Edinburgh's planning authority has approved the first phase of the £1.3bn ($1.64bn) Granton Waterfront regeneration project planning application, paving the way for an environmentally friendly coastal town.

The City of Edinburg Council’s Development Management Sub-Committee's unanimous decision allows for the construction of 847 'net zero ready' homes, in partnership with Cruden Homes, on the city's brownfield site.

These energy-efficient homes, catering to various needs, including families and wheelchair users, will be a mix of social rent, mid-market rent, and homes for sale.

The new development aims to enhance local living with plans for a new primary school, a low carbon heat network, commercial units, and sustainable transport infrastructure. Public and open spaces are also part of the design to create an attractive environment for residents.

Scheduled for delivery between 2025 and 2032, this phase is a response to the city's housing emergency, with 45% of the homes earmarked as affordable.

The regeneration initiative at Granton Waterfront is already in motion, with tenants moving into new homes at Granton Station View and more residences set to become available at Western Villages and Silverlea in the coming years.

The Granton Gasholder, now 'Gas Holder 1', is central to the redevelopment. It is currently being transformed into a public park, restoring it as a landmark. Additionally, the refurbished former Granton Station now has its own square.

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “This £1.3bn project is the largest regeneration scheme of its kind in Scotland. It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to bring communities together,  with affordable energy efficient housing to live well locally with access to shops, cultural, leisure and education and health facilities and job opportunities all nearby.

“We’ll also make sure Granton Waterfront has excellent active travel and public transport links to rest of the city and beyond as well as to the many established communities already in the area.”