A historic transformation project is set to redevelop Edinburgh’s Caledonian Brewery site into residential housing, marking a significant change for the area. The last major operational brewery in the city, this site is steeped in rich brewing history, which is set to be preserved amidst new residential plans.
- Artisan Real Estate, a regeneration specialist, is leading the project with a £60 million investment to create 168 new homes.
- The development promises a blend of accommodation types while preserving the historic character of the brewery buildings.
- Positive feedback from community consultations highlights strong local support for the preservation of the brewery’s heritage.
- Sustainability and low carbon solutions are integral to the new residential community, reflecting modern environmental considerations.
Artisan Real Estate has unveiled its ambitious £60 million proposal to transform Edinburgh’s historic Caledonian Brewery into a vibrant residential area comprising 168 new homes. This site, known for its significant brewing history, was the last operational brewery in Edinburgh until Heineken UK ceased production and offered it for sale in 2022. Founded in 1869, the brewery’s Victorian structures are a beloved element of the city’s architectural heritage.
The development plans include an exciting blend of residences, featuring a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom family apartments, duplex units, and mews houses. Approximately 20% of these homes will occupy the existing listed buildings, which are to be preserved and repurposed, ensuring the original architectural essence of the brewery is maintained.
Artisan’s Managing Director for Scotland, David Westwater, underscored the project’s commitment to preserving the site’s unique history and architecture. His remarks highlighted the strong community connection to the brewery and the overwhelming support for a development that respects this heritage. The red brick chimney, a notable landmark, will remain an integral part of the neighbourhood’s skyline, serving as a symbol of the area’s industrial past.
Feedback from local residents has been overwhelmingly supportive, with many expressing appreciation for the project’s emphasis on sustainability and low carbon solutions. This aligns with the wider city initiatives to promote environmentally friendly living in urban developments. The redevelopment will also recreate the maltings buildings’ original skyline, destroyed nearly three decades ago by fire, thereby enhancing the site’s historical narrative.
Artisan’s vision includes the innovative ‘upcycling’ of existing brewing equipment, drawing interest from independent breweries globally. This effort ensures that the physical remnants of the brewing process are not lost but integrated into the new community’s fabric, celebrating the location’s rich industrial past.
The redevelopment of Edinburgh’s Caledonian Brewery site promises a thoughtful blend of historical preservation and modern residential planning.
