In the 1970s, Edinburgh sought to address its growing population with the construction of a housing estate that was once hailed as a model of modern urban planning. Known as “The Ramps,” this estate in West Granton represented a bold vision for affordable housing, embodying the architectural ideals of the time. However, over the years, what began as a promising development became a byword for urban decay and social challenges.
A recently resurfaced photograph from the 1980s offers a poignant reminder of the estate’s decline. The image, showing the derelict remains of The Ramps with the iconic Granton gasworks in the background, captures a moment in time when the area had begun to fall into disrepair. While the gasworks have largely been dismantled, with only a single structure remaining today, the photograph evokes memories of a community that grappled with the realities of living in a space that had once been celebrated but later became synonymous with hardship.
A Vision of Modern Living
The Ramps were conceived as part of a broader initiative to provide modern housing solutions for Edinburgh’s working class. The estate’s design, characterised by elevated walkways and large concrete structures, was intended to foster a sense of community and offer residents a fresh start away from the crowded tenements of the city centre. In the eyes of planners, the estate was an architectural triumph, a manifestation of the brutalist style that was in vogue at the time.
However, the very features that were meant to promote community living—such as the interconnected ramps—soon became problematic. The concrete structures, which were initially praised for their modern aesthetic, began to age poorly, with cracks in the buildings becoming a common sight. These flaws, combined with the estate’s labyrinthine layout, contributed to a growing sense of isolation and insecurity among residents.
The estate was immortalised in literature, where it was described as having the appearance of “varicose vein flats” due to the white plaster used to fill the cracks in the buildings’ exteriors. This vivid imagery captured the deteriorating condition of the estate, which mirrored the declining quality of life for many of its inhabitants.
Life in the Estate: A Mixed Experience
For those who lived in The Ramps, memories of the estate are a mixture of fond recollections and harsh realities. In the early days, some residents were pleased to finally have a home of their own, especially after moving from less desirable living conditions. The sense of community was strong, with neighbours looking out for one another and children playing in the communal spaces.
Yet, as time passed, the estate’s flaws became more apparent. The design, which was intended to create a safe and cohesive community, instead contributed to a climate of fear and tension. The narrow, poorly lit walkways and stairwells became hotspots for crime, and the lack of effective maintenance led to the estate’s rapid decline. What was meant to be a modern housing solution increasingly resembled a fortress, with some residents likening it to a prison.
There were also reports of disorderly behaviour and a general sense of unease. Some residents recalled the anxiety of walking home late at night, only to be confronted by stray dogs or groups of individuals causing trouble. The estate’s concrete landscape, littered with debris and broken glass, was a far cry from the safe and welcoming environment that had been envisioned by its planners.
The Decline and Demolition of The Ramps
By the 1980s, it was clear that The Ramps had not lived up to their initial promise. The estate, once a beacon of modern urban living, had become a symbol of the social and economic challenges facing inner-city communities. Crime rates in the area were high, and the police often struggled to maintain order. The estate’s physical deterioration mirrored the decline in the quality of life for its residents, many of whom felt trapped in a community that had become increasingly hostile and unsafe.
The decision to demolish The Ramps in the 1990s was met with relief by many former residents. The concrete structures, once seen as cutting-edge, had become an eyesore, and the demolition marked the end of an era for West Granton. In their place, new housing developments and community facilities have been constructed, part of a wider effort to regenerate the area and provide a fresh start for those living there.
The remaining gasometer, a relic of the Granton gasworks, now serves as a cultural landmark, hosting events and festivals that bring together Edinburgh’s creative community. This transformation is a testament to the resilience of the area and the potential for urban renewal to breathe new life into once-neglected spaces.
A Legacy of Lessons
The story of The Ramps is a powerful reminder of the complexities of urban planning. While the estate was conceived with the best of intentions, its design flaws and social challenges ultimately led to its downfall. The experiences of those who lived in The Ramps highlight the importance of creating housing that not only meets the physical needs of residents but also fosters a sense of safety, community, and belonging.
As Edinburgh continues to evolve, the lessons learned from The Ramps should inform future developments. The regeneration of West Granton demonstrates that with careful planning and a focus on community needs, it is possible to transform even the most troubled areas into vibrant, thriving neighbourhoods. The past may be a cautionary tale, but it also offers hope for the future.
