Plans have been revealed for nearly 150 new Edinburgh homes - despite local residents' concerns over sinkholes.
City of Edinburgh Council passed an early planning screening request for the proposal from the developers Taylor Wimpey on November 8 for the site at 119 Ferniehill Drive.
Edinburgh Live has previously revealed that over 1500 residents in Ferniehill had signed a petition against the proposal due to sinkhole fears after houses sank in the area previously.
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The locals were also objecting to the proposal over fears that the development would put extra strain on traffic in the area.
In 2001, hundreds of people were evacuated from the area as dangerous structural problems began appearing in homes, and some properties were subsequently demolished.
A report at the time suggested that no further building work be undertaken but the City of Edinburgh Council are allowing the idea to go through the early planning stages.
Taylor Wimpey control the 6.69 hectare area of land on the south east fringe of Edinburgh known as Highfield, Gilmerton.
A spokesperson says: “Our proposed development will offer a choice of 2, 3,4 and 5 bedroom houses, with 25% affordable homes, as part of the overall design. Our plans will include areas of high-quality landscaping, green open space and there are plans to include play areas for children to meet and socialise which are being considered as part of our designs.
“New cycleways and upgraded pedestrian footpaths will also provide convenient links to the growing local community and create a healthy and sustainable way to live.”
The project was previously considered through the early planning stage in 2019 and early 2020, before the Covid-19 pandemic.
To the north- west and south- west respectively are the existing residential areas of Moredun and Gilmerton.
The residential area of Danderhall is located to the northeast of the site and falls within the administrative boundary for Midlothian Council.
Edinburgh Live will bring you the latest news as the proposal goes through the planning stages with the City of Edinburgh Council.
