A significant new housing development on the fringes of Edinburgh is on the cusp of receiving formal approval, following the submission of initial plans over three years ago. The proposals, submitted by a local developer, are poised to transform a tract of farmland near Ravenscroft Place in Gilmerton into a residential neighbourhood.
The planning permission in principle, along with an application for demolition within a conservation area, were lodged with the Edinburgh City Council in June 2021. With the Development Management Sub-Committee scheduled to convene next week, council planning officers have advocated for the approval of both applications, marking a significant progression for the project.
The exact number of residential units remains unspecified, but the development is expected to feature a blend of two to four-bedroom homes. Several existing outbuildings will be retained and incorporated into the new layout. The plans also encompass associated infrastructure, landscaping, and open space provision, reflecting a comprehensive approach to community development.
Central to the project is the preservation and refurbishment of a 19th-century farmhouse and a row of farm cottages, ensuring that elements of historical significance are retained amidst the new construction. However, other structures on the site, including a single-storey agricultural shed, open-sided barns, and a silo, will be demolished to pave the way for the new housing units. The housing will primarily consist of terraced and semi-detached properties, with detailed design plans to be finalised at a later stage of the planning process.
The council’s decision to refer the application to the Development Management Sub-Committee stems from the substantial financial contributions required, which exceed £250,000. Additionally, an objection from the Gilmerton/Inch Community Council, a statutory consultee, has necessitated further scrutiny.
In a statement justifying the recommendation for approval, council planners highlighted the project’s alignment with the city’s strategic housing objectives. According to the planners, the proposed development will positively contribute to Edinburgh’s housing supply and is deemed suitable for this location. The city’s development plan promotes well-designed urban growth that is sustainable and aligns with the principles of 20-minute neighbourhoods.
They further emphasised that the proposal is compatible with these principles and that careful consideration has been given to the impact on nearby listed buildings and the character of the Gilmerton Conservation Area. Conditions have been established to manage future design strategies for the site, ensuring the development will not negatively affect these heritage assets.
The concept of the 20-minute neighbourhood, central to the planners’ assessment, is a cornerstone of urban development policy, aiming to ensure that residents can access most of their daily needs within a short walk or cycle from their homes. This includes amenities such as shops, schools, parks, and public transport, fostering a sustainable and community-centric living environment.
The Gilmerton area, historically rich and culturally significant, stands to benefit from this infusion of new housing, addressing the city’s pressing need for additional residential units while respecting the locale’s heritage. The balance between new development and historical preservation is a delicate one, and the council’s conditions aim to safeguard this equilibrium.
Local residents and stakeholders have voiced a mix of support and concern regarding the project. Proponents argue that the development will inject much-needed vitality and housing into the area, while critics caution about potential impacts on local infrastructure and the character of the community.
As Edinburgh continues to grapple with housing shortages and the pressures of urban expansion, projects such as this are critical in addressing these challenges. The approval of the Ravenscroft Place development could set a precedent for future projects, illustrating how urban growth can be managed sustainably and thoughtfully.
In conclusion, the upcoming Development Management Sub-Committee meeting will be a pivotal moment for the proposed housing scheme. If approved, the project promises to deliver a significant boost to Edinburgh’s housing stock while adhering to principles of sustainable development and heritage conservation. The eyes of the community and urban planners alike will be on Gilmerton, as it potentially embarks on a new chapter of residential development, blending the old with the new in the ever-evolving tapestry of Edinburgh’s urban landscape.
