Construction company Thomas Johnstone has been appointed by property developer S Harrison to construct a new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.  

The development includes demolishing an old commercial unit and replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient, four-storey building featuring 65 studio rooms. 

Located at East Newington Place, off Newington Road, the facility will comprise a multimedia room, breakout space, cycle storage, a gym, and an open courtyard. 

The project is designed with a focus on sustainability. It will be heated using air-source heat pumps, avoiding the use of gas, which is expected to result in an energy performance certificate A rating.

Construction of the new student housing is scheduled to begin later this month, with completion anticipated in late 2025. 

S Harrison director David Clancy said: “We’re very pleased to appoint a reputable and longstanding local contractor on this project, which will give a brownfield site in a popular conservation area a new lease of life. 

“We’re now looking forward to work starting in June and we’ll continue to work closely with the local community throughout the project to maintain and build on the strong relationships that we worked hard to forge throughout the planning process.” 

In addition, S Harrison has secured a forward-funding agreement with Q Investment Partners, a Singapore-based investment company.  

This deal will cover the East Newington Place scheme, along with a second PBSA development with 76 bedrooms in Canongate, located behind the Royal Mile.  

Last month, Edinburgh’s Development Management Sub-Committee approved a proposal for a mixed-use development at Ocean Point in Leith, also in Edinburgh. 

The project is being developed by S Harrison Developments.