‘Banana flats’ could be listed

The flats made famous in Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting could be protected with a listed status.

The charity organisation Historic Environment Scotland which cares for and protects the historic environment across the country is holding a consultation event in Leith next month to help decide if this is what is needed.

The tower block is more properly called Cables Wynd House but has always been called the ‘Banana Flats’ because of its shape. This building, and the building next door, Linksview House, are both mainly owned by the council.

In the book Trainspotting Welsh set the flats as the childhood home of Simon ‘Sickbay’ Williamson.

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Those living in the two buildings are asked to take part in the consultation either on the day or by email.

Residents of Cables Wynd House and Linksview House will receive a letter from Historic Environment Scotland regarding the consultation. Residents and owners are also invited to attend an informal drop-in meeting on 6 December at Leith Library, on Ferry Road from 4-7pm.

It is thought that these flats constructed in the 1960s are an important part of the city’s skyline. It may be that these buildings are given A listed status if they meet the criteria.

Historic Environment Scotland’s Deputy Head of Listing, Dawn McDowell said: “Scotland is renowned for its rich architectural heritage. While our palaces, abbeys and castles are a key part of this, they are only a fraction of our diverse historic environment which ranges from industrial buildings to the homes we live in.

“Cables Wynd House and Linksview House were innovative, ground-breaking designs at the time when they were built and offered a new vision for social housing and for those who lived in them.

“A key aim of listing is to recognise the special architectural importance of these buildings as well as celebrating and sharing their wider social and cultural role.

“We are keen to hear from as many residents as possible during the consultation – and others with an interest in the buildings – and look forward to working with them during this process.”

Listing is the way that a building or structure of special architectural or historic interest is recognised by law through the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997. More information about listing can be found on the website at: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/advice-and-support/listing-scheduling-and-designations/listed-buildings/