A £200m development at Haymarket in Edinburgh has been approved by the city council.

It will see a new 17-storey leaf-shaped hotel built above Haymarket railway station, as well as a large business complex created on a nearby gap site.

The landmark development includes the 5-star-hotel plus a three-star six-storey Travelodge on the Dalry Road side of the complex.

Developer Tiger Developments said work was due to begin later this year.

Jim Lowrie, Edinburgh City Council's convenor of the planning committee, said: "The committee was minded to approve the application put forward for this high quality development.

"Redevelopment of this site will create the opportunity to introduce a variety of a new uses into the area, such as leisure, business and commercial facilities which will bring positive benefits to the city's economy."

Tom Buchanan, Edinburgh City council's economic development convenor, said: "The Haymarket development is a significant regeneration project for Edinburgh.

"The site occupies a location of strategic importance, and is a key gateway into the city centre.

"This development will breathe new life into an area that is in much need of redevelopment, and will enable it to play a major role in the future economic and social life of the city."

Property expert welcomes 'spaceship' hotel for Haymarket

A LEADING property expert has welcomed the approval of controversial plans to build two new hotels at Haymarket.

The £200 million development, which includes a 17-storey hotel, was given the go-ahead by councillors earlier this week. Now Cameron Stott, director of Jones Lang LaSalle, said: "This is fantastic news for the whole of the city and a vote of confidence in Haymarket.

"This development will be an obvious expansion of the Exchange district and improve the connection with Haymarket Station. With two hotels already on board, we expect major interest from occupiers, with the excellent location being a major draw."

Some politicians have described the flagship building as "world-class," claiming it will enhance Edinburgh's skyline. But city centre councillor Charles Dundas said it looked like "an alien spaceship dropped in from Doctor Who".

Final approval from Scottish ministers is still required, because the council has a financial interest in the land.

Source: Edinburgh Evening News, Saturday, 28th June, 2008

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