Controversial Leith Walk development appeal rejected
The Scottish Government's joined Edinburgh Council in refusing permission for the Stead's Place plan
Last updated 20th Dec 2019
A controversial plan to redevelop a row of sandstone buildings on Leith Walk has been rejected by the Scottish Government.
Drum Property Group lodged an appeal after Edinburgh councillors refused to back their plans for a mix of housing, student accommodation, a hotel and retail units at Stead's Place earlier this year.
But that appeal has now been rejected, with the report concluding the development is neither innovative or locally distinctive.
It also says the height and scale of the building would be overbearing and incongruous in the Leith Conservation Area.
The project has been the subject of protests from locals - with the campaign known as Save Leith Walk.
A Save Leith Walk spokesperson said: "Today’s decision shows what can be achieved when a community organises and unites behind a common message.
"It shows that the developers plans for Stead’s Place were completely out of step with community needs for housing, local businesses and retaining out heritage.
"The Scottish Government now stands alongside the City of Edinburgh Council, the University of Edinburgh and our elected representatives who support our community in rejecting the developer’s plans for Stead’s Place.
"It is easy to give up hope when you are faced with a challenge that looks insurmountable, but when community groups get the right combination of people together, they can be heard at the highest level. We hope that our campaign gives strength and hope to people across Scotland facing unwanted developments in their areas.
"The people of Leith have a clear vision for Stead's Place and they are committed to making that vision become a reality. Should the developer now decide that this project is not for them, then the we are ready to take it forward ourselves."
Ben Macpherson MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith said: “I’m absolutely delighted for the community that the Scottish Government’s independent Reporter has decided to uphold the decision of the SNP-led Edinburgh Council and reject Drum Property’s application to demolish and over develop the Steads place site.
“Today Leith has been heard! Having been part of the ‘Save Leith Walk’ campaign since the very first meeting, the hard work and determination shown by local campaigners and the community has been incredibly inspiring.
“It’s very disappointing that Drum evicted several good businesses over the last year. However, now we can look forward to what’s next for Stead’s Place and I urge Drum to respond to the community’s aspirations in that process and support the Leith Depot’s future on the site.
"I’ll be doing all I can to positively influence decisions toward affordable housing and affordable business space, while preserving the current building."
A spokesperson for Drum Property Group said: “We are obviously disappointed by the decision by the Scottish Government Reporter. We shall now review the Reporter’s detailed findings before considering our position in the New Year.”
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