The first affordable homes to be built in the Blackford area of Edinburgh for more than 60 years have now been completed and handed over. Cala Homes (East) has delivered 12 energy-efficient apartments on the former St Crispin’s School brownfield site, which have been passed to Wheatley, one of Scotland’s leading housing providers, for social rent.
The homes form part of Cala’s wider redevelopment of the site and will provide high-quality accommodation for individuals and families seeking affordable housing in the capital.
Among the first tenants to move in is Michael Brown, a 35-year-old father of three, who described the move as a major personal milestone. He said it was the first home he has ever had that truly feels like his own, and that getting the keys was an incredible moment. Walking into a brand-new home, he said, felt almost unbelievable, praising the space, layout and overall quality.
After spending more than a year on the waiting list, he said the move has allowed him to create a stable and comfortable environment for his children. He described it as a fresh start, highlighting the quiet surroundings, friendly neighbours and views across the city. He added that having a proper home where his children can stay and feel settled means everything to him, and that being able to give them their own bedrooms is something he is very proud of.
Stephen Faller, Senior Land Manager at Cala Homes (East), said the development shows how new homes can make a real difference to communities. He explained that, through partnership working with Wheatley, modern and energy-efficient homes have been delivered in an area where opportunities like this have been extremely limited for decades. He also noted that these are the first new social rented properties built in Blackford for more than 60 years, underlining their significance.
The homes will be managed by Wheatley Homes, part of Wheatley Group. James Ward, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes East, said the organisation is delighted to take handover of the much-needed homes. He said good-quality, affordable housing plays an important role in providing stability, security and a place people can call home, and that these apartments will help meet local housing need.
The project highlights the importance of collaboration between developers, housing providers and local authorities in delivering affordable housing. Councillor Tim Pogson, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said there is a housing emergency in Edinburgh, with high demand for homes of all types. He described the development as a strong example of how mixed housing projects can positively impact communities.
In line with the City of Edinburgh Council’s CityPlan 2030 vision, the development includes features to support sustainable living such as extensive cycle storage and electric vehicle charging provision.
The project forms part of Cala’s ongoing commitment to regenerating brownfield land in and around Edinburgh, building on previous developments in areas including Leith, Trinity, Liberton, Queensferry, Ratho and Newington.
As part of the redevelopment of the site, St Crispin’s School relocated in February last year to a new £12 million facility at the former Burdiehouse Primary School site, continuing to support pupils aged four to 18 with additional needs.