New student flats are planned for Edinburgh after a previous design was rejected over tree concerns.
Jamie O’Rourke wanted to build 17 student flats. The location was Inglis Green Gait. The flats had a roof terrace overlooking a canal. That plan faced rejection in 2022.
The council worried about losing trees. The applicant changed the design. Now they claim resolution of the tree issue. The land already had approval for homes. A prior plan for three houses got permission in 2016.
Planners cited two policies for refusal: NPF4 Policy 6 and LDP Policy Env 12. They protect trees and their roots. The applicant offered no valid reason to remove trees, and the refusal happened in February 2024. The developer will remove 19 trees.
They plan new trees across the site and will add a new woodland area. This aims to offset the tree loss and improve the area’s green spaces. Ten silver birch trees are slated to go, along with six goat willow trees. One crack willow and two wild cherry trees also face removal. These trees are not under specific protection.
The student flats will have kitchens and bathrooms. Sizes range from 18 to 22 square meters.
Studio Dub architects feel displeased with the earlier block. Gordon Duffy said the site suits this project. The building size matches the location well. Landscaping will protect the existing trees and the updated design enhances the wooded area. It makes a high quality student living space. The new planting also helps the surroundings.
Green networks get stronger, the local area looks better, and the site’s biodiversity increases. The developer believes it meets all rules.