Plans to build 468 student flats on the site of the former Tynecastle High School in Edinburgh will now be referred to a committee meeting by planners, following 233 letters of objection.
Since the plans came to light for the abandoned school over a year ago, local residents have hit out at the proposals and joined councillors in fighting for social housing instead of student flats. Protests have even been held outside the gates by Living Rent members who also opposed the plans.
Urban Realm reports that a local councillor has also requested a referral to the planning committee, with the development being recommended for approval that would involve the restoration of the B-listed school in Gorgie, designed by John Alexander Carfrae, alongside new build elements.
Development of the site is challenging due to the proximity of the neighbouring North British Distillery, Tynecastle Stadium and the Western Approach Road. The new buildings have been designed to limit the impacts in terms of air quality and noise; creating a sheltered courtyard and communal amenity spaces at the heart of the site.
The original school hall will be repurposed as a central amenity hub, providing high quality shared facilities including a gym, library and study spaces. If planning is approved, charities LOVE Gorgie Farm and People Know How will operate community facilities on the site.
Dan Teague, director at S1 Developments, said: "Following our careful assessment of the Old Tynecastle High School site, we feel that student development is the most appropriate use given the severe constraints - the original school building has fallen into a sorry state since it ceased being a school over a decade ago.
"Whilst the redevelopment is challenging, we are hopeful that the proposed use brings with it an opportunity to save and renovate the original school building and continue its educational use, benefitting the local community."
Outlining their rationale behind their recommendation to grant consent, planners wrote: "The proposals will deliver purpose-built student accommodation on a site which has a number of constraints to the delivery of mainstream housing.
"The proposals do not comply with the provisions of the non-statutory guidance on student housing due to the failure to provide mainstream housing, however on balance, the retention of a listed building on a constrained site through the proposed student scheme is considered to be a pragmatic approach."
Determination now lies in the hands of the City of Edinburgh Council's development management sub-committee.
Don't miss the latest headlines with our twice-daily newsletter - sign up here for free.
