Residents move into new affordable homes in Edinburgh

The first residents have moved into new affordable homes in Edinburgh. 

Edinburgh City Council has ambitious plans to build over 20,000 affordable homes by 2030, however, the plans were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first project has just been completed at Craigmiller, where dozens of tenants will now have a new place to live.

The new development features 194 homes with an innovative Sustainable Urban Drainage System for surface water collection and extensive communal green space.

The homes also benefit from a network of footpaths and cycle connections to Craigmillar Park.

Cllr Kate Campbell, Edinburgh’s Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: ‘It’s fantastic to meet with the new residents and see what a difference these bright and modern homes are going to make to their lives.

‘Making sure everyone has access to a safe, warm and affordable place to live has long been our priority and it’s going to be as important as ever to progress our plans to build 20,000 new homes as we move on from the pandemic. So being able to get construction underway, see these homes complete in Craigmillar and move new tenants in is a big milestone.

‘We’re also committed to pushing forward with a green recovery for the City and these homes, with their focus on low carbon and energy efficiency, are a perfect example of how we deliver a project which is great for residents and good for the local environment too.’

Cllr Mandy Watt, Depute Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, added: ‘Not only are these new homes a brilliant addition to our supply of affordable housing in Edinburgh, they’re part of a major project we’ve been leading on which invests in the whole Craigmillar community.

‘The regeneration has helped to create new shared spaces for people to enjoy and has brought about opportunities for jobs and training. It’s a real transformation of the town centre which will benefit generations of Craigmillar residents and benefit our environment too, thanks to the use of really energy-efficient materials and design and the creation of new green spaces.

‘It’s a real joy to finally see families moving in and settling in to their new homes.’