A SCOTTISH housebuilder has been granted planning permission to redevelop a former Roman Catholic church site in Edinburgh.
Cruden intends to transform the vacant St John Vianney’s Roman Catholic church site at 40 Fernieside Gardens, Gorgie, into an affordable housing development and create 35 "much-needed" new homes.
The church, which was constructed in the 1950s but has lain vacant since 2023, is expected to be demolished later this year.
The new development is said to comprise two blocks of flats, of three to four storeys, with a mix of 17 one-bedroom, 11 two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom homes.
Located close to schools, shops, parks, healthcare facilities, and public transport links, the developers of Fernieside Gardens aim to "to provide residents with convenient access to essential services while promoting sustainable, low-carbon living".
Making use of brownfield land, the redevelopment said it supports the Scottish Government’s drive to protect greenfield sites and "create thriving communities" in existing urban areas.
Around 70% of the site will be open landscaped space, with almost half (44%) dedicated to green space, including central communal gardens, rain gardens, and green buffers to boost biodiversity and support sustainable drainage.
The car parking provision will include EV charging points, accessible spaces, and cycle storage.
Fraser Lynes, managing director of Cruden Homes, said: “It is fantastic to have secured planning permission for Fernieside Gardens, which will deliver high-quality, affordable homes in a location that’s already rich in amenities and community spirit.
"This development breathes new life into a redundant, brownfield site by placing sustainable communities and green infrastructure at its heart. It’s another example of how thoughtful design can support Edinburgh’s net-zero ambitions while meeting the critical need for affordable housing.”
The homes are expected to be built with a number of sustainability features.
Plans include:
- zero-emission heating
- photovoltaic solar panels
- high levels of insulation
