First Minister John Swinney launches one of Scotland's largest net zero housing developments on Edinburgh's former industrial waterfront.
By Kirsty Lennox
••3 min read
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First Minister John Swinney marks the start of construction at the Granton Waterfront regeneration project in Edinburgh.
Construction has commenced on the Granton Waterfront regeneration project, one of Scotland's largest net zero housing developments, as announced by First Minister John Swinney.
First Minister John Swinney has officially marked the commencement of construction for one of Scotland's most significant net zero housing developments. This marks the initial phase of the extensive Granton Waterfront regeneration project, transforming former industrial land into a vibrant new community.
The development will introduce 847 net zero homes, with 387 designated as affordable housing. The project also includes 14 commercial units and a new primary school. This initiative is a key component of a broader £1.3 billion transformation of Edinburgh's waterfront, which aims to deliver a total of 3,500 homes, alongside new leisure facilities and Scotland's largest coastal park.
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"This is one of the largest regeneration projects Scotland has seen in decades and a major vote of confidence in Edinburgh's future. For years, people have looked across this waterfront and seen disused industrial land. Today, we are laying the foundations for a new community that will be home to thousands of people. Through our investment, hundreds of families will have affordable, energy-efficient homes as we transform Edinburgh's waterfront into a thriving neighbourhood with new homes, schools and businesses. We are putting the people of Granton at the heart of this transformation, with better transport links, new green spaces, apprenticeships, skills training and investment in local organisations."
Jane Meagher, Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, highlighted the project's significance, stating, “This is a big step forward for Granton and the whole city, as construction begins on the first phase of one of the largest public sector led regeneration projects of its time. Through our joint efforts we’ll transform this former industrial site into a new coastal town and community. It’s important that those living in neighbouring communities benefit from the investment we’re making in the area. Our Place Accelerator approach will ensure residents see the benefits, including more green spaces to enjoy and opportunities for local young people to gain hands on construction skills and qualifications through work on site.”
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"Edinburgh College has been at the heart of the Granton community for many years and we’re delighted to be involved in the next stage of its regeneration. Not only will this project provide hundreds of new homes in the area, this is already providing hundreds of opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in the construction industry. These opportunities could be transformative for our learners – allowing them to gain vital skills and develop a career in the sector."
The Scottish Government is providing the City of Edinburgh Council with up to £2.1 million per year over a 20-year period to support the initial phase. This funding is contingent on the council meeting targets related to walking and cycling routes, green spaces, construction skills training for local secondary pupils, investment in non-profit organisations, and establishing a fund for local job creation. An additional £16 million from the Scottish Government, via the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, is also contributing to the first phase. Public sector investment is projected to attract a further £220 million in private sector investment.
The Granton Waterfront Construction Pathway courses, a collaboration between Edinburgh College, local schools, and Cruden Homes, offer pupils practical experience in the construction industry. Currently, 264 S3 pupils, 195 S4 pupils, and 307 full-time college students are participating in these programmes.
