First Minister visits site as work begins on first phase of ambitious regeneration
Cruden has marked the start of construction at Granton Waterfront in Edinburgh, a major milestone in the transformation of one of Scotland’s most significant regeneration sites.
First Minister John Swinney visited Granton Waterfront this week to see work getting underway on the first phase of the development and hear more about the ambitious plans for the area.
Cruden is working in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council to deliver the first phase of regeneration at Granton Waterfront, helping to create a new sustainable coastal neighbourhood for the capital.
The wider Granton Waterfront regeneration will ultimately deliver nearly 3,500 net zero carbon homes, with at least 35 per cent affordable, alongside new business and cultural space, a school, improved active travel connections and a major coastal park. The development is intended to accelerate the regeneration of this key brownfield site while creating jobs, skills and wider economic opportunities for communities across north Edinburgh.
During his visit, the First Minister joined City of Edinburgh Council Leader Councillor Jane Meagher and Chief Executive of Cruden Fraser Lynes, to view early progress on site and discuss the future phases of the regeneration.
The visit also highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for local young people through the Granton Waterfront Construction Pathway, delivered in partnership by the City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh College and Cruden. Pupils taking part in the programme gain practical experience of the construction industry and insight into routes towards further education, apprenticeships and employment.
Fraser Lynes, Chief Executive of Cruden, said:
“Starting construction at Granton Waterfront is an important milestone for everyone involved in bringing this ambitious vision to life. Granton is a development of real significance for Edinburgh, not only because of the new homes and neighbourhood it will create, but because of the opportunity to deliver lasting social and economic benefits for the communities around it.
“As construction gathers pace, our focus is firmly on delivering high-quality, sustainable homes while ensuring the investment being made here creates opportunities for local people. Our work with Edinburgh College and local schools is an important part of that, helping young people see the breadth of careers available in construction and giving them a tangible connection to one of the most exciting coastal regeneration projects taking place in the UK.”
Cllr Jane Meagher, Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, said:
“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. I am really proud to mark this, alongside our development partner Cruden and the Scottish Government - through our joint efforts we’ll transform this former industrial site into a new coastal town and community.
“I’ve been clear in my commitment to tackle the housing emergency and our citywide investment programme to address this. We’ll see 847 brand new energy efficient homes made available, with at least 45% of these being affordable. Alongside this, the new Granton Waterfront community includes a new school, improved public transport including routes for walking and wheeling, shops and new leisure and recreation facilities. It is set to be a fantastic, vibrant place to live and work.
“It’s important that those living in neighbouring communities also benefit from the investment we’re making in the area, which is why our Place Accelerator approach will ensure residents see the benefits. This includes more green spaces to enjoy and opportunities for local young people to gain hands-on construction skills and qualifications through work on site. It’s fantastic to see the investment we’re making will last long into the future.
Granton Waterfront is identified as a Strategic Site in Edinburgh’s City Plan 2030 and as a National Development in Scotland’s National Planning Framework 4. Located around three miles north of Edinburgh city centre, the regeneration is designed to establish a new coastal neighbourhood centred on low-carbon living, connectivity and inclusive economic growth.
Cruden’s involvement also extends to supporting the Granton Waterfront Construction Pathway, which connects pupils with practical construction learning, employers and future career opportunities. The programme is being delivered in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh College.
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