Edinburgh City Council has received the green light to embark on an ambitious £69 million retrofit project for the city’s landmark mid-century housing blocks, Cables Wynd House and Linksview House, in Leith. The retrofitting aims to modernise the listed buildings, improve living standards, and set new benchmarks for energy efficiency in Scottish social housing.

Key Takeaways

• £69m retrofit of Cables Wynd House and Linksview House, both Category A-listed.
• Major upgrades to energy efficiency, fire safety, and resident security standards.
• Collaborative delivery involving architects, engineers, and resident input.

Landmark Homes to Receive Modern Transformation

Known locally as the “Banana Flats” because of Cables Wynd House’s distinctive shape, the two buildings together house around 310 families, mostly in social-rented accommodation. Built in the 1960s, these structures have gained recognition for their post-war architectural significance, and are now celebrated for their bold style and cultural value within the Leith community.

Upgrades Target Energy, Safety, and Comfort

The comprehensive overhaul will include:

• Insulation and Heating: Substantial improvements to insulation and installation of energy-efficient heating systems to meet the rigorous Scottish Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2).
• Windows and Roofs: Modern, thermally efficient windows and brand new roofing.
• Fire Safety: New sprinkler systems, upgraded fire-fighting lifts, and enhanced smoke ventilation throughout both towers.
• Safety and Access: Improvements to external and internal lighting, CCTV coverage, and building access controls.

Additionally, the council will introduce new waste management solutions and revamp entryways, making the blocks more accessible and secure for all residents.

Emphasis on Community Involvement

A distinctive aspect of the project is its resident engagement. Consultation cycles, design feedback sessions, and neighbourhood meetings ensured that tenants’ voices informed every key stage. Residents identified persistent issues like draughts, poor insulation, unreliable heating, and accessibility concerns. These have been prioritised in the final designs with a focus on making homes warmer, healthier, and safer.

Creating Greener, More Liveable Neighbourhoods

The outdoor areas will also see significant enhancements. Plans include new play spaces for children, wildflower meadows to promote biodiversity, and sustainable drainage installations. Parking and communal waste facilities will also be improved, reflecting a holistic approach to community regeneration.

Setting A Precedent For Listed Block Retrofits

With a multidisciplinary team—including architects, engineers, and energy consultants—this project will demonstrate how Scotland’s historic housing stock can be elevated to modern standards without compromising architectural integrity. Council leaders express hope that the retrofit could become an exemplar for similar listed block upgrades nationwide, showcasing sustainable transformation while preserving community heritage.

Further Reading

• Edinburgh approves £69m retrofit of listed housing blocks, Scottish Construction Now.
• Green light for £69m retrofit of Edinburgh housing blocks, Construction Enquirer.
• Plans approved for major retrofit of Edinburgh’s ‘Banana Flats’, Yahoo News UK.
• Edinburgh Council applies to retrofit flats in mission to modernise, Deadline News.