Plans for a new 134-bed student accommodation situated in Dalry have been submitted to the City of Edinburgh Council for approval.
Located on 2-3 West Park Place EH1 1 2DP, the site would include a six-storey building with two lower ground floors, predominantly made up of cluster flats and a small number of studios. The plans proposed by company Sungate Ventures include amenities like a reception, communal area, cycle storage, and an outdoor area.
The proposal involves the demolition of two industrial buildings, which date back to the 1920s. They are currently unoccupied and in poor condition, with visible wear and tear due to age and a lack of maintenance. Some sections are deemed structurally unsafe by engineers and at risk of collapse.
Despite demolition, the character of these buildings would be retained, with an assessment from Historic Environment Scotland prompting the design proposal to reflect the current historic industrial appearance of West Park Place.
Due to the “housing emergency” that was declared by the Council in 2023, plans for more accommodation are welcomed by many students. Dalry is situated among other densely student-populated areas and is easily accessible through public transport to many campuses in Edinburgh, benefitting students from multiple universities.
When speaking to a Napier student who currently lives in the area, they supported the plans provided the accommodation is affordable:
“There needs to be more alternatives for those missing out on university-allocated accommodation, and having no choice but to pay steep rent to greedy private landlords or companies.”
However, many locals disagree with the proposed plans, citing the existing number of student accommodation sites in Edinburgh and the lack of affordable social housing. There is growing criticism that the council are prioritising wealthy international students, and disregarding those in need who already live here.
“Construction” by ninahale is licensed under CC BY 2.0.