UPDATE: Major plans to demolish three multi-storey housing blocks in Edinburgh have just been announced by council officials, with a critical meeting set for December 2. The council will decide on the demolition of Oxcars Court and Inchmickery Court in Muirhouse, along with Westfield Court in Gorgie, due to escalating safety concerns.
This decision comes as a report reveals that the cost of refurbishing the Muirhouse blocks has surpassed the cost of tearing them down. Most residents of Inchmickery Court have already been relocated, while Oxcars Court remains largely occupied by 68 tenants.
The situation at Westfield Court is dire; a recent assessment indicates that it is no longer “practically or financially viable” for continued investment. The building, which is now 73 years old, faces critical issues, including failing waste outflow pipes, making repairs uneconomical. Council officials are keenly aware of the implications, with housing convener Tim Pogson stating, “It’s completely unacceptable on all grounds.”
The urgency is palpable as the council shifts its long-term strategy from repairing Westfield Court to potential demolition. Just last month, Pogson took over the role of housing convener amidst controversies surrounding previous policies on affordable housing. His commitment to tenant welfare is evident as he emphasizes the unacceptable reality of sewage issues affecting residents.
To proceed with the demolition, the council must acquire the remaining ownership stakes at Westfield Court, where it currently holds about a third of the flats. Meanwhile, the council has full ownership of the Muirhouse blocks, simplifying the process for those buildings.
If the demolition is approved, plans for a new development could yield around 150 units on site, with discussions of expanding to over 300 units possible. The estimated cost for this project is approximately £45 million.
The impending demolition marks a significant shift in Edinburgh’s housing policy, raising questions about the future of affordable housing in the city. As the council prepares for the December meeting, residents and stakeholders are urged to stay informed about the developments that could reshape their community.
Next steps: If the council sanctions the demolition, the process to relocate the remaining tenants from Oxcars Court will commence early next year. The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated, as they will directly impact numerous families and the future of urban housing in Edinburgh.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, with the council’s decision potentially influencing housing strategies across the region.
