Plans have been lodged for homes for more than 300 students and 65 homes.

The proposal includes a co-working office space at the city site that already has planning permission for 151 homes. It also includes the demolition of a five-storey 1970s office block.

A statement on the plans prepared by Morgan Architects on behalf of the applicant Finance Development LLP has been submitted for residential, student accommodation and office development at Finance House at Orchard Brae in Edinburgh by developer Square & Crescent.

“The site extends over approximately 0.845 hectares and is currently comprised of an existing unoccupied eight storey office building constructed in the 1960s (Finance House) fronting Orchard Brae, with a large five-storey extension added in the 1970s to the rear,” it stated.

“The proposals are for the change of use and alteration of the eight storey block and the demolition of the five storey 1970s extension to make way for the erection of a stepped residential development comprising a mix of flats and duplexes with main door access.

“The combined new build and refurbished development will comprise 65 residential flats and 301 bedrooms for student accommodation, providing a total of 450-plus cycle storage spaces, high quality communal and private amenity space, as well a dedicated co-working/flexible working space.

“The site currently has planning consent for the development of 151 residential units.”

The Herald: Application is for 'residential development, change of use and extension of existing class 4 office building to student accommodation and flexible working space with associated amenity space, cycle parking, landscaping and new public footpath from Learmonth Court to Orchard Brae'Application is for 'residential development, change of use and extension of existing class 4 office building to student accommodation and flexible working space with associated amenity space, cycle parking, landscaping and new public footpath from Learmonth Court to Orchard Brae' (Image: Morgan Architects)

The application continued: “The scale, massing and layout is almost identical to that which was approved. That application received unanimous support from Development Management Sub-Committee. Based on that success the proposals seek to continue the approach to built form.

“The existing 1960s building directly faces Orchard Brae, which is one of the main arteries that connects Edinburgh city centre with Ferry Road and the North side of the city.

“The rear side of the site, mainly occupied by the 1970s extension, forms a dead end on both edges with Learmonth Crescent on the north-west and Learmonth Gardens on the south-east.

“The site sits in a predominantly residential area, approximately 1 mile from the West End of Princes Street, within walking distance of all city centre retail and leisure amenities at approximately 20 minutes walk. The site also benefits from excellent transport connections with a bus stop right in front of the site on Orchard Brae.”

Developer Square & Crescent’s planning application follows two public consultation events. 

Simon Cook, managing director at Square & Crescent, said: “Following a successful approval for planning consent in September 2023, we have carefully considered the best options for bringing the derelict site back to life, whilst responding to the clear demand for new housing in both the mainstream and student sectors.

“The submission of our planning application marks the latest step in our journey to unlocking the potential of this site and delivering substantial investment to the area.

“The feedback received at both consultation events was crucial in shaping our proposals, and we remain committed to ongoing collaboration with local community groups and engaged stakeholders throughout the planning process.”

First look at new city centre restaurant

Pictures of a new Edinburgh restaurant from The Spanish Butcher have been released ahead of its official opening date next month.

The Herald previously reported that independent Scottish restaurant group Rusk & Rusk had announced plans to expand following close to 15 years of success at its Miller Street venue on Miller Street in Glasgow. It has now been confirmed that The Spanish Butcher will welcome its first customers at North Castle Street in the capital on Friday, May 10.

'Top-class' luxury hotel in Scottish Borders for sale at £2.9m

A four-star country house near Peebles in the Scottish Borders with a history stretching back to the 1600s has been put up for sale – with a guide price of £2.9 million for the freehold.

Cringletie Estate, based in an area renowned for country pursuits such as shooting, fishing, cycling, and horse riding, has been brought to the market as its owners look to retire. New Zealand-born Bill Cross and his wife are credited with building up the luxury and hospitality credentials of Cringletie over the last year five years, and feel the time is right for a new owner to take over and pursue the various development options which exist within the 28-acre estate.