News

Greenlight for office development in Canongate, Edinburgh

Acting on behalf of property developer Summix Capital, Turley has helped secure approval for the development of high-quality office accommodation in Edinburgh.

We provided expert Planning, Heritage and Townscape, Economics and Development Viability services for the project which was unanimously approved by City of Edinburgh Council’s Development Management Sub-Committee on Wednesday 18 March.

Located at 179 Canongate, Edinburgh, the proposals will introduce a characterful office development and offer much-needed workspace within the heart of the capital’s Old Town.

Research from Savills Estate Agents has shown that in the capital a shortage of quality office stock contributed to city centre take-up falling to 380,000 sq ft in 2019, lower than the preceding two years [1].

The approved plans offices will provide easy to access office space and support the growth of office space in the capital.

The building also boasts strong sustainability credentials, including dedicated on-site cycling provision and facilities for greener commuting. Additionally, the site has the potential for a publicly accessible café to animate the existing courtyard to Old Tolbooth Wynd, enhancing occupants and visitors experience of the building.

There will be four floors designed for small and medium businesses with the provision for coworking. Each floor will extend to 5,000 sq ft with accessible break out spaces on the top two floors. Coworking spaces provide a more flexible, accessible and affordable option for SME businesses and freelancers with an open environment which cultivates a positive and collaborative working environment.

Within the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site, the Old Town Conservation Area and the setting of the Category A-listed buildings the proposals incorporate boundary walls, workshop structures and other features relating to the former New Street gasworks and earlier developments on the site.

Architects 3DReid worked on the scheme.

Stuart Black, Development Director at Summix Capital, said:

“We’re thrilled our application has been approved. These proposals will redevelop a vital location in the heart of the capital and help to tackle Edinburgh’s shortage of available office space provision.

“As a coworking space, our development will offer an innovative and competitive solution while ensuring its green credentials are in line with the City of Edinburgh Council standards.

“The plans represent the conclusion of a collaborative discussion about how best to make this site work. Summix Capital consulted widely with stakeholders and the community to ensure this site represented the kind of forwarded momentum the city-centre needs.

"We welcome today’s vote, and Summix Capital is thrilled to offer a new lease of life to the Canongate.”

19 March 2020

[1] Banks dominate new office space take-up as leases top 1.74 million sq ft