Work has started on a residential development that will transform long-term disused land at a prominent section of Leith’s waterfront.
The popular Waterfront Plaza project by CALA Homes (East) located opposite Ocean Terminal will see the creation of 388 homes, along with 1500sq.m of flexible workspace units inspired by The Arches at Market Street near Waverley Station.
Urgently-needed affordable homes also comprise a key element of the development, with 82 to be built and brought to market by a housing association with a further 15 units delivered through the council’s Golden Share model.
Despite being initially recommended for refusal due to historic zoning for a commercial-led scheme, the brownfield site was unanimously backed by Councillors after receiving strong support by local community leaders, businesses and politicians.
Craig Lynes, land director at CALA Homes (East), said: ‘This is a milestone moment for Leith’s famous waterfront and will make a significant and tangible difference to the prosperity of the wider area.
‘The community and key stakeholders have played a crucial role in helping us to get to this stage – as constructive feedback early on in the process helped us to amend plans in a way that really works.
‘By responding to the demand for a range of high-quality homes, improved public realm and connectivity to the Shore from Ocean Terminal, the site represents a success story for the council’s planning system. It has realised the potential of a brownfield site which has lain derelict for decades.
‘We’re delighted to have now been able to welcome key supporters to the site start and thrilled to now be formally underway on such an important project.”
Bosses at the neighbouring Ocean Terminal were among the supporters, along with 41 of its businesses. Further supporters include Forth Ports, Port of Leith Housing Association, Leith Chamber of Commerce. The city’s Lord Provost, Frank Ross, also offered vocal support for the site during the planning process.
Waterfront Plaza includes a wide mix of homes from flats to large townhouses – and even a modern take on the city’s iconic colonies. Given the green light in December 2017, it is hoped that the show complex will be launched in summer of 2019 with first homes occupied towards the end of the year.
As well as the major economic benefits and the creation of a public realm, a wide range of the local housing supply will be boosted, with 97 affordable homes also included in the plans.
The proposed development presents a range of apartments and family homes, to include 33 semi-detached and terraced townhouses, 27 colonies, 328 apartments, plus 29 ground floor workspaces fronting Ocean Drive.
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