DfE Confirms Tuition Fee Freeze
22nd Jan 2021
Plans to build purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) in Edinburgh containing 140 beds have been approved.
Located in Montrose Terrace in Abbeyhill, the scheme was submitted by Glencairn Properties and will result in the site that was formerly a Shell petrol station being transformed into student accommodation.
The applicant is hoping that the project will regenerate the area and lead to a characterful building.
Whilst the plans were approved, the council insisted on imposing an additional condition for cycle parking, which was accepted by the developers. Green councillor Chas Booth said: "I would prefer if we were firm with applicants about cycle parking. Without wishing to stereotype students I think there is a very high likelihood that students will cycle given the right opportunities, given safe facilities and somewhere safe to store their bicycle."
"I think we need to ensure that developers are taking this into account at an early stage of the planning not simply adding it as an afterthought."
Commenting on the scheme. Daryl Teague, managing director at Glencairn Properties, said: "We're thrilled our application has been approved and the strong community support we received for it. These proposals will redevelop a vital location in the heart of the capital and help to tackle Edinburgh's growing student accommodation without removing available properties from housing stock."
"We believe that these proposals are in line with City of Edinburgh Council's stated aim to deliver purpose-built student accommodation throughout the city, reducing pressure on mainstream housing stock. Montrose Terrace not only makes use of a derelict site but offers a realistic use for the location without placing additional parking or access issues on the immediate community."
