Edinburgh approves RMJM 15,000-home masterplan for Leith Docks

Edinburgh council yesterday gave planning permission to the largest development in its history when it approved Forth Ports' 15,000-home Leith Docks development.

The outline permission is for a regeneration framework designed by architect RMJM that will include nine new interconnected villages across 144 ha of brownfield land. The 15,200 new homes will be built over a period of 30 years, and will include up to 3,800 affordable homes.

The scheme has been designed to include viewing corridors to allow clear sight of key landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat, and will host a main terminus for the city's planned tram scheme. The framework also envisages 35 ha of new open and civic space, public walkways and almost 3km of coastal boardwalk accessible for public use.

Nathan Ward, associate urban designer of RMJM, said he was “delighted” to receive the permission. “The framework outlines exciting regeneration plans that will provide homes and jobs for thousands of local people, including new parks, public spaces and areas for events and festivals and will transform Edinburgh into an international waterfront city over the next 30 years.”