The former office block achieved planning permission in 2022 for part change of use and part redevelopment to residential use. Through the approval of that consent, a number of public realm benefits were included:

• High-quality flexible working space
• A new, accessible pedestrian and bicycle connection from Learmonth Gardens to Orchard Brae
• New street connection from Learmonth Gardens to Learmonth Crescent
• Car and bicycle parking
• High quality amenity spaces.

The existing planning permission involves the change of use and extension of the existing Finance House, together with a new build residential development at the rear part of the site. The applicant is now seeking to bring forward a new change of use, focussing on just part of the site.

The new change of use would focus on Finance House and comprise internal design changes from the existing office use to Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). In focusing on internal changes only, the proposals would retain the positive steps achieved by the previous planning application.

The proposed new build residential development at the rear part of the site remains unchanged. Working with Morgan Architects and Scott Hobbs Planning, Square & Crescent is also proposing to remove the existing underground car parking facilities.

It is also proposed to maintain the associated active travel routes, including a much-needed connection between Learmonth Gardens and Orchard Brae; open space, play area, external car and cycle parking, and other infrastructure contained within the consented scheme.