S Harrison and Sight Scotland has submitted new plans for their Gillespie Crescent purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The current proposal responds to comments raised on the previous application. The development would now provide 131 bedroom spaces, comprising a mix of cluster rooms, studios and accessible studios in accordance with City Plan 2030 and forthcoming Non-Statutory Planning Guidance. The scheme rrequires an unused charity building to be knocked down.
The building is split into two building forms; a front building which responds to the context of the tree-lined boundary and tenements opposite, and a secondary rear building which responds to its location within the site, proximity to the neighbouring road and potential future development of the Viewpoint Housing site to the west.
Now, the building, designed by jmarchitects, has been reduced in height, footprint and volume since the first application, reducing the mass of the scheme and creating increased separation distances from neighbouring properties.
The news plans include 228 sqm of student amenities, such as places for socialising and studying. Some bedrooms are within cluster flats, whilst 10% are studios which include accessible bedrooms.
Also, S Harrison has said that the new design aims to preserve or enhance the conservation area due to its proximity to the category A listed Barclay-Bruntsfield Church.
The project includes a single accessible parking space but is otherwise a car-free environment, as it is well-connected to a comprehensive public transport network that promotes sustainable travel. Its central location and close proximity to amenities further encourage pedestrian movement.
