Edinburgh Council unveils Seafield masterplan.

The City of Edinburgh Council has unveiled a visionary masterplan to rejuvenate Seafield in north-east Edinburgh, transforming it into a sustainable and eco-friendly neighbourhood that will seamlessly connect its coastline to the surrounding communities of Leith, Portobello, and Craigentinny. This exciting development plan was officially published yesterday, marking a major step towards a greener and more interconnected future for the area.

Currently, Seafield is predominantly occupied by car showrooms, light industry, and essential facilities such as Lothian Buses’ Marine Depot and the Council’s Seafield Household Waste Recycling Centre. However, the newly proposed ‘Seafield Place Brief’ and ‘Draft Seafield Masterplan’ aim to breathe new life into this space as part of the City’s local development plan, City Plan 2030, designating it as one of the 44 ‘Opportunity Sites’ earmarked for future development.

Speaking about the ambitious vision for Seafield, Planning Convener Councillor James Dalgleish highlighted the emphasis on creating a sustainable and inclusive neighbourhood to address the city’s pressing housing needs. The plan includes options for high-density flats, with a commitment to ensuring that 35% of the homes on-site will be affordable. The development is envisaged to offer up to 2,700 new homes, ranging from flats to colonies and townhouses, complemented by essential community amenities and employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the masterplan envisions the transformation of Seafield’s coastline into an attractive promenade with panoramic views of the Firth of Forth, linking seamlessly to the existing waterfront communities on either side. The proposed development also includes provisions for a new primary school, GP surgery, ample green spaces, and a Waterfront Park. Enhanced public transport, cycling routes, and pedestrian pathways will integrate the neighbourhood with the wider area, promoting sustainable modes of travel.

One of the key highlights of the plan is the implementation of a heat network to contribute towards the city’s net-zero emissions target, thereby reducing utility bills for future residents. Additionally, measures are being taken in collaboration with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency to mitigate any potential flood risks in the coastal area.

Stretching from Seafield Street in the north to King’s Road in the south, with the Forth Estuary marking the eastern boundary and a railway line defining the western boundary, Seafield encompasses a diverse landscape ripe for transformation. The proposed development will not only redefine the area but also enhance its connectivity and liveability for residents and visitors alike.

With the upcoming consultation process, residents, businesses, and organisations invested in the Seafield area will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the ‘Draft Seafield Place Brief’ and ‘Draft Seafield Masterplan’, which have been carefully crafted based on extensive consultations with local stakeholders. This collaborative approach ensures that the finalised plans truly reflect the needs and aspirations of the community.

The City of Edinburgh Council’s forward-thinking approach to redeveloping Seafield underscores a commitment to sustainable urban planning, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. As Seafield gears up for a transformation into a vibrant, green neighbourhood, the future looks bright for this emerging eco-friendly enclave on the city’s coastline.