Economic Appraisal of Edinburgh Park Proposals

The proposals for a significant mixed-use development in the west of Edinburgh have been lodged with Edinburgh Council, by Parabola. This development will create a significant change to the feel and economy of the west of Edinburgh.

Until now, Edinburgh Park has primarily been a place to work. The vision presented for the area in the current masterplan will change the character of the site to create a new mixed-use urban quarter that is a place to live, to work and also to visit. It includes public art, open space and recreation facilities which can be used to host events and attract visitors as well as enhancing the environment for new residents.

The proposals submitted to City of Edinburgh Council includes 1700 new homes, 350,000 sq ft of commercial facilities including a 170-bedroom apartment hotel, a public park, play areas, gardens and a public square at Edinburgh Park railway station.

BiGGAR Economics was commissioned to study what this development would mean for the economy of the City of Edinburgh. This assessment found that the proposed development at Edinburgh Park will create a significant new urban quarter that could support 6,990 jobs and £262 million GVA each year in the City of Edinburgh.

In addition, during the development and construction phase, it is estimated that within the City of Edinburgh the development will support:

• 3,050 job years of employment; and
• £183 million GVA

The proposed development would also have a fiscal impact equivalent to at least £11.0 million per year through the payment of Council Taxes, VAT, Non-Domestic Rates and Transient Visitor Levy.

The full report, prepared by BiGGAR Economics can be downloaded from the link below:

• Edinburgh Park: Southern Phase Residential-Led Mixed-Use Masterplan Economic Impact Assessment