Flats to get a new look

Multi-storeys set for £5m facelift

East Edinburgh’s Greendykes and Wauchope high-rise flats are due to be given a multi-million pound refurbishment.

Beginning in March next year, the redevelopment will also mean reduced heating bills for residents.

The heating system will be replaced with a new, efficient communal energy system which will heat the flats and supply hot water. All 172 flats will have new bathrooms.

There will be improvements to common landings and stairs, while the external appearance will also be enhanced with new windows and re-roofing planned.

Work by the Council on the 1960s blocks will be completed within five years at a total cost of £5 million. This investment is part of our on-going programme to bring Council properties up to Scottish Housing Quality Standard.

The Council is consulting closely with residents before and during the project by holding open days and issuing regular newsletters.

A residents’ group will be set up to discuss progress and a showflat is being created early next year so residents can see the improvements for themselves.

Work is planned to start in March 2011 and some disruption will be inevitable but the Council will try to keep it to a minimum and offer help to anyone who needs it.