Caledonian Trust is selling a block of former government offices in the eastern side of Edinburgh.

St Margaret’s House at 151 London Road was built in the 1970s and has been owned by Caledonian Trust since 1988.

It has planning consent for 361 student apartments and 107 residential units. The trust has appointed Scarlett Land and Development to market the property.

Regeneration of the building will help upgrade the Meadowbank area where 700 homes and community facilities are also planned.

The London Road property is currently let to Edinburgh Palette, a social enterprise and charity supporting creative businesses.

Caledonian Trust has worked closely with Edinburgh Palette for over 15 years, providing subsidised rents under rolling agreements to assist the organisation in its mission. However, as part of its long-term strategy to see the site sold and revitalised, Caledonian Trust has made the decision to bring the property to market.

Edinburgh faces a critical shortage of homes, with the council declaring a housing emergency in November 2023.

Michael Baynham, director of Caledonian Trust, said: “151 London Road has been an important asset for Caledonian Trust for many years, and we are committed to ensuring that its redevelopment will benefit both the local community and the wider city of Edinburgh.

“We recognise the valuable work of Edinburgh Palette and the positive impact it has had on the local creative sector, but we also understand the urgent need for new homes in this area. This development presents a significant opportunity to help address the city’s housing challenges and support the long-term regeneration of the region.”

Will Scarlett, founder of Scarlett Land, added: “151 London Road is one of the last large-scale sites in Edinburgh available for PBSA development, especially considering recent changes to planning policies and competing demands for space. 

“The implemented student accommodation and residential consent complements the well-established student and residential community in the area, benefiting from excellent connectivity and local amenities.”