D Day Set for Gracemount High Flats

11.05.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 23rd Sep 2009

Local residents have welcomed the news that the Gracemount High Flats are going to be demolished on Sunday 25 October in a triple blow down of Fala, Soutra and Garvald Courts.

The demolition of these three blocks by controlled explosion will pave the way for the construction of the first Council homes to be built in Edinburgh for over 25 years.

Liberton/Gilmerton Lib Dem Councillor Conor Snowden said, "I am delighted that the Lib Dem led council will be delivering on our promise to get rid of these high-rises and replace them with a decent number of family homes.."

On the day of the demolition those who live nearby will have to vacate their home on the Sunday morning and are being offered a grandstand view from the grounds of Gracemount High School.

The scheme will see 220 homes being built in the area, with half of these being affordable housing - including around 70 council homes for rent - and the other half being sold at market rates.

Local Liberal Democrat Campaigner Fred Mackintosh said, "This is the first time council houses have been developed in Edinburgh since the early 1990s. When I speak to residents across the city the need for more affordable homes in the city is a big issue. It is great that my Liberal Democrat colleagues on the council are delivering those homes."

Related Link:

Find out more about the Lib Dem led council's plans for Gracemount.