Donaldson’s restoration submitted for planning consent

The restoration of Edinburgh’s historic Donaldson’s College is a step closer today following the submission of a joint planning application, courtesy of City & Country and CALA-Evans.

Heritage property developer, City & Country, is proposing a comprehensive transformation of the Category A Listed Playfair building to provide 117 residential units.

CALA Homes is also planning an inspirational split crescent which will accommodate 84 new build apartments to the north of the iconic structure.

Given the significance of the site, City & County and CALA previously engaged residents, businesses and stakeholders alike in a lengthy period of public consultation to discuss the updated planning consents, which were initially approved in 2007.

 

Helen Moore, Managing Director of City & Country, said: “This is a truly magnificent building in a World Heritage Site, so it is absolutely right that such time and effort has gone into the public consultation.

“Having listened carefully to extensive feedback we are confident that our plans provide the best possible solution to safeguard the iconic Playfair building, while sensitively adding a new layer of history to the site.

“The local community, businesses and the City of Edinburgh Council have all stated how important it is to see this building secured for future generations and it is vitally important that a viable new use is found.

“After much work, we hope our plans will be approved, allowing the next positive chapter in the life of the Playfair building and for the Donaldson’s site to be realised.”

City & Country envisage a stylish conversion with a varied mix of property types, from studio apartments to luxurious three-bedroom duplexes. Sensitivity remains the Developer’s watchword however. Historic features – such as the original joinery, fireplaces, cornices and staircases – will be retained where possible to preserve the singular character of the building.

 

CALA’s proposed crescent will also house a variety of property types. Family units will be built alongside one-bedroom apartments, maisonettes, ground floor properties with private gardens and resplendent penthouses. Parking is to be accommodated in discrete undercroft car parks so as not to disturb the panoramic views of the Donaldson’s building or its idyllic 17 acre setting.

David McGrath, Managing Director of CALA Homes (East) said: “Throughout the process we have liaised closely with planners and with other departments within the City of Edinburgh Council. It has been reassuring that they have been so committed to seeing this site restored.

“We are excited to be submitting our final plans after a detailed and lengthy process. Now we look forward to the chance to deliver what would be a truly outstanding addition to a very special location.”

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