Edinburgh University appeals to Scottish Government to overturn 'sports village' decision

Edinburgh University has taken its fight to secure planning permission for a multi-million pound ‘sports village’ to the Scottish Government.

In September, Edinburgh City Council planners rejected the university’s proposals to build a 12-court multi-purpose sports hall, a four-court indoor tennis hall, a strength and conditioning gym and a fitness gym at Peffermill.

Conference spaces and social areas for students were also included, as well as a new 573-bed student accommodation block.

The proposals attracted 19 objections from concerned residents, mostly relating to the impact on traffic congestion and noise pollution.

Despite this, council officers recommended the plans be approved.

However, the plans were rejected at a meeting of the council’s Development Management Subcommittee, amid concerns the accommodation aspect of the plan may not adhere to green belt policies.

Now, Edinburgh University is taking its planning battle to the Scottish Government’s Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA), which deliberates on planning appeals on behalf of Scottish ministers.

Plans were refused over concerns on the impact to Edinburgh's greenbelt.

An appeal statement, submitted on behalf of the university by London-based planning consultants Montagu Evans, reads: !As a major employer and generator of economic activity, the proposals in delivering the sports facilities and student accommodation, will enable the university to maintain the profile and performance that is expected of a forward thinking higher education institution, and will allow them to continue to attract and retain students, staff, research activity and high profile sporting activity and outcomes.

“The proposals are well located relative to other university campus locations and facilities, and accessible through established active travel, public transport networks and facilities.

“The proposals are in accordance with the adopted Local Development Plan and the emerging thrust of policy through the review of the Local Development Plan.

“The proposals are presented as a positive contribution to the city, and an important and strategic investment by the University of Edinburgh to meet future needs.

“A positive consideration of the proposals through this appeal process is encouraged.”

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