with a modern, sustainable living space, complete with a range of amenities designed to foster community and well-being. Upon its completion, we look forward to seeing The Pepper Mill become a key part of the student experience here in Edinburgh.”