Plans submitted for church to move in to Leith Walk development

Plans have been submitted to change the usage class of the lower floors of a Leith development so that a Presbyterian church can move in.

The Engine Yard, a new development by Leith Walk built in 2018, currently comprises residential flats on its upper floors and a gym in one section of the ground floor.

Now, Grace Church Leith is hoping to make an available 1,232 square metre unit on the lower floors of the building its new spiritual home.

Grace Church Leith was established in September 2011 and is a member congregation of the Free Church of Scotland, the country’s largest Presbyterian denomination after the national church.

The Church is currently based on Bangor Road, however due to its growing membership it is looking to move into the available two storey unit at 3 Shrubhill Walk.

The unit was previously occupied by The Edinburgh Masonic Club who stayed for less than a year before vacating in June 2019, and the space has since remained empty since.

Late year the space was put up for sale, advertised at £875,000. However, it is currently unclear whether it has been sold and who it has been sold to.

The unit contains a public bar, a lounge bar, entertainment/dining area, large commercial kitchen, plant room, beer cellar and toilets.

Grace Church Leith currently operates weekly Sunday church services, alongside a Tuesday afternoon children’s club and ancillary café.

Should the Church move to The Engine Yard it would continue with its current activity schedule.

Scott Hobbs Planning, the planning agency representing Grace Church Leith, says noise emissions from the Church would not be significant and would not affect the amenities of surrounding buildings.

Also, because most of the Church’s membership resides in the surrounding Leith area, within walking distance of The Engine Yard, residents should not fear an increase in traffic.

In a support statement submitted to Edinburgh City Council, Scott Hobbs Planning says:

“The proposed change of use will integrate well with the existing mix of uses in the area while continuing to provide a valued community facility to the local population.

“The proposal will not have any impact on the Leith Conservation area or have any adverse impact relating to environment issues, including neighbouring residential amenity and transport related matters.

“The proposal is in accordance with the local development plan and other material considerations.”

Grace Church Leith has been contacted for comment.