Scottish housebuilder Cruden Homes, in a joint venture with Evantyr Properties, has acquired a development site in Leith as part of the ongoing regeneration of the former industrial area.

The plan for the Salamander Street site is for 99 apartments, of which 35% will be allocated as affordable housing, which is above the planning requirement of 25%.

Working alongside 7N Architects, the scheme has been planned to integrate with the existing urban landscape, incorporating a landscaped central courtyard. Many of the homes will back onto the adjacent Leith Links.

The site is adjacent to the Ropeworks masterplan for more than 600 homes. This development in Salamander Street is expected to start later this year, subject to final planning conditions being met.

Hotel refurbishment to begin

Work will begin on remodelling a hotel close to the Old Course in St Andrews after planning permission was granted.

The Marram Collection is investing £7.5 million in Ardgowan Hotel which it acquired in 2022. The property is scheduled to re-open next year and is expected to create up to 50 jobs in the area.  Kathryn McNairn, who joined Marram last year, will continue as general manager.

Capacity will increase from 36 to 44 rooms, while a new bar and restaurant will expand from 44 to over 70 covers. 

Among the contractors are St Andrews architects RKA, Scottish interior design studio ICA and Crown Creative brand design agency.