A former nursery in Edinburgh could be demolished to make way for 11 new homes in Edinburgh.
The proposals would see a range of two- and three-bed colony and townhouse units installed at the site of the former Busy Bees Heriot nursery in Broughton.
The existing two-story nursery at 32-34 Heriothill Terrace would be torn down under the proposals from Mandale Homes.
If approved the development would consist of ten three-bedroom units with one two-bedroom unit, along with associated landscaping, cycle parking, six car parking spaces and access arrangements.
In a statement, planners said: “The proposed development seeks to provide a range of dwelling sizes and types which will improve housing choice within the area.
“This contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable mix of housing in the area to meet the diverse needs of the community.
“The existing building has been vacant for a number of years and the proposed development represents an opportunity to replace the redundant structure with contemporary, energy efficient much-needed residential dwelling.
“The existing nursery building presents significant constraints to residential conversion, particularly in relation to residential quality, privacy, outlook, amenity and architectural character.”
Original plans for the site were scrapped in response to concerns raised by the council about the layout and scale of the scheme.
Plans have now been redrawn with a new design team, with the layout and developmental massing redrawn.
ISA Architects, who drew up the designs, said: “The proximity of the site to Broughton and Edinburgh City Centre supports the increased residential density.
“The sensitive redevelopment of a building no longer fit for purpose will ensure that the development is appropriate to the established character of the area.”
A light textured buff brick is proposed for the walls, while a communal refuse store will be provided and solar panels will be utilised on all blocks of this development.
ISA continued: “The design takes cues from the colony housing typology, particularly its emphasis on active frontages, clear entrances and opportunities for passive surveillance.
“A mix of two- and three-bedroom dwellings is proposed, creating a varied mix of units while maintaining a consistent architectural character.
“The architectural expression is intentionally simple, clean and pared back, avoiding unnecessary ornamentation and allowing the form, proportion and materiality of the buildings to establish their character.”
The development’s design takes cues from the colony housing style, which was in vogue in Edinburgh from 1850 to 1910.
Colony houses were built as double flats, upper and lower, with the upper flat’s front door on the opposite side to the lower flat’s front door, allowing each flat to have a front garden.
The council has until 4 December to decide upon the application.
