Plans for the development of 525 Ferry Road can now proceed after approval for the 256 homes and commercial space was granted after council officers worked out a way of allocating a revised level of education contribution payable.
At a recent meeting of the council’s planning committee the developers were to pay a contribution of £3 million following a split vote and (literally) a toss of the coin to decide how much the contribution would be – either £1 million or £3 million. Council officers declared the decision process unfair andnow the contribution payable will amount to £1 million.
The approval will mean that plans to redevelop the building near the Red Bridge on Ferry Road can proceed to form a new residential neighbourhood with a quarter of the homes affordable housing. The development will also include cafés, shops and shared workspaces.
Artisan Real Estate’s ’s Regional Director for Scotland, David Westwater, said: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity to breathe new life into an underused site, whilst ensuring its long-term future by bringing a new sustainable community to an accessible city centre location.
“Following the consultation feedback, we have worked hard to make this development not just the right fit for the site but also an integral part of the wider city centre area. We have reduced the heights of the building from nine to seven storeys and ensured the overall architectural design and materials respect local and historical contexts.”
He added: “We are also fully aware that we have the responsibility to ensure that our developments exceed all current environmental standards, setting new benchmarks for smart, sustainable living whilst providing a high quality of internal and external space. Our proposals have been guided by low-carbon design and encompass a mix of apartment sizes and layouts, led mainly by residential as well as much-needed affordable housing and other complementary commercial uses.”
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