Napier to sell off historic campus

EDINBURGH Napier University's historic Craighouse campus is set to be sold off, prompting speculation it could become a hotel or apartments.

University bosses have admitted they are seeking "expressions of interest" in buying the iconic hilltop site, with staff and students moving out to the new 100 million Sighthill campus.

The grade-A listed main building is surrounded by woodland and is already a popular wedding and function venue, with spectacular views over the city.

A university spokesman said a number of options were being looked at and that a decision on the future was due to be made by the end of the year.

He said: "We have formally sought expressions of interest in buying the Craighouse campus through a tendering process. Craighouse buildings that become surplus to requirements, following the re-opening of our Sighthill campus, will be closed in the short-term."

Steven Currie, director of Murray & Currie Property Sales and Lettings, said: "Usually a property like Craighouse would be put up for tender to big developers for apartments.

"But considering the current economic climate, which is more a buyer's than a seller's market, that may not be the case.

"Ideally it'll become a fantastic hotel or country club where the public can still access the grounds and enjoy lunch or dinner and the spectacular views."

The Easter Craiglockhart Hill campus currently houses part of the School of Creative Industries as well as being home to many service departments.

Craighouse, which was bought by the university and refurbished in 1994, was once considered one of the world's most progressive mental asylums

Old Craig House, which dates from the 16th century, was bought in the late 19th century by the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, and the site was developed as Craig House Hospital.

The main building for paying patients was said to be intentionally grand, resembling a country house or hotel rather than an institution, with the interior including a great hall and a billiard room.

It currently makes up around 16 percent of the university's estate and is home to around 1200 staff and students, but the age of the buildings also lead to high maintenance bills.

A spokeswoman for Historic Scotland said: "Historic Scotland looks forward to working with any new owner in managing any proposed changes to the Category A listed building whilst maintaining its historical significance and character."