A NEW development with more than 240 flats has been granted planning permission in principle at Leith Docks.
Four blocks, running up to six storeys, now have permission to go ahead on a stretch of quay just east of the Port of Leith tram stop.
Commercial space to the tune of 134m2 will be included in the development, which sits on the ‘Harbour 31’ plot developer Forth Ports is hoping to turn into a mixed-used neighbourhood.
They had originally wanted a larger development when they first proposed the scheme, with original plans including eight storey blocks and 337 flats, but scaled it down.
Councillors approved the application at Wednesday’s development management sub-committee meeting.
Speaking to fellow members, Green councillor Chas Booth said: “In nearly all respects, this is a really helpful and welcome application.
“There is a desperate need for housing, especially affordable housing. This application meets that requirement.”
He added that he was pleased with the level of walking and cycling provision on site.
Liberal Democrat councillor and sub-committee convener Hal Osler said she had been comforted by the developers working to communicate with residents near the project site.
Councillors raised minor concerns about noise and other disturbances for future residents from the port being so close by.
But they stated they had confidence that the developers would work to mitigate the impact on residents.
After the decision, Forth Ports chief legal and property officer Pamela Smyth said the approval brings the body’s plans for the waterside plot a ‘step closer’.
She added: “Our ambitious plans for the wider Harbour 31 masterplan at the port of Leith will create a vibrant new quarter for people to live and work.”
The body currently uses the Harbour 31 plot for port activities, but is aiming to redevelop the area away from its current exclusive industrial use.
The development approved on Wednesday will take up the eastern portion of the Harbour 31 site.
Another development on the plot, including office and retail space made from repurposed shipping containers, was approved in 2025.
Other uses the body has proposed for parts of the site, in a notice to the council in 2024, include business, education, retail, hospitality and storage.
