Major student flats development planned for Russell Road near Roseburn

Winds of Change on the Roseburn Path <i>(Image: Derek McArthur)</i>
Winds of Change on the Roseburn Path (Image: Derek McArthur)
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A new chapter for Roseburn could be in the works, with plans submitted for a major student housing development on Russell Road, on Edinburgh’s western edge.

As reported by Urban Realm, the proposal, lodged by 7N Architects and Rankinfraser Landscape Architecture, outlines a 182-bed complex on a long-vacant brownfield site opposite the Roseburn to Union Canal active travel route.

The seven-storey building would feature a street-facing communal area framed by a polished concrete colonnade, with a landscaped courtyard garden at the rear. Most accommodation would take the form of 7- to 8-bedroom cluster flats, alongside a selection of studio apartments. Both gables have been left blank to allow for future development on adjoining sites.


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In a design statement, the architects said the proposal makes the most of a “rapidly reducing supply of brownfield land” while balancing higher density with “careful consideration of height, massing and materiality.”

The scheme aims to deliver a high-quality, distinctive building that could serve as a catalyst for wider regeneration in the area.

The development will be fully electric and powered by solar panels, ensuring it operates at net-zero emissions.

If approved, the project would continue the transformation of the Roseburn–Russell Road corridor, reinforcing Edinburgh’s commitment to sustainable student housing close to key walking and cycling routes.

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