Orkney Council Approves Demolition Contract for Papdale Halls
Former Papdale Halls of Residence in Kirkwall to be demolished, paving the way for future housing development.
By Kirsty Lennox
••3 min read
AI
Generic image of a large building demolition site with heavy machinery.
Orkney Islands Council has approved the award of a demolition contract for the former Papdale Halls of Residence in Kirkwall, marking a significant milestone for future housing development on the site.
Elected Members of the Orkney Islands Council have approved the award of a contract for the demolition of the former Papdale Halls of Residence building in Kirkwall. Further details regarding the contract and the successful bidder will be released in due course.
The Council had previously approved the outline business case for the demolition in 2025. Since then, a comprehensive programme of surveys, investigations, and procurement processes has been undertaken. Building warrants and planning permissions for the demolition are now secured.
Work on site is scheduled to commence in January 2027, with completion anticipated by Spring 2028. The building has been largely vacant since 2013, with the exception of a section previously used for a nursery.
The demolition will facilitate future housing provision in the centre of Kirkwall. The Council's Local Housing Strategy (2024) aims to deliver 1,030 new homes over ten years, with a 60/40 split between affordable and private housing. This target is being pursued through collaboration with Orkney Housing Association Limited (OHAL), Places for People Scotland, Development Trusts, and private sector developers.
In December 2025, the Council entered into a partnership with Places for People (PfP) Scotland to deliver up to 500 new homes over the next decade. It is anticipated that up to 60 affordable homes could be built on the Papdale site by PfP Scotland, subject to separate commercial, legal, and planning processes.
“
"Today's decision marks another important step in tackling the housing challenges facing Orkney. The former Papdale Halls has stood largely empty for more than a decade and, while demolition is a significant investment, it will unlock a strategically important site in the heart of Kirkwall for future housing development."
“
"Providing more homes remains one of the Council's highest priorities. We know the shortage of affordable housing affects families, young people, essential workers and businesses across our islands, and increasing housing supply is essential if we are to support strong, sustainable communities and a growing economy."
“
"By approving the demolition, we are removing a long-standing vacant building and preparing the way for the potential development of up to 60 affordable homes through our partnership with Places for People Scotland. While further legal, commercial and planning processes will be required before any housing development can proceed, this decision demonstrates the Council's commitment to working with partners to increase the availability of much-needed homes in Orkney."
