Developer lodges revised plans for Jock’s Lodge

The proposal to build purpose built student accommodation at Jock’s Lodge has now been changed with a reduction in height.

The developer says the changes respond to community feedback. The application by Alumni Group includes 191 student rooms, and ground floor commercial space which will replace the existing pub.

A floor will be removed from the Smokey Brae side of the building which will achieve a “greater stepped profile”. On London Road the development height has already been reduced by 4.75 metres from the original proposal which the developers say will bring the building into line with neighbouring buildings.

Alumno also propose improvements to the space at the back of the development. The developer has commissioned new artworks on other developments and is working with Edinburgh-based artist Kenny Hunter. A series of sculptures and poems will reference the area’s history will also enhance the schemes public realm contribution.

David Campbell, founder of Alumno said: “We recognise there has been significant community interest in this proposed development and that is why we have carefully listened to local views.  Over the last few months we have reflected on feedback and have been working with planning officials to make appropriate amendments.  We believe the revised scheme takes into account the feedback we’ve received.

“Everybody knows that that there is a huge demand for quality student accommodation in Edinburgh and this development can play an important role in meeting that demand.   This is also a part of the city with a relatively low concentration of students, with significantly lower numbers of full-time students than nearby wards such as Southside/Newington, City Centre, Meadows/Morningside and Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart.”

There are new commercial presmises proposed as part of the redevelopment.

David continued: “It is clear that many people who have voiced a view on the development are concerned about the potential loss of commercial activity on London Road.  This is why the commercial space on the ground floor remains a key element of our scheme.  This will offer a modern, accessible food and drinks venue which will help keep London Road and Wolseley Place vibrant and attractive.”

Andy Currie, of Orion Pub Company owners of Limelite, who will take over the new commercial space added: “This development offers us the modern facilities to transform our business and provide a food and drink venue for the whole community.  We are hugely excited by the opportunity. Like so many people in the licenced trade lockdown hugely impacted on our business, but we are now looking to the future.  However, our current facilities are sadly no longer viable.  With a brand new facility we will be able to make the changes we need and help ensure that the local ‘High Street’ feel is retained and enhanced, benefitting the community as a whole.”

 23/00008/FUL | 35 Jock’s Lodge Edinburgh EH8 7AA