UK: Property investor Firethorn Trust has topped up its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme on Leith Walk, Edinburgh, with a ceremony held in partnership with contractor Ogilvie Construction.
The six-storey development will deliver 230 student beds, alongside a range of amenities including a gym, cinema, study spaces and a student common room. Completion is scheduled in time for the 2026/27 academic year.
Construction began in summer 2024, following Firethorn’s acquisition of the site in February that year, the first under its Living portfolio.
The real estate investor and developer has since expanded the portfolio to include two further PBSA assets in Hackney Wick and Stratford, a residential conversion at One Bessborough Gardens, London, and a hotel scheme in central Dublin.
Paul Martin, head of development at Firethorn Trust, said: “As the first asset within our Living portfolio, topping out at Leith Walk is a significant milestone for Firethorn, and a prime example of our ability to deliver buildings swiftly and to a high standard. Edinburgh has a growing student population and an urgent need for modern, quality accommodation, so we are very pleased with the pace at which works are progressing and look forward to bringing the site to completion over the next 12 months.”
Grier Edmead, operations director at Ogilvie Construction, said: “Today’s topping out marks the significant progress that we have made since breaking ground last year, and we look forward to handing over a first-class building in 2026. This will be the fifteenth student accommodation facility that we have delivered in recent years using our extensive experience and expertise in the sector.”
Highlights:
– Firethorn Trust tops out Leith Walk PBSA scheme in Edinburgh
– Six-storey development will deliver 230 student beds and shared amenities
– Construction began in summer 2024 and is on track for the 2026/27 academic year
