Demolition heralds a new beginning for Gracemount

City skyline changes forever

Gracemount’s skyline changed forever on 25 October in a dramatic triple demolition, which marked the beginning of a new era for the neighbourhood.

In under a minute, Fala, Soutra and Garvald Courts were reduced to rubble as local residents and former tenants gathered to watch. The demolition is the finale of many years of hard work by local residents and Council staff who have worked together to prepare for the flats coming down.

But it’s just the beginning of a new housing landscape for Gracemount. The demolition clears the way for up to 220 modern homes built for sale and rent. The project is part of the 21st Century Homes for Edinburgh programme.

The redevelopment of North Sighthill, Gracemount and Pennywell and Muirhouse will contribute towards Edinburgh delivering 15,000 new affordable homes over the next ten years. Work is now well under way to clear the site and what’s left of the multi-storeys should be removed by January 2010.

It’s now an exciting time as the vision for the area, developed with Gracemount residents, starts to become a reality. As well as the construction of new affordable homes, the plan for the area includes attractive public spaces and community facilities.

For more information visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/21stcenturyhomes