Heritage under Pressure: Purpose-Built Student Accommodation and the Future of Edinburgh’s Neighbourhoods

POSTED ON May 9, 2025 BY James Garry

The market is not delivering the necessary solution

The market is not delivering the necessary solution

Support the Cockburn

Donate
Join Us

Grassmarket Hotel

Posted on: April 23, 2025

The case for a historical precedent for a crest remains to be firmly evidenced

The case for a historical precedent for a crest remains to be firmly evidenced

Cockburn Response

This application was been brought to our attention by Cockburn stakeholders.

We objected to an earlier, somewhat similar, application from this hotel in the strongest terms. We also object to this new application. The proposed treatment of the ground floor is unacceptable and not historically correct. The proposed ‘crest’ is a large, incongruous intrusion into the current streetscape.

The case for a historical precedent for a crest remains to be firmly evidenced. We also note the interest of the Lyon Court in this aspect of the current application.

We consider the proposed frontage corner hanging signage unacceptably visually intrusive, particularly at night.

Bangor Road Student Development

Posted on: April 22, 2025

We advocate for a more balanced approach that respects the existing character of the neighbourhood

We advocate for a more balanced approach that respects the existing character of the neighbourhood

Cockburn Response

The Cockburn Association wishes to formally object to the planning application for the proposed development at 52, 54 Bangor Road, Edinburgh EH6 5JU. Our objection is based on several key concerns regarding the overdevelopment of a constrained site and the inconsistency of the design, height, and mass with the residential character of the local neighbourhood.

Overdevelopment of a Constrained Site

The proposed development represents an overdevelopment of a site that is already constrained by its size and location. The scale of the project is disproportionate to the available space, leading to potential negative impacts on the surrounding area. The density of the proposed accommodation is excessive and does not align with the principles of sustainable development.

Inconsistent Design, Height, and Mass

The design, height, and mass of the proposed building are inconsistent with the established residential character of the neighbourhood. The introduction of a six-storey building with a modern design disrupts this harmony and fails to respect the existing urban fabric.

Impact on Residential Character

The Cockburn Association considers this overdevelopment of a constrained site and the design, height, and mass is inconsistent with the residential character of the local neighbourhood which has developed over the last ten years or so. The proposed development threatens to alter the residential character of the neighbourhood. The influx of students and the associated changes in population dynamics could lead to a shift in the community’s identity. The Cockburn Association believes that any new development should enhance, rather than detract from, the established character of the area.

Lack of P:lace Plan

This part of Bonnington which has been transitioning from a mix of light industrial to new residential  but does not have an overarching master plan or new local place plan to guide what the new “mix” should. We understand that there is a very strong feeling within the community including community council that residential and not PBSA ( especially on such as scale as proposed) should be provided in the new neighbourhood.

Environmental and Social Considerations

We are also concerned about the environmental and social implications of the proposed development. The increased density may lead to higher levels of traffic, noise, and pollution, adversely affecting the quality of life for existing residents. Furthermore, the strain on local amenities and services could be significant, necessitating careful consideration and planning.

Conclusion

We advocate for a more balanced approach that respects the existing character of the neighbourhood, avoids overdevelopment, and addresses the environmental and social impacts. We believe that sustainable and community-focused development is essential for the long-term wellbeing of the area.

World Heritage Day: Celebrating 150 Years of Civic Guardianship in Edinburgh

POSTED ON April 18, 2025 BY James Garry

“Cities are like books. They contain knowledge, and character, and soul”

“Cities are like books. They contain knowledge, and character, and soul”

Support the Cockburn

Donate
Join Us

The Financial Crisis in Scottish Universities and Its Impact on Students from Poorer Backgrounds

POSTED ON March 28, 2025 BY James Garry

Scottish universities stand at a pivotal juncture

Scottish universities stand at a pivotal juncture

Support the Cockburn

Donate
Join Us

Invisible Cities Walking Tour: Discover Edinburgh Through Unique Stories

Friday, May 16

Explore Edinburgh with Invisible Cities tours led by guides who have experienced homelessness, sharing unique stories and hidden city gems

Book Here

Alumni In Conversation: Slavery and the Scottish Enlightenment

Wed, 23 Apr 2025

How was the Scottish Enlightenment entwined with slavery and the slave trade?

Book Here

Unintended Consequences: Building Wealth in 19th Century Edinburgh

Wednesday, March 26

Learn about the commercial and domestic development of our city which resulted in the familiar urban landscape of today

Book Here

Stories from Hospitals Back Home during the First World War (hybrid)

Tuesday, April 29

How volunteers supporting nurses back home during the First World War

Book Here

Edinburgh 900: Unburying the History in Greyfriars Kirkyard

Sunday, May 4

An inspired tour of one of Edinburgh’s most iconic yet misunderstood places.

Book Here