Harbour, Cairn team up for 300+ affordable homes in Granton

Harbour Homes, in collaboration with Cairn Housing Association, has undertaken a remarkable initiative to introduce 306 brand new affordable homes in Granton Harbour. This significant development encompasses various locations including Chestnut Street, Chestnut Wynd, Hesperus Crossway, Hesperus Terrace, and West Harbour Road.

Among these newly constructed properties, Harbour Homes has designated 96 units for social rent, while an additional 130 units are allocated for mid-market rent through Harbour Lettings. Cairn Housing Association has contributed the remaining 80 properties for social rent. Furthermore, a seven-bedroom independent living home along with office space and an adjoining one-bedroom flat have been established by Dean and Cauvin Young People’s Trust to extend support to individuals in the care system.

As part of the community engagement efforts, a special event was organised for the new tenants to interact, fostering a sense of camaraderie and facilitating a seamless integration into the neighbourhood. Heather Kiteley, the chief executive of Harbour Homes, expressed her pride in the diligent and dedicated work that has culminated in the creation of these exceptional homes. The picturesque communal gardens, captivating views of the Firth of Forth, and convenient access to public transportation make Granton Harbour an ideal place for residents to relish their new living spaces and actively participate in the burgeoning communities emerging along the waterfront.

The collaboration between Harbour Homes, Cairn Housing Association, and various other partners has been instrumental in realising this ambitious project. Audrey Simpson, Cairn’s chief executive, commended the joint efforts that have led to the successful delivery of much-needed affordable housing in Granton. The shared vision and relentless dedication of all stakeholders involved have paved the way for a vibrant community where the new tenants are poised to thrive.

Councillor Jane Meagher, Edinburgh’s Housing, Homelessness, and Fair Work convener, shed light on the pressing need to address the housing crisis in the city. With the council housing stock facing challenges due to policies like Right to Buy, only a meagre 14% of homes in Edinburgh are designated as social housing, lagging behind the Scottish average of 23%. The endeavour at Granton Harbour to introduce over 300 affordable homes, with nearly 60% earmarked for social rent, signifies a substantial step towards alleviating the housing shortage. The provision of high-quality, genuinely affordable housing options for hundreds of individuals marks a significant milestone.