Community vision for Edinburgh area to be turned into masterplan

Plans for the regeneration of Wester Hailes have taken a step forward, with the City of Edinburgh Council announcing the appointment of the consultancy team that will work with the community to translate their vision into an area masterplan.

The masterplan will set out of phased approach for the next 10 to 15 years, building on community aspirations set out in the Local Place Plan and a number of early action projects that are already underway, including council house improvements and new affordable homes.

The plan will aim to maximise distinctive characteristics of the area, including its canal-side location, existing assets, opportunities for wider economic and social benefits, and the role of key partners and the local community.

It will also look at opportunities to improve existing transport and active travel infrastructure, develop new housing, and adapt public sector delivery models.

The project will be managed by consultant Turner & Townsend, in partnership with architects Stallan Brand, building services provider Atelier 10, landscape architects OOBE, and engineering and transportation firm Goodson Associates.

 City of Edinburgh Council leader, Adam McVey, said: ‘This is a hugely important project that will offer real opportunities for people in Wester Hailes. The investments which the masterplan sets out will include improvements to existing homes as well as new affordable housing that is so desperately needed in our city, together with employment opportunities and facilities for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the area to prosper.

‘Throughout the development of the masterplan we will look to actively engage with people in Wester Hailes and nearby communities to feed in to help these improvements benefit everyone.

‘The appointment of the right team to take the community’s ambitions for their area forward was critical and we believe the award-winning team, led by Turner & Townsend will meet our goals. We look forward to working together with the team and community as the masterplan develops over the coming year.’

James Darrie, director and Edinburgh office leader at Turner & Townsend, said: ‘From upgrading transport systems to delivering new affordable homes, this much needed regeneration promises to bring transformative long-term benefits to the Wester Hailes area. Our local team will work closely with the community to ensure it becomes the thriving and flourishing neighbourhood that residents want and deserve.’

In related news, residents are being urged to have their say on planning proposals that will help shape the look and feel of communities in Swansea in the years to come.

Photo by Imran Perwez