Brewery site gets nod for new scheme

A MASTERPLAN to turn the former Fountainbridge Brewery site into a new canalside quarter has been approved by planners.

The outline scheme would see the site transformed into a mixed-use area, including residential, retail, leisure, and student housing, with new routes created across the site.

The area around the canal would be designed to become one of the Capital's main attractions, according to architect Allan Murray.

He was appearing at yesterday's meeting of the city council's development control sub-committee for agents CB Richard Ellis Ltd and Lloyds Banking Group - which is behind the scheme.

Paul Beswick of Tollcross Community Council said its members were pleased the area was set to be developed, although he raised concerns about the height being allowed for some of the buildings.

The redevelopment of the site could also include the demolition of the listed former North British Rubber Company building, although that is something that would require separate consent and would be discussed at a later date.