GORGIE HOUSING REPORT

by Atholl Simpson


SquareOne News


Locals in the Gorgie and Dalry neighbourhoods of Edinburgh are unable to afford properties in the area after numerous regeneration projects increased house prices, according to local community groups and estate agents.

Projects such as the new Sainsbury's store in Gorgie and modern housing developments have attracted investors to the area who snap up available properties. The interest has pushed prices up and out of reach of many of the local residents and first-time buyers.

Elaine Brand, Project Manager of Gorgie Dalry Partnership was involved with some of the regeneration schemes. She said: "The one bedroom flats in a block of sixteen used to be good for first time buyers to get their foot on the property ladder, but now that's not possible. There are also plans in Haymarket for a five star hotel, where the Morrison's street car park is, and that's going to give a different picture to Gorgie and Dalry."

Heart of Midlothian FC's recent stadium plans which include an upmarket hotel have also drawn the interest of investors. Other projects include demolishing the B&Q store next to Murrayfield to open up the area for future development.

Some locals have resorted to buying property further out in more affordable places such as Livingston. Local estate agent Gavin Smith from Century 21 said: "A lot of people who are indigenous to this area are finding it incredibly difficult. To even get property in the traditional tenements is hard enough but to get into the regenerated areas is almost impossible. You are looking at professional people or people from outside Edinburgh that can afford it. The average wage just cannot afford the average flat."

Local resident Alasdair Carmichael, 27 is amongst those struggling to afford a place. He said: '"I wanted to buy a property in Gorgie as I have been renting a flat for some time. Even though I work in a bank, I just couldn't get a mortgage that offered repayments I could afford. There is so much competition that I don't know if I will be able to afford it for another few years, and by that time prices will have doubled."