First look at major new residential redevelopment of 120 year old site at Edinburgh’s Chesser

The public are to be given the opportunity to view proposals for a controversial new residential development at The World of Football site.

Let us know what you think and join the conversation at the bottom of this article.

Watkin Jones Group, a leading developer and manager of homes for rent, has revealed proposals to redevelop land to the rear of the Corn Exchange on the World of Football Site.

The site is currently home to World of Football and World of Bowling, with both expected to be demolished to create a new urban quarter that is expected to open in 2025.

New residential development at Chesser is expected to open in 2025.

The proposals, which have sparked strong oppposition and disappointment at the loss of the well-used facilities, will comprise primarily of build-to-rent (BTR) homes, including affordable homes, which will make up approximately 75 per cent of the floorspace.

In addition to this will be managed student homes, forming a mixed-tenure urban residential village. This forms part of an overall regeneration of the brownfield site.

The development is proposed as a car free scheme with parking limited to accessible parking only and maximising the good quality public transport and active travel links to the site.

The development is proposed as a car free scheme with parking limited to accessible parking only.

It is envisaged that the public square will be used by performing arts groups; farmers markets; leisure square gatherings and as an urban gathering space for residents.

Under Covid-guidance, the public will have the opportunity to view development proposals on the New Mart website: www.newmart.scot with the opportunity to ask the development team questions and provide feedback at an online consultation event on Thursday October 14 between 4pm and 8pm. A live presentation will be made by the team of the proposals at 4pm, 5pm, 6pm and 7pm. The details for joining these presentations will be provided on the website.

Earlier this year more than 7,500 people signed a petition to save the World of Football and World of Bowling site despite the former auction mart buildings and livestock sheds that are over 120 years needing constant maintenance, repair and upgrade which is a completely uneconomical for current occupiers.

Opening planned for 2025

Planning director for Watkin Jones Iain Smith said: “We’re thrilled to be providing the public with the opportunity to view our exciting scheme for this new urban quarter at Chesser. The site is in a highly sustainable location with excellent access to amenities and transport links and will be built to future-proofed high environmental standards.

“We are aware of the financial burden bringing the current dated facilities up to standard will be and that it is an uneconomical position for the current owners..

“Our intention is to retain the character of the buildings where we can, ensuring their long-term viable future. These proposals will greatly assist in the regeneration of this part of the city. This consultation event is part of a process of extensive engagement to ensure that people from across the local area have an opportunity to input their views and shape our ambitious proposals.”

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